PICTORIAL GUIDE TO SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA HIGHWAYS
SR-74
Ortega Highway / Pines to Palms Highway
Runs from I-5 at San Juan Capistrano to SR-111 in Palm Desert
High Points
- Divide Summit – 2665′
- Keen Camp Summit – 4917′
- Santa Rosa Summit – 4977′
Historical Information
Former US 395 between I-15 and I-215.
About This Highway
The Ortega Highway, as State 74 is known between I-5 and I-15, was built in stages, mostly in the 1920’s and 1930’s. The It is mostly two lanes and is a popular route for motorcyclists and commuters between the Inland Empire and Orange County. Over San Juan Creek east of San Juan Capistrano there is a nice 1929 arch bridge.
East of I-15, State 74 takes over a portion of former US 395 until I-215 in Perris. East of Perris, State 74 passes through Hemet before climbing into the San Jacinto Mountains up a very steep and twisty grade. From Hemet to Palm Desert, it is known as the Pines to Palms Highway, which was completed in July 1932.
Ortega Highway
Pines to Palms Highway
After Mountain Center, Hwy 74 passes through a large valley with ranching and some farming before working its way toward the Coachella Valley. The descent into the Coachella Valley is even more impressive than the ascent east of Hemet. It is known as Seven Level Hill and was completed in June 1932. Some of the original stone curbing remains on the grade today. State 74 ends at its junction with Hwy 111 in Palm Desert, though plans still call for its extension down Monterey Road to I-10.
I missed the scenery. Focused on my triple digit ride. Thanks for the pics.
What did you ride?