Vasquez Rocks

Vasquez Rocks Natural Area Park is a 932-acre park located in the Sierra Pelona Mountains, in northern Los Angeles County, California. The rock formations were formed by rapid erosion during uplift about 25 million years ago and later exposed by activity along the San Andreas Fault. In 1873 and 1874 Tiburcio Vásquez, one of California's most notorious bandits, used these rocks to elude capture by law enforcement. His name has since been associated with this geologic feature. The land and rock formations were acquired by the Los Angeles County government in the 1970’s. Vasquez Rocks was added to the National Register of Historic Places (site #72000228) in 1972 because of its significance as a prehistoric site for the Shoshone and Tataviam peoples.

I drive by these rocks every single day. Twice a day. And when I go to the little Mexican Restaurant that’s in our town, I pass by them each way. I’ve lived near them for at least 31 years of my life, and never been.

Until now…      

SS says, “You’ve never been? We’re going today!”  Here’s my view from the top of “Friday’s Child” Rock…

Please do not mistake my smile for calm. It kind of freaked me out to be up this high. We climbed to the top of both rocks in the top photo. I stupidly looked over the edge of both. I regret that.

They’ve filmed sooooooo many things here. Star Trek, The Flinstones, Werewolf of London, The Outer Limits, Bonanza, Roswell, Friends, Mighty Morphin Power Rangers, NCIS, and probably a million other tv shows and movies that I don’t know. Fairly famous spot for me to have never visited. Thanks again SS. You’ve provided me with yet another memory I’ll keep forever.

P.S. My legs hurt for daaaaaays after climbing all around those rocks. Ouch!