Visit California Country in San Diego's East County
Natural Beauty of Anza-Borrego
Venture out to San Diego's great outdoors! In contrast to the serene coastal landscape to the west, San Diego's East County wilderness is one of the most diverse areas in the county. The region boasts a beauty all its own, with rolling hills, majestic mountains, sparkling lakes, and deep canyons. With the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park and Cleveland National Forest nestled in the region, outdoor lovers of all types will revel in a wondrous natural playground to explore and discover.
East San Diego County offers hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, fishing and camping in the vast and beautiful wilderness. Spend an afternoon hiking Cowles Mountain, mountain biking through Mission Trails Regional Park, strolling along Lake Murray or fishing on El Capitan Reservoir.
In addition to outdoor adventures, East San Diego County boasts plenty of entertainment. Sizzling Las Vegas style Native American casinos, luxurious resorts tucked right into the rugged landscape, challenging golf courses built around natural obstacles, historic sites and highways, and annual festivals and rodeos can be enjoyed, all within the expansive landscape of California's wilderness country.
One of our favorite day trips to East San Diego is the historic mining town of Julian. Set against the backdrop of the Cuyamaca Mountains and countless apple orchards, this quaint town is as famous for its apple pie as it is for its collection of gold mines (several offer tours geared toward children). Julian offers a variety of restaurants, bed & breakfast hideaways, antique stores, art galleries and nearly hiking and nature walks.
What we Love:- Hiking to the top of Cowles Mountain to take in the view of San Diego
- The variety of terrains at East County's numerous golf courses
- Las Vegas-style casinos offering gaming, entertainment and fine dining
- The historic Gold Rush mountain town of Julian and its famous apple pies and ciders
- The colorful wild flowers that bloom in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park in the spring
|
|
What to Know:- East County begins about 20 minutes east from downtown San Diego
- The temperatures in East County vary seasonally from the coast. It can be warmer in the summer and colder in the winter, including snow in the mountains
- While hiking, be aware of wildlife (rattlesnakes, mountain lions, etc.) that roam the open areas and always bring plenty of water for desert treks
- Many of East County's trails close at sunset
- To gamble at the Native American casinos, you must be 18 years or older
|
Getting to East County San Diego
By Car: East County is an expansive region, encompassing more than three quarters of San Diego County. The area can be accessed by heading east on Interstate 8, and California highways 94 and 52, 78 and 76. Julian and Borrego Springs can be accessed from Highways 78 (off Interstate 15) and 79 (off Interstate 8).
Public Transportation: The Orange or Green lines of the San Diego Trolley have multiple stops throughout the area, including Lemon Grove, La Mesa, El Cajon and Santee.
|
63 °
F
|
