Travel Tips: Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch, California
Step into a whimsical world where art meets the open road at Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch in California! This captivating roadside attraction, a true labour of love, is a shimmering forest of colourful glass bottles stretching towards the desert sky. More than just a photo opportunity, Elmer's is a testament to creativity, resilience, and the quirky spirit of the American West. Prepare to be enchanted by this unique and unforgettable stop on your California adventure.
History of Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch
Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch, located near Oro Grande, California, on the historic Route 66, is a whimsical folk art installation created by Elmer Long. Its history is deeply rooted in Long's personal life and his lifelong passion for collecting.
The creation of the ranch began in 2000. The inspiration came from Elmer's childhood experiences in the 1950s. His father, Elmer Long Sr., an aviation engineer with a keen interest in the desert, would take young Elmer on camping trips into the Mojave Desert. During these expeditions, they would collect various objects they found, including a vast collection of colourful glass bottles.
After his father's passing, Elmer inherited this extensive bottle collection. Wanting to put the bottles to use and display them, he began welding together old scraps of metal pipes and steel into "trees" and limbs upon which he could hang the bottles. His first bottle tree was created in 2000. He was captivated by how the sunlight caught the glass, and from that moment, he decided to create more.
Elmer Long retired from his job at a cement factory in 2002 at the age of 55 to dedicate himself full-time to expanding his Bottle Tree Ranch. Over the years, the two-acre property transformed into a forest of over 200 bottle trees, adorned with thousands of glass bottles of all shapes and colours. Beyond the bottles, the ranch also features an eclectic assortment of other found objects, including old road signs, car parts, typewriters, farm equipment, a boat filled with bottles, and even a tree made from a used missile.
Elmer Long sadly passed away in June 2019 at the age of 72. However, his family has continued to maintain and keep the ranch open to the public, preserving his unique artistic legacy. It remains a popular, free-to-enter roadside attraction and a beloved stop for travellers along Route 66, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to marvel at its creativity and distinctive charm.
Planning Your Visit
- The ranch is usually open during daylight hours, from sunrise to sunset.
- It's located right off Route 66 near Oro Grande.
- There is no admission fee, however, donations are welcomed and appreciated.
- There are no restrooms or other facilities available. Plan accordingly and use facilities in nearby towns like Victorville or Helendale.
- Parking at the Ranch is limited to the roadside. To ensure safety, always park your vehicle completely clear of the highway, and be extremely cautious of passing traffic when entering or exiting the property.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring and Fall: Offer the most comfortable temperatures for wandering around.
- Early Morning or Late Afternoon: The light can be particularly beautiful for photos during these times, casting interesting shadows and making the colours pop. Avoid the harsh midday sun if possible.
While the above offers guidance on optimal viewing, this attraction is so unique and enjoyable that we highly recommend a visit any time you're in the area!
Experiencing Elmer's
- Take Your Time: Wander through the "forest" of bottles. Each tree is unique, with different colours, shapes, and arrangements. Allow yourself at least 30-45 minutes to explore and soak it all in.
- Look Closely: Elmer incorporated all sorts of found objects into his creations – not just bottles! Keep an eye out for signs, metal scraps, and other quirky additions that add to the charm.
- Photography Opportunities Galore: This is a photographer's dream! The light filtering through the coloured bottles creates stunning visuals. Experiment with different angles and perspectives.
- Listen to the Wind: The gentle clinking and chiming of the bottles in the breeze add an auditory element to the experience.
- Respect the Art: Please do not touch, remove, or damage any of the bottles or structures. This is Elmer's personal creation, and it's important to treat it with respect.
- Be Mindful of Your Surroundings: The ground can be uneven in places, so watch your step as you explore.
- Bring Water: Especially if visiting during warmer times, bring your own water to stay hydrated.
- Combine with a Route 66 Road Trip: Elmer's is a classic stop along historic Route 66. Consider incorporating it into a larger road trip itinerary.
- Support Local Businesses: After your visit, consider stopping at a local diner or shop in a nearby town to support the community.
Last Updated: 22 May '25