Two weekends ago, a buddy and I headed out to
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park to check out the annual wildflower blooms, which is an annual rite of passage in these parts. From my house, it's a mere 85 mile drive through the mountains and down to the desert floor. There is no doubt that San Diego County possesses the most varied climate and topography of any in the entire country.
Here's a glimpse at San Diego's rural side.........
Heading east towards the mountains as seen from El Cajon
Not long ago, Alpine was a small mountain community, now it looks like Rancho Bernardo
It's a two-lane road all the way to the our destination
First stop is one of many roadside stands that sell snacks such as homemade beef jerky, nuts and fruits
Say hello to Pam!
The perfect Sunday drive
As we climb in elevation, it was so sad to see the devastation from the recent wildfires that destroyed the once pine-covered mountains.
Coming up on Lake Cuyamaca
The historic town of Julian is only minutes away
Julian(Pop. 1,600) is an old old mining town founded back in the late 1800's during a mini-Gold Rush. Many of the buildings in town date back to that time. The best time to come here is during the Fall when the smell of Apple pie wafts throughout the charming main drag. It's most beautiful here after a fresh snowfall.
I swear, this place could be picked up and moved to North Carolina and no one would ever know the difference
Can you tell it's a popular daytrip for us city folks?
C'mon, we've still got places to go......
The disappearing vegetation means we are in the unforgiving desert now
Borrego Springs straight ahead
We're here, and I'm beginning to see what we came here for
I guess other people had the same idea. Look at all of the vehicles parked along the side of the road
Unfortunately, the ocotillos hadn't bloomed yet. The tips of this plant are a fiery red and are really cool
The road to nowhere
Heading back to San Diego a different way...
Mountain roads
This could almost be Colorado or Utah. Aaarggh...I wish there was snow on those peaks
Coming up on Santa Ysabel/Ramona
San Diego country roads
Kentucky or San Diego? You decide
Irish countryside?
White picket fence, anyone?
Iron Mountain in eastern Poway. It's one of favorite hikes around. 2,700 foot peak with incredible views from top
Looking down on North Poway from Poway Road
So there you have it, a look at a side of San Diego that you probably never even knew existed!
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This has to be the most expensive gas station in the entire county (maybe even country). Take that, you Hummer owners!
Ur the coolest
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