Anza to Julian

We're going on a quick trip from the floor of the Anza Borrego Desert to the Mountain community of Julian.

I find it a bit of a marvel to go from an arid desert to a pine covered town within a few miles. True, it is a steep climb which makes it so much the better, as road trips go.


The Anza Borrego Desert Floor

A beautiful ride!



Imagine taking a stage coach through the desert in summer, hoping all riding companions take their personal hygiene and grooming seriously.

Heading Up
Keep your eyes sharp!

There is much more to see on the Anza's Desert Floor. This is a whirlwind tour so we must keep going. After making a left hand turn on 78, it is only about 12 miles to the little mountain town of Julian where you can get a fresh squeezed cup of apple juice and hot apple pie — ice cream is optional — or cheese if you prefer.

You will see a sharp contrast
within a very few miles.



Julian beckons you to stay.



You won't starve.


I was a little disappointed with the Rong Branch. I remembered it as an old fashioned, creaky, wooden floored saloon, with an iconic bar. The tourist probably like this motif better.