Category Archives: WEEKEND GETAWAY

CALIFORNIA, HIKING, ROAD TRIPS, SOUTHERN CA, WEEKEND GETAWAY

SUMMER IN BIG BEAR

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Big Bear Lake and the surrounding resort make an awesome summer getaway with your family. Although mostly known for the snow resorts in winter, summer is a great time to visit to experience Big Bear Lake’s clear sky, sunshine, and relaxing summer vibes. The famous Big Bear Mountain ski resorts, Snow Summit and Bear Mountain, transform from snowboard parks to mountain bike parks, tubing parks, and scenic views.

Tucked away in the San Bernardino National Forest, this mountain town is not just for winter visits. Summer brings high temperatures, clear days, and endless fun on the lake water and mountain trails. We visited as a family for the first time in 2022 and will be making it a tradition. Just over two hours from San Diego and Los Angeles, Big Bear, CA, is a must-do for anyone in Southern California. Throughout our trip, we asked why we waited so long to explore Big Bear in summer!

WHERE IS BIG BEAR LAKE, CALIFORNIA?

Big Bear Lake is located in the San Bernadino National Forest. In just over a two-hour drive from Los Angeles or San Diego, you will relax in Southern California’s only four-season resort full of adventurous options. Order your free visitor guide before your trip here to get excited about your trip, or pick one up at the visitor center when you come into town.

DRIVING TO BIG BEAR LAKE, CA

The drive to Big Bear Lake, California, is a beautiful but curvy drive up the mountain. The road is filled with many sharp and sudden turns while bordering the San Bernardino Mountains edge on the way up. I highly recommend Dramamine if anybody in your vehicle is prone to car sickness. Cellular service is spotty on the way up, so take your time to keep your Big Bear Mountain adventure a success.

The drive to Big Bear Lake takes just over 2 1/2 hours from San Diego and a little over 2 hours from Los Angeles. Here are my favorite things to help keep a road trip relaxing with kids! There are several areas to pull over and take in the view. Spring and summer bring stunning wildflower views. It is amazing the difference 100 miles can make!

BEST SUMMER ACTIVITIES IN BIG BEAR

I was blown away by everything to do during the summer in Big Bear Lake when I first started looking into our trip. The best part is that many of the best things (in our opinion) were free activities. However, do not get me wrong; you can drop some cash in Big Bear if you want to! Here are our favorite summer activities and restaurants to help you plan your Big Bear Lake trip.

STOP BY THE BIG BEAR VISITOR CENTER

I recommend stopping by the Big Bear Visitor Center when you first come into town to grab the free visitor guide, maps, and any additional brochures for activities you are interested in. You can also ask about current weather or road conditions that may impact your plans.

In addition, if you plan to hike any trails where the parking requires an Adventure Pass, you can purchase it here for $5/day. If you have a National Park America the Beautiful Annual Pass, you can use it instead of the Adventure Pass. Hang it on your mirror like in the National Park, and you are good to go!

SNOW SUMMIT SKI RESORT SUMMER ADVENTURES

Snow Summit Ski Resort may be a snowboarding paradise in winter, but mountain bikers take the hills come summer. I was set on trying this adventure until I realized our son was not quite ready, but the resort had several additional options for our younger kids.

SNOW SUMMIT BIKE PARK

The Snow Summit Bike Park is a highlight for any mountain biker. Visitors can purchase a lift ticket for the mountain bike trails that have replaced the ski runs earlier in the year. Mountain bike rentals are available as well. This is clearly a highlight of the area and a do-not-miss for any mountain biking family!

I thought this would be great as a father/son adventure, but when we checked it out, we realized the mountain biking was a little aggressive for our son’s skill level this year. We opted to explore other options around the resort and were not disappointed.

SNOW SUMMIT SCENIC SKY CHAIR

The Scenic Sky Chair was a highlight of our trip. It also allowed us to check out the bike park to decide the right choice for our family before dropping the lift ticket fee and $140 to rent a bike for my husband. The Scenic Sky Chair delivered great views and was a perfect option for our family of four. Even our one-year-old could participate!

Everyone will love the views, but when you get to the top, you can take a moment to enjoy lunch or beverages at the Skyline Tavern. You can even place your order before heading up to avoid crowds at lunch!

From here, you can see the mountains or “boonas” as my daughter would say (thanks to her favorite book, I Love the Mountains). The moment you step off the chair lift, the highest peak in California, San Gorgonio, will stun you! Wander around the top of the mountain before heading down the chair lift.

As you enjoy your downhill ride, the views of Big Bear Lake are incredible. Although the tickets were almost $40/adult, the kids were free with our paid adult tickets, so the whole family enjoyed the ride for under $80! We all agreed this was one of the best things we did during our visit to Big Bear Lake!

Towards the end of the scenic sky chair ride, the tubing run caught our son’s eye! We knew where we were headed next! We had just enough time before closing to get in some runs.

TUBING AT GRIZZLY RUN

The tubing run is super fun for kids and parents. It was a perfect thing to do with our son because he could experience some independent thrill, but it was not too intense for him! To ride the tube, your child must be 42″ tall. Only one rider is allowed per tube, so no lap-sitting with parents.

In addition to the biking and tubing adventures, there are rock climbing walls, a bungee trampoline, a zip line, and miniature golf to satisfy your kids at the Big Bear Mountain Resort. You can chill and spend an afternoon here easily. I would recommend considering the $44-$59 Adventure Day Pass if you plan to spend some time here. This allows your child to experience unlimited access to everything in the resort.

THE ALPINE SLIDE AT MAGIC MOUNTAIN

I read about the Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain when I first started looking into the best family-friendly things to do in Big Bear. The Alpine Slide is California’s only bobsled experience. Riders take a chair lift to the top and then ride the 1/4-mile concrete track down. Riders must be at least 36″ tall and can go as fast or slow as they want. Some turns are pretty sharp, so that it can be a real thrill!

Our son loved this and was so pumped about it! He was originally skeptical about trying it on his own, but once he started, he did not want to stop. However, at $9/ride, we had to limit his alpine slide runs. The tickets are purchased with CASH ONLY, so come prepared with enough for the rides you plan to do. They do have an ATM, if you forget. If you have multiple kids riding or know your child will love it, I recommend the five rides for $40. You can check current hours and pricing here.

When you first pull into the parking lot, The Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain looks a little rough around the edges. However, it was a massive highlight for our son, and we even returned for a second visit during our week in Big Bear Lake, California. The views of Big Bear Lake from the top were awesome, and we all took turns bombing down the hill. You will be surprised how fast you can go if you do not brake too much during your run!

We visited during the week, so the lines were non-existent. To start, you’ll enter a container-like shed to sign a waiver on an iPad and receive your wristband for the day. After the shed, you’ll purchase your tickets at the ticket counter and get in line for the chairlift. At the top, you will roll your slide to the start of the Alpine Slide. There is a first-time rider side that goes a little slower, which is great for kids on their first run!

There is a shaded seating area for people to enjoy snacks while watching riders come down the slide. Our daughter loved cheering for all of us as we came racing down.

Although the property is mostly known for the Alpine slide, they have expanded the options to include fun for the family year-round! On the property, visitors can enjoy seasonal water slides, tubing runs, an 18-hole mini golf course, a cart-style zipline (The Soaring Eagle), go-karts, and the new mountain roller coaster, the Mineshaft Coaster.

MINESHAFT COASTER

The Mineshaft Coaster was a surprise hit as well. We each took a turn with our son, which was $30 a ride for an adult and child ticket. Riders must be 38″ and over age 3. You can check current rates and hours here. The display of broken phones in the loading area was enough to ensure I put mine away, so I don’t have many pictures!

As the only mountain coaster in California, the track takes you up the mountain and down the 1-mile track, where you can control your speed once again (up to 27mph). My son loved this, and they offer a video and photo package after your ride that is fun to check out! When visiting Big Bear Lake in summer, a stop for some thrills at Magic Mountain will surely make for some family fun!

RELAX IN BOULDER BAY PARK

I was so happy we chose Boulder Bay Park for our first Big Bear Lake, CA sunset. Between the lush landscape and panoramic lake view, Boulder Bay Park was a perfect spot to enjoy before dinner in Big Bear Village. Kids enjoyed scootering around, and families were picnicking at the tables with incredible lake views.

There is a marina you can also walk down onto for closer lake views. Sadly, during our 2022 visit, the lake was about 15 feet lower than the average in June due to California’s drought. Many beautiful lake home docks were damaged and lying in the mud where water should be along the shoreline.

I am anxious to see the difference this season after the rainy atmospheric events Southern California experienced in 2023.

TAKE IN BIG BEAR LAKE VIEWS FROM A BOAT

Big Bear Lake is known for all kinds of lake activities and water sports- boating, kayaking, jet skiing, paddle boarding, tubing, wakeboarding, and fishing, to name a few! There are marinas all around the lake for private boats to obtain permits. In addition, most marinas have rentals for a variety of water sports available. When visiting Big Bear Lake in summer, make a point to get out on the water!

BOAT RENTALS AT PINE KNOT MARINA

We loved renting our pontoon boat from Pine Knot Marina! We went there on a whim, trying to catch a boat tour but had the schedule wrong. It was a blessing in disguise because we rented a rad pontoon for our family to cruise the lake with for an hour. Another group was renting jet skis which looked like a lot of fun if we had older kids! I will update you on a jet ski rental once our son is older.

We had the best time exploring the shoreline on our own schedule. The marina gives you a map and a basic outline of how to spend your hour. They also review the important buoys on Big Bear Lake and what they mean so you stay in the right places! Seeing places like Boulder Bay Park from the other side is awesome!

You can check current rental offerings and rates here. The boat had a lounging pad, great shade, lifevests, and Bluetooth speakers. Our whole family agreed this was one of the best things we did during our summer visit to Big Bear Lake, California!

BOAT TOURS

Although we did not take a boat tour during our 2022 trip, several tours are available. We found ourselves on Pine Knot Marina trying to cruise Big Bear Lake on the Miss Liberty, which I had read was an awesome 90-minute narrated tour of the lake. Miss Liberty also does sunset cruises with snacks and beverages. Check current rates and times here.

I have also heard great things about the Big Bear Lake Pirate Ship boat tour! Check current rates and times here, and come prepared for some laughter! We will check this out after our next trip, and I will update you here.

WANDER THROUGH BIG BEAR VILLAGE

Big Bear Village is the hub of restaurants and shopping in the Big Bear Lake resort. There are so many cute shops and art galleries to wander through. Many of our favorite restaurants are located in the village. At night, holiday lights adorn the trees, and horse-drawn carriages cruise the streets.

O KOO RAN

O Koo Ran is my favorite store in Big Bear Lake! The shop is filled with home goods, clothing, shoes, gifts, and cute baby gifts. They had various outdoor and camping gifts and unique jewelry and accessories. My daughter was excited to find the Baby Bear version of her favorite puppet book series here! Such a fun souvenir.

The store reminded me of my favorite store in Cambria, CA, Home Arts. I will stop by to shop O Koo Ran whenever I visit. This is a great place to pick up fun moments from your trip or gifts for those you love.

CRUISE THE STANFIELD MARSH PRESERVE BOARDWALK

The Stanfield Marsh Wildlife and Fowl Preserve Boardwalk is a great walk for families during summer visits. The 1.6-mile boardwalk is flat and stroller/wheelchair friendly. This is a beautiful place to visit during sunset in Big Bear Lake, California.

Local residents enjoy jogging in the evening as visitors stroll along, watching the marsh for animal action. We enjoyed strolling along and taking in the views from the bench at the end of the boardwalk. This trail is another example of a free activity that was a hit with the whole family.

OFF-ROAD HOLCOMB VALLEY ROAD

Since we got our Subaru, the kids have loved going for “bumpy rides” whenever an off-road adventure presents itself. When I read about heading up into the San Bernardino National Forest to off-road into Gold Rush history, I knew this adventure was perfect for our family! As an added bonus, our son was entering fourth grade, so the teacher in me knew this adventure would align with the social studies curriculum he was about to embrace!

Holcomb Valley Road is 10.8 miles long, with a 1,164 elevation gain from Big Bear Lake into the San Bernardino Mountains. The scenic AWD/4WD road has great views and lots of history. You can drive the 10.8 miles through or take some detours and explore gold rush history high in the mountains.

Whether you detour or not, the panoramic views are great on your way back into Big Bear Valley. On the right, you will see the remnants of the “Lucky Baldwin” Mine, built in 1945. You will also see Baldwin Lake, a neighbor to Big Bear Lake.

2N09 – GOLD FEVER TRAIL

We enjoyed returning to the gold rush days on the self-guided Gold Fever Trail. There are 12 stops on the drive, each with markers and areas to get out and walk around. Pick up your brochure at the Big Bear Visitor Center before heading up the mountain so you can follow along.

We missed a few stops along the way, but here are a few highlights. This drive was a memorable adventure for all of us! Summer in Big Bear is a perfect time to explore this area.

TWO GUN BILL’S SALOON

A small walk takes you to the remnants of an old cabin rumored to be the famous saloon.

HANGMAN’S TREE

This tree was rumored to be the symbol of justice in Holcomb Valley during the discovery of gold in the area. As people flocked to the area, so did murder and crime. Outlaws me their end on a tree just like this (the real tree is believed to be a stump nearby)

BELLEVILLE

This single cabin is an example of the cabins that filled Holcomb Valley in 1861, when 1,500 people lived here.

ARRASTRES (GOLD ORE GRINDER)

The stone remains of one of the oldest tools for gold mining are located just next to the Belleville cabin. In the peak of Holcomb Valley’s gold mining days, over 100 of these arrastres could be found in this valley.

ROSS’ GRAVE

A miner was accidentally killed while cutting down a tree and was buried immediately. This is his grave. Kind of morbid but interesting to see. Volunteers build the log fence to keep vandals out.

PYGMY CABIN SITE

Across the road from Ross’ grave, a short trail leads to the Pygmy cabin remains. Nobody understands why the cabin was built so short. Sadly only small remnants remain as a fire destroyed the cabin in 1983.

BIG BEAR JEEP EXPERIENCE TOURS

If you don’t have AWD or 4WD, the Big Bear Jeep Experience Tours allow you to go off-road and see the Gold Rush remnants in Big Bear. The Holcomb Valley Tour allows you to drive a Jeep along the Gold Fever Trail with a guide.

In addition, Big Bear Jeep Experience offers a variety of off-roading adventures in other areas of Big Bear. Now that our daughter is older, we are excited to The Squeeze and John Bull, Jr. tours! I will update you on these tours after our visit this summer!

DRIVE SCENIC HIGHWAY 38 AROUND BIG BEAR LAKE

Known as the Rim of the World Scenic Byway, Highway 38 is a scenic drive through much of the San Bernardino National Forest and runs along the North shore of Big Bear Lake, California. Unlike the southern shore lined with cabins and private docks, the north shore has incredible lake views. Enjoy the scenic drive, or pull over to explore the shoreline and watch the variety of water sports happening on the lake in front of you!

The North Shore is also home to several popular campgrounds and hiking trails. The Cougar Crest Trail and Woodland Interpretive Trail have parking off Highway 38. In addition, the Big Bear Discovery Center and Alpine Pedal Path are highlighted along the scenic byway on the north shore.

BIKE THE ALPINE PEDAL PATH

Our son thought this was one of the best things to do in summer in Big Bear. There is something so free about an easy bike ride along a scenic route! The Alpine Pedal Path is just over 3 miles of paved pathway along the north shore of Big Bear Lake.

Due to the scenery, this pathway is popular year-round. The flat road makes it a biking destination, especially for kids. However, local residents also enjoy walking their leashed dogs along the pathway. The path is also stroller and wheelchair friendly for those looking to walk or jog. There are several benches for relaxing or picnicking along the way. This is a perfect stop during the beautiful summer days in Big Bear Lake.

GOLF THE BEAR MOUNTAIN COURSE

If golfing interests you, Big Bear’s only golf course, the 9-hole Bear Mountain Course, makes for a fun couple of hours of golf. Since the course is only 9-holes, you can head out first thing and still have plenty of time for adventures in the day! You can reserve your tee time up to 30 days ahead. It is rad to see your ball fly at 7,000 feet altitude!

VISIT THE BIG BEAR ALPINE ZOO

My kids loved visiting this Alpine Zoo. I wasn’t sure what to expect when we headed in, but I was pleasantly surprised by how nice the facilities were. The Big Bear Alpine Zoo is home to over 85 animal and bird species and primarily serves as an animal rehabilitation facility. They take in injured, orphaned animals, hoping to care for them until they return to the wild.

The Big Bear Alpine Zoo welcomes visitors year-round. Winter storms may delay opening hours to clear snow. Check current hours and pricing here. A small playground inside the zoo makes for an enjoyable stop or place to picnic during your visit. The 2.5-acre grounds are stroller and wheelchair friendly; however, they are unavailable to rent.

GLOW BOWL AT THE BOWLING BARN

Looking for some family fun at night? The Bowling Barn turns off the lights and turns on the glow and music every night around 8 pm. Weekends start earlier, so check current hours here.

Between the atmosphere, lanes for all ages, arcade, snacks, and drinks, all will surely enjoy a night at the Bowling Barn!

EXPLORE THE BIG BEAR DISCOVERY CENTER

The Big Bear Discovery Center is a great place for families. The Discovery Center is the largest visitor center in Big Bear Valley and offers a variety of programs to teach visitors about caring for the forest surrounding them. Although it has been closed for remodeling, the Big Bear Discovery Center is set to reopen in June 2023.

In addition to the indoor exhibits and crafts, rangers are available outside with displays, art projects, coloring, and other hands-on activities for kids. There is also a short 1/2-mile Nature Loop to enjoy. You can also pick up Adventure Passes and trail brochures here. Check current hours here as they were closed several times we tried to go.

HIKING ADVENTURES IN BIG BEAR

With over 100 miles of mountain biking and hiking trails, Big Bear has something for visitors of all skill levels. One of the best things you can do in summer in Big Bear is to get out on a hiking trail to enjoy the incredible views. The Big Bear Discovery Center has a great list of hiking trails in the area. Here are a few of our favorite family-friendly hikes in Big Bear, CA.

LAKE VIEWS FROM THE CASTLE ROCK TRAIL

The Castle Rock trail is a 2.7-mile round-trip hike up to some incredible views. With an elevation gain of 700 feet, you are climbing for the first mile of the trail. Large rocks in metal cylinders mark the trail, so keep watching for them as some struggle to stay on course with the side trails that tend to branch off for different views. Don’t forget to turn around during your climb to check out the incredible views of Big Bear Lake!

About a mile up the trail, there are some incredible lake views and rocks to scramble around on the Castle Rock Boulder Lookout. This was a great resting and snack area for our kids. They loved playing around on the rocks for a bit. Our daughter wanted to hike the rest of the way herself!

When you reach the top, the boulders are a lot of fun to climb, and the views are incredible. This is a great spot for a lunch picnic before heading down the hill back to your car. Although the climb up was tiring, the way back is all downhill. The hike took about 3 hours, but we had several snack stops and much 1-year-old rock scrambling.

The trailhead parking fills early as this is a highly trafficked trail. You need an Adventure Pass or National Park Pass to park at this trailhead. A small lot just east of the trailhead on Big Bear Boulevard’s north side (lakeside) fills by 9 am in summer.

From here, you follow Big Bear Boulevard for a short distance to the marked trailhead on the southern side of the road. The pictures above show the parking around 8:30 am when we arrived, the walk down to the trailhead, the trailhead, and the parking on the road when we finished our hike at 11:30 am.

FAMILY-FRIENDLY WOODLAND INTERPRETIVE TRAIL

Big Bear has many beautiful hiking trails, but the Woodland Interpretive Trail is awesome for hiking with young kids. At only 1.5 miles, the loop is lined with numbered panels that teach you about Big Bear Valley’s flora, fauna, and history.

You need to pick up the trail guide (or use this PDF) at the Big Bear Discovery Center for an explanation of each numbered panel.

Our one-year-old wanted to walk this one herself, and she did a great job. It took us about 90 minutes at this slower-than-average pace. However, this hiking trail was easy for her to navigate and mostly flat. Our BOB stroller would have worked out here too!

Some highlights were the views of summer in Big Bear. The ski runs that are packed in winter are green strips on the mountain between trees. The kids loved seeing trees filled with woodpecker holes and tracks from bugs decaying wood under the bark. Another highlight was this pile of sticks that is a woodrat “mansion.” The panels kept the kids engaged throughout the hike.

You will need an Adventure Pass for parking at the trailhead. Summer in Big Bear is a great time to hike and explore with your kids. The Woodland Interpretive Trail is a great pick!

LONGER SUMMER HIKES IN BIG BEAR WE HAVE NOT TRIED… YET!

These hikes are on my radar for when the kids are older, or we have a kid-free getaway. They both sound beautiful and tend to be very popular. Both trails require an Adventure Pass for parking at the trailhead.

PINE KNOT TRAIL TO GRAND VIEW POINT

The Pine Knot Trail has incredible views and is 6.9 miles out and back. With a climb of 1,158 feet to 7,784 feet of elevation, our young family has not taken this on yet. If you are interested in this challenge, check out this detailed trail guide from The Hiking Guy. An Adventure Pass is required for parking at the trailhead.

COUGAR CREST TRAIL

The Cougar Crest Trail is a very popular trail in Big Bear. This 5.6 miles out and back hike takes you up the mountain to jaw-dropping forest and lake views. You also join the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) for a bit. After 2 miles of climbing, the Crest Trail shines with stunning views. With an elevation climb of 750 feet, this trail is rated as moderately challenging. An Adventure Pass is required for parking at the trailhead.

BEST RESTAURANTS IN BIG BEAR

The downtown village of Big Bear is beautiful in summer. The streets are lined with busy restaurants filled with local and out-of-town visitors. Live music can be heard all around during the day, and the twinkle lights line the streets at night. In addition to the village area, Big Bear has some other culinary destinations along Big Bear Boulevard, just outside of the village. Here are some of our favorite places to eat in Big Bear Lake.

572 SOCIAL KITCHEN & LOUNGE

572 is located in the heart of Big Bear Village. The outdoor patio is large and perfect for summer days. Live music is abundant, the burgers are delicious, and the drinks are too! This is a great spot for families!

We loved our burgers, and the kids loved their snacks and sides. Check out the current menu here.

PEPPERCORN GRILLE

For a fine dining experience in Big Bear, try Peppercorn Grille. We were craving steak to celebrate Father’s Day, and this restaurant was a perfect solution. We enjoyed the filet, but I was also blown away by the macadamia nut-crusted halibut with black cherry maui onion marmalade. Delicious!

I highly recommend taking the outdoor patio in on a warm summer night. We enjoyed watching the horse-drawn carriages walk down the road, and the village lights gave a great ambiance. Reservations are recommended.

SAUCY MAMA’S PIZZERIA

We only grabbed this to-go, but the hand-tossed pizza was delicious. Saucy Mama’s Pizzeria is great for grabbing a quick bite, especially for bigger groups. The modern-day pizza parlor style makes it easy to grab a table and enjoy a game on TV. The drink selection is awesome as well.

Sometimes after a big day of adventure, you need a quick solution to take back to your accommodations. Saucy Mama’s is great for quick, to-go dinners during summer in Big Bear. Or grab to-go as a sunset picnic at Boulder Bay Park or Stanfield Marsh Preserve. Save your receipt for 10% off sweet treats next door at North Pole Fudge & Ice Cream Co.

ICE CREAM IN BIG BEAR VILLAGE

Ice cream stops are big in our family, especially after outdoor adventures. It is always fun to pick up special sweet treats while shopping around the village. Check out Ben & Jerry’s or North Pole Fudge & Ice Cream Co for a delicious treat to beat the summer heat!

BIG BEAR LAKE BREWING COMPANY

Big Bear Lake Brewing Company is for you if you want to try locally brewed craft beer. The brewing company is located in the heart of Big Bear Village and has a variety of beers to sample and purchase to-go. In addition, the menu has some unique appetizers (check out the avocado bomb) and burgers that make this a great spot in town for the beer lover!

OLD GERMAN DELI

Big Bear’s Old German Deli is a great stop in summer. Established in 1916, this small deli serves authentic German cuisine and has a small marketplace filled with various German specialties, like imported chocolates and beers. You can grab take-out sandwiches for picnics on adventures or dine on the small outdoor patio. The potato salad and sausage platters make you feel like you are in the middle of Oktoberfest during Big Bear’s summer heat. Check out the menu and current hours here.

CAFÉ CRÊPE

Café Crêpe is a gem on Big Bear Boulevard! This drive-thru coffee and crêperie will make breakfast or lunch a treat. Outdoor seating is available if you want to eat there. We had a variety of savory and sweet crêpes, and the kids loved every bite. I still dream of my honey lavender latte and cannot wait to have it all again this summer!

In addition, Café Crêpe prides itself on sustainability by sourcing local ingredients, using organic and fair trade coffees, minimizing to-to packaging, and even offering a $0.25 discount if you bring your own mug!

DANK DONUTS

Last but not least, one of our favorite places in Big Bear! Located in the Moonridge area of Big Bear, heading towards the winter ski resorts, Dank Donuts is a funky shop that should not be passed by. Our kids love donuts, so we stopped in to pick up a special breakfast treat. The donuts were delicious (my favorite was the blueberry!), and they make vegan and gluten-free donuts too! You can also grab breakfast burritos and avocado toast to start your day.

We also discovered and LOVED Dank Donuts’ summertime Taco Tuesday. The street tacos were awesome and made to order. They have a great variety of beer and wine for your taco picks (seasonal Juneshine and Pizza Port beers to name a few). The place was packed with tons of local residents, as this is the place to dine on Tuesday nights in Big Bear. The whole night was great Southern California vibes – great food, drinks, music, and chill people.

Super pumped to try the Deli Moonridge at Dank Donuts this summer! The sandwiches sound amazing, and I will update here after our visit! Dank Donuts delivers delicious eats for breakfast, lunch, and dinner during summer in Big Bear.

BEST DRINKS IN BIG BEAR

BARREL 33

If you want a fun place to try different wines, head to Barrel 33. They carry a great selection of varietals from across California, and the staff knows the wines well and can design tastings to meet your palate. They also have sangria, beers, and ciders.

Between the outdoor patio, live music, great small bites, flatbreads, and comfy wine barrel furniture, Barrel 33 is a place for local residents and visitors to gather and relax! Dogs and children are welcome too! This is a great spot to kick back and enjoy summer in Big Bear.

HOME OF THE HANGOVER

I don’t think I have ever mentioned a liquor store in my destination guides before, but Home of the Hangover deserves to be on the list. The selection in the store blew me away. This store has a little bit of everything and is the place to stock up on your favorites for your trip. Your beverage of choice is a great addition to a sunset picnic at Boulder Bay Park or Stanfield Marsh Wildlife Preserve (which happens to be next door).

Home of the Hangvoer prides itself on its craft beer selection and rare whiskey and scotches. However, I was thrilled about their hard kombucha selection, which deserves mention. Traveling out of San Diego can make grabbing my favorites hard to find. Not only was the variety impressive, but they also had seasonal flavors that are rare to find!

WHERE TO STAY IN BIG BEAR

There are so many awesome places to stay when visiting Big Bear. Here are a few that we have enjoyed and others that we want to check out next time!

CABIN RENTAL

There are so many options for cabin rentals in Big Bear. These are a great option for families traveling together and other large groups. VRBO is a great option for finding cabins of all sizes and price points. You can search with specific filters that will give you an ideal match for your trip- things like a hot tub, on the lake, etc.

Friends of ours also have a great 3-bedroom lakeside cabin on AirBnb. Check it out; the location is incredible, and they are awesome hosts!

THE LODGE AT BIG BEAR LAKE

You cannot beat the location here. The Lodge at Big Bear Lake is right in the heart of the village, making most of your trip within walking distance. They have a variety of rooms available, and it is pet-friendly. Some rooms have bunk beds, which is always exciting for kids. They offer free parking, a huge pool, and kids’ game/arcade room!

SNOW LAKE LODGE

The Snow Lake Lodge is awesome for longer trips. The rooms are decently priced and are suite-style for families. We had plenty of storage and a fireplace in each room. Having a full-size kitchen is great when traveling with kids. They also have BBQ’s to use, which is awesome for summer in Big Bear.

It is an older place, but they did a great job, and everything was clean. Housekeeping was attentive, and the front desk has a pool table and DVD movies for rent. Wife and parking are free. We had a giant bedroom which was great for us and would be even better for snowboards/skis in winter. We brought groceries and had breakfast in the room each morning.

One downside is that there are no stairs, so make sure to request a ground-floor room if stairs are a struggle for anyone traveling. Many times there is a two-night minimum when booking. Pets are not allowed. Our kids had a great time in the pool between adventures!

BEST WESTERN BIG BEAR CHATEAU

We are excited to check this place out this summer! The Best Western Big Bear Chateau has large rooms with balconies and fireplaces. In addition, breakfast, Wifi, and parking are all included in your rate. The pool looks great, and so does the game room! I will update you here after our stay this summer!

MAP

This map was created with Wanderlog, the best trip planner app on iOS and Android

Summer in Big Bear is so much fun! What is missing from my list? We can’t wait to come back in winter!

CALIFORNIA, DAYTIME ADVENTURES, HIKING, NATIONAL PARKS, SOUTHERN CA, WEEKEND GETAWAY

VISITING JOSHUA TREE WITH KIDS

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There is something so magical about visiting Joshua Tree National Park. I love a trip out to the desert, and the prime location of Joshua Tree National Park makes it an easy weekend getaway from most Southern California destinations. Palm Springs is less than an hour away, so we usually take a day trip up to the national park when we stay in the desert. Exploring Joshua Tree National Park is a must-do, especially with kids! The park is full of stunning desert landscapes, and the unique rock formations, hiking trails, and 4wd roads create a massive playground for kids of all ages.

Kids of every age will love climbing the different boulder formations and exploring the desert’s nooks and crannies. Joshua Tree National Park features some of the best landscapes in the Mojave Desert. If you are looking for details on a particular spot or hiking trail in the park, use the table of contents to jump ahead. Otherwise, read on, and I will cover all you need to know about visiting Joshua Tree with kids!

WHEN TO VISIT JOSHUA TREE

The best time to visit Joshua Tree National Park is during Fall or Spring when the lower temperatures make exploring all-day comfortable. However, this is not a secret; with those comfortable temperatures come many visitors. You may find snow on the desert floor in winter, which is awesome. We love visiting in the winter for this reason. I also love Spring visits due to the wildflowers popping up all over the desert. Joshua Tree National Park’s peak season runs from September to May.

Joshua Tree National Park is in the high desert, and summers get VERY hot. June to September almost guarantees temperatures over 100°. So don’t take your kids hiking in Joshua Tree National Park in the summer. If you plan to venture in the summer, plan on very early mornings and wrap your day up by 10 am. Whether trying to avoid crowds or heat, early starts are essential for a successful day.

BEST TIME OF DAY

Joshua Tree National Park is stunning throughout the day. Sunrise is spectacular as the crowds are low, and the views are unforgettable. Planning your day by starting early at a more popular destination makes for less frustration and masses. Mid-morning brings traffic and parking struggles. So being flexible with your plans is essential.

Early evening and sunset are easy times to grab incredible views. I love pulling over into one of the pullouts to watch the cotton candy sky melt into the night. There is something so beautiful about the desert landscape sprinkled with Joshua Trees against the vibrant colors of sunset. Then, as the sun disappears, the stars come out to shine in the night sky. No visit to Joshua Tree is complete without some time spent stargazing. The National Park is open 24 hours and is a designated international dark sky park.

WHAT TO PACK FOR A DAY IN JOSHUA TREE

A few things make Joshua Tree National Park unique and should be considered when packing. Of course, safety is essential no matter your age, but planning for the elements is even more critical when visiting Joshua Tree with kids. You can read more about our favorite things to pack when visiting National Parks with kids here. First, however, here are some specifics for a visit to Joshua Tree National Park with kids.

THERE IS NO WATER AVAILABLE IN JOSHUA TREE NATIONAL PARK

It is important to overestimate how much water you may want. I recommend stainless steel water bottles that keep your extra water cold in the car—plan for at least a gallon per person or two gallons per person in hotter temperatures. Our son loves his hydration pack too, which is great because it allows him to carry his water and binoculars. The visitor centers do have water fountains to refill water bottles, but they are located by the entrances to the park. There is nowhere to refill once you are inside the park enjoying your day.

THERE IS NO FOOD AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE IN JOSHUA TREE NATIONAL PARK

Definitely have a picnic packed when you visit Joshua Tree, National Park. We bring things from home and love loading up at Roadrunner Grab+Go or Natural Sisters Cafe for anything else we need. Make sure to have a quality cooler to load everything into, as temperatures in your car can soar in the summer months. I love packing a blanket for impromptu picnics and snacks along our route. A few camping chairs are not a bad idea for this same reason. I cover our favorite places to eat near Joshua Tree National Park below.

THERE IS NO CELL SERVICE INSIDE JOSHUA TREE NATIONAL PARK

In addition, no cellular service means you cannot access maps or blog post information. Make sure to pick up hard copies of maps when you enter or screenshot anything you may want access to when visiting.

THERE IS NO GASOLINE AVAILABLE IN THE PARK

Make sure you have plenty of gas for your day of exploring. The drive through the park is under 2 hours, but it is best to head in with a fuller tank to add side trips along your way without any worry. From the west to the north entrance is 25 miles and takes about 40 minutes straight through. To drive from the south entrance to the north is about 40 miles and takes about an hour. An ideal day combines northern Park Boulevard and Pinto Basin Road destinations towards the south entrance to cover about 70 miles.

PACKING FOR DESERT WEATHER

Desert weather can change quickly, so you want to have layers for everyone. Pack many layers, sunscreen, sun hats, and sunglasses. To give your kids more information about the park’s conditions, check out books from your local library or order a book about the park to read ahead of your visit. We love this collection of cheap National Park Readers. They double as fun souvenirs, too! When you stop at the visitor center, stamp the national park service passport stamp and date inside the front cover. Grab a Joshua Tree National Park Junior Ranger book for a great free souvenir when you enter the park.

PACKING FOR ROCK SCRAMBLING & CLIMBING

Joshua Tree National Park is filled with lots of boulder climbing opportunities. This is a lot of fun for kids, but scrapes are bound to happen. I recommend a small first aid kit for minor scrapes that a band-aid magically fixes. You should also be prepared for pokes and scrapes from plants along the trails.

As much as I love my athleisure leggings and joggers daily, I suggest comfortable yet durable pants like my Kühl Weekendr Tight to explore the boulders with your kids. These versatile pants give you the flexibility of leggings while holding up against the jagged rocks. Also, strong hiking shoes are essential for everyone. They help your kids stay safe on the boulders and are extra important if you carry an infant in a babycarrier.

STARGAZING IN JOSHUA TREE NATIONAL PARK

Joshua Tree National Park is open 24 hours and has some of the darkest skies in southern California. Stargazing is spectacular, and if you plan to stay at night, have a headlamp or flashlight to navigate the desert landscape in the dark. If your kids are into stargazing, pack a guide to help them learn more about what they are looking at in the sparkling night sky.

WHAT TO DO IN JOSHUA TREE WITH KIDS

Although Joshua Tree covers almost 800,000 acres of desert, you can drive through the park’s main road, Park Boulevard, in under two hours. However, you want to allow plenty of time for stops along the way. Driving Park Boulevard from the West to North Entrance Station or vice versa gives you great views and plenty of great opportunities to explore Joshua Tree National Park with kids.

STOP BY THE JOSHUA TREE VISITOR CENTER

If you follow my blog, you know my first stop in National Parks is always the visitor center. I love this opportunity to pick up park and hiking brochures and our son’s Junior Ranger books, and talk to a ranger for feedback on my plan and other recommendations. Of course, you can research ahead and think you have everything planned, but talking to a ranger about current conditions during your visit is always wise, especially when visiting with kids.

Stopping by the visitor center is also a great time to review some desert safety basics with your kids. In addition to the elements, kids should watch for snakes, especially when rock climbing. Teach them to look before putting their hands or feet into a crevice. Children should also be aware of different plants like the Cholla Cactus and Yucca Plant and understand that they are incredibly painful if touched.

WEST ENTRANCE STATION

There are three main entrances to Joshua Tree National Park. Pick the best one for your itinerary, depending on where you come from in Southern California and what you want to accomplish first.

When visiting Joshua Tree National Park with kids, we love the West Entrance Station because it quickly gets you to some of the most popular hikes for families. It is also the first entrance station from Palm Springs or the Black Rock Campground, our favorite campground for visiting Joshua Tree with kids. In addition, the Joshua Tree Visitor Center and Roadrunner Grab+Go are on the way to this park entrance. However, this entrance can have long waits when entering during busy times.

OTHER ENTRANCE STATIONS TO JOSHUA TREE NATIONAL PARK
  • North Entrance Station – This entrance is in Twentynine Palms and tends to have fewer crowds (so less wait time). The Oasis of Mara Visitor Center is located here. This entrance is also close to our favorite local hotel – The Fairfield Inn & Suites. If you are staying here, this entrance is ideal for you in the morning.
  • Cottonwood Visitor Center – This entrance is on the south end of the park, so not something to consider if you are staying in Joshua Tree or Yucca Valley. This south entrance is closest to Indio and requires some extra driving time to the main areas in the park.

The National Park Service has a great planning tool on its website. This link takes you to a list of driving distances from each visitor center to popular destinations.

I love entering the park and, within minutes, driving through a “forest” of new and mature Joshua Trees scattered across the desert. Joshua Tree National Park is family-friendly because so many main stops are right off the two main roads, Park Boulevard, and Pinto Basin Road. In addition, pullouts all along the road let you pull over and stretch your legs without sacrificing any views.

HIKE THE HIDDEN VALLEY NATURE TRAIL

The Hidden Valley Nature Trail is an absolute favorite of mine when visiting Joshua Tree with kids! The hiking trail is an easy loop, and your kids will love rock climbing along the way. However, many people feel this way which makes parking difficult. I recommend this stop first thing in the morning or later in the afternoon. The trailhead is in the Hidden Valley picnic area (across from the Hidden Valley Campground), so you can always pack a breakfast picnic or happy hour to enjoy after your hike.

Hidden Valley is an old cattle ranch and a true gem inside the park. The Hidden Valley Trail is an easy, one-mile loop inside the valley. There are interpretive signs all along the path telling you about the flora and fauna of the area. If you are visiting early in the morning, you may be lucky enough to see desert bighorn sheep or mule deer enjoying the valley as well.

This trail loops around the valley’s edge, and the circle makes it hard to get lost even when adventuring in different directions. The highlight of this trail is all of the boulder formations for kids to enjoy. My son had so much fun climbing along as we walked the path. If your kids are into climbing, definitely have some bandaids with you for potential scrapes and cleanup.

TRAIL GUIDE

The trail starts up a few stairs and through some large boulders to enter the valley. After this portion, the next half mile is very flat. Watching rock climbers take on some of the national park’s most notable boulders is entertaining for everyone. Although mostly flat, there are stairs towards the end, so I do not recommend strollers on this trail.

Hidden Valley Trail is one of my favorite trails when visiting Joshua Tree with kids. The short length, relaxing vibe, and pleasing surroundings make it one of my absolute favorite hiking trails for kids of all ages.

You have an incredible view of the desert landscape and Joshua Trees as you exit Hidden Valley to return to the parking lot. Don’t forget this stop is also a day-use picnic area, so take time to enjoy a breakfast picnic or snack before heading to your next destination. There are pit toilets at the trailhead as well. I love this stop! Hidden Valley Campground is located just across the road and would be a fun place to camp with kids if you can score a spot!

HIKE TO BARKER DAM

The Barker Dam Nature Trail is another one of the most popular hiking trails for families. Again, I recommend targeting this trail first thing in the morning. We arrived just before 7:30 am and had no problems parking. After our hike, the line of cars waiting for parking was backed up to Park Boulevard.

Barker Dam is a unique area of the park and a piece of Joshua Tree’s cattle ranching history. The dam was created to catch rainwater for cattle and, at its maximum, covers 20 acres. The Barker Dam Nature Trail is a great place to look for bighorn sheep and mule deer in the early hours. The dam now acts as a watering hole for desert wildlife.

The Barker Dam trail is an easy 1.1-mile loop that is great for families. This trail has minimal shade, so pack accordingly. Bikes, strollers, and wheelchairs are not allowed on the trail due to some steps and ecological concerns.

We visited in mid-January after a recent storm, and some snow was on the ground. The trail to the dam was primarily flat and very easy for the kids. Interpretive panels tell you about the area’s plants, animals, history, and culture.

Barker Dam changes over the seasons, and unfortunately, the dam was dried up when we visited. However, you can see the different water lines on the boulders that make up Barker Dam.

After some fun boulder scrambling away from Barker Dam, the desert opens up, and you walk between the Joshua Trees and Yucca plants.

BARKER DAM PETROGLYPHS

Towards the end of the loop, you will encounter a large boulder filled with Petroglyphs and mortars. These ancient rock shelters were home to Native Americans who passed through the land searching for food and water. It is cool to check out and even better if your kids study Native American history in school. Make sure to enjoy them from a distance to preserve the site for future visitors. This site is estimated to be over 2,000 years old!

The trail then takes you back to the parking lot. This 1.3-mile loop is a great hike when visiting Joshua Tree National Park with kids. The parking lot has pit toilets and is the same parking area for another popular hike, the Wall Street Mill Trail.

HIKE TO THE WALL STREET MILL

The Wall Street Mill Trail leaves from the Barker Dam parking lot and is one of the more challenging hikes we have done when visiting Joshua Tree with kids. The hike is a 2.2-mile out-and-back trail to an old gold mine through the sand. You pass several old abandoned cars and an old homestead along the way.

The hike is not challenging due to the elevation gain. It feels extra long as you head straight into the desert in heavy sand. Shade is minimal, and the straight path can sometimes feel neverending when kids are hiking with you.

However, you will begin to see old relics of the ranchers and miners in the area before too long. Along the way, you pass the famous Worth-Bagley Stone, which marks the site of a renowned shootout over local ranchers and property lines.

Shortly after, you reach the old Wall Street Stamp Mill last used in 1966. It was listed in the National Registrar of Historic Sites in 1975. Our son thought this was very cool. Please respect the signage around the mill, as these are ancient buildings with massive drops. It is crucial to remember these old mines all over Joshua Tree National Park and the Mojave Desert are not playgrounds and can be very dangerous.

The abandoned cars were a highlight for my son as well. It is impressive how they appear to grow into the desert landscape. From here, we headed back towards the parking area but took the trail closest to the boulders to check out the old homestead and another rock scrambling highlight when visiting Joshua Tree with kids – Wonderland Wash.

WONDERLAND WASH

Wonderland Wash is a MAJOR highlight of any visit to Joshua Tree National Park with kids and the Wall Street Mill hike. Just behind the abandoned Wonderland Ranch, you can enter a large with boulders of all sizes. This wash is an incredible playground of boulders for enthusiasts of all ages. You will notice people walking in through the rocks, especially those with climbing gear. This is a great place to enjoy rock climbing or watch rock climbers practice their sport. We followed the overgrown trail through the rocks below, just across from the Wonderland Ranch. It is hard to get lost if you continue into the wash along the boulders.

The Barker Dam parking area gives you access to the Barker Dam Trail, Wonderland Wash, and Wall Street Mill Trail, which are great things to do with kids in Joshua Tree. This parking area is a great place to start your day, as parking gets very hectic later in the morning. As I mentioned before, we arrived at 7:30 am and explored all three areas. We took our time and left the parking area shortly before 12:30 to head for a picnic lunch.

TAKE IN THE SIGHTS FROM KEYS VIEW

Keys View is more of a viewpoint than a trail. It is the highest viewpoint in Joshua Tree National Park. Just a 20-minute detour from Park Boulevard, the panoramas make the excursion well worth the drive.

Scenic views look out at the San Andreas Fault, Mt. San Jacinto, Mt. San Gorgonio (the highest peak in southern California), Coachella Valley, and the Salton Sea. The San Andreas Fault is the cause of California’s famous earthquakes. It is very cool to look out and see part of the 700 miles where the fault runs.

Keys View is a short, 1/4-mile paved path through different viewpoints. This stop is accessible, stroller-friendly, and short, with great views.

Keys View parking can be challenging during peak seasons and times. The parking lot sometimes closes an hour before sunset due to the congestion. So if you want to watch the sunset, make sure to head up earlier. If you score a spot for sunset, definitely venture out with a picnic blanket and chairs to soak it all in. Stay awhile to check out the night sky beginning to twinkle above you!

RELAX AT CAP ROCK

Cap Rock is a great stop when visiting Joshua Tree National Park with kids. The parking lot is large, which can be helpful on busy days. Rock climbing opportunities are endless, and there are pit toilets and picnic tables.

In addition to making a great snack or happy hour stop, Cap Rock also has a short, .4 mile self-guided nature trail loop through boulders, Joshua trees, and other plants. This is a great spot to relax on a hot day. As the sun moves across the sky, the surrounding rock formations offer shade which is much appreciated on a warm day. Kids can explore little caves and boulders while adults can chill. We stop here during every visit to Joshua Tree National Park with our kids.

Cap Rock is a great place to stop if other areas are crowded, the kids need a break, or you need to regroup in any way. It has a very central location in the park at the intersection of Keys View Road and Park Boulevard.

ROCK SCRAMBLE AT SKULL ROCK

Skull Rock is a great spot for rock scrambling and climbing. Named for the giant rock that looks like a skull, you can choose to pull off the road to view the famous Skull Rock or stay awhile to explore and/or loop the 1.7-mile Skull Rock Nature Trail.

Although Skull Rock is a popular stop, there is still ample street parking, The Skull Rock Nature trail goes through Jumbo Rocks Campground and the surrounding rock formations. If you are camping in Jumbo Rocks Campground, this trail is especially convenient to explore with kids as skull rock is next door.

No matter which way you turn in the Skull Rock area, you will see kids of all ages rock climbing and scrambling and LOVING every second of it!

CHECK OUT THE UNIQUE ARCH ROCK TRAIL

The Arch Rock Trail is located next to the White Tank Campground and makes for a fun little adventure with kids. The highly trafficked, flat, 1.2-mile out-and-back trail starts along Pinto Basin Road. The trail is surrounded by unique boulder formations that are great for rock scrambling and exploring. Although Arch Rock is the destination, there is plenty to see along the trail.

Parking is on the right of Pinto Basin Road in Joshua Tree National Park. When you begin the Arch Rock trail, it soon has you crossing the road. Looking ahead, you can see the boulders you are heading towards. Continue along the path and follow signs to Arch Rock.

Our entire stop took just over 45 minutes. However, we did not wait in the giant line for a picture under the famed arch rock. Please plan your time accordingly, as there is sure to be a line of people grabbing their insta-worthy photos in front of arch rock. We did pop up for a quick selfie as a group set up their next pose! Kids may lose interest when waiting an hour to take a photo, but the Arch Rock Nature Trail is a great place to explore when visiting Joshua Tree with kids.

WATCH THE SUN GO DOWN IN THE CHOLLA CACTUS GARDEN

The Cholla Cactus Garden is a beautiful spot, especially at sunset. Located on Pinto Basin Road, the Cholla Cactus Garden is an easy stop with several viewing points. You can take in the views from the parking area or enjoy the 1/4-mile loop through the naturally growing cholla cactus garden. The garden appears to go on and on, and the colors of the cholla cactus shining in the sunlight are spectacular.

When visiting Joshua Tree with kids, Cholla Cactus Garden is not a place to let your child wander. Unfortunately, the needles are sharp, painful, and all around on the ground. However, the park does an excellent job of marking the trail to keep everyone safe, so stay on the path.

PICNIC AMONG THE JOSHUA TREES

When you visit Joshua Tree National Park, picnicking is a must. There are no restaurants or food options inside the park, so planning ahead is key to a successful trip, especially with kids! We tend to picnic, snack, or have a “happy hour” several times a day during our big days of exploring. Joshua Tree National Park has several places with picnic tables and day-use areas. I will go over a few of my favorite spots here.

LIVE OAK PICNIC AREA

This day-use picnic area is a great stop for groups looking to meet up or families that want to enjoy a larger meal. We enjoyed the Live Oak Picnic Area because it was less crowded than some of the more popular areas but still had large picnic tables, a BBQ, and plenty of rocks for our son to climb. There were a ton of chipmunks that were not afraid of us, so prep your kids if needed.

HIDDEN VALLEY PICNIC AREA

Hidden Valley Picnic Area is popular, as is the trail and campground next to it. However, during hotter summer months, this is a great pick for a moment of relaxation! The rock formations surrounding the picnic tables offer shade and respite from the temperatures. I have noticed the area slows down in the evening as well, making it a great spot for happy hour as the sun begins to set.

Other popular day-use picnic areas in the park are Cap Rock, and Quail Springs. These sites all include picnic tables, grills, and pit toilets. Split Rock is a smaller area with tables across Park Boulevard, but it gets full quickly and does not have grills. Indian Cove has a nice picnic area, but it is only accessible from outside the park on Highway 62 (near the Indian Cove Campground).

PARK BOULEVARD PULLOUT PICNIC

One of my favorite things about Joshua Tree National Park is how many pullouts were created along Park Boulevard. These make taking in the views easy when driving through the park. In addition, you can pull over, park, walk out a bit, and set up a blanket and camping chairs to make your picnic spot away from any crowds.

It is crucial to have a trash bag to ensure everything you bring in is packed out. We have had some beautiful views just throwing down a blanket a short distance from our car. Depending on where you are, you will watch rock climbers, desert iguanas, wedding photography sessions, and unforgettable cotton candy sky sunsets. This is my favorite way to end a fantastic day in Joshua Tree with our kids.

WHERE TO STAY WHEN VISITING JOSHUA TREE

Joshua Tree makes for a great day trip, but giving yourself more time by turning your visit into a weekend getaway is also nice. There are several options for lodging when visiting Joshua Tree National Park. The most popular are camping, hotels, and vacation rentals.

CAMPGROUND OPTIONS IN JOSHUA TREE NATIONAL PARK

Joshua Tree is known for its great camping. I cannot recommend a night under the Joshua Tree stars enough. As a family, we love Black Rock Campground for many reasons. Joshua Tree National Park has eight campgrounds, and scoring the best sites can be challenging. The list below gives you the basics and each campground. Five campgrounds require reservations during the peak season of September to May. They are Cottonwood, Indian Cove, Jumbo Rocks, Ryan, and Black Rock Campground.

  • BLACK ROCK CAMPGROUND – 99 sites, $25/night, water, flush toilets, fire grates, dump station
  • COTTONWOOD CAMPGROUND – 62 sites, $25/night, water, flush toilets, fire grates, dump station
  • INDIAN COVE CAMPGROUND – 101 sites, $25/night, water at the ranger station, pit toilets, fire grates
  • JUMBO ROCKS CAMPGROUND – 124 sites, $20/night, NO WATER, pit toilets, fire grates
  • RYAN CAMPGROUND – 31 sites, $20/night, NO WATER, pit toilets, fire grates
  • BELLE CAMPGROUND – 18 sites, $15/night, NO WATER, pit toilets, fire grates
  • HIDDEN VALLEY CAMPGROUND – 44 sites, $15/night, NO WATER, pit toilets, fire grates
  • WHITE TANK CAMPGROUND – 15 sites, $15/night, NO WATER, pit toilets, fire grates

If you are interested in camping in Joshua Tree, make sure to check out my post about camping at Black Rock Campground.

HOTELS IN THE COACHELLA VALLEY

If you want to stay close to the park, I recommend the Fairfield Inn and Suites in Twentynine Palms. The rooms are spacious for families, and the hotel is one of the cleanest in the area. In addition, they have a complimentary continental breakfast which I love, especially when traveling with kids. The North Entrance Station to Joshua Tree National Park is only about 5 minutes away.

PALM SPRINGS & PALM DESERT

Another option when visiting Joshua Tree is to stay in Palm Springs. Palm Desert and Palm Springs have many hotel options that make an excellent home base for a desert adventure. However, it does take about 45 minutes to get to the Joshua Tree Visitor Center and West Entrance Station. If you are visiting in winter when the sunsets right at 5 pm, this gives you ample time for stargazing before heading back for dinner in Palm Springs.

One of our top family picks is the Westin Desert Willows Villas in Palm Desert. This hotel is wonderful for longer stays as each villa has a full kitchen, living area, and separate bedrooms. The property has several pools, waterslides, and activities for kids. Staying here and taking a day to explore Joshua Tree National Park is an excellent pick for families looking to get away longer.

VACATION RENTALS NEAR JOSHUA TREE

The towns surrounding Joshua Tree National Park have beautiful and unique vacation rentals. Joshua Tree’s “desert vibes” are becoming trendier and trendier, and the rental options are doing the same. Joshua Tree features boho retreats, glamping adventures, glasshouses, and other unique desert compounds to rent. Check out VRBO for some of these exciting options near Joshua Tree.

WHERE TO EAT NEAR JOSHUA TREE NATIONAL PARK

I definitely recommend packing a picnic for your Joshua Tree National Park adventure. Once you are in the park, driving out of the park to grab food in the town of Joshua Tree is an inconvenience and bound to cause frustration. We love to load up before heading into the park to snack and sip throughout the day with no rush due to hungry kids!

BEFORE YOUR DESERT ADVENTURE

These are our favorite morning spots to hit before we head into the park! These options have your morning covered. Whether you want to grab a coffee, create a picnic, add to your snacks, or sit for a full breakfast to fuel your day!

ROADRUNNER GRAB+GO

Roadrunner Grab+Go is a deli and coffee shop attached to the Joshua Tree National Park Visitor Center. Pre-made sandwiches, salads, cheeses, crackers, drinks, and other snacks give you everything you need to load up for the day. They also have breakfast options for those starting early.

My son loved his Junior Ranger sandwich (plain ham and cheese) and was thrilled to try the impressive “smores bar” as a treat after lunch. There are a variety of vegan and gluten-free options as well.

JOSHUA TREE COFFEE COMPANY

Make sure to grab a cup of coffee on your way to the park as you drive through the town of Joshua Tree. Joshua Tree Coffee Company will not disappoint! However, weekend mornings do bring long lines, so save more time for your desert adventure by ordering ahead!

NATURAL SISTERS CAFE

The Natural Sisters Cafe offers healthy vegetarian and vegan breakfast and lunch options. Dine in and enjoy the art, or order ahead for pickup. You can’t go wrong on the menu here, and the sandwiches are loaded with delicious veggies that hit the spot on the trail. They also have many great smoothie options that kids are bound to love!

JOSHUA TREE COUNTRY KITCHEN

If you love a big, hearty classic breakfast, Joshua Tree County Kitchen is your spot! This local diner has been serving classic breakfast dishes since 1977. The service is great. You may have to wait a bit for a table, but you will not be disappointed. The kindness of the servers, the delicious food, and the cozy atmosphere are worth the wait.

AFTER YOUR DESERT ADVENTURE

After a full day in the desert, you are likely ready for a great dinner! These spots are favorites as they are unique and finish a desert adventure right.

SPAGHETTI WESTERN

This restaurant is a great pick after a day of adventuring in Joshua Tree National Park. Right off of the highway, the pasta is delicious, and the menu has the exact comfort you need to fuel yourself after a busy day. The owners are from Rome, Italy, so the food is great, and the ambiance is awesome! The drinks are great, too, which is always nice after a long day in the desert! Please note Spaghetti Western is open from Thursday – Sunday.

PIE FOR THE PEOPLE

Sometimes a pizza is exactly what you feel like after your day exploring the desert, and Pie for the People delivers! The delicious pizza is perfect for picking up on your way out of town. The key is to order ahead. This is a small shop with very little seating. I know they are working on expanding, but I recommend calling ahead (about 30-45 minutes) so you can swoop it up quickly! Please note Pie for the People is closed on Friday and opens at 3pm every other day of the week.

PAPPY & HARRIET’S PIONEERTOWN PALACE

Pappy & Harriet’s is an experience. About 15 minutes north of Yucca Valley in the Mojave Desert, this saloon-style barbeque restaurant is always busy. The staff is great, the food is delicious, and the drinks hit right after a day in the desert. The rustic venue is full of history and is known for the live music that draws crowds from all over Southern California.

Check the calendar for live shows to avoid showing up to a sold-out venue, and don’t miss this awesome spot for dinner. Prepare to wait a bit for your table. It will probably go faster than expected and will be worth the wait! Please note Pappy and Harriet’s is open Thursday – Monday and does not take reservations.

OTHER POINTS OF INTEREST NEAR JOSHUA TREE

If you are looking for an adventure on your way home, consider stopping in one of these interesting places near Joshua Tree National Park. Here are some of our favorite stops if you want to explore more!

PIONEERTOWN

Pioneertown is home to Pappy and Harriet’s and a strip of shops that feel like you are walking back in time. In a way, you are because Pioneertown was created by a group of Hollywood investors in the 1940’s looking to create a live western movie set. Over 50 westerns were filmed in Pioneertown during this time. Pioneertown is a fun place for kids to see and worth the 15-minute detour up the highway.

THE SALTON SEA

If you want to continue your tour into old-time Hollywood destinations, head south to one of California’s lowest points, the Salton Sea. This area was once a thriving destination. However, the Salton Sea became toxic due to the lack of drainage needed for salt balance in the water. What was once a Hollywood destination is now a somewhat abandoned trailer park.

As the toxicity increased, it killed everything inside, destroying the dream of the Los Angeles and Palm Springs lakeside destination thriving on the salty banks. Coming into town, you can still see the remnants of the heyday. We did a drive-through as the remnants now appear sad, broken, and not really where you should stop to hang out with no destination.

SALVATION MOUNTAIN

If you share my quest for adventure, keep driving to Salvation Mountain, a piece of artwork that needs to be seen to be believed. We waited almost 30 minutes to cross the train tracks to get there, but once we pulled up, we knew we had arrived. The message “GOD IS LOVE” can be seen from the road near Slab City.

ANZA-BORREGO DESERT

If you are looking for more desert adventure, Anza-Borrego delivers. Check out my guide to the area here.

CALIFORNIA, COVID-19 TRAVEL, FAMILY VACATIONS, NATIONAL PARKS, NORTHERN CA, ROAD TRIP - SEQUOIA AND YOSEMITE, ROAD TRIPS, WEEKEND GETAWAY

BIKING IN YOSEMITE VALLEY WITH KIDS

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There are so many things to see and do in Yosemite, and exploring on a bicycle is a great way to maximize time and avoid frustrations with parking and crowds. One of our best days in Yosemite was biking the valley floor with our kids. Do not miss this memorable experience.

In this post, I cover all you need to know to plan your biking adventure in Yosemite!

If you have your own bikes that you are planning to bring to Yosemite, jump down below to our epic day to help you plan yours! We always bring our son’s bike when traveling to Yosemite, but we have never all ridden around the valley together. This year, we decided to spend our 12th wedding anniversary doing just that. We had an incredible day, and I highly recommend you take a day to do the same!

BIKING IN YOSEMITE PLANNING TOOLS

WHERE CAN I BIKE IN YOSEMITE VALLEY?

Although bicycles are not allowed on trails, Yosemite Valley has over 12 miles of bike paths connecting the valley’s most popular attractions. The valley floor is very flat, which makes biking with kids an easy and fun adventure. Whether you bring or pack your bikes, you will surely enjoy the flexibility biking offers you and your family. Save this map of the Yosemite Valley Biking Trails on your phone so you always know where you are! Check out our sample itinerary below to start planning your day

WHERE CAN I RENT A BIKE IN YOSEMITE VALLEY?

Yosemite Valley has multiple bike rental options, making a family bike adventure very easy to plan. Due to snow in the valley, the rental season runs from the start of April to late October/Early November. Unfortunately, outside of ADA bike rentals, you cannot make reservations in advance. You can rent bikes from three locations in Yosemite Valley.

1) YOSEMITE VALLEY LODGE BIKE STAND

9006 Yosemite Lodge Drive
Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
209/372-1208

During our August 2021 visit, the Yosemite Lodge bike stand was open from 8-6 pm. The bike stand is located right next to the pool behind the front desk. I called in advance and was told to be there by 9 to ensure getting bikes for the day. In addition, early arrival gives you plenty of bikes to pick from, as all bikes are beach cruisers, and the seats cannot be adjusted. This is especially important when renting for kids, as the right seat height and helmet size will set you up for a successful day. You can check current hours here, but I recommend calling in advance just to check in about your family’s specific needs.

2) CURRY VILLAGE BIKE RENTAL KIOSK

9010 Curry Village Drive
Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
209/372-8323

During our August 2021 visit, the Curry Village (previously known as Half Dome Village) bike stand was also open from 8-6 pm. The bike kiosk is located next to the front office. Once you pay for your rental, you will head to the bike yard to pick out your bikes. We stopped by here to swap helmet sizes for our daughter around lunchtime, and a ton of bikes were still available. Again, you can check current hours here, but I recommend calling in advance to check in about your family’s specific needs.

3) YOSEMITE VILLAGE BIKE RENTAL STAND

9011 Village Drive
Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
209/372-1268

The Yosemite Village Bike Rental Stand is located next to the village store. The Village Store or neighboring Degnan’s Kitchen are great options for picking up a picnic for your bike ride. You can check current operations here.

BIKING IN YOSEMITE RENTAL OPTIONS

Several family-friendly options are available to rent at the three Yosemite Valley locations. There are no rentals for babies under the age of one. All bike rentals include helmets as well.

  • Kids bikes – $40/day or $30/5 hours (half day)
  • Adult bikes – $40/day or $30/5 hours (half day)
  • Adult bikes with trailers – $75/day or $55/5 hours (half day)

Riders in the trailer need to be age one or older for safety reasons. The bike stands also have ADA and electric scooters requiring advanced reservations. You also can rent wheelchairs and strollers during your Yosemite Valley visit at each bike stand.

OUR EPIC DAY BIKING IN YOSEMITE

START AT THE YOSEMITE VALLEY LODGE

Staying at the Yosemite Valley Lodge, we rented and started our ride from there. My husband walked over shortly after 8 am and rented the bikes while we finished getting ready for our day. We left the Yosemite Valley Lodge and headed West on the bike path directly behind our building (we were in Laurel). This is also the start of our favorite evening routine, which you can read more about in this post.

YOSEMITE VALLEY LODGE TO CURRY VILLAGE

We crossed Swinging Bridge and the Merced River and headed North along Cook’s Meadow all the way to Curry Village. This was a beautiful stretch and allowed us to get comfortable riding for a bit.

CURRY VILLAGE TO HAPPY ISLES NATURE CENTER

From Curry Village, we headed South to the Happy Isles Nature Center. This is a great place to explore with kids and stop for a snack. The area has plenty of bike racks and benches to rest on. There is so much to see as you wander through the area.

Take time to explore the different rivers, rocks, forests, and fen areas before heading inside for a family art class or Junior Ranger program. Interpretive panels guide you through the outdoor areas. Don’t forget some cute family pictures in this beautiful area. This area is also where the Mist Trail to Vernal Falls begins. Something for another day and definitely on my bucket list!

HAPPY ISLES NATURE CENTER TO MIRROR LAKE

From Happy Isles, we headed out to Mirror Lake. About 1/4 mile from the lake, rental bikes need to park for the last uphill push to the lake. Mirror Lake is a great place no matter the season. The colors are vibrant, and the scenery is spectacular whether the lake is full, frozen, or dried up. We love having a picnic lunch here, but we opted for a snack on this biking adventure as it was still a little early.

Plan to take your time visiting Mirror Lake. We wandered outside the lake, had a snack, took pictures of the kids, and helped our son with a few pages of his Junior Ranger book. This was a great rest after riding the distance we had covered.

MIRROR LAKE TO THE CURRY VILLAGE PIZZA DECK

From Mirror Lake, we headed back to Curry Village for lunch at the Pizza Deck. This order-at-the-counter outdoor craft beer and pizza kitchen was the perfect stop for lunch. Check out the menu here. There was plenty of shady seating, and the pizza was delicious! I will mention that the squirrels are pretty aggressive at the Curry Village Pizza Deck. My husband was grabbing our order and saw one run on someone’s table and grab a ranch packet! So *pro tip* sit by someone with a dog as we did! Ha!

Curry Village is a great place to explore with kids. They have a large wrap-around porch with rockers around the game room, and relaxing there with ice cream would have been ideal, however, the ice cream shop was closed due to COVID. So keep that in mind as an option when you go! We could also check in the Curry Village bike stand to swap our daughter’s helmet for a smaller size. So this is a great place to stop and check in if you are having any bike or helmet issues!

CURRY VILLAGE TO THE AHWAHNEE HOTEL

From the Pizza Deck, we headed into Yosemite Village and out to the Ahwahnee Hotel. This was a beautiful stretch of the ride as you take Northside Drive along the Ahwahnee Meadow into Yosemite Village and up Ahwahnee Drive on the other side of the meadow.

Ahwahnee Drive gave us perfect afternoon shade, and we were thrilled to arrive right at the Ahwahnee Bar was opening for the day! The Ahwahnee is a beautiful hotel worth checking out and makes for a great stop for all. Our son loves the lobby’s “Sweet Shop” and we love the craft cocktails from the lounge. If you are still hungry, treat yourself to an appetizer from the Ahwahnee Bar. The Bavarian Pretzel was gigantic and was served hanging from a giant hook in the center of the platter. Another great stop for all.

THE AHWAHNEE HOTEL TO YOSEMITE VALLEY LODGE

From the Ahwahnee, we headed back to Yosemite Lodge. We passed the Yosemite Falls trail because we planned to return later in the evening. Bikes are not allowed on the short trail, but there is plenty of bike parking, and this would be a great time to walk out to enjoy the falls if you are not staying the night.

From here, we took some time to regroup in our room. If you follow my blog, you know my son has Cystic Fibrosis and needs breathing and vest treatments twice daily. We took an hour or so to handle treatments and change into swimsuits for our favorite evening routine – a dip in the Merced River, a bike loop around Cook’s Meadow, and a walk out to Yosemite Falls.

YOSEMITE VALLEY LODGE TO SWINGING BRIDGE AND THE MERCED RIVER

As the sun began to set behind the towering granite walls surrounding the valley, we headed back out on the same path we started from. Keep a lookout along your ride, as we have seen a bear and countless deer on this exact route in the early evening. We parked the bikes for a short dip in the Merced River and then finished our day with another loop of Cook’s Meadow before returning our bikes. We arrived at Yosemite Lodge Bike Stand right before 6.

YOSEMITE VALLEY LODGE TO LOWER YOSEMITE FALLS

If you are staying at the Lodge, this is a great time to head over to Yosemite Falls, as chances are you will have it almost to yourself! We enjoyed our short walk (.5 miles round trip) out to Lower Yosemite Valley Falls before picking up dinner at the Base Camp Eatery in Yosemite Valley Lodge.

It was the perfect recipe for an unforgettable day. Definitely work biking in Yosemite into your Yosemite plans!

Looking for other fun things to do in Yosemite? Check out our first itinerary with all the details you need to plan an epic trip!

YOSEMITE TRIP PLANNING RESOURCES

Planning a trip to Yosemite? Check out my other Yosemite resources here!

CALIFORNIA, COVID-19 TRAVEL, DAYTIME ADVENTURES, HIKING, SOUTHERN CA, WEEKEND GETAWAY

HIKING THE SLOT IN ANZA-BORREGO STATE PARK

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Hiking the Slot Canyon just outside of San Diego in Anza Borrego State Park is an unforgettable experience! This California hike requires a little preparation for a successful trip. In this portion of our guide to Anza-Borrego State Park with kids, we give you our tips for a successful trip hiking Slot Canyon. Keep reading for what to expect, how to get there, what you want to bring, and the correct trails to take!

WHAT SHOULD WE DO IN ANZA-BORREGO STATE PARK?

Hiking the Slot Canyon in Anza-Borrego State Park is one of our family’s all-time favorite hikes. We have experienced slot canyons in southern California and Arizona (Antelope Canyon is stunning). If you are local and interested in exploring slot canyons, check out my post about Annie’s Canyon in North County San Diego. We never knew we had another one so close to home.

WHAT IS THE ANZA BORREGO SLOT CANYON?

Just 20 minutes outside of Borrego Springs, the Anza Borrego slot canyon hike is sure to make a memorable adventure for your whole family. At less than a mile long, weaving through this siltstone canyon almost takes you back in time. Millions of years of flash floods and flowing water eroding rock create these mesmerizing slot canyons that turn into incredible hiking opportunities. The trail may be short, but the experience is one you will never forget!

HOW TO GET TO THE ANZA-BORREGO SLOT CANYON

Hiking the Slot in Anza-Borrego requires a little preparation, so you know where to go. The Slot is located in the Anza-Borrego desert of California, down a dirt road known as Buttes Pass that drivers can easily miss.

Anza-Borrego State Park is a little over an hour and a half east of San Diego and a great place to check out for the day or weekend. Plan to explore the town of Borrego Springs before or after your hike. Check out this post for all of our favorite things to do in Borrego Springs.

START AT THE VISITOR’S CENTER

I highly recommend starting your visit at the Anza-Borrego State Park Visitor’s Center to check-in and gather information about current park conditions on the day of your visit. Check out a large map of the park here. There is so much to see and do in the Anza-Borrego desert, so make sure to explore more after your hike.

Map created with Wanderlog, for making itineraries on iOS and Android

ANZA-BORREGO SLOT CANYON MAP

The Anza-Borrego Desert State Park rangers gave us the following directions and map. Please note cellular service is spotty in the park, so SAVE THIS PHOTO to your camera roll to access it on your phone without service. Also, Google maps probably won’t be able to work as you head out towards the slot canyon trail.

Directions to THE SLOT – Save this to your camera roll!

SLOT CANYON PARKING INFORMATION

Our stop at the visitor center allowed us to pay the $ 10 day-use and parking fee by credit card versus cash only at the slot canyon parking area. If you have an annual pass for CA State Parks (including the beach parking pass), you are covered anywhere in the park! I recommend having $10 cash with you if heading straight to Buttes Pass Road and the Anza Borrego slot canyon parking area.

Hiking the slot trail in Anza-Borrego can get crowded. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park Rangers monitor the crowds and parking situation by only allowing 30 cars in at a time. We were able to head right into the parking area on a holiday around 1 pm. I assume weekends are a busier time.

DRIVING DIRECTIONS FROM BORREGO SPRINGS TO THE SLOT CANYON TRAIL

You will drive about 20-25 minutes to the slot canyon parking area from the Visitor’s Center. Then, take Borrego Springs Road towards the 78. Shortly after turning left on Highway 78 (1.4 miles – watch your odometer so you don’t miss it), you will see a tiny dirt road and a small sign for Buttes Pass Road.

Look for small brown sign just before the dirt road. Head down the dirt road, and a park ranger will greet you in less than 2 miles. The ranger will let you know when to enter and collect your $10 fee (or check your receipt from the Visitor Center). Congrats! You have arrived and your hiking adventure is about to begin!

WHAT TO BRING WHEN HIKING THE SLOT CANYON TRAIL

Although the slot canyon hike is about a mile, pack plenty of water (at least a liter) as the desert sun can dehydrate you quickly. The parking area has restrooms available. As always, a sun hat and sunblock are great ideas for California desert hiking.

We loved having our baby girl in the Ergo for this hike instead of our larger Osprey hiking pack. If you are not carrying a child, a small backpack is ideal so you can maneuver through the tight squeezes of the canyon walls on the trail. I also loved having my hiking boots for stability during some areas of the hike, as the canyon floor can be rocky.

ANZA-BORREGO’S SLOT CANYON HIKE

Once you park, you will see signs for the slot hiking trail heading up a small hill. On the opposite end of the parking lot, you will see a wide 4WD road to Borrego-Mountain Wash – do not hike this way. This is a jeep road that takes you into the Anza Borrego Desert and around the top of the slot canyon.

Instead, head up the small hill, and after a short hike, you will head back down towards the left down into the canyon.

I was grateful for hiking boots during this downhill portion as the gravel can make it slippery, and I had the baby in the Ergo. Once you get to the bottom of the canyon, the canyon starts and the trail begins to narrow as into the tight spots known as the slot. The trail starts a little spread apart but quickly begins to narrow. As you begin weaving through the canyon, it is incredible how narrow parts of this easy hike can get.

After a short distance, you will enter the narrow slot canyon on the hiking trail. The canyon walls can get very tight at times. However, our son loves this portion of the hike. I was grateful I had the baby in the Ergo so I could tuck her head in as we maneuvered through the canyon. A bigger hiking pack, like our Osprey, would not have worked well on this hike.

INSIDE THE SLOT CANYON

Although the canyon is pretty flat, some small areas have more significant drops to step up and down on the hike. It is incredible how much the temperature can drop in the shade of the slot. On a hot day, this shade and cool environment would feel especially wonderful.

At the end of the slot canyon, you will see a tall rock leaning over the top of the canyon and bridging the narrow gap. Cautiously proceed under the rock, although it has been like this for years. This natural rock bridge marks the end of the narrow slot canyon. As you turn the corner, the canyon widens, and you will start walking out towards a sandy jeep road.

RETURN HIKING OPTIONS TO THE SLOT CANYON PARKING LOT

At this point, you have two options for your return hike. You can treat the trail as an out-and-back hike or continue to loop back to the parking lot. If you are hiking the slot canyon in Anza-Borrego with kids, I highly recommend taking option one. Unfortunately, we found the trail markers were not very clear, and we ended up hiking further out into the middle of the desert than we wanted to do.

OPTION ONE – OUT-AND-BACK – MY RECOMMENDATION

Once the canyon expands, you can turn around and hike back to your car through the slot (the way you came). This is an excellent option for hiking the slot canyon with kids, as they will enjoy maneuvering through the rocks from a different view. This also allows you to enjoy the cooler desert temperatures in the slot. Please learn from our mistakes! We get lost, so you don’t have to! Or, for a real Anza-Borrego desert adventure, there is another option.

OPTION TWO – KEEP HIKING FOR A FULL LOOP

We opted for the full loop back to the parking lot in a quest for new sights and adventure. As we exited the canyon, we kept hiking down the sandy road. We were waiting to see tire tracks on the 4WD road like the directions from the Visitor Center said we would. The road was very sandy but did offer some great views.

After a bit, we came to a clear divider on the path. Rocks were blocking the road, and signs said vehicles were not allowed (down the road we had just come from). Tire tracks were evident in this jeep road area, so we took this as the last part of the directions from the Visitor Center. We proceeded to walk “less than one mile,” looking for the “steep road to the west (left)” to complete our full loop of the slot canyon hike.

SLOT CANYON TRAIL MISTAKES WE MADE (SO YOU DON’T HAVE TO)

This was a mistake. We should have headed up the VERY STEEP, VERY SANDY hill to the left at this point. The road was recently closed, and the directions have not been updated. However, there were no signs on the trail to head up the wash. We had just started to see tire tracks, so we kept on hiking, looking for a steep hill to the left in about one mile.

After walking for about 15 minutes, we became nervous that we were beginning to head aimlessly into the California desert. We had left our lunches in the car and did not want to commit to a more extensive hike. It was also getting later in the afternoon. The last thing we wanted was to be deep in the desert without enough daylight to get back.

At that point, my husband ran ahead on the trail to check what was lying ahead in the desert. Around the next bend, there was a small trail heading up to the left. We were thrilled to find it! This was an actual trail, but the hike led us to nothing, although the sand was covered in footprints. I think it may be from people like us searching for a way to loop around.

We followed the trail until it suddenly disappeared, and we were in the middle of the desert. Although we knew we could walk back the entire way we had come, we still wanted to find the loop. So my husband hiked up a massive dirt hill to get our bearings. We were clearly in an area that experienced flash floods as we were in the middle of one of the many washes in California’s largest state park.

BACK ON TRACK FOR THE FULL LOOP

From the hill, he could see where we wanted to be. We hiked up a massive dirt hill until we merged into the sandy wash. The elevation gain was difficult, and the trail was very sandy. We should have headed up this path when we saw the rocks and signs. Instead, due to the slope we had just climbed, we were already halfway up the wash. However, the deep sand made each uphill step even harder. We were tired and hungry but happy to be back on the trail.

Once we reached the top, we could see the parking lot for the slot. Although it was pretty far away (1 mile), we were happy to be up and hiking on a road leading to the parking area. We had climbed up the Borrego Mountain Wash and were now walking back to the parking lot on Borrego Mountain Wash Road, a 4WD road.

This last stretch was at the top of the Anza Borrego slot canyon loop. Although we were excited to see a tarantula crossing the road, we all agreed the out-and-back hike through the slot would have been a more exciting (and faster) option. Once we reached the parking lot, we had a picnic in the back of the truck, used the restrooms, and headed out. Rangers were beginning to shut down the trail as the sun was starting to set.


BUSTER’S VIEW OF THE SLOT CANYON HIKE

My son is starting to document some of our adventures for his YouTube channel. His interest in design and editing seems to be growing as well, so I let him play around with his footage from our hike. I thought it would be cute to include his videos about specific hikes in my posts. If you have children and want to get them excited about hiking The Slot in Anza-Borrego, have them check out my son’s perspective of the slot hike!

https://youtu.be/Ber5paBimiE

My son loves his hydration pack and Merrell hiking boots when hiking! You can find more of his favorites here.

EXPLORE THE REST OF OUR GUIDE TO THE ANZA-BORREGO DESERT

Make the most of your visit to the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park in California. Check out our posts on what to do when visiting this incredible desert area!

Have you hiked through a slot canyon in California? Which one is your favorite?

CALIFORNIA, DAYTIME ADVENTURES, HIKING, SOUTHERN CA, WEEKEND GETAWAY

BORREGO SPRINGS HIKING – PALM CANYON

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As one of Anza-Borrego State Park’s most popular hikes, The Borrego Palm Canyon Trail is one of the best options for hiking in Borrego Springs. The trail leads to a lush oasis in the desert. At a 3-miles round trip, this hike is family-friendly and a great option any time of the year. Due to the water in the area, this hike is a top pick when exploring Anza Borrego wildflowers. Stop by the State Park Visitor Center to pick up the trail guide before you head out.

WHAT SHOULD WE DO IN ANZA-BORREGO STATE PARK?

HOW TO FIND THE BORREGO PALM CANYON TRAIL

The Borrego Palm Canyon trail begins just north of the State Park Visitor Center, at the end of the paved road in Borrego Palm Campground. There is ample parking at the end of the campground for this trailhead. However, parking in this area does require a $10/day-use fee payable by machine in the area.

The trail from the parking lot leads you into Borrego Palm Canyon. The canyon can get very hot depending on when you are visiting. Make sure you have more water than you think you need. I also recommend packing a picnic from a favorite spot in Borrego Springs to enjoy when you reach the top of the canyon.

HIKING BORREGO PALM CANYON

We hiked this trail during the super bloom of 2017, so the wildflowers are abundant. You can read more about our strategy for enjoying wildflowers and avoiding crowds during super bloom years here. Our son was three at the time, so we opted for our Osprey pack, and it was an excellent choice for this trail. It gave us a great mix on the hike. Our son had ample opportunity to wander himself but also time to rest with sun protection as the heat picked up later in the morning.

The trail is well-marked, with rocks lining the way to the canyon. There is a reason this hike is so popular, especially in spring, which is pretty clear in my photos! The water in the area makes this a hub of animal and plant activity. If you are hiking early, make sure to look for bighorn sheep and other animals in the area. Borrego Springs hiking offers an abundance of desert plants, but Borrego Palm Canyon pops with color in spring!

You will cross over the creek bed a few times during the hike. Spring brings water that can make the trek even more adventurous for little kids. Water in the desert is always a fun sight to see. The scenery is beautiful.

The area surrounding the palm oasis makes for a great picnic stop. Although the palm oasis is currently closed (Spring 2021) due to fire restoration, the area surrounding it is worth the hike! This hike allows you to enjoy California’s only native palm in its natural habitat.

After enjoying the oasis for a bit, we could tell the trail was getting more crowded. Finally, the sun started blazing the temperatures began to rise, so we headed back out of the canyon. We were thrilled our son could cool down with water and rest in the shade of our Osprey Poco. The hike out of the canyon was beautiful, and we felt so fortunate to enjoy it during a super bloom.

TURN YOUR HIKE INTO A BORREGO SPRINGS DAY TRIP

Borrego Springs hiking is rewarding scenery any time of year, but wildflower season takes it to another level. I highly recommend you enjoy this 3-mile out and back trail with your family! Give yourself at least 2 hours to enjoy and a bit more if you plan to picnic. If you enjoy the trail in the morning, plan a trip into Borrego Springs for lunch. Then, you can take the triangle driving tour out of town in the afternoon!

LEARN MORE ABOUT WHAT TO DO IN ANZA-BORREGO

Click the images below to read more of our favorite things to do in Anza-Borrego State Park and Borrego Springs.

CALIFORNIA, DAYTIME ADVENTURES, HIKING, SOUTHERN CA, WEEKEND GETAWAY

ANZA-BORREGO WIND CAVES

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We only had our Subaru for two weeks before I planned our adventure to explore some off-road adventures in the Anza Borrego Desert State Park. Adventure awaits with over 500 miles of 4WD sandy roads and washes in the Anza-Borrego desert. I had read about the wind caves and knew our son would love exploring the nooks and crannies that await. In this portion of our guide to Anza-Borrego with kids, we cover all the details you need to take your crew on this memorable trip to explore the wind caves!

WHAT SHOULD WE DO IN ANZA-BORREGO STATE PARK?

PLAN YOUR ADVENTURE TO THE ANZA-BORREGO WIND CAVES

The Anza-Borrego Wind Caves make for an incredible adventure with kids. It reminded me of driving through Radiator Springs to the planet of Batuu, also known as Disney’s Cars and Star Wars Lands. We had a great time, but I do want to stress you NEED TO BE PREPARED for this adventure. 4WD or AWD is a must, as is a high-clearance vehicle due to the rocks scattered on the sandy road. ALWAYS check in on the road and weather conditions at the State Park Visitor Center before heading out on an off-road adventure.

DRIVING TO THE ANZA-BORREGO WIND CAVES

As I mentioned above, you should always check in with the State Park Visitor Center about road conditions and weather before heading out. Volunteers at the Visitor Center will have the most updated information and give you a map of the park.

Follow directions for the Triangle Tour down Borrego Springs Road towards the Texas Dip. At Highway 78, head east towards Slot Canyon. Continue driving east on Highway 78 until you reach the town of Ocotillo Wells. There is only one paved road in Ocotillo Wells off Highway 78, Split Mountain. Head south on Split Mountain Road, about 8 miles, until the paved road turns to dirt. You will see Fish Creek Wash on your right- this is your road! The trail is 4-miles down the sandy wash.

OFF-ROAD SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS

The Anza-Borrego Wind Caves made for a great family adventure. We took less than 3 hours for the off-road and hiking adventure, starting at Fish Creek Wash. It takes about an hour from the Anza-Borrego Visitor Center to get to the wash. To relax and not be worried about time, I would plan five hours if you are coming from and returning to Borrego Springs.

Our son had a great time, and we did too. As I mentioned, it was nerve-wracking getting out there because it was our first off-roading adventure in Anza-Borrego. However, this was an excellent pick for our first off-road adventure as there were many people out on the wash to offer assistance if we had a problem.


However, I cannot stress the importance of the following enough:

  • Check with the State Park Visitor Center about CURRENT road and weather conditions
  • Pack plenty of water
  • Have snacks with you
  • Remember you will have no cell service
  • Make sure someone knows you are heading out there
  • Screenshot directions, this post, etc. for your reference
  • If planning a less traveled wash, have a shovel, flares, tools and blankets with you.
  • If you are stuck or broken down, pop your hood and wait. Others will notice you by your vehicle more than if you wander into the desert alone.
  • Know sunset times before you head out to plan accordingly.

FISH CREEK WASH

At first, I was hesitant to begin driving down the wash. However, several cars were coming in and out, so I knew we were in the right place. We started reasonably slow as it was our first off-roading adventure in our new car. After a short distance, about 1.4 miles, we reached the Fish Creek primitive campground. This area has vault toilets that you can use if needed.

After the campground, the canyon begins to narrow. Jeeps and trucks exiting the narrow canyon area were tearing out of the wash super fast! It was a little overwhelming at first. There was some aggressive 4WD action at this point of the drive wash. We noticed campers creating a stack of rocks in the center of the wash to slow drivers through the narrowing canyon. The mountain walls begin to rise above you. You feel like you are driving through Radiator Springs. It was exciting and nerve-wracking at the same time. I don’t have many pictures of this portion of the drive. I focused on watching my husband drive and hoping we did not get stuck in the sand or hit a massive rock!

PARK & HIKE THE WIND CAVES TRAIL

The Wind Caves trail comes up on the left side when the canyon walls of the wash open up. There is ample parking on the right side of this open area. The second picture below looks back on the parking area and gives you an idea of how open the road gets. There are some rocky areas of the drive leading up to this area, so take your time and go slow. We saw a Jeep get stuck on a boulder in front of the parking area.

The Wind Caves trail is labeled with a sign as you start to hike up the hill. The trail out is 1-mile and heads up four steep, rocky hills. Make sure you bring water! At some points, a few trails branch off of the main trail, but they all lead to the same place.

EXPLORE THE ANZA-BORREGO WIND CAVES

When you come over the final peak, you can see the massive sandstone formation of the Wind Caves down in front of you. Our son was so excited to begin exploring. It looks like you are in the middle of a Star Wars movie. The view of the Carrizo Badlands is spectacular. We took some time to relax in the shade of some of the caves to drink some water and feed the baby. Then we set out to explore.

Our son had a great time climbing around and through the Wind Caves. The views are jaw-dropping, and the shade around the caves makes it a great adventure for kids of all ages. Our son’s imagination began running wild as he explored all around the beauty of the Anza-Borrego desert and Wind Caves.

I wanted to catch the sunset in Galleta Meadows, so as the afternoon sun started moving, we knew it was time to get going. So we headed down the 1-mile trail back to the car. The hike back seemed much faster as it was all downhill this time! We were grateful to be in hiking boots that helped steady us on the rocky downhill terrain. However, we did pass a group of 15 or so in flip-flops drinking beers heading up, so I guess anything goes! You can see in my pictures that the trail is quite rocky.

LEAVING THE WIND CAVES

Once we were back to the car, we started the 4-mile drive back to the paved Split Mountain Road. I was much more relaxed for this portion of the drive and was able to snap a few more pictures to give you an idea of what it is like driving between the canyon walls in the sandy wash.

When we reached the end of the off-roading portion of our drive from the Anza-Borrego Wind Caves, my husband had some fun driving a little faster through the final sandy areas. Now we understood why some people were tearing out of the canyon. It is kind of fun to know you have made it through the rocky adventures and only have a short way back to the paved road. Our son loved waving his arms out of the window as we finished our drive out of the wash. On the left, the paved road of Split Mountain Road takes you back to regular driving as you exit the wash.

LEARN MORE ABOUT WHAT TO DO IN ANZA-BORREGO

Click the images below to read more of our favorite things to do in Anza-Borrego State Park and Borrego Springs.

CALIFORNIA, DAYTIME ADVENTURES, HIKING, SOUTHERN CA, WEEKEND GETAWAY

THE TRIANGLE – AN ANZA-BORREGO SCENIC DRIVE

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Are you looking for an Anza-Borrego driving tour as a comfortable and accessible option to see the beauty of the desert? The Triangle Tour is a great way to see a lot without taking a massive hike or long 4WD trip into the desert landscape. This scenic drive is an incredible way to take the kids out to see the geology and changing landscape of Anza-Borrego State Park. In this portion of our guide to Anza-Borrego with kids, we’ll cover all you need to know to enjoy this scenic driving tour!

WHAT SHOULD WE DO IN ANZA-BORREGO STATE PARK?

WHAT IS THE TRIANGLE TOUR SCENIC DRIVE?

I love the Triangle Tour scenic drive because it gives you ample opportunity to get out and stretch your legs. The drive has options for several short hikes, overlooks, a campground picnic area, and a short road for off-roading if you desire. The accompanying trail guides will give your kids historical information and geology facts they will connect with come third and fourth grade. Grab a picnic in town to enjoy during your drive. If you want to leave town through Julian, this Anza-Borrego driving tour is the perfect scenic route out of town. We took about three hours for the drive, stops, short hikes, and a relaxing picnic.

STOP 1 – ANZA-BORREGO STATE PARK VISITOR CENTER

The Anza-Borrego State Park Visitor Center put together the information on this drive. Before heading out, you can pick up the map, information, and the corresponding trail guides at the Anza-Borrego State Park Visitor Center. Make sure to enjoy the area surrounding the Visitor Center when you stop in. You can read this post for more about enjoying the Anza-Borrego State Park Visitor Center. Once you are ready to go, head south down Borrego Springs Road.

STOP 2 – TEXAS DIP

This first highlight is not a stop but the 1.1-mile long piece of the road you are driving on. The road “dips” to cross through the biggest wash in the park – the San Felipe Wash. This is not a place I would want to be during desert rains and flash floods. Apparently, this wash drains to the Salton Sea, over 25 miles away! Our son has loved this portion of Borrego Springs Road for years because of, “Mom! The dips!” It is a mini roller coaster for him. Shortly after the Texas Dip, turn right on Highway 78. Take the highway 4 miles and watch for the small Narrows Earth Trail sign on your left.

STOP 3 – NARROWS EARTH TRAIL

The Narrows Earth Trail is an easy stop on this Anza-Borrego driving tour. This simple .5 mile loop is very flat and BOB stroller-friendly. It does not take long to explore. We parked on the side of the road by the trail sign and were able to see our car the entire time. Although the loop stayed close to the highway, we still felt like we were venturing out into the desert landscape. We used the self-guided trail brochure from the visitor center to learn more about the area’s geology.

This short trail is a geological gem. If you have a fourth-grader studying the changes in geologic formations, this is a great place to check out. There are many cactus varieties on the trail as well. This is also a place you may be able to see bighorn sheep. We drove by the trail at first and had to spin around on the highway. You can see in pictures how small the sign is.

STOP 4 – MINE WASH ROAD

This short 4WD road is only 1.6-miles from an ancient Kumeyaay Native American village. According to the park directions, you drive 1.8-miles from the Narrows Earth Trail and turn down the dirt road on your left. Sadly, we missed the 4WD road and decided to continue. However, if your child is in third grade and studying the local Kuymeyaay, this ancient village is worth a stop. I will update you here when we return.

STOP 5 – TAMARISK CAMPGROUND & THE CACTUS LOOP TRAIL

This campground makes for a great stop during your Anza-Borrego driving tour. The campground facilities are available, making this an excellent bathroom stop. There is a $10 day-use fee to park inside the campground. However, there is usually ample parking on the street. The campground also has picnic areas if you want to take a break and picnic with facilities.

THE CACTUS LOOP TRAIL

Directly across from the campground is the trailhead for the Cactus Loop Trail. This is a beautiful trail to explore as it is a short 1-mile loop and gives you an unclose view of a variety of cactus plants. If your children are young and like to run ahead or wander off-trail, this would be a trail to skip as there are cacti all around. However, our son loved it and enjoyed climbing around and staring up at the tall Ocotillo plants.

This trail is another area to look up for bighorn sheep. They tend to be spotted on the mountain ridge above. We picked up the Cactus Loop Trail Guide from the State Park Visitor Center and enjoyed reading about each numbered area along the loop.

STOP 6 – WILLIAM KENYON OVERLOOK

As you leave the Tamarisk Grove Campground, you leave the valley and climb up Yaqui Pass Road. The scenery begins to change dramatically. There is a pullout on the right-hand side to enjoy the view of the valley floor, but I HIGHLY recommend driving a bit more to the William Kenyon Overlook trail.

The trailhead is on the right-hand side of the road along a pullout area. It is hard to see, but know that you passed it if you end up at the Yaqui Pass Primitive Campground. You can park and hike from the campground, but it adds a mile to your hike out. So we flipped around and parked at the pullout to keep a one-mile round trip hike to the William Kenyon Overlook. Although you need to hike up the hill to get to the William Kenyon Overlook, it is only 1/2 a mile and well worth the effort!

The William Kenyon Overlook Trail is an excellent place for kids to explore. The trail is wide, so the worries about the cactus being close are not a big concern. If you journey early in the morning, chances are you will catch bighorn sheep doing on the mountain. We enjoyed our picnic from this overlook. Our son had fun trying to find some bighorn sheep, but we were unsuccessful. Next time!

At this point, you have finished the Triangle Tour but do have two options to complete your Anza-Borrego scenic drive. If you are staying in Anza-Borrego longer, you can continue enjoying the scenery and continue driving up Yaqui Pass Road back to Borrego Springs and the State Park Visitor Center.

Or, you can head back down to the 78 and leave the park from here. We love this drive as a scenic way out to town, so from here, we head back down Yaqui Pass Road to the 78 and head into Julian.

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CALIFORNIA, DAYTIME ADVENTURES, HIKING, SOUTHERN CA, WEEKEND GETAWAY

ANZA-BORREGO WILDFLOWERS

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Blooming Anza-Borrego wildflowers will enrich any desert visit. California wildflowers are beautiful to see all across the state, but the Anza-Borrego Desert is known for showing off in Spring. The typical sandy landscape is transformed into a carpet of vibrant colors during historical “super bloom” seasons. In this portion of our guide to Anza-Borrego with kids, we cover all you need to know about enjoying the Anza-Borrego wildflowers.

WHAT SHOULD WE DO IN ANZA-BORREGO STATE PARK?

WHEN SHOULD I VISIT TO SEE WILDFLOWERS?

I highly recommend planning a visit during wildflower Spring blooms. Wildflower blooms begin in February and peak in mid-March through April. I also like to check the Anza Borrego Desert Natural History Association’s current wildflower update to know what is going on in the park before we head out.

Depending on the level of rain during the previous winter, in combination with colder temperatures (that hold the moisture in the ground), a potential “super bloom” can cover the valley floor. We had a great visit during the 2017 super bloom. More on that visit and strategy for super bloom weekends below.

WHERE CAN I SEE THE WILDFLOWERS?

Anza-Borrego wildflowers bloom throughout the park in Spring, but some areas are known to pop with extra color. These are our favorite places to view the blooms.

ANZA-BORREGO STATE PARK VISITOR CENTER WILDFLOWERS

I always recommend checking in with the Visitor Center before visiting Anza-Borrego to ask about current conditions. However, this is an especially convenient strategy as the Visitor Center landscape is one of the best places to see the Anza-Borrego wildflowers!

BORREGO PALM CANYON TRAIL WILDFLOWERS

As one of Anza-Borrego State Park’s most popular hikes, The Borrego Palm Canyon Trail leads to a lush oasis in the desert. At a 3-miles round trip, this hike is family-friendly and a great option any time of the year. In addition, due to the water in the area, this hike is a top pick when exploring Anza Borrego wildflowers. You can read this post for more about the Borrego Palm Canyon Trail.

DESERT MEADOW ALONG HENDERSON CANYON ROAD

The open desert landscape becomes a beautiful meadow during wildflower season. The surrounding mountains and flowers that seem to go on forever make this a fun place to explore. In addition, when other areas like the Visitor Center and Borrego Palm Canyon Trailhead have no parking available, these meadows are accessible by just pulling over on the side of the road.

DESERT MEADOW ALONG DIGIORGIO ROAD

This is another meadow we love that is easily accessible by pulling off the side of the road. These meadows are especially great with kids, as they can hop out of the car and roam. They also make for some beautiful pictures with your kids.

HOW CAN I ENJOY A VISIT DURING SUPERBLOOM?

DO NOT SPEND HOURS WAITING IN TRAFFIC, FOR PARKING, FOR MEALS, ETC.

Super bloom years, like 2017 and 2019, draw hundreds of thousands of visitors to Borrego Springs searching for the colorful blooms blanketing the desert floor. In 2017, visitors to Anza-Borrego were at an all-time high, and traffic was horrendous. What usually takes about 10 minutes coming down the hill was backed up over two hours. Parking for one of the best places to see blooms, the Borrego Palm Canyon Trail, was packed full by 8 am. Here is our strategy for a successful family trip to see the Anza-Borrego super bloom.

SUNRISE ARRIVAL

We are NOT morning people, but after reading about how impacted Borrego Springs was by all of the visitors, I knew we needed to take a more drastic approach to our visit. So we left North County San Diego around 4:30 am, with the goal of parking shortly after sunrise. It was very early, but we had just moved our son in pajamas, and he continued sleeping in the car. We packed had a picnic packed to avoid the hours of waiting we had read about in town.

Although the majority of the drive was in the dark, as we came over the hill, the sun began to rise. The drive into the desert is something I always love, but this time was even more spectacular. Our excitement was building, knowing we would soon be some of the first to explore.

HIKE BORREGO PALM CANYON TRAIL

Our early morning strategy did not disappoint. We pulled into the Borrego Palm Canyon Trailhead with ease as the sun began shining over the valley. Although shortly after 6:30 am, cars were already filling in behind us. We headed out into one of the best places to view Anza-Borrego wildflowers, the Borrego Palm Canyon Trail. You can read more about this trail here.

Due to our early arrival, we were leaving the trail shortly after 9 am. This also allowed us to beat the desert heat that was starting to pick up. The backup to get down the hill and into the parking area for the Visitor Center and Borrego Palm Canyon Trail was VERY long and looked incredibly frustrating. We knew immediately that our early arrival was key.

EXPLORE AND PICNIC IN THE DIGIORGIO ROAD AND HENDERSON CANYON ROAD

After our hike, we headed out to the meadows on DiGiorgio Road and Henderson Canyon. The rangers at the Visitor Center told us that these were some of the best spots to see the wildflowers. In addition, they make an easy stop with kids because you can pull off on the side of the road. We were able to have our late morning picnic lunch here as well. I HIGHLY recommend packing a picnic as the lines in town during super blooms are VERY frustrating.

LEAVE TOWN BEFORE THE AFTERNOON CROWDS AND HEAT PICK UP

At this point, you will have been up almost 8 hours and hiked over 3 miles. As the afternoon heat and crowds pick up, you will probably find that trying to do more will flip the mood of your trip. We recommend leaving town on the 78 towards Julian and stopping in for a beverage when you get there. Also, don’t forget to enjoy the daffodils blooming near the Julian Library and Wynola Pizza.

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CALIFORNIA, DAYTIME ADVENTURES, SOUTHERN CA, WEEKEND GETAWAY

GALLETA MEADOWS

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In this portion of our guide to Anza-Borrego State Park, we will cover the marvel known as the Galleta Meadows Estate. You may recognize these iconic sculptures from photos you have seen of the Anza-Borrego Desert and Borrego Springs. The Galleta Meadows Estate is a stop you do not want to miss when visiting Anza-Borrego State Park!

WHAT SHOULD WE DO IN ANZA-BORREGO STATE PARK?

WHAT IS THE GALLETA MEADOWS ESTATE?

Galleta Meadows is the unique creation of Ricardo Breceda that can be seen throughout Borrego Springs. Locals refer to the sculptures as “Sky Art.” The free-standing sculptures attract visitors of all ages to Borrego Springs. The sculptures were commissioned by Dennis Avery (yes, Avery, like your printer labels). He loved the town of Borrego Springs and purchased over 3,000 acres in the 1990s to keep it protected from development. He wanted his land to become an outdoor gallery for all to enjoy. As a result, Galleta Meadows now has over 130 statues scattered across the estate.

The giant free-standing statues can weigh up to 1000 pounds. The sculptures are a tribute to the prehistoric animals that once roamed the desert land. The designs have cultural and historical significance to the area. Fossils similar to many of the prehistoric designs have been found nearby. You will see giant birds, sabertooth cats, mammoths, dinosaurs, prehistoric animals, and the famous Borrego serpent.

HOW TO TOUR GALLETA MEADOWS

Touring the statues is fun for kids of all ages. As you head into the dirt roads of Galleta Meadows, the paths around the statues curve around cactus and other native plants. There is no one correct way to drive in or out. There are multiple areas to explore around Borrego Springs. Although we have visited several times, we still have not seen all 130 statues! Several creatures are located behind the Borrego Chamber of Commerce, making it an excellent stop for pictures and information!

WHERE ARE THE GALLETA MEADOW STATUES?

If you want to see all the statues, you can pick up a hard copy of this map at the Anza-Borrego State Park Visitor Center. In addition, you can purchase a similar map at the Anza-Borrego Desert Natural History Association Desert Store or Anza-Borrego Foundation Store. Both stores are located one block west of Christmas Circle.

SUNSET IN GALLETA MEADOWS

In my opinion, there is no better way to end a day in the desert with kids than to watch the cotton candy skies appear in Borrego Springs in Galleta Meadows. We love to pick a new statue from the map, park our car, and set up our camping chairs or picnic blankets to watch the sun go down. Then, as the pink fades away, the stars come out, and you are left in awe of the incredible sight.

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WHAT TO DO IN BORREGO SPRINGS

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When you are planning a visit to Anza-Borrego, you will want to take some time to explore Borrego Springs. The desert town is surrounded by Anza-Borrego State Park and makes for a great stop with kids. With over 2,000 residents, the town offers a unique view of desert living. Although small and seemingly quiet, Borrego Springs has a variety of restaurants, hotels, and shops that line the downtown area. So, if you are looking for a hotel, restaurant, or market in the Anza-Borrego Desert, Borrego Springs is where you will need to be.

In this portion of our guide to Anza-Borrego with kids, we cover what to do in Borrego Springs. You are in the right place if you are looking for more information on what to see, where to eat, and where to stay when visiting Anza-Borrego State Park.

WHAT SHOULD WE DO IN ANZA-BORREGO STATE PARK?

EXPLORE THE TOWN OF BORREGO SPRINGS

The town of Borrego Springs is the most popular and central place to stay (with the exception of camping) and dine when visiting Anza-Borrego State Park. There are no stoplights in town, and all roads lead to different parts of Anza-Borrego State Park. Scattered around town, you will see the massive animal sculptures of Galleta Meadows. Most shops and restaurants are a walking distance from the town center, Christmas Card Circle (a park inside a roundabout). At night, the skies above Borrego Springs transform from cotton candy pink to a star-studded panorama.

STARGAZING IN BORREGO SPRINGS

Borrego Springs is the only town in California designated as an International Dark Sky Community, making it an incredible place for stargazing. In addition, the city works to preserve the night sky for generations to come by using responsible outdoor lighting and educating citizens about light pollution. Between these conservation efforts and the wide-open landscape, stargazing is a must when visiting Borrego Springs.

SELEY RANCH RED GRAPEFRUIT

When I first heard about grapefruit in Borrego Springs, I was skeptical. It did not fit the typical desert landscape I thought of when I pictured our visits to Anza-Borrego. However, I will never visit Borrego Springs without taking home a bag of these delicious, oh-so-sweet Seley Red organic grapefruits.

There are several farm stands in town. We opted to check out the farm stand by the ranch entrance at 901 Borrego Valley Road. The fruit stands operate on the honor system, so cash is necessary. At the farm stand by the ranch, we grabbed a bag of 13 giant grapefruits for $4. Unfortunately, the farm was closed on the day of our visit, but you can always reach out to Seley Ranch to see if you can stop by to say hello. The citrus orchard has been a family-run business in Borrego since 1957.

Just along Christmas Circle, you will see the blue Kiwanis building pictured below in the heart of town. Here, you can grab a bag for $5 as you explore the city of Borrego. Either way, you will be thrilled to have these to enjoy once you are home.

WHERE TO EAT IN BORREGO SPRINGS

CARLEE’S PLACE

When we first drove through Borrego Springs, the large neon sign had me thinking Carlee’s Place was a liquor store or biker bar. I wanted to know more about it, and I am glad I looked into it! It has become one of our favorite places to eat in Borrego Springs. Carlee’s Place is a staple in the community and has been a part of town for many years. Carlee’s Place serves classic American fare and is open for lunch and dinner.

We visited during COVID, so we could not enjoy the pool table or live music that is a staple on weekends at Carlee’s Place. However, we enjoyed our time on their outdoor patio. We had Carlee’s burger because I had heard so much about it, and it was delicious! Everything is made from scratch, and the burger was cooked to perfection. Carlee’s Place is a family-friendly place with a wait staff that makes you feel welcome and comfortable. In addition, they have a full bar and craft beer list to please any beer lover!

RED OCOTILLO

Red Ocotillo serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner just off Christmas Circle in Borrego Springs. They have delicious farm-to-table cuisine. The menu includes fresh garden salads, burgers, steaks, pasta, soups, and desserts. Red Ocotillo has a full bar with signature cocktails, mimosas, beer, and wine. The patio has been expanded due to COVID restrictions on dining, and the patio is pet-friendly. The twinkle lights wrapped all around the surrounding have me dreaming of a steak and glass of wine under the twinkling stars of Borrego’s fantastic night sky. Next visit!

We loved our breakfast here. The breakfast burrito ingredients were all chopped finely and not overwhelming. The variety of signature benedicts all sounded delicious, and we opted for the crab cake benedict, which did not disappoint. The garlic and rosemary potatoes as our breakfast side dish were perfectly crispy on the outside and smooth inside. Our OJ was freshly squeezed, and they even surprised us with slices of coffee cake while waiting for our meal.

KESLING’S KITCHEN

I have wanted to try Kesling’s Kitchen for a long time. The menu changes daily, and the focus of the restaurant is the wood-fired stove in the kitchen. Next door to the Borrego Art Institute, the food and desserts are forms of art themselves. The menu plays on all cuisines, and the food is unique. Unfortunately, there are no options for kids, so if your child is not open to various new flavors, be prepared to get creative while paying full entree prices. Check their Facebook page for the updated menu to know if it will work for your family that day!

During our COVID-era visit, the restaurant had packed many dishes to-go, and the patio had plenty of options for outdoor dining. We ordered at the counter, and our son was incredibly excited about the cookie and dessert options. In addition, they have a large cooler with a great beverage selection. This is ideal on a hot desert day! I was thrilled to see kombucha options and LOVED this lavender lemonade option!

We stopped for lunch, and my husband and I shared the fish tacos and Asian pork tacos. We loved all of the flavors and sauces. Our son had the fried chicken sandwich plain as it was the best option for him. We loved adding everything back on the second half to share! Our table neighbors got the Asian BBQ ribs box for two, and it looked great. They said it was delicious as well! It is a fun idea to take for a sunset picnic out by the sculptures in Galleta Meadows.

ONE FINAL THOUGHT

I need to say that although the food was tasty, the woman working was pretty rude and left us feeling like the visit did not live up to what I had hoped. I like to think of us as pretty easygoing, and we both understand what it is like to work in restaurants. The guy working the cash register was super nice, but the woman running food was just… not. We were pretty surprised.

I know COVID has drained everyone, and restaurants in CA have suffered immensely. I will not judge the whole restaurant on this part of the experience, but I do see it in other reviews. We want to try Kesling’s Kitchen again and will update you after our next visit. I feel like I have to be honest with my people! And please let me know if you have a different experience.

BIG HORN BURGERS & SHAKES

Big Horn Burgers & Shakes is the counter order restaurant in the Palm Canyon Hotel and RV Resort. This is an excellent hotel for families, and the burgers and shakes are great here. The menu is super easy to customize, and the restaurant has plenty of outdoor and indoor seating. The menu is simple but will appeal to most visitors of any age.

We had a 1/4 beef burger with caramelized onions, lettuce, tomato, ketchup & mustard. It was delicious! We let our son have a taste test between the vanilla and Oreo shake! He voted Oreo, and we all agreed they were both excellent. They also had an “adult” shakes menu that would be fun to sip by the patio heaters under the starry sky. Big Horn Burgers and Shakes makes grabbing dinner with your family easy after a busy day exploring Anza-Borrego State Park.

CENTER MARKET

Center Market is central in town and a go-to place for whatever you need to pick up last minute. Water bottles, band-aids, sunscreen, souvenirs- you can find it all at the Center Market. NEVER head out to explore in the desert without food and water. I was excited about the deli and the idea of picking up deli sandwiches, pasta salads, and drinks on our way out for some desert adventures. However, we quickly realized the deli is not always staffed. Premade sandwiches and sides like pasta salad, potato salad, and broccoli salad were available in the deli coolers.

We tried the deli at Center Market on a Saturday, and nobody was available to make sandwiches. We tried again on a Sunday by texting in our order as it says online and received a text saying they were “unable to confirm our request.” So not too sure the texting option works. On Sunday, we ended up grabbing roast beef sandwiches to-go, but by Sunday, the side salad options were gone. This visit was during peak season, but also COVID, so hard to know if this is the norm.

WHERE TO STAY IN BORREGO SPRINGS

LA CASA DEL ZORRO

La Casa Del Zorro is a luxury resort outside of town. Although we have not stayed here, I know we will soon enough and love it. We have friends that love coming here each year, and it is the place to go in town for a desert resort-style stay. The property is filled with historic adobe buildings, several pools, fountains, lush gardens, and beautiful rooms. Just outside of town, the resort offers food and beverage options along with family-friendly casitas and pools. Prices start around $280-400/night. We always book with Expedia to ensure a competitive rate.

PALM CANYON HOTEL & RV RESORT

The Palm Canyon Hotel & RV Resort is an excellent option for families. The entire hotel is built with a wild west theme that our son LOVED. In addition to your room needs, there are RV sites and vintage Airstreams available as well. There is a pool to cool off in, and Big Horn Burgers and Shakes will take care of all of your food and beverage needs. In addition, we received chocolate chip cookies and two saloon drink coupons at check-in. Something for the whole family!

More of a motel style, the rooms have everything you need for a comfortable stay. We had two queen beds, a refrigerator, and a microwave. Although our room did not have a balcony (some do), we had a great view from our front door. Another highlight was stargazing from right outside our room once our kids fell asleep. I highly recommend this hotel for families planning to be out and about in Anza-Borrego State Park during the day. Palm Canyon Resort runs $120-$180/room on Expedia, depending on the season. Your rate includes free parking, free Wifi, and fresh cookies upon arrival!

GLAMP at the DESERT SANDS VINTAGE RV RESORT

Next door to the Palm Canyon Hotel and RV Resort is the Desert Sands Vintage RV Resort. Although we have not stayed here, the vintage trailers look like a fun way to enjoy the desert. Most trailers require a two-night minimum, but they offer a fun way to feel like you are camping with everything set up for you! I will update here once we can check them out!

CAMPING IN ANZA-BORREGO STATE PARK

Anza-Borrego State Park is unique because they allow dispersed camping in the park. Unlike so many state parks, you do not need to plan months in advance to score a campsite. This is especially helpful in our new COVID-era. Even more remote, 4WD can take you deep into the desert camping under the stars with NOBODY around you. Camping rules require you to not park your car more than one car length off the road and at least 100 yards away from water. Please keep in mind that no campground also means no amenities, so make plans for responsible fires, bathroom use, and pack out what you pack in! Always check the weather before setting up camp yourself. Desert rains can quickly turn into flash floods.

In addition to dispersed camping, Anza-Borrego State Park offers several primitive campsites with vault toilets. You can read more about primitive campsites here. If you are interested in campgrounds, Borrego Palm Canyon Campground and Tamarisk Grove Campground are great options. Both can be reserved on ReserveCalifornia.com. Anza-Borrego is filled with camping options for every camper.

MAP OF BORREGO SPRINGS

Map created with Wanderlog, a road trip planner app on iOS and Android

LEARN MORE ABOUT WHAT TO DO IN ANZA-BORREGO

Click the images below to read more of our favorite things to do in Anza-Borrego State Park and Borrego Springs.