In the middle of the very hot desert near the Salton Sea is Salvation Mountain. More like a hill. The place is a monument to one man's faith and love of god. It's painted in bright pastel colors and is made to look like it is rising out of a sea. There are also some old donated vehicles around. There's a cave. There are buckets of paint everywhere. Lots of messages of love to each other. Cool spot for photo shoots. Update, Salvation Mtn is open for visiting at this time BUT you must wear a mask and you cannot walk on the mountain etc. They are working on some repairs and it will be closed another 2 months or so the caretaker said. I visited June 7 2020 read more

So my friends and I thought this place would give us a cult-type vibe. And we thought the staff would try to convince us to be a part of their religion.. But when we got there! Oh my gosh it was such a warm and welcoming place, no religious culty vibe there. This place was so inviting and welcoming! Even the signs were nice "Please don't park here" "Please respect the art" "Please watch your step" literally, the sign has more manners than my auntie at a Sunday church praise. Ron (staff) realized we were out of town, so he gave us some background on the art! He also told us after to go to East Jesus, which we were so glad we went! We would've missed that place if he didn't suggested it. They definitely treat this place with a great respect! Beautiful work of art! I will definitely came back for more. **please wear your mask. They are trying to prevent this place from getting shut down. read more

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Salvation Mountain is a very unusual place but worth the visit. It's a colorful mountain created by Leonard Knight amidst a post apocalypse town. A creative tribute to God and God's love for us. We went on Martin Luther King Day and it wasn't busy at all. It had rained most of the week so unfotunately, we weren't able to go inside. That was a bummer. We were able to take some great photos! If you plan to make the drive, it's in the middle of no where so it was hard to plan other places to visit. If you want to make a day trip out of it, I recommend stopped at the Salton Sea Recreation area and stopping by Cabazon Shopping Outlets. A trip to Palm Springs or Palm Dessert would be convenient too! PS - it's free! read more

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Not going to lie, it was a treck to get here. The area around it is super sketchy as well but man oh man is his place just beautiful. We wandered all around soaking in the the beautiful artwork. Even my boys were in awe. Really something someone should see in their lifetime. There are set places to walk. Please be respectful and stay off the paths clearly marked, DONT WALK HERE. There is an elderly couple there that monitor and will call you out, loudly, to get off or be kicked out. read more

Salvation Mountain - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Niland, California

This is located out in the boondocks but well worth the visit. I love visiting eccentric odd ball places and this is one of them. We are in the COVID-19 pandemic and the area was closed off. You could go look but couldn't walk on the Yellow Brick Road. You can still get great photos taken within the roped off areas. They are strict with wearing masks because the county will shut them down if visitors don't adhere to the rules. read more

Salvation Mountain - Bucket List checked off - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Niland, California

Desert...desert...desert...desert...desert...desert...more desert...desert...desert...even more desert...RANDOM MOUNTAIN OF COLOR OUT OF NOWHERE! Wait...what? It's got to be one of the most fantastically absurd and random things i've ever seen... with an equally absurd story behind it. I don't even know how to describe it other than to point to the photos. Hell, I don't even know what to call it... a monument? art? shrine? All I know is I'm super glad we went the long way home so we could swing by. It's not really somewhere you want to come and spend the whole day... and i'm not sure it's really worth the 3+ hour drive from San Diego to come and do JUST this, as you'll spend maybe an hour or less here exploring... but it certainly was well worth a detour on our way back from hiking ladder trail/painted canyon just to see it. The people were interesting too... there were a wide range of visitors including a japanese tour group, a woman whom i'd guess was a model or actress posing for a complex photo shoot, men dressed in drag (someone in our group thought he recognized them as the nuns who pass out condoms in hillcrest?), women dressed in dias de los muertos style livery, some colorful slab city locals, and just loads of other travelers.... It is hot, and it's in the middle of the desert, there's no bar or refreshment stand anything on site, so dress appropriately and bring water. Explore the tunnels, climb the stairs to the top, find a quiet corner to pray if that's your thing, take lots of photos, and take a few minutes to learn the story of Leonard Knight who felt a calling to build this monument to spread God's word. I hear it's also a tradition to bring a bucket of paint to donate for the upkeep. read more

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This is a super cool spot, but I don't suggest going inthe summer. It can get really hot out here, but with the heat doesn't come the people. There was only a handful of us there and it was nice to take pictures(without people in the background) and explore. There was also a man there that lived next to the man made mountain telling us history about the place. The last two miles of road to get there isn't the best, but just drive slow. read more

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A pretty cool spot to check out if you are in SoCAL. I was visiting a friend and we decided to check out this landmark. The place is pretty cool. Lots of good picture opportunities! The artist got mad at my friend and I because we were walking on the piece, but there was not a sign that said to stay off. Also, looking at the pictures, it didn't look like you had to stay off. read more

So I've heard about this place for a long time but never had the opportunity to visit because of its remote and isolated location near the desolate Salton Sea. But finally I went out here with a friend and I can definitely say it was worth it! This mountain of adobe clay really leaves an impression and is full of colorful paints that remind me of something Gaudi would make! There were some closed off sections that I was unable to explore but I can see that it was at least being maintained so that's good. While I'm not Christian or religious in any way, I do have to admire how one man was able to build this enormous structure in the middle of the desert that's like a biblical Dr. Seuss Land! This is quite the passion project and a labor of love on behalf of his faith. read more

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Salvation Mountain is actually the 2nd work of Leonard Knight (the first mountain was unstable and fell into a rubble), which also includes the Hogan (dome-shaped home made out of adobe and sticks) and the Museum (large dome supported by 'trees'). It's estimated that over 100K gallons of paint was used, applied heavily and with multiple layers, making it more strong and tough. Whether you are religious or not, the message is all about LOVE. While walking around (make sure you stay on the yellow 'path'), you can see messages of love, Bible verses, and parts of nature (rivers, clouds, trees, and flowers). It's really a random but an interesting site to see, as it's located in Imperial County, east of the Salton Sea, just at the entrance of Slab City. There really isn't an exact 'GPS' location, but just take Beal Road east for a few miles and you'll get there. I was a little surprised that visitors were allowed to 'climb' on the mountain, as this is an art piece that should be preserved. There were a couple of groups, of course, who were pretty disrespectful and started walking off the designated 'yellow' path, even with the clearly marked signs and posts. One of the residents of the area actually came out and had to yell at them to stick to the path as they were just clearly not getting it. SIGH! Just note that this is in the middle of a dessert, and there's high dusty winds. It's really a one-of-a-kind experience and I'm glad I was able to check it out. I just wish that the area was a bit more regulated so that the art could last longer! It's definitely a drive from LA, even from SD, but can be an interesting day trip for those who appreciate the messages and/or anything art-related. Driving to the location is a unique experience as well, as it's miles of desert roads, feeling like you're going nowhere. +few miles down on Beal +stick to the designated yellow path, please! +be respectful of the art! +plenty of unmarked parking spots read more

It is absolutely amazing how a man can build such a monument. First off, it is in the middle of nowhere and is a journey to get too. Secondly, it is more huge than seeing it in photos. It's legitimately a freaking mountain someone built. Once you get there start off by taking a few photos of the vehicles on the exterior of monument. Then take pictures of its entirety and then head to the right of it where you will see some trees, Hay, different rooms and different sayings. After you are finished in the bottom area now you can follow the yellow brick road to the top. Getting back down the yellow brick road can be a challenge so you can take the dirt path on the opposite end you entered through. Don't forget to donate some money in the box as the attraction is free and help yourself to some free souvenirs and a bottle of water in the cooler. read more

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"The last free place on earth" is Salvation Mountain, which is situated in Slab City. In essence, the town is homeless. I discovered this location through an Instagram post, and when researching it online, it brought to mind the Burning Man festival due to its desert setting, distinctive artwork, and vibrant colors. It was roughly 180 miles that I drove here from Long Beach. I thought the artwork was extremely great. There are lots of locations in the area to snap stunning photos. Salvation Mountain is located close to the Salton Sea in the midst of an extremely hot desert. More akin to a mound. The location serves as a memorial to a man's love and confidence in God. It is intended to appear as though it is emerging out of the sea and is painted in vivid pastel colors. There are also a few vintage donated cars in the area. A cave is present. Paint buckets are scattered all over the place. Many messages of affection were exchanged. A cool location for pictures. read more

What a beautiful tribute to God! We were in Palm Springs and we decided to take the hour drive to Niland to see this masterpiece. The mountain itself took almost three decades to craft and you can tell the love that went into it! If you are nearby I highly recommend checking it out, the colors are amazing, as is the message. Tip: -Follow the Yelp directions and you can't miss it -Its free to visit but please donate some $$ to the people maintaining it -Stay on the yellow brick road! I see some people stepping all over the art to pose on it...come on! :( read more

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An alcove has exposed hay on the ceiling and broken ground paint has exposed wide cracks. Maybe an engineer should be brought in to examine the site. The cave and steps up the hill were blocked/closed. There were fire ants everywhere! This was not worth the over three hour drive. read more

Cool art in the desert. The drive there is part of the experience, getting to see the sea and such. It is worth the drive if you like funky art. It is a great example of the insanity of religion. read more

Salvation Mountain - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Niland, California

Salvation Mountain,located near Salton Sea in Niland,California,is a man-made mountain 28 years in the making by artist Leonard Knight of Vermont, covered in half a million gallons of latex paint!What started as a small monument to his Lord and Saviour,Jesus Christ, made of dirt and painted cement became, over time, a colorful eclectic sprawling adobe and hay-bale mountain complex, with peripheral found art pieces made of telephone poles, tires, and car windows, as well as art cars and sculptures, all painted in a patchwork of stripes and color blocks of whatever paint was donated that week! His work and Salvation Mountain has been dedicated by the State of California as a landmark of Leonard Knights lifelong work! When you visit also visit the nearby "Slab City" enclave of residents and art pieces for another addition to your desert art trip! Dont forget your camera or mobile phone because there is lots of great places and things to photograph and 'gram here! . . . . #salvationmountain #leaonardknight #niland #nilandcalifornia #paint #latexpaint #god #jesus #vermont #godisgood #slabcity #waynesalvatti #seetheusa #californiadreamin #californiadreaming #calipatria #mecca #saltonsea #canoncameras #nikoncameras #leicacameras read more

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I first learned of Salvation Mountain in the movie Into the Wild. I was a fan of the movie and book, so it left a bit of an impression on me. Christopher McCandless had stopped here on his journey. Nine years later (after seeing the movie) I found myself on the west coast and not far from this other worldly place when I was living in LA. To put it into perspective, Salvation Mountain is about 3.5-5 hours from LA depending on traffic and if you are coming from the beach cities. So when we were out in Palm Springs for a long weekend, we opted to make the 90 minute trip to Leonard Knight's labor of love by the Salton Sea. I had to watch some You Tube videos to learn more about this destination before I made the trip. I learned that Leonard had passed away in 2014 and for many years he lived in his truck while maintaining his work of art. A couple of things to remember if you are headed to the mountain, there really isn't much out there, it's literally in the middle of nowhere. So be sure to have gas in your car. If you are going in the heat, it's wise to have water on you as the desert can be upwards of 110 degrees in the summer. The grounds of Salvation Mountain were larger than I expected. There is the mountain itself, which you can climb up. I had flip flops on, so I skipped this, but I recommend sneakers since the terrain is a bit uneven. We meandered through the site. I really enjoyed taking photos here, it's just such a fun place. We probably spent about 1 hour poking around this unique site. There is a nice memorial plaque to the creator. If you like modern day ruins, it's fun to stop by the Salton Sea Beach for a few minutes, which is on the way to the mountain. As I said, there isn't much going on out there, so a fun place to stop on the way back is Palm Desert. Palm Desert's El Paseo shopping area is like a Rodeo Drive, but in the desert. It's a nice place to get a bite to eat, browse some modern art sculptures for free and window shop with the beautiful mountains surrounding you. My husband and I were really glad we made the trip out here. Growing up in the northeast, we never experienced anything like this and it was a fun pilgrimage to this funky mecca. read more

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For a unique experience head a few hours away to Salvation Mountain. Made by Leonard Knight he used his artistic talent to create a love letter to God and a gift to the world through his art. This is a powerful tribute to "God is love". Filled with vibrant colors, textures, sculptures and unique twist to everyday items mr Knights art boosts his love through biblical and religious scripture. This is by far unparalleled to anything you have seen. Through layer on top of layer of paint in order to fully capture the color so each intricate detail pops off the mountain in an area with no running water or electricity. You will be wowed with this 150 ft long and 50 ft high piece of art. Art ranges from the eye of the beholder and is worth a stop on the way out to the wilderness to camp or out to palm spring for a little vacation. Now left to those with his same love and eye for art his work lives on. read more

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Well this is an interesting folk art destination. Located near the Salton Sea and well off the beaten path, ok very well off the beaten path. This roadside attraction is worth seeing. Its unique, colorful and has an uplifting message. Check out East Jesus, West Satan and Slab City for more middle of the desert weirdness. Highly recommend. read more

You live life thinking there is no such thing as magic unless you pay for it. I drove here on a whim and found out that this place is cute and the place it was built next to is interesting. Slab city is a unique place for different people to stay from all walks of life. However, Niland isn't exactly the best place you would want to have an overnight stop at. read more

Salvation Mountain - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Niland, California

My husband and I went on our wedding anniversary trip to Palm Springs. I had read up on things to do and this came up. I was intrigued by the "love" and "scriptures" that we had to go here. It was about an hour and half drive...interesting from seeing the Salton Sea, driving to the middle of no where, in the desert heat and just the curiosity of where it was leading. Hubby and I enjoyed it, from the sights to the conversation. It didn't stop there. When they say to bring water, bring water. It is truly HOT here. We were immediately impressed with all the stuff to look at. I saw pictures online, but to see this in person is humbling. I love learning and reading and to learn about Mr. Leonard Knight truly touched me. I don't know how anyone could survive out here, but he did it and I admire his drive for life, love and forgiveness. I climbed to the top (follow the yellow brick road) and wondered, how did he do this? ALONE? I could never be that strong or driven. I wished I had come sooner to meet him in person. I know the mountain needs work, and I truly hope they get enough donations to maintain it. (and maybe complete it?) I feel honored to be able to see this place in person. No other feeling than being inspired and to be taken back by an artistic passion and love for god. I hope everyone decides to go see this place. Even if it's once in your life. More importantly, make a donation. www.salvationmountaininc.org/ https://www.facebook.com/SalvationMountain https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Salvation_Mountain read more

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Such a sight to see! So beautiful! It's nice to see there are still places that people of all backgrounds go to see a beautiful creation praising God. Worth the drive. When you're there, try to put the phones and cameras down and just take it in. It really is cool!!! read more

Well, why not? Jump on the highway and make your way over to this spot. It's quite impressive to learn how it came about and the selflessness that went into creating a "monumental" message of love that transcends faiths, culture, preferences, and political affiliation. God is Love! read more

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Underwhelming is an understatement. Just a collection of opportunistic bipolar tweakers assembled en masse. Akin to the homeless tent cities in Santa Ana, etc., but with no Popo rousting them off routinely enough. Stopped because it was a check-box only. I understand the 'art community' (as much as possible), and if these ne'er-do-well's actually pooled their efforts, they could 1) clean it the fuck up, 2) sort and share their materials, and 3) collaborate (as much as an 'artist' can) to generate product. This place is a wasteland of stolen cars, building materials, solar panels, and crap. Took the photo, never will go back. Ever. read more

Salvation Mountain - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Niland, California

Sisters and brothers, we are gathered here today to revel in the glory of Mr. Leonard Knight's astounding creation: Salvation Mountain! Can I get an "Amen"? Gaze in wonder at the beauty of his magnificent work. Climb and explore the majestic mountain and be prepared to be awestruck by its splendid construction and by its natural surroundings. Reflect upon the universe and your role in making it a better place for your fellow creatures. Give generously to the fund that goes to maintaining this unique and striking monument. Befriend the cats that make Salvation Mountain their home. On Saturday nights at dusk, wander over to Slab City for a one-of-a-kind talent show the likes of which you have never experienced. BYO intoxicant(s) and don't forget a few bucks for the collection. Peace and love! read more

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Impressive displays, but it was the walk to the top of the mountain that enlightened me the most. Direction: I had no problems with Yelp / Google directions. The road looked a bit shady at first, but you really can't miss the Salvation Mountain if you just follow the step-by-step directions. Salvation Mountain is a giant man-made heaps of clay (created by Leonard Knight who just recently passed away in 2014) with various vivid and vibrant artworks & colorful biblical messages. The Folk Art Society of America designated Salvation Mountain as "a folk art site worthy of preservation and protection" in 2000. If there is only one takeaway message here, then it is clearly the following message: "God is Love" Stay on the yellow brick road for 3 ~ 5 minutes and you'll be on the top of the Salvation Mountain. As you slowly walk up to the top, just take a look at the surroundings and you'll begin to wonder ... how can you paint all of this with just one person? By the time I got to the top, I only had two thoughts - such a beautiful view and why is this place so freakin hot (it was approximately 100 °F)? This is not necessary a tourist attraction that everyone would appreciate, but the drive to the Salvation Mountain is a form of adventure itself and it was definitely an inspiring experience. P.S. (IMPORTANT) - In order to get back to Los Angeles from the Salvation Mountain via highway 111 or highway 78 / 86 (northbound only), you WILL need to stop at the U.S. Border Patrol. My car only stopped for 5~10 seconds and I was given "you are good to go" sign without having anything checked. If you are not a U.S. citizen, you MUST bring your green card or foreign passport if you are planning to visit Niland / Slab City (just in case officers ask for your ID). P.P.S. - If you are here, you might as well as visiting the Slab City (also known as "the last free place in America") just less than a mile away (a quick summary video about the Slab City - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2jMUk0om1SI). read more

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Salvation Mountain is by far one of the most unique, down-right beautiful and inspiring places you will find in the world. Unlike most places you see on Yelp, Salvation Mountain is truly in it's own class on an international stage. It all begins with a man named Leonard Knight. His sister, Irene, lived in San Diego and would constantly tell him about Jesus. One day in 1967 he got away from his sister and while driving had a deep encounter with God and began repeating this prayer: "Jesus, I'm a sinner. Please come upon my body and into my heart." It was at age 35 that Leonard's life changed, and he began sharing with people that God loves them. In 1970 a hot air balloon passed over where he was staying and caused a commotion with the people there, and he got an idea: that he would create his own hot air balloon to share the message of God's love. After years of trying, he realized it wouldn't be possible. In the 1980's he visited Niland, CA with his boss and decided to move there. It was then that he decided to spend a week to create a monument to God for people to see that God is love. That week turned into months, which turned into years... until now when he is still working on that same mountain. This mountain is more than just a cool hipster place to see folk art, but is a testimony to the life of Leonard and what God did for him since that day in 1967. Leonard absolutely loves sharing about his mountain, and will talk to anyone and everyone about God's love. Leonard asks for everyone to keep it simple... he doesn't like it when people bicker about God... He just wants them to know that God loves them and that they too can pray the prayer that he prayed. I've been to the mountain now twice and have had the honor both times to speak at length with Leonard. He is much older and more frail now, and often will get help from young volunteers who come out in the cooler months to help paint. The coolest thing about Salvation Mountain is how much love you see in what he does. His creativity of taking local adobe, tires, hay, and other random things and turning them into a beautiful monument is truly breath-taking. In 2002, CA Senator Barbara Boxter got Salvation Mountain approved as a National Treasure! Even at 112 degrees on a hot Saturday afternoon, every moment walking around the 50 foot tall and 150 foot wide monument is worth it. Bring the best camera you've got, because you'll cherish those photos for years to come. The Mountain has a Facebook group where you can leave messages for Leonard as well as keep up on what's going on and coming up. Check it out. I can't wait to get back there for a third time! Sources: http://www.salvationmountain.us/bio.html http://timewithleonard.com/ http://www.facebook.com/SalvationMountain read more

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PLEASE READ: Salvation Mountain is closed due to Coronavirus. I checked 4 different websites and none of them had this information. (Not even the official site). We drove over an hour - from Indio. Also, we were informed that many of the residents of Slab City were nervous about tourists bringing in the virus because of some of their elderly population. Best to stay away for the time being. :) read more

Ever since I first met Leonard Knight, the creator of Salvation Mountain, when I was doing a documentary about him and his artistic creation, I have been a big fan of this place. Sadly, he is no longer with us but his creation lives on. This is a great place to come and spend a few minutes or a lot longer embracing the perfection of this folk art masterpiece. It's a bit of a drive to get there. But, once there, it is worth the time spent on the road. Highly Recommended !!! read more

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This was a very interesting place. You feel like your not in California. A fun day trip. Very creative , it's a cool place to visit. read more

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The Imperial Valley Press reported that Leonard Knight died today. Rest in peace, Leonard. I'll never forget you. From the article: Leonard Knight, the creative vision and drive behind Salvation Mountain just outside Niland, died today. He was 82 years old. Knight died in his sleep about 1:40 p.m. in Eldorado Care Center in El Cajon, where he had been living for more than two years. Dan Westfall of San Diego and president of Salvation Mountain Inc. said Knight kept getting weaker and weaker following the loss of his leg, his hearing and his sight. He stopped eating two weeks ago, Westfall said. Services have not been set yet, but Westfall said part of Knight's ashes will be interred at Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery in Point Loma -- his was a Korean War veteran -- and part will be spread at Salvation Mountain. Knight last visited his creation in November, where he celebrated his 82nd birthday. Before he went into a long-term care facility in December 2011, Knight had lived more than 20 years at Salvation Mountain, much of that time in a small camper, as he singlehandedly built the mountain from abode and paint. read more

Salvation Mountain - RIP Leonard - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Niland, California

This is an amazing art installation giving God all the Glory! You cannot fathom how incredibly detailed this piece is through pictures. It's quite impressive n a must-experience in person! Take 111 all the way to niland. Turn left on main and your there. There is no fee, but they take donations. Fyi: make sure you're legal. Lol. ur good on the way but coming back but you'll get stopped by la migra check point on the way home. I'll give more detail later. I'm on my phone writing this! read more

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I was finally able to check off Salvation Mountain off my "bucket list" and I have to say that the visit was memorable. The pictures do not do this place justice - you would only be able to appreciate the hard work and craftsmanship that it took to build this place in person. You can definitely enjoy this place whether you are religious or not. It is an awesome place to explore and take pictures. Some tips for the trip: - Come early in the morning or late afternoon; the weather there is brutal. I was here at 7am and it was already 80 degrees - Bring a camera; you won't get a back drop like this anywhere else - Bring cash for donation; not sure who up keeps the place since the original artist passed away but it would be a shame for this place to disappear because of lack of funding - Plan other destinations in surrounding cities; my visit to Salvation Mountain lasted 1 hour tops so if you want to make the most of your trip plan to go other places as well read more

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I've been wanting to check out this installation for quite a while now and my gracious bf offered to drive 3 hrs one way this past 4th of July wkend so I can see it! Yay! I will say it was definitely worth it for me. Amazing how an artist contributed his life to make this art piece with donated paint and clay. It's a pretty amazing sight when you see it because it's literally out in no where. You kind of question google's directions at some point but don't worry and keep driving. 5 stars all the way!!! read more

Salvation Mountain - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Niland, California

What an incredible piece of art! Salvation Mountain is a beautiful public art piece in the middle of the desert (about an hour outside of Palm Springs). This colorful structure is very religious-based and based in what's called "Slab City," an off the grid artists compound with lots of folks living/camping there. A few tips for your trip: + Don't wait until you're in Niland (or anywhere close, really) to stop and get gas or refill your water or go to the bathroom. There's really not much in the way of creature comforts in this town, especially near Salvation Mountain. + Definitely suggest reading up on the history of this place ahead of time or while you're there (there's a big board with all of that info onsite). + Palm Springs is right on the way if you're driving from LA, making it a convenient spot to stop for food + coffee en route. We stopped for a bite at NORMA's on the way to the mountain and then stayed in Joshua Tree afterwards. It's quite a bit of driving for one day, but worth it if you're from out of town and looking to see a lot of magical California things at once. + Respect the art and takes lots of photos! There's no limit on photos/videos here and there were lots of kind tourists around who were willing to take a quick snapshot of us as a souvenir. Be gentle to the art and only walk on the areas that are designated for walking. read more

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I am not religious what so ever... but Salvation Mountain was something that was on my to-do list while in California this past week. This beautiful man made Mountain has so many bright colors and great picture taking opportunities. I bet the view during sunset or sunrise is probably breath taking. We went during the day around 12 so it was very very hot with the sun directly over us. Make sure you bring sunscreen and a hat to keep you protected from the sun. We went during a week day, so there wasn't that many people, but I'm sure during golden hour/on the weekends it's more crowded. There are some people who work there to help maintain the mountain. So if you have questions, you can ask the workers and they're actually pretty nice. There are a few paper sheets at certain areas that tell you a little about the art and the artist. I suggest bringing some snacks and drinks for the drive over because there is almost nothing near it.. read more

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Very interesting place! A definite place to visit. It's in the middle of the desert and it has been maintained very well since the original owner passed away. This is an instagramer's dream! The drive is long and boring but you can find some interesting photo ops on the way there. I wouldn't go back to visit because I've seen it once and have marked it off of my bucket list! read more

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So my friend has been trying to get me to visit this place for some time now, so on the way out to Joshua Tree, I pulled a major detour and stopped here. Salvation Mountain is near the Salton Sea, which is another way of saying in the middle of freaking no where. It's quite the drive out here and was terribly out of my way, but after visiting I felt like it was worth it. I was highly impressed at how big the mountain really was. Lots of creativity and time went into building this masterpiece, amazing that one guy did this. Well it's free to visit but you can help the guy with some donations. So if you're in the area, its definitely worth a stop in my book. Lots of god vibe, if you're into that type of thing. Just a really awesome structure to take in. However during the summer, I'd steer clear of this area all together, way too freaking hot outside. It was burning up in the late fall when I made my visit. read more

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We had high hopes (based on some enthusiastic recommendations from locals) when we came here but left with some slight confusion. Expectations tend to build as you drive further into the desert. But, it is more of a hill than a mountain. Also, there were several areas that needed a bit ad a touch up. That said, neither of us is an artist in any fashion, and perhaps that is why we didn't fully appreciate it. We were also expect for encountering strange locals as they are rebellions of civilization; but we only saw tourists taking pics. We'll say this is worth a stop if you happen to be driving by (it is obvious the creator spent some time with this), but I would not extend your route 111 trip just to see this. read more

Salvation Mountain - Be sure to take the yellow path to the top if feeling brave. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Niland, California

One of the best experiences of my entire life. I rented a car for my birthday and drove from LA to the Salvation Mountain. It was like a scene out of a 60/70s movie. I walked around speechless through the grounds and admired the colors and scenery. You can NOT miss there. Worth the drive, and be sure to stop at the Salton Sea on the way. Make sure you go to the bathroom before, and go with someone. I went alone, and once you go a little further to East Jesus, it gets very sketchy. read more

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