A little history
In 1905, Colorado River floodwaters broke through irrigation canals and filled the Salton Sink for nearly two years. The result is a large, shallow, salty lake with no natural outlet.
Suggested loop
- S22 east to CA-86, then around the north shore toward the east side.
- Bombay Beach — a tiny town filled with outdoor art installations.
- Salvation Mountain near Niland — a hillside painted by artist Leonard Knight over decades.
- Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge for birding in winter.
Good to know
- Services are sparse — fuel up and bring lunch.
- The shoreline can smell strongly in warm months.
- Respect private property and residents in small communities.
Conditions change — confirm roads, hours and closures before you go.