June 10, 2024
The Montezuma Grade: Anza Borrego State Park
Share
Quick Facts about Montezuma Grade (The Glass Elevator)
Scenic Route
Montezuma Grade (Montezuma Valley Rd - S22), also known as the "Glass Elevator," is a scenic road in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, San Diego County, California, starting in Borrego Springs and ascending nearly 4,000 feet over 31.6 miles.
Historical Significance
- Original Use: The route dates back to the early 20th century, originally serving as a stagecoach route.
- World War II: Utilized by the U.S. military for training during World War II.
Scenic Lookouts
- Montezuma Valley Road Lookout: Located at 2,300 feet, offers panoramic views of the Anza-Borrego Desert and the Salton Sea.
- Wildlife: Home to wildlife like deer, rabbits, coyotes, and bighorn sheep.
The "Glass Elevator" Experience
- Nickname Origin: The steep ascent and descent provide expansive views reminiscent of a glass elevator in a skyscraper.
- Route Features: Includes sharp corners and blind turns.
Popular with Motorcyclists and Cyclists
- Challenging Climb: Known for its challenging 3,300-foot climb in ten miles and thrilling descent.
- Cycling Conditions: Cyclists enjoy minimal traffic and expansive views but must be prepared for physical demands and weather changes.
Take a glance at Montezuma Grade in Anza Borrego State Park
Natural Beauty and Attractions
- Notable Destinations: Passes through notable destinations in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, including Palm Canyon and Hellhole Canyon.
- Culp Valley: Offers primitive camping at an elevation of over 3,000 feet, with stunning views and cooler temperatures compared to the desert floor. It’s a popular spot for hiking, including trails that connect to Hellhole Canyon and the California Riding and Hiking Trail.
Learn more about hiking around Montezuma Grade.
2024 Film Location
Paul Thomas Anderson's new untitled film, starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Regina Hall, and Sean Penn, was partially filmed in and around Montezuma Grade. The film is set to hit theaters on August 8, 2025, bringing additional attention to this already stunning location.
Montezuma Grade: Construction and Planning
- Montezuma Valley Road: Connects Borrego Springs to Ranchita, constructed by San Diego County’s Road Department.
- Labor Source: Built using labor from prison camps in the backcountry during the first half of the 20th century.
- Construction Timeline: Began in 1954 and took nearly 10 years to complete.
- Construction Details: Supervised by foremen Ben McManama and Carl Randall with prisoners from Montezuma Honor Camp; utilized 160,000 tons of dynamite.
- Completion: Road completion celebrated on June 24, 1964, declared a holiday by Gale Gordon. (Actor and Borrego Springs resident)
- Early Access: Until the grade into Borrego Valley was completed, Montezuma Valley Road stopped at "Verruga," later renamed Ranchita. Anyone wanting access to the valley had to use Yaqui Pass Road.
Visit Montezuma Grade in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
Discover Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
Located in San Diego County, California, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park offers visitors a stunning natural oasis with breathtaking scenic drives, including the renowned Montezuma Grade. Also known as the "Glass Elevator," this scenic road starts in Borrego Springs and ascends nearly 4,000 feet over 31.6 miles, providing a unique driving experience with spectacular views of rocky cliffs, canyons, and the expansive desert landscape. This picturesque location was recently featured in Paul Thomas Anderson's new film, adding to its allure.
Montezuma Grade: Scenic and Serene
Montezuma Grade is a notable route within the park, offering encounters with local wildlife such as deer, rabbits, coyotes, and bighorn sheep. Drivers are advised to navigate carefully to preserve the natural habitat and ensure safety.
Historical Significance
Montezuma Grade has a rich history, dating back to the early 20th century when it served as a stagecoach route. During World War II, the U.S. military utilized the area for training, leveraging its challenging terrain. Today, Montezuma Grade remains a vital connection between Julian and Borrego Springs, reflecting the region's historical significance. Until the grade into Borrego Valley was completed, Montezuma Valley Road stopped at "Verruga," later renamed Ranchita. Anyone wanting access to the valley had to use Yaqui Pass Road many miles away.
Montezuma Valley Road Lookout
At an elevation of 2,300 feet (701 meters), the Montezuma Valley Road lookout provides panoramic views of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. Visitors can see the Salton Sea and enjoy spectacular sunsets. This spot is ideal for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Preparation Tips
Visitors should be prepared for varying weather conditions at the lookout. High elevation can cause temperature drops, especially in the evening. It's recommended to bring water, sun protection, and a jacket.
Exploring Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
Diverse Hiking Trails
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park offers a variety of hiking trails for all skill levels, featuring landscapes such as slot canyons and palm oases. The park is also an International Dark Sky Park, making it a perfect destination for stargazing, with ranger-led programs available to enhance the experience.
Hikes Along S22 (Montezuma Valley Road)
Starting from Palm Canyon and continuing up to the end of S22, this route includes some of the park's most popular destinations, such as Palm Canyon and Hellhole Canyon. The Montezuma Grade winds up to Culp Valley and ends just beyond Ranchita.
Culp Valley
Culp Valley offers primitive camping at an elevation of over 3,000 feet, providing stunning views and cooler temperatures compared to the desert floor. This area is a popular spot for hiking, with trails connecting to Hellhole Canyon and the California Riding and Hiking Trail. Despite being affected by a fire in 2012, the area is slowly regenerating, especially around springs.
Key Hiking Destinations
- Palm Canyon: One of the most popular spots in the park.
- Hellhole Canyon: A challenging hike leading to a beautiful waterfall.
- Culp Valley: Includes multiple springs such as Barrel Spring, Big Spring, and Pena Spring.
- California Riding and Hiking Trail: Offers extensive hiking opportunities.
- Other Notable Trails: Buck Canyon, Chief Rain In The Face, Chimney Rock, Dry Canyon, Eagle Rock, Indian Head, Jasper Trail, Little Surprise Canyon, Middle Spring, Montezuma Mine, Pinyon Spring, The Slab, Thimble Peak, Tubb Canyon, Wilson Trail, and Ysidrio Peak.
Learn More About Hiking Near Montezuma Grade
With its diverse landscapes and rich history, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park provides an unforgettable outdoor experience for visitors.
Lodging in Borrego Springs
Several lodging options are available in Borrego Springs for visitors seeking a comfortable stay:
- Palm Canyon Hotel & RV Resort: Offers scenic views and comfortable accommodations.
- La Casa Del Zorro Resort & Spa: A luxury resort with gardens, spa treatments, and elegant rooms.
- Borrego Springs Resort: Ideal for a luxury getaway with top-notch amenities.
- Palms At Indian Head: A budget-friendly hotel with a peaceful setting.
- Stanlunds Inn & Suites: Affordable and cozy rooms.
Here are more lodging options in Borrego Springs
Directions to Montezuma Grade
- From San Diego: Take I-8 East, exit on State Route 79 North, continue to State Route 78 East, and follow signs to Anza-Borrego Desert State Park.
- From Temecula: Take I-15 South, exit on State Route 79 South, continue to State Route 371 East, then to State Route 78 East, and follow signs to the park.
Maps and Guides
For a comprehensive exploration, downloadable maps and guides are available, including the Anza Borrego State Park Map, Palm Canyon Map, Coyote Canyon Map, and a Guide Map for Popular Hikes. These resources can enhance your visit by helping you discover the park’s many hidden gems.
Learn More About Borrego Springs
A Charlie Brown Christmas piano concert with pianist, arranger, and conductor Steve Hunter at St. Barnabas Episcopal Church.
COLOR dive at The Gallery
Holiday Gift Event in Borrego Springs On Sunday, December 14 , families gathered at Christmas Circle for the annual Santa at the Circle Gift Giveaway , a holiday event organized by OLAX – Organización de Latinx de Borrego Springs in collaboration with community partners. Santa and Mrs. Claus arrived at the event aboard a Borrego Springs's San Diego County fire truck , while the Grinch made an appearance in a decorated truck , interacting with children throughout the afternoon. Holiday music played during the event, creating a seasonal backdrop as families moved through the activities. The Event was Open to all Families Children met Santa and Mrs. Claus for photos, received a stuffed animal, and then walked through a decorated toy tunnel , where they selected a gift to take home. Free cookies and hot chocolate were provided for everyone. Volunteers assisted with greeting families, guiding children through each station, and supporting gift distribution to ensure that each child received an age-appropriate gift in an organized and efficient way. Volunteers included members of OLAX , Miss Borrego and the Princesses , and S-Interact students , a Rotary–Soroptimist youth service group. Their coordination helped the event run smoothly and safely. The Santa at the Circle Gift Giveaway reflected continued community collaboration in Borrego Springs, bringing together local organizations, volunteers, and families for a shared holiday tradition.
The Borrego Springs Rotary Toy Giveaway is a long-standing holiday tradition that reflects the community’s commitment to caring for one another. A Day of Holiday Giving On Sunday, December 14, the Borrego Springs Community Resource Center was filled with holiday spirit as the Rotary Toy Giveaway welcomed families from across the community. The event was organized by the Borrego Springs Rotary Club , continuing a tradition that began in 2011. Originally created to support families facing financial hardship, the Toy Giveaway has grown over the years. Today, every child in Borrego Springs is invited to participate, reinforcing the Rotary Club’s commitment to inclusion and community care. Community Volunteers and Youth Leadership Rotary members were joined by Miss Borrego, the Princesses, and S-Interact students—a Rotary–Soroptimist youth service group—who volunteered their time to help distribute gifts and assist families. Together, volunteers ensured each child received a high-quality, age-appropriate gift in a welcoming and joyful setting. A Tradition That Brings People Together Each year, the Toy Giveaway highlights what makes Borrego Springs special: neighbors supporting neighbors and organizations working together for the common good. The smiles, gratitude, and shared moments captured during the event reflect the lasting impact of service rooted in compassion and collaboration. Learn More About Rotary Events like the Toy Giveaway are just one example of how the Borrego Springs Rotary Club serves the community throughout the year. Those interested in learning more about Rotary’s work—locally and beyond—are encouraged to explore how the organization supports education, youth leadership, and community enrichment in Borrego Springs.
Prajna Yoga & Wellness offers a range of classes designed for all experience levels, from slower, alignment-focused practices to more dynamic flows and strength-based sessions. A New Yoga Studio Opens in Borrego Springs Prajna Yoga & Wellness has officially opened on Palm Canyon Drive, offering a community-centered approach to yoga and wellness. The studio’s philosophy is simple and inclusive: yoga is for everyone—come as you are and discover what feels right for your body. The studio is owned and operated by Alex and Liam Robinson, year-round Borrego Springs residents who are excited to bring consistent, high-quality yoga offerings to the local community. Experienced Instructors, Inclusive Approach Alex and Liam Robinson each have more than 10 years of teaching experience in the San Diego area and over 1,000 hours of combined training across multiple modalities. Their backgrounds include hatha, vinyasa, meditation, sculpt, and functional mobility, allowing them to offer classes that meet a wide range of needs and goals. Whether you’re new to yoga or have an established practice, classes are designed with options and modifications so students can move safely and confidently. Class Offerings Prajna Yoga & Wellness offers several class styles throughout the week: Slow Flow A slower-paced class focused on foundational postures, alignment, and fundamentals. Ideal for beginners or anyone looking to move mindfully. Vinyasa Flow A more dynamic class that links breath with movement. Classes move at a quicker pace, with options offered for all levels. Sculpt & Flow A blend of vinyasa yoga and strength-building using bodyweight and light resistance. This class incorporates elements of pilates, barre, functional mobility, and yoga to build strength and stability. Restorative Yoga A slower, deeply relaxing practice where postures are held for longer periods to encourage rest, gentle stretching, and recovery—often a favorite way to end the week. Location & Contact Prajna Yoga & Wellness 583 Palm Canyon Dr, Suite B Borrego Springs, CA 92004 Email: studio@prajnayogaandwellness.com Class schedules, plans, and pricing are available directly through the studio. LEARN MORE ABOUT BORREGO SPRINGS
This one-night performance features world-class jazz artists whose careers connect decades of jazz history with contemporary expression.
Photos: Sicco Rood | Steele/Burnand Anza-Borrego Desert Research Center
Campaign fundraiser for Rebecca Jones
By Fr. Michael Plekon Every year in December we come around to a holiday that still for many is a holy day. It has different names in different languages and cultures—Yuletide, Jul, Weinachten, Noel, Navidad, Natale, Rizdvo and more. Christmas comes from “Christ’s Mass,” denoting the sacred service known in many churches and languages as the “Mass.” There are feasts of other faith traditions that often come close to the end of the year. Hannukah is the Jewish celebration of the victory of the Maccabees and the restoration of the sacred lights on the menorah or candlestick in the Jerusalem Temple. Despite not being filled with enough oil, the lamps burned for eight days. There is the Hindu celebration of light in darkness, Diwali. And the African-American holiday of Kwanzaa. Christmas also has other special days associated with it. December 6 is the feast of St. Nicholas, the original Santa Claus, a 4th century bishop renowned for his generosity to those in need. In some countries this is the day of the exchange of gifts. Likewise January 6 is the feast of Epiphany or the day of the Three Magi Kings, when in Hispanic countries gifts are given. Central to Christmas is the celebration of Jesus’ birth. The gospel of Luke tells the familiar story of the parents, Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem to enroll in a census. While there, lodging in a stable, their son is born, wrapped in swaddling clothes and placed in a manger, a feed trough for domestic animals. Angels announced this birth to shepherds in the surrounding countryside. These herdsmen came and honored the newborn child, having heard a song from the angels: “Glory to God in the highest, peace to all people on earth.” Later, in Matthew’s gospel, three astronomers, perhaps also royalty, came from further East to visit the child, following a star which led them to where the family was. This gospel does not mention the angels, the manger or shepherds, but notes that King Herod was fearful of the newborn as a threat to his power, asking the three astronomers to report back and disclose where the child was. They did not do this and went home on another route. The male children of Bethlehem were subjected to a massacre. Thus, the birth of Jesus was not without pain and suffering also. Christmas evokes images of trees twinkling with lights and ornaments, dinner tables loaded with food, the faces of children lit up with glee, not just at their presents but also at the warmth of family and friends. Christmas is an event that was to bring peace to the world, the birth of someone who became a teacher and healer later in life, one whom his followers saw, in Matthew’s words as “God with us,” Emmanuel, God becoming a human being, part of our world, of space and time. But Jesus was born in a land under the occupation of the Roman Empire, in a society in which most people teetered on the edge of extreme hunger and poverty. The birth happened in a barn where domestic animals lived, and the first visitors were scruffy sheep herders, thought of as not trustworthy. Two thousand years later, Christmas remains a moment in a world torn apart by suspicion, hatred, violence and anger. The holiday sees millions of dollars spent on gifts, parties, decorations, and entertainment. And yet, the story of how this birth came to take place remains one that faces us with a helpless infant, loving parents, the sense of joy from heavenly beings, the welcome of very humble as well as some very elite, privileged visitors. Christmas can still stand as a sign of light in the darkness, a message of joy and goodness despite everything that might appear as opposed to this. You don’t need to be religious to see in this holiday something of hope and joy. Merry Christmas! --- The Rev. Michael Plekon, PhD Professor Emeritus: Sociology, Religion & Culture The City University of New York - Baruch College Learn More About Borrego Springs
Performance Date: January 27, 2026
Winter brings early wildflower blooms to Borrego Springs and Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. Hike, golf, explore art galleries, farmers markets, and dark skies—before spring crowds.
Guadalupe Procession Honors Tradition in Borrego Springs Borrego Springs observed the annual Guadalupe Procession on Saturday, December 13, as community members marked the occasion with prayer, music, and a public walk led by Fr. Anthony “Tony” Stanonik of St. Richard’s Catholic Church. The route started at Christmas Circle, continued past the Borrego Art Institute and the Borrego Springs Post Office, and made its way to St. Richard’s Catholic Church. The observance centers on Our Lady of Guadalupe, the name given to the Virgin Mary following her 1531 apparition to Saint Juan Diego in Mexico. According to Catholic tradition, her image appeared on Juan Diego’s cloak, becoming a powerful and enduring symbol of faith, Mexican identity, and the Catholic Church. Her feast day, celebrated annually on December 12, is among the most significant religious observances in the Americas and draws millions of pilgrims to the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City. Throughout the walk, traditional music filled the route, and several participants wore masks and attire reflecting Guadalupe symbolism. Families, longtime residents, and visitors took part, highlighting the multigenerational nature of the tradition. The gathering continued at St. Richard’s Catholic Church with Mass and an evening celebration. For many in Borrego Springs, the annual procession remains a meaningful expression of faith during the Advent season and a reflection of the area’s enduring cultural and spiritual heritage.
Pottery Sale Returns
Three Kings Day in Salton City
New Season, Big Changes—Get Your Tickets Today The new 2025–2026 season at Borrego Springs Performing Arts Center (BSPAC) has officially kicked off! Tickets are now available online at www.bspac.org. This year’s lineup includes 11 exciting events in the 2025–2026 BSPAC Season, along with a wide variety of local productions presented at the theater by the Borrego Springs Film Festival, the Community Concert Series, the ABDNHA Lecture Series, and more. Richard Helvig, who recently stepped down after serving as BSPAC President, guided the theater through a period of major improvements. Under his leadership, BSPAC completed a full interior update, introduced modern stage lighting, and most recently launched the successful “Turn Up the Sound” campaign, which brought in a state-of-the-art sound system ensuring every seat in the house enjoys crystal-clear audio — including assisted listening devices for the hearing impaired. Now, with Gary Edwards elected as the new president, BSPAC looks forward to the next phase of improvements. Gary is already taking on the lobby and planning more exciting upgrades that will continue enhancing the theater experience for the community. You can find the full season schedule and other community performances on the BSPAC website: www.bspac.org.
SHORT | 24:35 | THE 2026 BSFF COMMUNITY FILM!
