From Jacumba, the route first stays in higher border country. It climbs briefly and follows the old Highway 80 corridor toward In-Ko-Pah, with granite rocks, dry scrub and the interstate often in sight. After that, the day drops sharply. The descent on Mountain Springs Grade loses height quickly: tight bends, rock walls, wide views into the desert and warmer air with every kilometre. By Ocotillo, the mountains are behind you. From here, the route is almost flat across the Imperial Valley. Long straights, sand, canals, power lines and irrigated fields shape the second half of the stage. Via Seeley and Heber, the road continues south until Calexico and the Mexican border come into view.
