Escondido Summit facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Escondido Summit
Northbound view from CA 14.
Elevation	3,258 ft (993 m)
Traversed by	SR 14, US 6 (until 1964)
Location	Los Angeles County, California, U.S.
Range	Sierra Pelona Mountains
Coordinates	34°30′09″N 118°15′18″W / 34.50250°N 118.25500°W / 34.50250; -118.25500
Topo map	USGS Palmdale

Escondido Summit is a mountain pass located in northern Los Angeles County, California. A mountain pass is like a natural pathway or a low point through a mountain range, making it easier for people to travel from one side to the other.

This summit reaches an elevation of 3,258 feet (about 993 meters) above sea level. It's the highest point along California Highway 14. This highway is an important road that helps people travel through the area.

The pass is found in the foothills of the Sierra Pelona Mountains. These mountains are part of the Transverse Ranges in Southern California. Escondido Summit is located just about 3 miles (5 kilometers) northwest of a town called Acton, California.

What is a Mountain Pass?

A mountain pass is a gap or a low point between two mountains or ridges. Imagine a giant natural ramp that helps you get over a tall obstacle! These passes are super important because they provide the easiest routes for travel. They allow roads, trails, and even railways to cross difficult mountain terrain.

For centuries, mountain passes have been vital for trade, exploration, and movement. They connect different regions and communities. Without them, traveling through mountainous areas would be much harder and take a lot longer.

Traveling Through Escondido Summit

Escondido Summit is a key part of California State Route 14. This highway connects the Antelope Valley to the greater Los Angeles area. The summit helps drivers smoothly cross the Sierra Pelona Mountains.

Before 1964, this route was part of U.S. Route 6. This historic highway once stretched all the way across the United States. Today, California Highway 14 continues to be a busy route for commuters and travelers.

Exploring Nearby Places

The area around Escondido Summit is full of interesting natural features. Many of these places are popular for outdoor activities.

Soledad Pass

Close by is Soledad Pass, another mountain pass. It is a bit lower in elevation than Escondido Summit. Soledad Pass is located within Soledad Canyon.

Soledad Canyon

Soledad Canyon is a beautiful natural canyon. It runs through the Sierra Pelona Mountains. The canyon is known for its scenic views and is a popular spot for hiking and other outdoor adventures.

Vasquez Rocks Natural Area Park

Not far from Escondido Summit are the famous Vasquez Rocks. This unique park is known for its amazing tilted rock formations. These rocks were formed by natural forces over millions of years. They are a popular spot for hiking, rock climbing, and even filming movies and TV shows!