SoCal Weekend Trips Part Two

SoCal Weekend Trips Part Two (Series)

Story and Photos by Jim Foreman

Eager for more travel, the subject of where to visit has hit, for a second round.  Spring has finally joined us in full stride.  Most of Southern California enjoys spring and summer weather all year long, making anytime a great time for moto journeys.

Sometimes those journeys are with riding buddies.  Maybe, it’s riding two-up, just you and your partner.  For a select few, the calling of a solo adventure is what drives one’s passions.  Regardless of one’s preferred travel style, here’s two more great weekend destinations using Los Angeles as a center point.  Since there are so many great destinations, that this topic is being broken up into multiple parts. 

When imagining all the many locations one could reach on a three-day, Friday to Monday weekend, it’s easy to become overwhelmed.  Yes, paralysis from over-analysis is real! Because of this, some arbitrary factors are impressed to make these journeys easy and accessible to most riders.  For some, this list will bring back awesome memories of voyages past.  For others, it will serve as inspiration and realization that the motorcycle is an excellent means to do overnight traveling. 

If you have yet to make an overnight trip on your bike, please read this story that simplifies and explains how to have a great time traversing on your moto.

Since everyone’s riding stamina is a bit different, I decided to cap the daily distance at 400 miles.  For many riders, especially on sportbikes, 400 miles is a long day.  The daily mileage, on average, will be much shorter. 

Another stipulation is that it needs to be three days, in duration.  Often, an extra day may be added, but the trip should be complete, in three days.

Finally, the skill level necessary has to include 95% of riders.  The focus is mostly street riding.  There are numerous dual-sport opportunities in the Southland.  The goal here is to be inclusive.  If you wish to share a dual-sport experience, please do.  It's easy to envision a complete story dedicated to unpaved roads.

Here are two more interesting, exciting and, in some cases, surprising destinations that can make for a memorable weekend that will make all of your friends envious.

Palm Springs, CA

According to the Official Palm Springs Visitors Website, “Palm Springs served as a winter playground for Hollywood stars like Frank Sinatra, Marlene Dietrich, Bob Hope, and Loretta Young. Today's stars like Leonardo DiCaprio, Dakota Fanning, Halle Berry and Gwen Stefani continue to seek relaxation just hours away from the Hollywood glitz. European royalty and business tycoons all come to enjoy the endless sunshine and serenity of the desert.”

The Saguaro Palm Springs

Palm Springs serves as an oasis in the desert with spectacular dining and diverse lodging options from the opulent to 50’s kitsch.  Surprisingly walkable along the main strip, in all but the summer months, it’s a great place to base a weekend stay.

Getting there from Los Angeles is super easy.  Most folks would hop on I-10 and head east until the 111 and veer off to Palm Springs.  That’s fine if you’re in a hurry or four-wheeling it. 

There are a few alternatives that make the journey much more diverse.  One option is to head south on Pacific Coast Highway or I-5 until Hwy 74 and take Ortega Hwy over to Elsinore and continue through Hemet. 

After the town of Valle Vista, your journey up the mountain transforms the mundane into the desirable.   CA-74 takes you to the backside of Idyllwild through a marvelous G-1 (Butler Maps Designation) series of twists and turns, to the top.

From the top, known as Mountain Center, continue on 74 until you arrive in Palm Desert.  Your dining and accommodation choices will determine where you go from there. 
Trips from Palm Springs

On Saturday, You have many options.  One could reverse course on the 74 and take it to the 231 (Palms to Pines Highway and enjoy lunch in Idyllwild.  From there, take it to the valley floor for an epic ride.  Reverse it, to get back to your hotel for a fun-filled extravaganza of twists and turns guaranteed to wear down the sides of your tires.

Another option is to head west, a little bit on I-10, toward Mentone and connect with CA-38 up to Big Bear Lake.  The higher elevation will be refreshing, and the roads will keep you sharp and excited.

Big Bear Lake

At Big Bear Lake, head west on the 18 and take the 330 down to the valley floor, again to return to Palm Springs. 

Many details and information of Big Bear and Highway 18 are in this story.

After either of these destinations, you will probably be well-worn with excitement and thrills and want to settle in for an exquisite meal, complete with your favorite adult beverages.

A third option combines fun and relaxation with Joshua Tree National Park.  You’ll need to bring your swim trunks or bikini.  Please, guys, leave your bikini or mankini at home.  With your swim attire packed, make your way to Box Canyon.  Follow it along until you cross Interstate 10 and enter Joshua Tree National Park.  Do make sure your bike’s sound system or Bluetooth helmet speakers have U2’s album ‘The Joshua Tree” cued up and playing quite loud, as you make your trek.  Do stop by the visitors center and pay your park fee or have your National Parks Annual Pass ready.  If you don’t, you’ll pay upon exit and have to make up a stupid story on why you thought it was OK not to pay.

Joshua Tree is a brilliant run.  With many points of interest, it can take a significant portion of the day.  You can find details and learn more from this previous story. 

Miracle Spa - Desert Hot Springs

Now for the swimwear, off of CA-62, you will have the option of various hot springs that you can affordably get a day-pass to visit.  An hour in the healing mineral waters can make any tense muscles relax and bring you down to a more peaceful state. If you are so inclined, there is even the clothing-optional Living Waters Spa.

Riding CA-62 is it’s own fun back down to the valley and connecting up with Palm Springs again. 

Palm Springs Arial Tramway

The final day, there are still options.  Consider a couple of hours on the Palm Springs Arial Tramway.  This California treasure is well worth the reasonable cost of admission and a remarkable way to experience a different side of the region.  While it may be hot at the base, it’ll be cool, at the top.

Another way to return home, the long way, is to head south and hit Anzo Borrego and then Palomar Mountain going up from Lake Henshaw and down Palomar Mountain Road.  From there find I-15 back to the 91 or 60 and into Los Angeles.

All the options, riding, and exotic destinations make Palm Springs a great weekend for rich and plentiful motorcycling adventures.

Ensenada

You’re probably saying, “Wait a minute.  Ensenada is in Mexico, isn’t it?”  Yes, Ensenada is in Mexico.  Please refer to this story for the information you’ll need to know to ride your bike in Mexico. 

Mexico is an easy and fascinating destination that is affordable, attractive and exciting.  The recently re-opened Scenic Highway between Tijuana and Ensenada is both breathtaking in beauty, and challenging as a rider. 

Getting to the Mexican Border is simple from Los Angeles.  One can travel east and run south on I-15 or take I-5 south for a cooler coastal route. 

After the border crossing and getting Pesos at the ATM in the Blue SAT building, take the Zona Rio South.

You won't need a Visa or TVIP (Temprary Vehicle Import Permit) if you're staying in Baja and you'll be 72 hours or less.  If staying longer than 72 hours, you should get a Visa, though nobody checks that you have one.  7 day Visas are free.  Remember to return it (which can be a pain) before leaving.  The two things you MUST have before you enter Mexico are a Passport/Passcard and Mexican Auto or Moto Insurance.  There are many reputable brokers, but my preferred source is Mexican Insurance Store.com. Unless your bike is over 15 years old, the full coverage Ace Platinum is highly recommended.  If it is over 15 years old, you can still get full coverage, but you'll have to call in.  Otherwise, it's liability only.  If you have any problem, both Ace Seguros and Mexican Insurance Store will be there to help you.  Ace will get your claim solved and settled much faster and with much less hassle, than even your home carrier.  

Tijuana has a heavenly place for lunch and is a great place start to your Mexican adventure.

Tacos Kokopelli - Tijuana

Tacos Kokopelli is renown by Mexicans as one of the best places for tacos in Tijuana.   See the valet about parking your bikes on the sidewalk in front of the cafe.  Please remember to tip him 20 or 30 Pesos ($1.25-$1.75USD)  He's remarkably helpful, loves motorcycles, and speaks good English.

From there, it’s an easy run south on the main road to the Scenic Road to Ensenada.

Mex 1D - Scenic Highway from Tijuana to Ensenada

Ensenada is only 65 miles south of the border, but it's lightyears away from the lifestyle, back home.  Motorcycles traveling on the Scenic Highway will need to pay two tolls of $14MX each.  As of April 2016, the US Dollar exchanges for around $17MX.

There are many accommodation choices within Ensenada.  AirBnB has several offerings, also.  Ensenada caters extremely well to visitors and has many big-city amenities and options.

While it doesn’t take too long to get into Ensenada, you’ll probably be a little tired as the riding is more intense in Mexico.  It’s best to check into your hotel or AirBnB accommodations and drop off your stuff.   If you’re still up for a little riding, consider a run to La Bufadora.

La Bufadora or, the blowhole, in English, is a naturally occurring rock formation that causes water to shoot up simulating a whale’s blowhole. The action happens when the tide is coming in.  Check a tide chart app or look at the position of the moon to determine the best time to go.  The best viewpoint is a natural overlook from up high.  Going down into the village is fun, but crowded.  One can ride the full way, to the end. 

Natural Overlook above La Bufadora

To get there, head south on the main north/south road and follow the huge signs to La Bufadora.
On Saturday, there are several options for day-long riding.  One is to head east on MX 3 toward San Felipe.  The roadway is excellent and visually pleasing.  Mike’s Sky Ranch is found, along the way, close to the San Felipe end.  Reservations to Mike's Sky Ranch can be made by calling +1 52-664-681-5514.  If staying, Saturday night, in San Felipe, you can enjoy lunch and do a quick and fun run to Gonzaga Bay.  Otherwise, riding back the same way is still fun and visually different, each direction.

Mama Espinoza's in El Rosario

Another option is to head south on Highway 1 to El Rosario and Mama Espinosa’s for lunch.  Then return to Ensenada for another night.  That way you can abandon your luggage at the hotel. Here's a map of the region.  Alternatively, you can travel all the way to Cataviña and stay the night at the Hotel Mision Cataviña.  The road approacing El Rosario and onward to Cataviña is superb and very exciting for motorcyclists.  Again, Butler Maps would rate it G-1.  El Rosario also has two very nice hotels.  Mama Espinosa's is one and Baja Cactus is the other.  If you wish to stay in El Rosario or Cataviña, reservations are highly recommended, due to it's off-road popularity.  Regardless of your accommodations, do make sure you fuel up at El Rosario before heading further south.

Map of the wine region known as Valle de Guadalupe

Sunday, I recommend heading to the wine region of Valle de Guadalupe.   Make a plan to stop there for lunch.  It’s about 30 minutes northeast of Ensenada.  There are several unique dining options to cater to a variety of palates.

Restaurante Mustafa

A local favorite with superb food is Restaurante Mustafa.  Coming from Morocco, Mustafa Ali brings excellent local and Mediterranean cuisine to the wine region.  Prices are for locals, so the value is phenomenal.  Do save some room for their home made Apple Pie.  It will blow your mind!  charming and modern accommodations are also available.  Send a message on the Restaurante Mustafa Facebook Page or call to make reservations.

Encuentro - Valle de Guadalupe

Further up are two additional noteworthy wineries.  The ultra exquisite Encuentro serves up Napa grade dining and overnight accommodations.  The cabanas along the crest of the hill are available for the night.  They range in price from $250US to $350US a night.

La Esperanza Baja Med

La Esperanza Baja Med (L.A. Cetto on the map) is where locals go for an impressive meal and culinary experience.  Master Chef Miguel Angel Guerrero brings his special blend of locally sourced food, excellent wines and delightful ambiance to this world renown destination. Well regarded as a must, to impress one’s partner, La Esperanza BajaMed is the insider's dining option in the region.

Tecate, Baja California

From Valle de Guadelupe, continue north to Tecate, as in the beer!  The twists and turns would earn a G-1 rating from Butler Maps.  Tecate, BC is where Cerveza Tecate originates.  Tecate is a great town and a great place to cross over, back to the US.  Bikes enter where the cars do, but that’s where the similar rules end.  Stay to the left and ride all the way to the front.  5-minute wait! Hooray!

Once stateside, the ride up to Jamul, CA is a bonus treat with some great corners and scenery.

Part Three, in the series, will include destinations to Yosemite National Park and San Luis Obispo.

When you're in Southern California, please visit Irv Seaver BMW in Orange County, CA. Irv Seaver BMW has the largest selection of the latest BMW Motorcycles and one of the most extensive pre-owned motorcycle selections in California.

Master Chef Miguel Angel Guerrero (left) with a plate of octopus

Arial shot of Hotel Mision Cataviña

Museo de Historia

Motel at Mama Espinoza's in El Rosario

Two Bunch Palms Resort and Spa

Downtown Ensenada

Mouth watering tacos at Kokopelli

Ensenada Sunset

Riding along Big Bear Lake

Palm Springs at night

Cruise Passengers from Los Angeles in Ensenada

©2016 Jim Foreman All Rights Reserved.

Eat to Ride or Ride to Eat

Eat to Ride or Ride to Eat? 

Ether way, these culinary destinations are worth the trip!

The South Coast BMW Riding Club doing what they do best.  Photo By Lisa Catarineau

Story and Photos by Jim Foreman

Many motorcyclists ride to places to enjoy spectacular scenery, challenging roads and time with close friends.  Surprisingly, it seems a great bunch of riders simply ride somewhere to eat. 

One shouldn’t be too surprised by this reality.  We all need to eat.   It just comes down to some who "Eat to Ride" and others who "Ride to Eat."

The importance of this topic, could not be overstated to the South Coast BMW Riders Club or South Coasters.  For them and any other palate inspired rider, it becomes prudent to list some excellent dining opportunities along some great motorcycle riding destinations. 

Everyone is familiar with places like Newcomb’s Ranch, The Rock Store Café, Neptune’s Net and Hell’s Kitchen.

While these places have their own merits and reasons to visit, everyone knows them. 

The criterion for this collection of dining destinations is specific.  The café or restaurant must be on or just off a Southern California motorcycle enthusiast’s road.  There must be something unique or truly noteworthy that makes it special. The cost including a non-alcoholic drink should not exceed $20USD per person.   The food needs to be excellent to way above average.  Finally, the location must be able to handle a group of motorcyclists without breaking a sweat or calling the authorities.

Jeremy’s On The Hill – Julian, CA

Jeremy’s On The Hill is a place that inspires a story like this. Located just outside of Julian and close to Palomar Mountain, Jeremy’s On The Hill makes an excellent lunch spot for those with tastes beyond Burger King.  Chef Jeremy Manley is a Cordon Bleu Graduate.   

Manley is a firm believer in locally sourced ingredients and routinely changes the menu as certain fruits and vegetables are in season.  Locally produced Bison and Pork make for some tasty and delectable dishes and are some of Manley’s best-loved offerings.  Stop for pie where you will but if you desire an excellent meal at a very reasonable price, look no further.

Big Horn Bar & Grill – Borrego Springs, CA

Borrego Springs has become quite the ghost town in recent years.  Many cafés and restaurants have closed or move to more lucrative locations.  Despite the dim outlook, there a few culinary highlights to Borrego Springs. 

After a great day of riding S-22 through Anza Borrego and getting an interesting photo with the sculptures in the desert, stop at Big Horn Bar & Grill for an above average dining experience.  Some favorites include the ribs with sweet potato fries, the spicy grilled chicken sandwich.  If you’re feeling ravenous, try the seared rib-eye steak.  All of these meals are well prepared and cost under $15USD. 

Big Horn Bar and Grill even brings in fresh apple pie from the Julian Pie Company.  Big Horn Grill is closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays and is open from 2pm-9pm M, Th-F and 11am-9pm on weekends.

Deer Lodge – Ojai, CA

North of Ojai is some spectacular riding.  Many action shots featured in moto magazines are shot there for its exotic scenery and extremely light traffic.  Savvy riders know the Deer Lodge is one of the best places to enjoy a meal before continuing. 

Deer Lodge works closely with local growers and producers to bring fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables to your table. 

Favorites to order include the free-range BBQ chicken, the wild Pacific cedar plank salmon, and the buffalo burger (bison). 

On weekends, Deer Lodge is a favorite with stop for motorcyclists and typically features live music.

Monday through Thursday, Deer Lodge is open after 3 pm.  On Friday lunch is served at 11 am.  Saturdays and Sundays,  Brunch begins at 9:30 am.

Mt. Baldy Lodge – Mt. Baldy, CA

The village of Mt. Baldy is a rustic escape from the hustle and bustle of the city to the south.  It’s situated at an apex of two fun moto-friendly roads.  Many more casual riders love the ride up Mt.Baldy Road.  It’s an easy road with many beautiful vistas.  The road is ideal for those who enjoy a slower and more scenic ride.  Conversely, Mt. Baldy is reachable from Glendora Ridge Road, which is abranch of Glendora Mountain Road.  Glendora Mountain Road or GMR for short is a favorite among sportbikes.  It’s an extremely technical canyon offering many twists, turns, and plentiful excitement.  Regardless of which route suits your riding style, Mt. Baldy Lodge is a great place to enjoy a meal.  A favorite is the Steak Sandwich, made to order and very savory.  Monday-Friday Mt. Baldy Lodge is open at 11 am.  Saturday and Sunday, hours are from 9a to midnight and 11 pm, respectively.  Additionally, Mt. Baldy Lodge offers lovely cabins for the night.  It’s a great place to overnight with your partner and enjoy the clean, brisk, mountain air.

Malibu Kitchen – Malibu, CA

Running the Malibu Alps, as coined by Chris Weir, is a wonderful way to enjoy some great SoCal Motorcycling.  Often, finding a great place to eat is far more difficult.  There are certainly expensive offerings like Nobu and Gladstone’s if you’re trying to impress someone.  Duke’s is an affordable and notable place with moto-friendly valets, so it’s equally worthy of a visit.

For me and to the delight of my friends I have introduced there, Malibu Kitchen is my primary choice.  Serving up Boar’s Head deli meats and cheeses along with some excellent in-house offerings on freshly baked bread, Malibu Kitchen is the best.  For me, it’s the rare roast beef on a French roll with provolone cheese that gets me every time.  Located close to Pepperdine University and many celebrity residences, it is a common place for locals to enjoy.  It’s in the Malibu Country Mart at PCH and Cross Creek, behind the Shell Station.  It’s not far from Malibu Canyon Road.  It is also rare when one doesn’t recognize someone also enjoying lunch in the outdoor seating area.  A few steps down is a Starbucks where one can get amped up with coffee to run Latigo Canyon, Mulholland, and Stunt Road six more times before calling it a day.

John Kenji Hawley and Jim Foreman enjoying lunch at Gastrognome in Idyllwild, CA

Gastrognome – Idyllwild, CA

CA-243 or the Palms to Pines Highway is a treasure for experienced motorcyclists.  This lightly traveled road is chock full of great corners, elevation changes, and vistas.  The hidden beauty is that one can take it as hard or as mellow as one wants without being disappointed. 

 Situated in the middle of Idyllwild’s village, Gastrognome is an above-par European style café with excellent lunch offering.  Motorcycle parking, right in front, and outdoor seating make this mile-high café and culinary delight.   Favorites are the Raspberry Chicken Sandwich and the Rainbow Trout Filet Almondine. 

The town is charming to walk through and is very motorcycle friendly.  A nice gelato or coffee (or both) is a great treat before heading out.  From Idyllwild, one can easily reach Palm Desert via CA-74  or Anzo Borrego mentioned earlier.

Honorable Mentions

The Lookout - Lake Elsinore, CA

Surprisingly good food at the top of Ortega Highway's crescendo.

Old Place - Cornell, CA

Right on Mulholland Highway, east of the Rock Store.  No Freezers means everything's fresh and tasty.  It's a lively place with a great atmosphere.

Willie Boys Saloon and Dance Hall - Morongo Valley, CA
Willie Boys is a perfect destination after a great day riding Joshua Tree National Park. It's also something delightfully different from the glam and pretension of Palm Springs.

Yellow Vase - Rancho Palos Verdes, CA

A taste of European elegance can be found at Yellow Vase.  Several locations are in the south bay, but this on is my favorite on Rancho Palos Verdes Drive West.  Overlooking the ocean and Catalina Island, this place is a magnificent place to enjoy great coffee drinks and light lunch offerings.

Throughout Southern California, there are numerous cafés and dining destination along some favorite roads.   Some of these may already be your favorites.  Others will be new.  Yet more may still be waiting to be discovered.  Whatever your motivation, Make Life a Ride.

When you're in Southern California, please visit Irv Seaver BMW in Orange County, CA. Irv Seaver BMW has the largest selection of the latest BMW Motorcycles and one of the most extensive pre-owned motorcycle selections in the southland. 

SoCal Triple Play - Idyllwild, Borrego Springs, Palomar Mountain

Rise up this mornin',
Smiled with the risin' sun,
Three little birds
Pitch by my doorstep
Singin' sweet songs
Of melodies pure and true,
Sayin', "This is my message to you-ou-ou:"
Singin': "Don't worry about a thing, worry about a thing,
oh! Every little thing gonna be all right.

-Bob Marley

Words and Pictures by Jim Foreman

Ride Details

Destinations: Idyllwild via CA 243, Borrego Springs and Palomar Mountain.
Total Miles: 353
Best time to go: Year Round (Except for Snow or Ice)
Difference in Temperatures: 40ºF (92º in Beaumont 62º at Palomar Mountain)
Participants: Pan Huang, Hanson Xie and Jim Foreman
Fun Factor: Off The Hook!
Passenger Fun Factor: Same as Above
Lunch Enjoyed at: Gastrognome
Miles Visable from the Top of Palomar Mountain: 75+
Number of Cops Seen All Day: 2
Map of the Route: GoogleMaps


Every day one hears 'Epic' this and 'Epic' that and each time it's heard it becomes evident that it's not 'Epic' at all.  At best when the word 'Epic' is used it really means, mildly interesting. 
That was not the case for the SoCal Triple Play that even included a bonus run.

Last week, a message was received from Hanson suggesting He, Pan and I go out for a ride over the weekend.  Last time around we went all the way through Angeles Crest Highway and had a great time.  

It was agreed to all meet at Pan's home in Tustin near the old Marine Corps Air Station.  We donned our gear, mounted up and headed out for a day of fun.  As is often the case, the weather in SoCal was spectacular.  Truly, one couldn't wish for better weather.  Clear, sunny, not too hot, just perfect weather.

Pan was riding his 2013 Honda Goldwing, Hanson was riding Pan's 2013 CVO Street Glide and Jim was riding his 2002 BMW K 1200 RS.  Amongst the Goldwing and the StreetGlide, the full-size BMW K 1200 RS seemed tiny, like a Ninja 300. 
 
When the destinations tend to lead far away from home, getting the Interstate travel out of the way early on has proved an efficient strategy.  Just like with Ojai, we decided to burn the interstate to CA 243 (Palms to Pines Scenic Byway).  That way, we would be heading, gradually, back toward home, on a day trip.  This course also allows us to warm up our bikes and ourselves before hitting the awesomeness.
 

Heading up CA 243 Palms to Pines Scenic Byway

Riding into Idyllwild

Upon reaching the CA 243 exit off of I-10, we rolled up to the base of the mountain.  This is the point we mounted the GoPRO Cameras and really started our journey.

If one has traveled CA-243, then the next few sentences will be old news.  If you haven't had a chance, to make the run to Idyllwild, why the heck not?  
This road must have been designed by motorcyclists.  It's really that amazing!  The corners will cause your cheeks to hurt from smiling in your helmet too much.   The scenery and sights will be a visual feast for your eyes.  Going up the first part, it's impossible not to notice and smell the remnants of the recent fire.  After the first summit, all the fire damage is in the past.  What's left is mile after mile of shady, cool, pine-scented roadway that simply beckons you to open the throttle just a little bit more.  

Along the glorious 24 miles between the base of the mountain and Idyllwild, there is just one area where the speed limit drops.  It's only a brief slowdown and then normal speed to Idyllwild.  Idyllwild is a great stopping point.  This rustic village is known for being exceptionally motorcycle friendly.  There are three gas stations in town.  None of them are exorbitantly priced.  

The Three Amigos in front of Gastrognome Restaurant.

Dining options are aplenty in Idyllwild.  Many riders simply pull into Jo'anns Restaurant and Bar.  The unfortunate live rendition of Ella Fitzgerald's 'At Last' coming from their performance stage would upset even the most robust appetites.  I recommend trying a new place each time.  There are many European ex-pats living in the area.  Many offer some terrific culinary options.  We decided to enjoy 'Gastrognome Restaurant'.  After a delicious meal and attentive service, Hanson and Pan took a stroll around part of the town.  It was my job to setup the cameras again for the next leg of our journey.

A brief fill up at one of the gas stations, and we were off.  We continued south on Hwy 243.  It's a nice wind-down as the amazing twisties, elevation changes and scenery continue.  Upon reaching the 2000' level, a choice to continue on 243 south or head south/west on Hwy 74 is presented.  We continued south on the 243.  
At Kenworthy Bautista Road (CA 371), we made a right and headed to Aguanga.  CA 371 dead-ends into Hwy 79, so a left turn was made onto Hwy 79 and the journey continued.

Coming down CA 243 south of Idyllwild

Up until this point the option of going to Borrego Springs was uncertain.  Given the relative early time in the afternoon, the decision was made to go for it.  A quick left turn was made on San Felipe Road (S2).  A Couple miles later, there's a 'Y' in the road.  San Felipe continues on the right,  but you will want to veer left onto Montezuma Valley Road (S22).  This is what leads into Borrego Springs. 

Montezuma Valley Road (S22) is the second part of the three road triple play that made up this journey.  

This road is a must for all serious motorcyclists.  The well cambered roadway matches perfectly with the speed and degree of the corner to bring about excitement and joy!  

   
  

That's a great sign!

This time of year is butterfly season and the roadway was covered, in places, with butterflies.  As we would ride through, the road would seem to disintegrate and rise above the expected surface.  Think of a cool slo-mo scene in the Matrix to get the idea.  Though our bikes got a little peppered with butterfly guts it was surprisingly minimal give the tens of thousands we actually rode through.  

At the bottom of the hill, Borrego Springs was a virtual ghost town.  Two thirds of the businesses were closed or vacant.  We couldn't even find a coffee shop to rest for a quick break.  A small market remained open.  We settled on some bottled Mocha Frappucinos for the three of us.  Given all the fun we've had, so far, one might think we were ready to call it a day.  No Way!  Pan and Hanson were ready for more!  I was too!  Off we went to ride Montezuma Valley Road, AGAIN!  It was even better going back since the recent run of the corners going down were still fresh in our memory.
 

Hanson (L) and Pan (R) overlooking Lake Henshaw.

We backtracked to the 79 and made a left.  A short way down the road is CA 76.  Turn right toward Lake Henshaw and made another quick right onto East Grade Road.  Be careful.  East Grade Road comes fast.  Look to the right because it's easy to miss.  After making the right, head up the hill toward Palomar Mountain and part three of the SoCal Trifecta.

East Grade Road and Palomar Mountain Road are a motorcyclists paradise.  Sadly most riders will follow the darned GPS Master and just roll along Hwy 76 without even a clue to the amazingness that they are missing just a few miles away.  If you don't have one already, get a Butler Motorcycle Map and study it.  Also turn off the GPS once in a while.  Remember, you ride to get away from being told what to do.

A short way up East Grade Road, there is an overlook with an impressive view of Henshaw Lake.  This is a great spot to get some 'Glamor' shots of your bike.

Hanson chasing Jim up East Grade Road

Continuing on along East Grade Road will bring cooler temperatures again and certainly challenge the lean angles of your bike.  The visuals are amazing and perfect for GoPRO footage.  As we reached the end of East Grade Road, several vistas became evident and should be stopped at for more glamor shots with you and your bike.

At the intersection of East Grade Road, Palomar Mountain Road and State Park Road is Mother's Kitchen.  Mother's Kitchen is very  motorcycle friendly.  It's also a great place to eat.

Jim and Hanson playing around.

We stopped at a vista point overlooking San Diego County and Catalina Island in the distance.  

From there we completed the "Pièce de Résistance".  Palomar Mountain Road is well known amongst serious sport riders.  Often you'll see them gathered at the base or the top of the hill making their runs.  Even at the late hour, there were still supersport riders readying for another run.  It's incredible going both uphill and downhill.  Conveniently, there is a fire station at the top of the run for the inevitable novice who tries to outride him or herself.  On weekends, it's quite common to hear sirens responding to incidents.  Please ride within your limits.

Any one of these roads is a great destination in itself.  All of us were fine doing a good distance and we really wanted to do a lot of riding.  While these roads are relatively close to each other there is no reason to rush it.  Especially with a passenger, it would be worthwhile to spend half a day in Idyllwild or explore Borrego Springs.  Palomar Mountain has a lot of side roads and a world-class observatory. 

It was now 5:30pm and we had an hour of daylight left and a rather long way to go.  A right at the base of Palomar Mountain road brought us back onto Hwy 76.  This stretch is quite fun.   Expect to ride a fair distance, until the road split near the Pala Casino.  We stayed right onto Pala Mission Road.  A subsequent right onto Pala-Temecula Road came shortly.

Now it's not uncommon for some drivers, typically in hybrid powered cars, to go slow and not use the proper turnouts to let others pass.  These self-entitled, self-righteous, narcissistic drivers may not even realize that there is anyone else even on the road.  An even worse situation was encountered on this road.  The offending driver had a full-size late 90's Ford F-150 with a H-D Sticker, a License plate frame that says, "I'd rather be riding my Harley-Davidson" and a H-D logo trailer hitch cover.  One would think they might have a sense of others on the road.  Perhaps it's not too much to ask to drive the speed limit, not 10 MPH under.  We were clearly seen in his side and rear-view mirrors, yet turnout after turnout was passed without the slightest courtesy to pull-over.  We wound up aggressively passing the driver and while doing so I looked at him shaking my head.  All three of us later commented on what a jerk this guy was. 

Pala-Temecula Road drops us off at CA 79.  There is a gas station there as well as an In-N-Out Burger and Starbucks along with other places to eat.  Once refreshed, we headed west on 79 and immediately jumped on Interstate 15 going north.  This was a bit frustrating as traffic was backing up and splitting lanes, approaching dusk, for 30 or so miles was not appealing.  A proverbial lightbulb flashed bright in my head.  We exited a few miles later at Clinton Keith Road and made a Left.

We continued west on Clinton Keith Road until we hit Grand Avenue.  At Grand, we made a right.  A few miles up was......  Wait for it......  Wait for it.....

Yes!  The Mighty Ortega Highway (CA 74).

We weren't planning on hitting Ortega, but the traffic on the 15 and likely traffic on the 91 made this choice very appealing.  We made the left onto Ortega and never looked back.

As we reached the lookout, the opening salvos of dusk were fast approaching.  Fortunately traffic was quite light.  We were able to keep a hastened pace.  

Only a short 15 minutes of night riding was required up Interstate 5 to Tustin and to return to Pan's residence.

From there we all thanked each other, talked about how much we loved today's ride and when we would plan another one.

A sudden rush of gratitude was upon me as I realized how many good friends I have to share these motorcycle adventures.

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Jim on East Grade Road

One of the lookouts from Palomar Mountain

Pan was killing it on the big behemoth

Hanson and I stopping for a moment.

The BMW K 1200 RS looks tiny at the Lake Henshaw Lookout

Pan may not speak a lot of English, but it was evident all day how much he enjoyed riding today.

Getting ready to head out from Idyllwild

Getting ready to tackle CA 243

And...  Cut!