Getting Around
Most people who visit Descanso only see a small part of the community. Many passing through on their way to or from Julian on CA-79 do not see much of Descanso proper. CA-79 borders the east side of the Descanso valley. Riverside Drive, which intersects CA-79 near the Descanso Junction Restaurant, borders the south. Viejas Blvd., which intersects CA-79 at Ameracutz salon, borders the north side. These two roads meet in the heart of the valley creating a triangle of sorts. Almost every business in Descanso is located on one of these three roads.
About halfway along Riverside Drive is Viejas Grade Road. This road heads west up and out of the valley. If you follow it long enough, a gravel road will take you all the way to the Viejas Indian Reservation. It is a long windy road and not for everyone. Viejas Grade is different from Viejas Blvd mentioned above. Viejas Grade Road is easy to find because Perkins Store is located at the intersection of it and Riverside Drive. The Town Hall is located 1 half mile west on Viejas Grade from Perkins.
About halfway along Riverside Drive is Viejas Grade Road. This road heads west up and out of the valley. If you follow it long enough, a gravel road will take you all the way to the Viejas Indian Reservation. It is a long windy road and not for everyone. Viejas Grade is different from Viejas Blvd mentioned above. Viejas Grade Road is easy to find because Perkins Store is located at the intersection of it and Riverside Drive. The Town Hall is located 1 half mile west on Viejas Grade from Perkins.
Enjoyable Activities:
Descanso Library:
The Descanso Library is a branch of the San Diego County Library system. It has a variety services including computers with high speed internet, a children's room, and a special room just for teens. Many community activities take place at the library throughout the week. The library hours are different each day, so please check their website for updated information.
Merigan Day Use Area:
The Merigan Trailhead is the southern most tip of the Cuyumaca state park. This trailhead is a popular starting point for horses and hikers alike. A mile in from the start is a popular waterfall. The trails connect through for miles and miles of adventure.
Dining
The Descanso Junction:
The Junction has been a long standing landmark of Descanso, It is located on CA-79 just about 1 mile north of Interstate 8 near the intersection with Riverside Drive.
Veronica's Kitchen
Veronica's Kitchen is a recent addition to the area and serves Mexican as well as other fare. It is located at the corner of Riverside Dr and Viejas Grade.
Lodging
The nearest lodging is either the Viejas Casino and Hotel (adults only) or the Ayers Motel in Alpine or Sycuan Casino and Resort on Dehesa Road, or the Pine Valley Motel
Gas
Perkins:
In addition to gas, Perkins is the largest of the three stores in Descanso and has the largest selection, which includes many of the items found in a larger grocery store chain.
Descanso Trading Post:
This store is located directly across from the junction of Riverside Drive and CA79
Post Office
Descanso Post Office:
Descanso has its own branch of the US postal service. It is located next to Perkins in the heart of Descanso.
Churches
Catholic Church:
Our Lady of Light is located on Riverside Drive between CA-79 and Viejas Grade Road.
United Methodist:
Chapel of the Hills Community UMC is located on Viejas Blvd about a half mile west of CA-79.