Canyons and Valleys
Swarthout Valley Description
Swarthout Valley is the major valley that the town of Wrightwood is located in. The Valley was formed by the shifting of the San Andreas Fault, which runs east-west in this particular area. Along the north wall of Swarthout Valley is the ridge that extends from Table Mountain. Along the south wall of Swarthout Valley is Blue Ridge and Right Mountain. Along the east end of Swarthout Valley is Circle Mountains, and beyond that, the San Andreas Fault continues down Lone Pine Canyon. Swarthout Valley also has several canyons that branch off from it, including Sheep Canyon, Heath Canyon, Acorn Canyon, Flume Canyon, Buford Canyon and Government Canyon.
Directions to Swarthout Valley from Wrightwood
The town of Wrightwood is actually located more toward the east end of Swarthout Valley. For the best views of Swarthout Valley, you can drive up toward the turnout on Table Mountain Road and look toward the east. If you continue down a side road on Table Mountain from that turnout, there are even more amazing views. Another great view point is from almost anywhere on the top of Blue Ridge. Take Highway 2 westbound to Inspiration Point, then take the Blue Ridge Road eastbound as far as you want, and look down toward the town of Wrightwood in Swarthout Valley.