10 Minutes of Hell

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Less exciting than its dramatic name, 10 Minutes of Hell continues onward from where El Refri ends at Brujos Viewpoint. After a tenth of a mile, the trail turns due east as the grade increases to a consistent 10%. Rocks here are larger and more frequent that most of the Lost Dog area, requiring focus and careful footwork.

After a half mile, the route turns at the barrier at Transmountain, following it southeast for a short distance before ending. From this point, hikers can continue along the highway itself to connect with Grim Road or the trails at Smuggler's Notch.

The Franklins are filled with desert wildlife and you'll have the chance to see all sorts of plants and animals on a hike. Vegetation is best during the rainy months around summer when the desert blooms and the plants turn green. Jackrabbits, lizards and roadrunners are common, occasionally snakes will be on or near the trail. Watch for rattlers and give them a wild berth. If you get caught out past sundown, you may hear a few coyotes. Their howls are unnerving, but they generally leave people alone.