Southern California

GraciesMom · 01-04-2009, 06:16 AM

I'm heading into Southern California, starting in Niland and going up through the "Slabs" and on into Joshua Tree National Monument and 29 Palms, Palm Springs. I'm wanting to make sure that I see everything of interest in that area - and sometimes, I'm finding out, there are a lot of neat things that aren't in the travel brochures that people have discovered through their travels. So if there are any things you think might be of interest, please let me know! Thanks!

dieselclacker · 01-04-2009, 10:15 AM

Hey, your a Marine, visit the base at 29 Palms, if you haven't already done so. You will love it, especially in the month of July.

Semper Fi,

Dieselclacker

LD · 01-05-2009, 05:38 AM

You might enjoy Anza Borrego Desert State Park; there is a lot more to it than just the state park campgrounds. The visitor center is well done, there are many hiking trails, and there is the little town of Borrego Springs to explore, too. (That won't take very long!)

Three websites (of several) to get started:

http://www.desertusa.com/anza_...ego/du_abp_desc.html

http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=638

http://www.abdnha.org/

Ed-Sommers · 01-05-2009, 06:55 AM

It sounds like you just MAY think there is a road from the slabs up to the park, some computer maps show them/it.

But - - it is not so! That road is not accessible, it goes through the bombing range/ SEAL team training area.

You need to to use 111 to Mecca, to Joshua Tree.

Ed USN (Ret)

ItstheTrip · 01-05-2009, 08:09 AM

Another route into 29 Palms from the Slabs would be north on 111 Mecca, east on Box Canyon Rd to I-10, cross I-10 and continue north into Joshua Tree NP. If you don't want to do Box Cyn Rd from Mecca to I-10 (it is kinda twisty), keep going up 111 to I-10 and then east on I-10 to Box Canyon Rd again. Exit and go north.

Check out Cottonwood campground right on the southern edge of the park, it is pretty nice and there's good hikes in the area. From there, just drive on north through the park and you will have the choice of coming out at 29 Palms or Joshua Tree.

Be prepared to be chilly at night.

Bill Davis · 01-06-2009, 12:55 PM

If you are in the Niland area and like to hike, ask for directions to "the ladders". Slot canyon you have to traverse by climbing ladders. Geocaching? Lots to offer. PM for more details.

GraciesMom · 01-19-2009, 07:53 PM

Wow - thanks everyone! And Dieselclacker . . . I was stationed in 29 Palms for SIX LONG HORRIBLE YEARS!! LOL!! I wouldn't go back there past March for all the tea in China!!!

lthrnk · 01-20-2009, 04:04 AM

Head for the Stumps in July and enjoy the heat. Remember, it's mind over matter. I don't mind and you don't matter. You could always head to SoCal and enjoy the balmy breezes in Pendelton.