Joaquin Ridge facts for kids
Joaquin Ridge is a long, interesting ridge located in the Diablo Range in Fresno County, California. It's a significant landmark in the area, known for its unique features and connection to California's history.
This ridge is named after Joaquin Murietta, a well-known figure from the California Gold Rush days. He was a leader of a group called the Five Joaquins Gang. This area was a secret meeting and camping spot for his group, offering a great view over their base at Rancho de Cantua.
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Exploring Joaquin Ridge
Joaquin Ridge stretches for about ten miles. It starts at its highest point, located east of Spanish Lake 36°19′48″N 120°34′09″W / 36.33000°N 120.56917°W. From there, it goes eastward towards a famous spot called Joaquin Rocks 36°19′11″N 120°27′32″W / 36.31972°N 120.45889°W. The ridge then turns southwestward, ending near Black Mountain, which is 3,629 feet high 36°18′16″N 120°24′12″W / 36.30444°N 120.40333°W. Black Mountain is the highest point on the nearby Anticline Ridge.
Where is Joaquin Ridge?
Joaquin Ridge has natural boundaries that help define its location. To the northeast, you'll find the Ragged Valley and the Big Blue Hills. To the southwest, it's bordered by Portuguese Canyon. The very highest point of Joaquin Ridge reaches 4,701 feet (or 1,433 meters) above sea level. This high point is just a short distance, about 0.4 miles (0.64 km), east of Spanish Lake.
The Famous Joaquin Rocks
The most recognizable part of Joaquin Ridge is definitely the Joaquin Rocks. These rocks were originally known as "Las Tres Piedras," which means "The Three Rocks" in Spanish. They are three tall, distinct rock pillars that stand out on the ridge.
Why are the Rocks Special?
These three rock pillars are easy to see from many miles away, especially from different parts of the San Joaquin Valley. If you were to climb to the top of these rocks, you would get an amazing view of a large part of the valley below.
Joaquin Spring
Near the Joaquin Rocks, on a slope just to the south 36°18′55″N 120°27′11″W / 36.31528°N 120.45306°W, you'll find Joaquin Spring. Until the 1950s, this spring was known as Valenzuela Spring. It was named after Joaquin Valenzuela, another important person from the Five Joaquins Gang. He was known for managing the group's trade of horses from their hidden ranch on the nearby Cantua Creek.
