Central Anza-Borrego: Harper Canyon

Harper Canyon drains the Vallecito Mountains from Harper Flat, an old Kumeyaay Indian settlement and cattle ranch. Harper Flat lies above Fish Creek Wash.

The deep sands of Harper Wash extend across the Cactus Garden and Old Kane Spring Road over the Lower Borrego Valley to the Salton Sea. For hikers, Harper Canyon isn't steep, but its rocks, boulders, and distance make it at least moderately strenuous.

The canyon is reached by driving three miles east from Highway 78 on the Old Kane Spring Road. Signs direct you into the Cactus Garden. Drive until the road ends or boulders make it impassable. This is an area of deep sand. Drive carefully.

Photo of canyon wall, with fallen boulders in the washj
Harper Canyon

Photo of nearby mountain ridge
Harper Canyon

Photo of canyon colors
Harper Canyon

Photo of canyon wall
Harper Canyon

Closeup photo of canyon wall
Harper Canyon


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