June 10, 2024
The Montezuma Grade: Anza Borrego State Park
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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
Una Noche Mexicana Gala Weekend Una Noche Mexicana is coming to the Borrego Springs Performing Arts Center for a festive weekend of mariachi, live music, and ballet folklórico . It’s a gala-style benefit concert that brings the community together while celebrating culture in Borrego Springs. Proceeds support scholarships that go directly to qualified Borrego Springs High School students. Tickets are limited, so buy early , and if you or your business want to make a bigger impact, consider becoming a sponsor . Side note: Let’s show up strong for OLAX. They’re doing important work in Borrego Springs, and a lot of what they do happens quietly behind the scenes. Yes, they need more support. Event Details Event: Una Noche Mexicana, Gala Event (Benefit Concert) Presented by: Organización LatinX de Borrego Springs (OLAX) Showtimes Saturday, March 14 at 6:00 PM Sunday, March 15 at 3:30 PM Location Borrego Springs Performing Arts Center 580 Palm Canyon Drive, Borrego Springs What You Will Experience Una Noche Mexicana is a celebration of Mexican cultural traditions on stage, featuring: Mariachi Live music Ballet folklórico Expect an upbeat, family-friendly program with performances that highlight rhythm, storytelling through dance, and the energy of live musicians. Where to buy tickets & explore sponsorship www.olaxdeborrego.org Why It Matters Locally The event benefits culture and education in Borrego Springs. Supporting nights like this helps keep community-based arts and educational efforts visible and funded, while bringing people together for something fun and meaningful. Contact info@olaxdeborrego.org OLAX 501(c)(3): 93-2954175
BY: Colt Knedler Rams Hill Golf Club
Barbra Tribute Borrego Springs
Borrego Olive Oil Co now has a storefront in The Mall in Borrego Springs. Find EVOO, balsamics, local olive-oil skincare, and specialty drinks. Borrego Olive Oil Co in Borrego Springs Borrego Olive Oil Co now has a cozy storefront in The Mall (Westside) in Borrego Springs, making it easier to pick up their California-harvested extra virgin olive oils and aged balsamic vinegars from Modena, Italy. Where to Find the Store You’ll find Borrego Olive Oil Co at The Mall (Westside), 587 Palm Canyon Drive , near the Borrego Springs Mural and across from Borrego Outfitters ( Suite 219 ).
Robert R. Landry at Studio 628 Studio 628 is hosting a new exhibit featuring artist Robert R. Landry , with an opening reception on March 7 from 4–7 pm . Here are the essentials—where to go, when to come, and what to expect—plus a quick note about the last Studio 628 exhibit for anyone following the gallery’s seasonal shows. Event Details Opening Reception: March 7, 4–7 pm Location: Studio 628 Address: 628 Palm Canyon Drive, Borrego Springs, CA What to Expect Landry’s work (as shown in the exhibit artwork) is abstract , with strong shapes and bold color. If you like modern art that focuses on design, texture, and composition rather than realism, this exhibit is a solid stop. Last Exhibit at Studio 628 The last exhibit at Studio 628 was Más Y Más , curated by Gary Henderson . It featured assemblage artwork by Robert Wright and archival photography by Wil Gardner , with an emphasis on texture, structure, and visual patterns. That exhibit reflects what Studio 628 often brings to Borrego Springs—contemporary work in a small gallery setting that’s easy to visit. Plan Your Visit Studio 628 is right on Palm Canyon Drive, making it an easy stop if you’re already exploring Borrego Springs. Drop in during the reception window to see the new work and meet others from the local arts community.
Live On Stage, Inc. and Borrego Springs Community Concert Association announce Sibling Bluegrass/Western band as part of their 2025-2026 Concert Season BORREGO SPRINGS, Cali. – (February 5, 2026) – Join the Waddington Brothers as they perform iconic Bluegrass and Western music with jaw-dropping authenticity in a live concert at Borrego Springs Performing Arts Center on Thursday, February 26, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. Individual tickets may be available in the lobby the night of the show. If you would like to get on the waiting list or for further information, please use the contact form on the website - borregoconcerts.org . Students are admitted for free. “…world-class musicians who connect with their audiences and bring sheer joy to those in attendance.” Michael Burgraff, Fergus Falls Center for the Arts The Waddington Brothers, a band of four brothers from rural North Dakota, perform what they live: music that is real to them, that takes listeners on a journey through the heart of the American West. Seth, Ethan, Jacob and Job skillfully blend cowboy and bluegrass music, creating a style that is timelessly classic and yet refreshingly new and unique. Their rich, stirring harmonies and instrumental versatility bring familiar favorites like “Old Home Town,” “Less Traveled Road,” and “Red River Valley” to life in way that is entertaining and engaging for audiences of all ages!
Award-Winning Wines, Local Coffee, and California-Made Finds on Palm Canyon Drive
Music,Food & Community The BYOB (Bring Your Own Bowl & Spoon) concert series at St. Barnabas Church is a relaxed, midday gathering built around live music and community. It’s the place to go to see friends, catch up with neighbors, and enjoy performances in an easy, welcoming setting. Open to everyone, the series runs weekly at noon and features a rotating lineup of local and visiting musicians. Great opportunity to meet your neighbors or plan a friend meet up!
Support Education & Culture Una Noche Mexicana is now on sale, and OLAX is inviting Borrego Springs residents and visitors to be part of a two-day benefit weekend that supports education and culture locally. Event Details Event: Una Noche Mexicana — OLAX Benefit Gala & Concert Venue: Borrego Springs Performing Arts Center Address: 590 Palm Canyon Drive, Borrego Springs, CA 92004 Saturday, March 14, 2026 Sponsorship Tickets (Gala & Benefit Night) Sunday, March 15, 2026 Get Tickets (General Admission) Ticket Sales Tickets are available for both days. Choose your preferred date and purchase online: Sat., Mar 14, 2026 — Sponsorship Tickets Sun., Mar 15, 2026 — General Admission Tickets Sponsorship Sponsorship is a powerful way to support OLAX’s work while gaining community visibility. Sponsors will be recognized! If you’re a business owner, a community group, or a family looking to support education and culture in Borrego Springs, Saturday’s Sponsorship Tickets are the place to start. Why Sponsor Una Noche Mexicana Sponsorship helps OLAX do more than host a memorable weekend—it helps sustain local programs and opportunities tied to education and culture in Borrego Springs. Your sponsorship is both support and a public statement that community investment matters here.
Event Overview The Denim & Diamonds Gala is a hoedown-style fundraising event celebrating three decades of community care by the Borrego Valley Endowment Fund (BVEF) . Proceeds from the gala support programs that strengthen the well-being of Borrego Valley residents, including healthcare, education, arts, environmental initiatives, and community development. Live Music and Entertainment Live music will be provided by Sean Oliu and the Coastline Cowboys. The program also includes cowboy poetry by Carey Peck, along with line dancing, auctions, and interactive activities throughout the afternoon. Date, Time, and Location Date: February 21, 2026 Time: 2:00–5:00 PM Location: The Center 590 Palm Canyon Drive Borrego Springs, California Tickets and Food Tickets: $100 per person Pre-order: give@bvefund.org Availability: Limited tickets available at the event Food will be served by Pablito’s, with a cash bar available.
by Michael Plekon Every year, Christians move through the months with different seasons and festivals. The Christmas-Epiphany season is just finishing, and before that, in December, was Advent, is a time of preparation and anticipation of the Christmas feast of Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem. This year, on Ash Wednesday, February 18, Christians will start the season of Lent, a forty-day period of prayer and good works. It leads up to Holy Week, when Jesus’ last supper, his trial, crucifixion, death and burial are commemorated on Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and Holy Saturday. Jesus’ resurrection is celebrated on Easter Sunday, April 5. Borrego churches and the BMA gather behind the Methodist Church for a Sunrise Service. St. Barnabas has a simple Eucharist right afterwards and a festive service at the regular 9:30am time. Why ashes? The Hebrew Bible has many references to ashes as a sign of sorrow and repentance for the evil one has done. Job places ashes on his head to acknowledge his failing in faith (42:6) Tamar also. (2 Sam. 13: 19) The entire people use ashes to express their desire to turn away from sin and back to God. (Numb. 19:9) And there are quite a few other examples. In our time there are gestures of admitting guilt and asking forgiveness, something that happens in courthouses after a trial concludes. In our families and circles of friends, at times we need to humble ourselves and ask forgiveness of those we have wronged. And accept the forgiveness of others as well. The ashes are put on a person’s forehead with the words, “Remember you are dust, and to dust you shall return.” (Gen. 3:19) Usually there are other things about which people ask for prayers—relatives who are ill, friends facing tough times with finances, work, relationships. Contrary to what some might think, ashes and Lent are anything but gloomy or self-imposed sorrow. The word “lent” comes from an Old English word for the spring slowly com ing, lencten. Yes, it connotes the lengthening of the days, more sunshine and warmth, which in years long ago meant release from cold, planting of crops, and the joy of spring and summer. Easter and its Jewish precedent, Passover/ Pesach, bears some of the same meanings—release from bondage, life triumphing over death. The encounters with folks on the Christmas Circle and in church are anything but morose, whether they drive up and stay in their vehicles or park and walk up, or line up for ashes after the BYOB music or at the afternoon service. There is joy, maybe even a lightness in their step. The clergy of Borrego will be there at The Circle in shifts starting at 8am, continuing till noon. And ashes will be available as mention, at church. In addition to taking daily prayer mor seriously, there are many things one can do in Lent. It used to be assumed that alcohol and desserts would be given up. This is fine if you so choose. Giving more for food insecurity, volunteering at food banks, even seeking out family and friends to make sure you are at peace with them—all of these are wonderful Lenten practices. Happy Lent.
Our Kids Need Your Help!
Originally Posted on DESERT USA's Youtube @Desertusa "In early February 2026, we headed into Anza-Borrego Desert State Park to explore early wildflowers and test new camera gear—including a 360-degree camera that let us capture the desert from entirely new perspectives.
Paintings & Private Collection See Nita Wipper Paintings & Her Private Art Collection in Borrego Springs, Feb 7–Mar 1, 2026, curated by Elizabeth Rodriguez at The Palms. Nita Wipper: Paintings & Her Private Art Collection is on view Feb 7–Mar 1, 2026 at The Gallery at The Palms in Borrego Springs. Curated by Elizabeth Rodriguez , the show features Wipper’s paintings plus works by Marjorie Reed, Leslie Duncan, Joe Garcia, Betty Carr, Toni Williams, Armand Vallee, and Debra Huse , along with Mexican artifacts including crosses, masks, mirrors, sculptures, angels, padres y animalitos . Visit Details Dates: February 7 – March 1, 2026 Hours: Daily, 9:30 am – 8:30 pm Location: The Gallery at The Palms, 2220 Hoberg Rd, Borrego Springs Opening Reception: Saturday, Feb 7, 5–8 pm Phone: 760-443-3300 Email: houseofborregosprs@sbcglobal.net Learn More About Borrego Springs
Among Eridanus’ prominent stars is Epsilon Eridani. Creators.com illustration
Source: www.kpbs.org By KPBS Staff Published February 10, 2026 at 4:04 PM PST KPBS has announced that it will be broadcasting its FM channel to the Borrego Springs area starting February 10, 2026. The KPBS-FM primary signal will be broadcast on KRAM 90.5FM. The opportunity was presented to KPBS in mid-2025 by Gabriel Wisdom of American Money Management. Mr. Wisdom had recently purchased KRAM 90.5FM and was looking to rebroadcast KPBS to extend the public media station’s reach to Borrego Springs, a small desert community with a population around 3,000. “By airing programming from KPBS on KRAM 90.5 FM, we’re linking Borrego Springs with trusted journalism, and a cultural connection that strengthens civic life in San Diego’s beautiful desert community,” says Wisdom. It has been more than 15 years since KPBS had a transmitter for rebroadcasting the radio signal in that geographically challenged region. While part of San Diego County, the topography of the Borrego Springs area prevents KPBS’ signal from reaching the valley via the radio transmitter on Mt. Soledad on the coast. “As an essential public service, it's important that KPBS reach local communities, especially in times of crisis. This agreement is a good example of how we can creatively partner with others to continue that service to broader San Diego. KPBS looks forward to the chance to serve Borrego Springs,” says Deanna Mackey, KPBS general manager. KPBS has entered into a one-year programming agreement with Mr. Wisdom during which time it will fully assess the long term sustainability for the broadcast. “The KRAM-KPBS alliance is grounded in local identity, while keeping San Diego’s desert population connected to the wider world,” says Wisdom.
