The Grapevine

In 1919, Leonard L. McLarty opened a garage, gas station and cafe at the base of the famous Grapevine Grade. As the business developed, he added a motel, grocery store and post office.  The road stop eventually grew into a small community of pipeline pumping station workers.

It was here that the famous 7% climb began. It is commonly assumed that Grapevine refers to the twisting turns and switchbacks on the original road used to gain elevation. The origin of the name actually comes from an abundance of Cimarron grapes growing wild on the sides of; the canyon, some still visible today.

Grapevine is a segment of the RidgeRoute and refers to the 6 1/2-mile stretch of road between the bottom of the mountain and Fort Tejon.