Jake Hinton • June 10, 2024

The Montezuma Grade: Anza Borrego State Park

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The Montezuma Grade

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

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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.




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