Escondido CA to Quartzite AZ - 78 a good run?

[normzone]

It's time to go see my brother in AZ - we usually rendezvous in Quartzite, have some desert fun there.

I've always just run the car for speed down the 8, but now that I've got the Bassa, I need to look at my roads differently.

Is running the 78 to Julian, down the other side and around the Salton Sea the best route, or are there any other doglegs you guys know I should consider?

I'm just looking at the basic Google maps, so I may be missing the obvious.

Much thanks -
Norman

[pehayes]

Consider jumping a little north and going through Borrego Springs.  There is a huge traffic circle in the middle of town.  To the north of that circle is a 5 mile loop which brings you through a unique desert sculpture center in Galleta Meadows.  Nice photo ops. North on Borrego Springs Road, east on Henderson Canyon Road, south on Di Giorgio Road.



http://www.backroadswest.com/anza/2011/11/galleta-meadows/

Patrick Hayes
Fremont CA

[LongRanger]

78 is great, as is 94 a little further south. If you take 94, head north towards Agua Caliente and Borrego Springs on County Road S1 once you reach Ocotillo and you'll be able to meet up with Patrick's recommendation. Another option to 78 is 76, which can detour you up and over Mt Palomar towards Lake Henshaw and Julian, at which point you will be back on 78. Good stuff.

[radguzzi]

Either way Norman, have a great ride and visit.  Sounds like a great way to spend a weekend.   ;-T

If you are heading out this weekend be aware of the forecast of heat and winds out that way, Santa Ana kicking in.

Safe travels,
Rob

[normzone]

Thanks Rob, looks like it's shaping up to be April 1.