Going Down . . . (ride report)

[donaldcc]

Down to and around the Salton Sea. 

A few weeks ago had a great ride with SOCAL Valk group up to and through Death Valley (lowest elevation in US)  so today I went around the 2nd lowest point in US.

Went up I-10 so I could ride down Box Canyon.  Small, narrow steep-walled canyons wind throughout the Mecca Hills Wilderness, a desert canyon heading down in elevation to Salton Sea.  Any of you who have been there know how nice it is in good weather.  I could see evidence of recent flash floods with sand pushed back in some canyons, but roads were clear.

Just over 200 mi, weather high 70s low 80s

Like Death Valley (that is 282' below sea level), Salton Sea is below sea level. Currently, its surface is 226 ft below sea level. Death Valley 8th lowest in world and lowest in US.  Salton Sea is 10th lowest in world and 2nd in US.

Pics in canyons today coming out to Salton Sea.






The sea was created by a flood in 1905, in which water from the Colorado River flowed into the area.  15 mi by 35 mi, the Salton Sea has been termed a "crown jewel of avian biodiversity" because over 400 species have been documented at the Salton Sea.  Sits right on top of the San Andreas Fault.

  After coming out of the canyons there is nothing but farming for miles and miles.  Two lane roads with some interesting little places.  Didn't take pic of sea today, but here is one from last year.

[HayHauler]

Looks like a great ride Don!

Hay
Jimmyt

[Jess from VA]

I do miss the weather out there.   

[Ghost]

Looks like you had a nice ride, thanks for letting us tag along. 

[Paxton]

Don;
For such a busy / hard workin' guy, you are having way too much fun out there, darn it!
Hope to meet up with you and catch some wind when Oss comes this way; or another time.
Maybe you can teach me how to use my GO PRO Camera. ???

I'm recovering well enough from my accident that I feel ready to ride again on April fools day.

Say NO to Cages!

[JimmyG]

Great pictures, thanks.  I sometimes miss the weather there too Jess, but then again I would not trade the great state of Tennessee for 2 California's.  Sure would like to ride the area Donald just showed though.

[fon1961]

Nice Post