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Tuesday, May 19, 2026

 


Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch

Oro Grande, California

24266 National Trails Hwy.

(Old Route 66)



"Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch is not just a roadside attraction, it's earned its place as a destination. On windy days the bottles create sound, acting like a giant wind chime."

"Its a unique folk art installation."




Nestled along the iconic Route 66 in the heart of the Mojave Desert, Elmer's Bottle Tree Rach is more than just a destination, it's a celebration of creativity, history and the spirit of adventure.  Originally conceived as a labor of love, the ranch has grown into a symbol of ingenuity and a must-see stop for road trippers and desert wanderers alike.

Beyond the bottle trees, Bottle Tree Ranch pays homeage to its desert roots and agricultural heritage with a myriad of trinkets and decorations carefully place amongst other historic treasures of the past.  It serves as a gathering place for those seeking a connection to the stories, landscapes and cultures of the Mojave.  Whether you're a history buff, a road trip enthusiast or simply looking for a moment of tranquility our ranch offers a unique experience that blends nostalgia with discovery.



As Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch continues to grow the place is dedicated to fostering a deeper appreciation for preserving the desert's beauty and the enduring legacy of Route 66. Through events, artisan collaborations and community engagement, the ranch aims to create a space where creativity flourishes, memories are made and the past meets the present.

Elmer's Bottle Ranch is a place where the spirit of the desert comes to rest and every visit is an unforgettable moment in time.  The family will welcome you to their corner of Route 66, where history, art and nature intertwine.







Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch is a unique roadside attraction featuring over 200 hundreds "trees" constructed from scrap metal and thousands of glass bottles.  Created by the late Elmer Long in 2000, this forest-like two-acre setting in the Mojave Desert showcases a diverse collection of Americana including an old rusted cash register, retro tools, sewing machines and various intriguing and sometimes bizarre found items such as old signs, typewriters, telephones, brass headboards, a Coca-Cola machine, Coca-Cola signage and even a vintage Jeep.









Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch is a free-to-enter, sunrise-to-sunset art installation that serves as a popular, quirky stop for travelers with a donation box available encouraging visitors to help the family maintain it and to continue to share Elmer's story and his vision.

Elmer Evan Long began the project to honor his father's bottle-collecting habit. Now Elmer's son, Ellsworth Elliot" Hayes Long is carrying on the family tradition. 




A "forest" of metal poles adorned with thousands of glass bottles creating shimmering, colorful sculptures.  The location also includes various other items like old street lights, railroad insulators, railroad lanterns and a boat making it a "treasure hunt" for folks traveling along historic Route 66 making it a classic and nostalgic stop .. especially this year with Route 66 celebrating 100 years!


Elmer Evan Long 

(10/8/1946-6/22/2019)


Elmer Evan Long passed away on June 22, 2019 surrounded by friends and family.  He created an amazing place that became a thing of wonder and a destination for people all over the world.  His family is doing everything in their power to preserve and protect his legacy.  He is greatly missed and will be forever remembered for the love fostered with family, friends and strangers alike who continue to be brought together by Elmer's amazing creations. 

RIP










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