 Nate Harrison Grade-Palomar Mountain |  |
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Tip of the Week: November 15, 2008
"Discoveries are often made by not following instructions, by going
off the main road, by trying the untried."
- Frank Tyge -
There were pioneers. There were adventurers. There were men who
sought freedom out west. And then, there were two men who made the
grade on all of the above. They made their mark on San Diego
despite the rocky road on which they had to travel.
 Hate Harrison's Shack |
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Palomar Mountain, formerly Smith Mountain, often called Mt.
Palomar, is a well-known recreational spot for many folks. Back in
the 1930-1940's a paved road was constructed which led to the main
entrance of Palomar Mountain and also allowed the Mt. Palomar
Observatory to be installed at the top of the mountain. That's the
road everyone takes.
We want to lure you into taking the original road up to Mt. Palomar. There are no signs suggesting it is an entrance to Mt. Palomar. There is no paved road. There is Nate Harrison Grade and it is an adventure.
Nate Harrison Grade is approxmiately 12.5 miles east of the I-15 on Pala Road/CA-76. If you didn't know it, you'd drive right by it to explore Pauma Valley, Harrah's Rincon Casino and Mt. Palomar. Rather than taking the beaten path, make the turn onto Nate Harrison Grade road and you'll be in for a treat. Another obscure treat that we feel compelled to tell you about.
Who was Nate Harrison? Nate Harrison (1823-1920), a former slave,
 Nate Harrison |
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is known as the first African-American settler in San Diego County.
The stories of his age, life and when he took residence on the
mountain run the gamut. Stories suggest he was on the mountain as
early as 1850 but artifacts tend to indicate it was closer to the
1890's. The truth is probably somewhere in the middle. He came to
the area during the Gold Rush and made the mountain his home. His
roadside property stood along the only road up and down the
mountain. He would provide water and rest to all those who made
the journey up or down the mountain. He befriended all and shared
stories, made up stories, and became a legend in those parts and
subsequent to his death in 1920.
 Nate Harrison with Roadside Visitors |
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Nate Harrison Grade: Begin the ascent up the rocky road, passing through certified organic citrus orchards, through the hair-pin and
switchback turns, terrain changes, and scorched trees from past
fires all along nearly an 8 mile unpaved, windy road. Catch
panoramic views of the beautiful agricultural lands of Pauma Valley
as you wind around and up the mountain. On clear days, you can get
view all the way to the ocean. This road is not for weenies. But,
if the San Diego Travel Tips Toyota Camry can do it, your car
probably can, too. Take it slow. In other words,
mindful driving. You probably won't see another car coming the entire time
you are on the road, but expect to see them. You'll be safer that
way. Take some beach chairs or at least, stop along the way. That
sound you hear? Silence. Take in the beauty.
Nearly 2/3 up the mountain, just below the snowline, you'll find a banner for Pacha Mama Camp. Yes, Pacha Mama Camp. You'll see a stone memorial post at the entrance.
 Nate Harrison Memorial Marker |
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This is the site where Nate Harrison lived and it has been private property for the last 30 years. This is a historical site with periodic archeological
digs by San Diego State University. To-date they have found over 2000 artifacts piecing together the life of Nate Harrison.
 Nate Harrison |
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As you drive up the mountain, remember Nate. A man who paved the
way for many others in San Diego County. As it is said about Nate:
"Born a slave, died a pioneer."
Thirty-seven miles from Nate Harrison road is the small town of
Julian. The 1880 US Census listed 33 of 55 black residents in San
Diego County as residents of Julian. They owned land and owned
businesses. The most famous business owner still has a legacy that
lives on.
 Albert and Margaret Robinson |
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in Julian. Albert Robinson married his bride in Julian in the
1880's. They started a couple of hospitality businesses which led
to the construction of the Julian Gold Rush Hotel in 1897. The
Julian Hotel, a historic landmark, is the oldest continuously operated hotel in Southern California.
DIRECTIONS:
I-15 north or south to Pala Road (CA-76). Follow Pala Road
(CA-76) just about 12.5 miles to Nate Harrison Grade road.
Keep track on the odometer. Make a left turn on Nate Harrison
Grade. Head through the orchards and follow Nate Harrison Grade
up the nearly 8-mile road (30-45min) to the top of Mt. Palomar.