Catch the flowers in bloom this year. Snow storms in December, and spring rains in February mean the wildflowers will be gorgeous, unless some freak weather system passes through.
The Road to the Desert
Drive east out of San Diego to Ramona, on Highway 78, known as the gateway to San Diego’s inland mountains. Eucalyptus trees line Main Street and suddenly city life seems far away. The plethora of antique stores prompted the title of Antique Capital of San Diego County. Big Apple Bagels on Main Street is a good option for breakfast on the go.
Julian—the Gem of the Cuyamaca Mountains
Julian is about the half-way point and it’s nearly impossible to drive through Julian without stopping for a piece of their famous apple pie. It’s even tempting to stop and catch a ride on the horse-drawn carriage on a sunny day. Julian has been the Bed and Breakfast capital of Southern California for years, stemming from its romantic atmosphere. But today it’s as much a family destination as it is a romantic escape.
Borrego Springs
Borrego Springs is about 30 miles northeast of Julian. The highway goes over Yaqui Pass then gently drops into the Borrego Sink. The view of the Sink with the Santa Rosa Mountains in the background is breath-taking, especially at sunrise or sunset. A beautiful drive that shouldn’t be missed is along S22 east out of Borrego Springs, turning right at Font’s Wash. A 4.5 mile bumpy sandy wash leads to the edge of one of the most magnificent views of the Anza-Borrego Badlands. Four-wheel-drive vehicles are not absolutely necessary, but cars with a high clearance are.
February and March are the best months for the wildflower show, but there’s almost always something blooming in the desert. Most vibrant are the pink Sand Verbena, white Dune Evening Primrose, and the Desert Dandelions and golden Desert Sunflowers that cover the dunes in masses. The vivid magenta and chartreuse blooms of the cacti come later in the season.
Frequently the terrain along Henderson Canyon Road will be carpeted with bright yellow blooms, and it’s fabulous seeing the blooms while driving along, but it’s much better to be walking among them. Get a hiking map and wildflower pamphlet from the Visitor Center. There are dozens of hiking trails to try out.
Accommodations
During good wildflower years, and this one looks like it’s going to be good, the rooms fill up quickly. For weekend trips reservations are a must. The Borrego Springs Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau has an extensive list of options, from camping to high-end resorts.
Take a weekend road trip to see the wildflowers of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park.
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