Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Peg Leg Smith Monument
MONUMENT
The pile of rocks by the road northeast of Borrego Springs, where County Rte S22 takes a
90-degree turn east, is actually a monument to Thomas Long 'Peg Leg' Smith - mountain
man, fur trapper, horse thief, con artist and Wild West legend. He passed through Borrego
Springs in 1829 and allegedly picked up some rocks that were later found to be pure gold.
Strangely, when he returned during the Gold Rush era, he was unable to locate the lode.
Nevertheless, he told lots of prospectors about it (often in exchange for a few drinks) and
many came to search for the 'lost' gold and add to the myths.
Fonts Point
LOOKOUT
East of Borrego Springs, a 4-mile dirt road, sometimes passable without 4WD, diverges
south from County Rte S22 out to Fonts Point (1249ft). From up here a spectacular panor-
ama unfolds over the Borrego Valley to the west and the Borrego Badlands to the south.
You'll be amazed when the desert seemingly drops from beneath your feet.
Vallecito County Park
HISTORIC SITE
760-765-1188;
www.co.san-diego.ca.us/parks
; 37349 County Rte S2; ad-
mission per car $3;
Sep-May)
