Starting At $349
10 Credits for Members
About this Adventure
Palomar Mountain Scenic Summit Tour — Twists, Vistas & Velocity
Craving a high-altitude adventure with next-level views and next-level roads? Buckle up for a self-guided Polaris Slingshot tour that climbs Palomar Mountain via the scenic East Grade Road and descends the twist-packed South Grade Road—a true driver’s paradise.
This route delivers a perfect mix of heart-pounding curves, jaw-dropping overlooks, and hidden gems you won’t find on the tourist trail. The journey kicks off from Carlsbad and winds inland to the mountain base before ascending over 5,000 feet on a smooth stretch of wide sweeping curves. With open air all around and raw road feel under the wheel, this is where the Slingshot shines.
At the summit, you’ll have time to explore the Palomar Observatory, stop for lunch at the iconic Mama’s Kitchen, and catch panoramic views from the Boucher Hill Fire Lookout—where you can see all the way to the ocean on a clear day.
Then hold on tight for the descent down South Grade Road—a stretch so legendary it’s worshipped by car clubs and motorcycle riders alike. To cap it off, the return route winds through Gopher Canyon, a lesser-known scenic gem with rolling farmland, light traffic, and plenty of photo ops.
What You’ll Experience:
Climb Palomar’s East Grade Road — smooth, scenic, and steeped in SoCal beauty
Stop at Palomar Observatory and explore space history at 5,000 feet
Enjoy a classic lunch at Mama’s Kitchen, a rustic local favorite
Take in sweeping ocean-to-desert views at Boucher Hill Fire Lookout
Descend the switchbacks of South Grade Road, famous for its tight, technical corners
Cruise back through the tranquil curves of Gopher Canyon Road
Tour Details:
Drive Time: ~4 hours total, including scenic stops — a balanced day of riding and exploring
Built-in GPS with a preloaded mountain and canyon route
Bluetooth sound system for a custom soundtrack
Comfort-upgraded seating and lockable storage for all your essentials
Why It Rocks:
Over 6,000 feet of elevation gain and loss
Dozens of thrilling corners and sweeping vistas
Space science, fire lookouts, mountain cafés, and SoCal’s best hidden roads
From mountain peaks to canyon valleys, this tour is what Slingshots were born to do.
What's included
Rental Protections
Vehicle Lineup
Slingshot R Autodrive
With an open air cockpit placing you 5 inches off the ground, this 3-wheeled roadster delivers a 360-degree visceral experience with the rush of the pavement going by under your seat.
Outfitter Location
9am to 6pm every day
Rider Requirements
▪️ Minimum age to drive: 21
▪️ Minimum age to carry a minor: 25
Other Guest Requirements
Cancellation Policy
24 Hour Cancellation for 1 or 2 units for 1 or 2 days
You may cancel your original reservation up to 24 hours prior to the start time and will only forfeit the 10%deposit paid at booking. If you cancel within 24 hours of the start time, you are responsible for the full amount of the reservation with no refunds.
Any rebooked reservations that are within the 24 hour timeframe are not eligible for refunds.
Multiday (3+Days) Reservations or Group Reservations (3 or more Units) 120 Hour Cancellation
You may cancel your original reservation up to 120 hours prior to the start time and will only forfeit the 50% deposit paid at booking. If you cancel within 120 hours of the start time, you are responsible for the full amount of the reservation with no refunds.
Any rebooked reservations that are within the 120 hour timeframe are not eligible for refunds.