Taking some time to unwind and relax in Southern California is a wonderful choice when you want to fully customize your getaway. Those who are looking for a luxury trip, a laid-back vacation, an adventure-focused journey, or a culinary getaway alike will find what they’re looking for and more. Here, you can also access incredibly unique landmarks that are one-of-a-kind hidden gems when you know where to look. Among them is Salvation Mountain, which is an iconic tucked-away destination you won’t want to miss the next time you head this way.
An Artistic Expression of Love
Salvation Mountain is a creative installation located in Niland, California that was crafted by artist Leonard Knight. It’s colorful, unique, and inspiring in many ways, working as a testament to Knight’s love for God. You’ll find Salvation Mountain in the heart of the lower desert in Imperial County about an hour and a half from Palm Springs and east of Salton Sea. While the name sounds majestic, Knight specialized in creating “outsider art” that pushed the boundaries of expectations.
Salvation Mountain blends biblical verses and religious scriptures with a unique collection of artistic mediums ranging from donated paint and local adobe clay to depictions of waterfalls, trees, and flowers across its expanse. Salvation Mountain is designed to represent the Sea of Galilee at the base, hearts in the middle, and a cross at the top. The theme and messaging of love is abundant throughout this installation which measures 150 feet wide and 50 feet high.
Plan Your Visit
The Salvation Mountain is free to visit and is open to the public from sunrise to sunset daily. Those who visit are invited to bring paint to donate if they have it as a way to keep Knight’s message going for years to come. Because Salvation Mountain sits in a relatively remote location, it’s always a good idea to fill up on plenty of gas, water, and snacks before you arrive so you’re set up for the entire experience.
There’s typically someone on-site to answer questions you might have about the mountain and its unique place in the world of modern art. Visitors have access to climb the mountain as long as they stay on the “yellow brick road” leading up to the summit. It doesn’t look particularly large from ground level, but it’s in fact three stories up by the time you reach the top and offers up great views of the surrounding desert landscapes.
Book Your Stay in California Today
When you come to La Quinta, California in the name of vacation fun, make sure luxury, style, and comfort are part of the experience when you book your stay through Legacy Villas. Reach out today to learn more!
