Imagine you step into a world where the walls close in around you. Here, the sunlight filters through a narrow crack in the earth. Within, the only sound is the echo of your own footsteps. This is The Slot, a hidden canyon in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park that will leave you breathless with wonder. Carved by centuries of flash floods and erosion, The Slot is a masterpiece of natural artistry. Towering sandstone walls are sculpted into curves. They are adorned with swirling patterns and rise up on either side, creating a sense of awe and intimacy.
Much unlike the experience I had in more urban areas, such as Balboa Park of San Diego, this natural wonder is completely detached from the outside world. It is located deep within the state park. As you venture deeper into this hidden realm, the outside world fades away. It’s replaced by a sense of tranquility and wonder. Prepare to be amazed as you journey into the heart of the earth.
Hiking The Slot
From the parking lot, the trailhead is just a short jaunt. It’s easy to miss, as it’s marked only by a single metal pole. The first part of the hike is a relatively easy walk through a sandy wash. As you progress, the canyon walls begin to close in, hinting at what’s to come.
While the hike is generally considered moderate, being only 2.2 miles round-trip, The Slot has a few sections that require some scrambling over rocks or squeezing very tightly between the walls. But trust me, the views are worth every drop of sweat!
As the slot canyon narrows and the walls grow taller, you’ll most certainly feel a sense of excitement building. And then, suddenly, you’ll turn a corner and find yourself face-to-face with the majesty of The Slot.
Photography Tips
Basically a photographer’s dream, The Slot is full of dramatic shadows and light play. With the sun directly overhead, mid-day is the best time to shoot, as you’ll be able to capture those iconic beams of light as the illuminate the canyon walls. With that said, the earlier or later times of day can certainly offer some pretty sights, bringing out the rich colors in the softer light. A wide-angle lens will be your best friend here, allowing you to capture the canyon walls in all its grandeur.
Be sure to use the curves and lines of the canyon walls as intriguing leading lines to draw viewers’ attention in the images you capture; or shoot upwards to emphasize the height of the canyon. Of course, be sure to protect your gear, as the canyon floor is very uneven and sandy!
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