Community Profile

Summary

On May 1, 1998, Alpine was designated America’s First Community Wildlife Habitat by the National Wildlife Federation. This would not have been possible without the efforts and passion of local resident Maureen Austin. Today we have more than 270 certified wildlife habitats. Ms. Austin passed away on May 8, 2018, from pancreatic cancer. She was only 68 years old, but her lifetime passion left a living legacy for Alpine, its residents, and the area’s wildlife and natural beauty. Alpine is nestled in the foothills of the Cuyamaca Mountains, and sits at about 2,000 feet above sea level. It began as a stage stop when this whole area was called Valle de las Viejas. There was a barn, the Alpine Store, and plenty of water. In the past, many people moved to Alpine for their health, especially people suffering from asthma or respiratory problems. The reason why people came to Alpine for their health is because Alpine is located above the fog line. The climate is not cold-damp but dry and mainly warm and sunny most of the time. The East County Visitor’s Bureau calls the area, “The Sunny Side of San Diego” For several years there was a sign on Alpine Boulevard that read, “Welcome to Alpine, Best Climate in the USA by Government Report." The sign disappeared in the 1960’s. Alpine is located 30 miles east of downtown San Diego and covers 26.9 square miles. It is a lovely rural community which lies at the base of Viejas Mountain. Alpine is known as the gateway to the Cleveland National Forest. Viejas Mountain sits just east of downtown Alpine. It is 4,187 feet high and on a clear day the mountain can be seen from as far away as downtown San Diego. There is a trail you can take to the top of Viejas Mountain called Viejas Mountain Trailhead. When you reach the summit you have a 360 degree view of the entire area, plus the Pacific Ocean and Mexico.