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
Borrego Bob’s weather station data has helped track conditions in Borrego Springs for years through BoblandUSA.com.
California’s Primary Election will be held Tuesday, June 2, 2026. The last day to register to vote and receive a ballot by mail is May 18. All active registered voters in California will receive a ballot for the Primary Election. County elections officials began mailing ballots May 4, and secure ballot drop-off locations opened May 5. Voters may return ballots by mail, at a secure ballot drop-off location, or at a county elections office. Early in-person voting begins May 23 in Voter’s Choice Act counties, and in-person early voting locations throughout California will be open Saturday, May 30. June 2 is the final day to vote in person or return a ballot by 8 p.m. Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Vote-by-mail ballots must be postmarked no later than Election Day. Learn More About Borrego Springs
Borrego Springs, CA, May 2nd, 2026 by Jim Dion The Borrego Springs High School Interpretation Course and Internship Program is an innovative Career Technical Education (CTE) initiative that prepares students for careers in hospitality, public service, and environmental interpretation. Launched in the 2019–2020 school year, the program integrates classroom instruction, industry-recognized certification, and hands-on internships. It is implemented through the Borrego Springs Unified School District and aligned with its Hospitality CTE pathway. Students in isolated communities such as ours often face limited access to career exploration opportunities, professional certifications, and paid work-based learning experiences. This program addresses those gaps by providing structured pathways into local and regional employment sectors, particularly within public lands management, tourism, and community-based organizations. The program is a two-year sequence: Year 1: Certification and Coursework Students complete an in-class, for-credit course culminating in interpretive guide and host certification through the National Association for Interpretation. Participants also earn Emergency First Aid and CPR certification through American CPR Training. Year 2: Paid Internship Experience Students who successfully complete Year 1 transition into internships conducted in partnership with Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. Interns rotate through operational units, gaining exposure to park management, visitor services, and interpretive programming. Additional placements include the Borrego Water District, Anza-Borrego Foundation, and Borrego Art Institute. Goals and Objectives of the Program Provide students with industry-recognized certifications and workforce-ready skills Expand access to paid, career-aligned internship opportunities Increase awareness of careers in public lands, hospitality, and local government Strengthen partnerships between schools, public agencies, and community organizations Outcomes and Impact By the end of the 2025–2026 school year, 75 students will have completed the certification and internship program Students gain hands-on experience, professional mentorship, and exposure to career pathways The program has demonstrated sustained student interest and strong community support Funding and Sustainability The Borrego Village Association recently secured a grant from Parks California, securing funding through the 2028 school year. This funding enables the program to provide paid internship opportunities, ensuring equitable access for all students. Additional support is, and has been since 2018, provided by the San Diego County Board of Supervisors, Borrego Springs Rotary Foundation, Borrego Springs Education Foundation, and the Borrego Valley Endowment Fund. Program Leadership and Partnerships The program is led by local educator Stacy Valdez and supported by district leadership and community partners, including California State Parks. We greatly appreciate California State Parks - Colorado Desert District Supervisor, Ray Lennox for his dedication to making this program a success and making available his staff and resources, to support the youth of our community. These collaborations ensure high-quality instruction, mentorship, and real-world learning experiences. An Opportunity for Students! Due to demonstrated success, the program will continue into the 2026–2027 academic year, expanding to serve new cohorts of sophomores, juniors, and seniors. If you are a student at Borrego Springs High School that is interested in participating in this two year CTE, for credit course elective, please contact Borrego Springs Hogh School Principal Victoria Baay.
The Borrego Springs Welcome Sign Committee has launched the next phase of the project and released the final welcome sign concepts.
Borrego Springs pianist Steve T. Hunter shares a new solo piano album inspired by love songs from classic films. Borrego Springs pianist, arranger, and conductor Steve T. Hunter has released a new solo piano album titled Heartstrings Hotel, a collection of love songs from classic films arranged and performed by Hunter. With a career that has included performances at the Kennedy Center and conducting productions such as CATS and TOMMY, Hunter brings decades of professional experience to a project shaped in part by the quiet creative setting of Borrego Springs. The album is now available on Bandcamp and features 17 tracks inspired by cinema favorites including Cinema Paradiso, La La Land, The Notebook, Out of Africa, The Princess Bride, WALL-E, Shawshank Redemption, and more. Listen here
Discover the military history of Borrego Maneuver Area in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, highlighting its role from 1942 to 1959 as a crucial military training and testing ground.
By Dennis Mammana Week of May 17-23, 2026 That brilliant light now glistening in the west at sunset is again the "star" of the show. It is, of course, the planet Venus, and this week it'll pair up with two other celestial wanderers: Jupiter and the moon. Jupiter, another very bright planet, has been descending farther to the west as the spring months progress, and it is now approaching a close encounter with Venus by the end of the month. This occurs because these worlds, along with the Earth, orbit the sun, and our constantly changing viewpoint makes them appear to drift slowly against the more distant and "fixed" stars. Over the next week, though, another solar system body will enter the scene: the moon. Since our celestial neighbor orbits the Earth once a month, we can see it change its position in the sky from night to night. Shortly after sunset on May 17, you might try searching very low in the west for the tiny and delicate crescent moon, but to find it, you'll need a very clear sky and a low horizon, and possibly binoculars. If you don't succeed, don't worry. It'll be pretty tough to spot, but if you wait until the next night, it'll be much easier to see. On the 18th, it will appear not far from Venus. Of course, the moon won't really be next to this planet; they will be separated by 124 million miles that evening, but since both lie roughly along the same line of sight, they'll appear together in the sky. For a really amazing view, check out the pair through binoculars! The following night, May 19, the moon will have moved eastward along its orbit and will appear about midway between Jupiter and Venus. If your sky is clear on May 20, check out the western sky again, and you'll notice that the moon is not only a significantly thicker crescent but now lies above Jupiter. Of course, this whole view is purely an illusion caused by our inability to see true depth in the cosmos, but it does result in a truly pretty picture. And speaking of pretty pictures, this week offers a good opportunity to try your hand at photographing the spectacle. Since the trio appears low enough in the sky at dusk, you can frame the scene with a foreground subject — a dramatic tree, building, sculpture or person, for example. You don't need fancy or expensive equipment to do this; just a regular camera or smartphone will do fine. You may find, however, that zooming in a bit will produce a more compelling image. If you shoot half an hour or so after sunset, you can probably trust the automatic settings of your camera or phone. Much later, though, you may need to adjust settings as you go because the light at dusk changes rapidly. Don't be afraid to experiment; if some photos turn out poorly, you can always hit "delete," and no one will ever know! I hope your skies are clear this week so you can enjoy the planetary sky show. And if you get some nice photos, please email me. I'd love to share your success! Visit Dennis Mammana at dennismammana.com. To read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com. Learn More About Borrego Springs
Bill Wright’s Lasting Impact on Borrego Springs This tribute video reflects on the businessman, developer, and community supporter remembered across the desert community A tribute video created by Path 88 Productions is helping preserve the memory of longtime Borrego Springs businessman and community supporter Bill Wright, whose influence can still be seen throughout the desert community today. The video was created by Path 88 Productions , a Borrego Springs-based production company owned and operated by Alicia Wszelaki and Matthew Nothelfer. Through interviews and personal reflections, the video describes Wright as a visionary, entrepreneur, and someone deeply committed to Borrego Springs and its people. “He had a passion for Borrego, not just for its beauty and splendor, but for its people.” “He was a big idea man. He was a creator. He was an entrepreneur.” The tribute reflects on Wright’s decades of involvement in Borrego Springs, where he became known for supporting community projects, development, local organizations, and charitable efforts. “Every vision that he had, he brought it to fruition.” “Bill loved people, wanted to see good for everybody. He made it happen.” “You walk around, you see all the places that Bill had an impact.” The video closes with reflections from Wright’s son, who described his father as someone proud of what he accomplished and grateful for the life and work they shared together. “I like to see my tracks. I like to see what I’ve accomplished.” For many in Borrego Springs, the tribute serves as both a remembrance and a reminder of the lasting influence one person can have on a desert community.
The Bike4BorregoKids fundraiser is ongoing and continues to support graduating seniors at Borrego Springs High School with financial aid f
An extreme heat warning is in effect for the eastern edge of San Diego County, including Borrego Springs. The National Weather Service expects daytime highs to run well above average Sunday and Monday. Borrego Springs could reach about 103 to 104 degrees, while Ramona may see highs in the low to mid-80s. The heat is being caused by a strong high-pressure system. Temperatures are expected to ease by Tuesday, but another warmup may arrive later in the week. During extreme heat, the risk of heat-related illness rises. Residents and visitors should limit time outdoors, drink plenty of water, stay in air-conditioned spaces when possible, and watch for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
Did you know the Borrego Sun was established in 1949 and has documented Borrego Springs for more than 70 years? The newspaper has covered local life, community milestones, desert events, and stories from Borrego Springs, Julian, Ocotillo Wells, and the Salton Sea. In 1954, Copley Press purchased the Borrego Sun and helped modernize the paper during an important growth period for Borrego Springs. James Copley also played a role in promoting Borrego Springs as a desert resort community. Copley Press produced promotional films, featured Borrego Valley news, and helped bring wider attention to the area. The historic Borrego Sun building was built in 1960 and originally housed both the newspaper offices and a bank. Today, the Borrego Sun archive includes thousands of photos, articles, maps, and clippings that help preserve the story of Borrego Springs and the surrounding desert region. More is to come for the historic Borrego Sun.
Spend Memorial Day at Rams Hill Golf Club on Monday, May 25, with a full day on the course surrounded by the desert landscape of Borrego Springs. Players can enjoy morning rounds, a relaxed afternoon pace, food and drink specials, on-course games, and complimentary replays throughout the day. Special pricing: $120 — Military & First Responders $170 — All Players Whether you're planning a competitive round or simply looking to enjoy time with friends over the holiday weekend, Rams Hill offers a memorable Memorial Day experience in Borrego Springs. Reserve your tee time: https://tinyurl.com/RamsHillMemorialDay
BY: Colt Knedler Rams Hill Golf Club
Families gathered at Christmas Circle in Borrego Springs as OLAX hosted its Cinco de Mother’s Day celebration, an evening focused on honoring mothers, culture, and community connection. The event featured performances by Eli Hernandez, Mia Lopez, BAMA Youth, and Folklorico Youth. Guests also enjoyed free drinks, quick snacks, gifts for mothers, and an opportunity drawing. Mothers attending the event were able to choose their own gifts. Volunteers prepared hundreds of items for moms, creating a thoughtful and welcoming experience for local families. Mothers also received corsages made by Christina Portillo.
Hundreds of Animals Rescued From Julian Sanctuary During Major Investigation San Diego Humane Society officials say hundreds of neglected animals are now receiving care after a large-scale rescue operation at Villa Chardonnay in Julian. Villa Chardonnay had been described online as an animal sanctuary focused on giving animals a safe place to heal and live peacefully. But investigators say the conditions they encountered on the 40-acre property revealed widespread neglect involving hundreds of animals. According to San Diego Humane Society, the rescue effort began after concerns about conditions at the property continued for years. The case was transferred from San Diego County Animal Services to SDHS in late April due to the scale of the situation and legal complications connected to bankruptcy proceedings. Officials said a search warrant was served on May 1 after veterinary evidence documented severe neglect, including malnutrition, untreated injuries, infections, and lack of basic care.
Community joins global moment of reflection in Borrego Springs St. Barnabas Episcopal Church in Borrego Springs marked World Labyrinth Day with visitors gathering throughout the day and at the shared “Walk as One” moment at 1:00 PM, joining others around the world in a quiet act of reflection and intention for peace. The church’s outdoor labyrinth, located just south of the main building, remained open all day, allowing people to walk at their own pace. Some came for a few minutes, others lingered, taking time in the center to pause, reflect, or pray. Fr. David Madsen described the experience as accessible to anyone. “You do not have to know the right words or follow a certain tradition. The labyrinth welcomes anyone seeking peace, clarity, or a moment to breathe.” Unlike a maze, the labyrinth offers a single path to the center and back out, encouraging a steady, intentional walk. “The labyrinth offers a quiet way to pause, pray, and listen for the presence of God in the stillness,” Madsen said. Modeled after the 11-circuit design at Chartres Cathedral, the Borrego Springs labyrinth sits in a peaceful desert setting that naturally invites stillness and reflection. Participants walked for many reasons, including seeking calm, releasing burdens, or simply taking a break from the pace of daily life. “In the desert quiet, the labyrinth becomes a place to release burdens, center the heart, and return to the world with peace,” Madsen said. World Labyrinth Day is observed globally each year, bringing people together through a shared act of walking with intention. In Borrego Springs, the day offered a simple but meaningful opportunity to connect, reflect, and step into stillness.
