February 23, 2026
Borrego and Beyond: A Backcountry Day Trip
Share
East County Magazine Highlights Borrego and Backcountry Loop
East County Magazine recently published a feature on a full day scenic drive through San Diego County’s backcountry, with Borrego Springs at the center of the experience
The article outlines a 12 hour loop connecting desert, mountain, and lake destinations, positioning Borrego as a key stop within a broader regional itinerary.
Destinations Featured in the Article
- Borrego Springs and Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
- Anza-Borrego Desert State Park Visitor Center, 200 Palm Canyon Drive
- Christmas Circle visitor information location, 587 Palm Canyon Drive
- Wildflower viewing along Henderson Canyon Road
Hiking areas including:
- Borrego Palm Canyon
- Coyote Canyon
- Hellhole Canyon
- The Slot
- Font’s Point
- Wind Caves
- Elephant Tree Trail
- Yaqui Well Trail
- Cactus Loop Nature Trail
- ‘Ehmuu-Morteros Trail
Public Art and Local Highlights
Ricardo Breceda metal sculptures in Borrego Springs
- The Pilot House near Borrego Valley Airport
- Christmas Circle
- K-RAM 90.5 FM
- Resorts and Dining
- La Casa del Zorro
- Backcountry Route Stops
- Dudley’s Bakery in Santa Ysabel
- Ranchita and the Rancheti Yeti statue
- Montezuma Grade, S22 scenic descent
- Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area
- Julian and Banner Grade
- Julian Pie Company
- Mom’s Pie House
- Eagle Mining Company
- Menghini Winery
- Historic Julian downtown
- Banner Ranch
- Lake Cuyamaca
- The Pub at Lake Cuyamaca
- Wildlife viewing including pelicans, heron, vultures, and deer
Why This Coverage Matters
The feature presents Borrego Springs as a central anchor within a larger backcountry journey. It connects wildflowers, desert art, scenic mountain drives, Julian’s historic district, and Lake Cuyamaca into one enjoyable day trip.
For full route details, travel logistics, safety tips, and seasonal notes, read the complete article published by East County Magazine.
Learn More About Borrego Springs
Donate Blood, April 30 A community blood drive is scheduled at Borrego Springs High School on Thursday, April 30, 2026. Hosted in partnership with the San Diego Blood Bank, the event offers residents an opportunity to donate locally and support regional medical needs. Donors will receive a limited-edition Disney Goofy T-shirt while supplies last. Event Details Date: Thursday, April 30, 2026 Time: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM Location: High School Gym Parking Lot Cahuilla Road Borrego Springs, CA 92004 Appointments are encouraged, though walk-ins are accepted. Donors should bring a photo ID, be at least 17 years old, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds, and arrive hydrated. How to Participate Appointments can be scheduled online at sandiegobloodbank.org/donate or by calling (619) 400-8251. A QR code is also available on event materials for quick access. Blood donations collected at local drives support hospitals across the region, making community participation an important part of maintaining a stable blood supply.
Creative Workshop Begins
Volunteer-Run Community Park Christmas Circle Community Park sits at the center of Borrego Springs and remains one of the most recognized public spaces in the area. The park was established in the early 1950s when the DiGiorgio family donated the land in honor of Alphonse A. Burnand, tying the space directly to the early development of Borrego Springs. A Park Run by Volunteers Today, the park is managed by a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization led by a volunteer board of directors. The organization is supported through grants and donations from both residents and visitors who use the park. Jeff Sloan, president of the board, said, “There’s a group of people who really love the park and they put their effort into making it a wonderful place to visit.” What It Takes to Maintain the Park Maintaining Christmas Circle is an ongoing responsibility. The board oversees landscaping, lawn care, tree trimming, and water management to keep the grass maintained throughout the year. The park also provides regularly cleaned public restrooms, requiring daily attention and consistent upkeep.
Marcia Forman Band at Library The Marcia Forman Band will perform a free concert in Borrego Springs on Sunday, April 12, 2026, at 3:00 PM at the Borrego Springs Public Library. Presented by the Borrego Springs Community Concert Association , the performance features music from the Great American Songbook. The program includes a range of styles such as show tunes, pop, swing, bebop, rhythm and blues, and contemporary selections. Free Community Concert This event is open to the public and offers an opportunity to experience live music in a casual setting. The Borrego Springs Community Concert Association continues to provide accessible performances for residents and visitors throughout the season. What to Expect Attendees can expect a mix of familiar songs and diverse musical styles performed by an experienced group of musicians. The concert is designed to appeal to a wide audience, whether listening for enjoyment or exploring different genres of American music.
Discover freshly made pizza in Borrego Springs at Carlee’s and Calico’s, two family-run spots offering delicious options for both vegetarians and meat lovers in casual, welcoming settings.
Monday, May 4 at St. Barnabas A low-cost spay and neuter clinic hosted by Animal Action League will take place on Monday, May 4 at St. Barnabas Episcopal Church , 2680 Country Club Road in Borrego Springs. The clinic will offer affordable veterinary services for cats and dogs, including spay and neuter procedures, vaccinations, and microchipping . These services help reduce unwanted litters while supporting the long-term health, safety, and identification of companion animals in the Borrego Springs area. While pets are being cared for, the church will remain open to those waiting. Coffee will be available, creating a comfortable space during the morning hours. Check out this article about the last event. Animal Action League A Non-Profit Spay & Neuter Clinic Tax ID # 33-0345283 Call for an appointment: Office English: (760) 366-1100 Office Spanish: (760) 366-1105 Fax: (760) 366-7300 Email: aalreservations@gmail.com Mailing Address: PO Box 1413 Joshua Tree, CA 92252 Learn More About Borrego Springs
