Start out at the large parking lot dip into a sandy wash before reaching the intersection for the loop.
Sandy start to the Barker Dam hike
Going clockwise saves the dam for the end of the hike. Barker Dam is an interpretive trail so take the time to read the signs. They cover some interesting information about how plants and animals have adapted to the lack of water. Check out the silver cholla cactus as you wind through the rocks.
Watch out for the Silver Cholla
A very short spur trail will lead you to a small rock cave which houses stunning petroglyphs. Then follow a well marked trail through some desert flats as you approach the dam. Pay attention to the flora as you approach and notice how the species change, becoming larger as more water is available.
Petroglyphs in a rock cave
Barker Dam was a natural water collection tank used by ranchers. Throughout the years a wall was built, then renovated again, in order to increase the reservoir size for livestock during dry months. In 2013 the dam was vandalized so it can no longer be approach from below. However you still get a great view from above and if you hike after a wet period you can still observe how effective this little dam is.
Behind the wall of Barker Dam
The seasonal reservoir is pretty dry
After relaxing at the dam head back through some lovely rock jumble to the parking lot to complete the route.