Anza-Borrego North: Mines & Geology: Calcite Mine

Photo of twin sandstone domes of the Calcite Mine as seen from the ridge behind them, with the Borrego Valley in the distance
Looking Down on the Calcite Mine

The Calcite Mine, which dates to World War II days, is situated on the northeast slope of the Santa Rosa Mountains below Travelers Peak. It is a collection of crazily shaped sandstone configurations located a little over a mile and a half from County Road S-22 over a jeep trail that is easy to walk but difficult to drive. The hillside offers good, and in some light remarkable, views of the valley below from the Salton Sea to the surrounding mountains.

The drive from S-22 to the mine should be undertaken only by skilled motorists in high clearance vehicles. If you are new to the area, or haven't been there lately (some of the road may have washed away since your last visit), walk the trail once to get an idea of the hazards.

For the rest of us, it makes a pleasant walk. The journey begins by going downhill to cross the South Fork of Palm Wash. Next it goes uphill to a point where you can enjoy the first good views from on or near the trail. A side road slips down into Palm Wash with a road which can be followed a mile and a quarter to the North Fork. The trail ends at the mine.

People who visit the Calcite Mine also enjoy visiting the many slot canyons in this area. The Lindsays, Halford, and Paul Johnson's out-of-print Weekender's Guide all describe such walks.