I have allways been grateful that these sometimes annoying devices do not work down at the springs. However I have often wondered which would be the closest place that they would work in case of an emergency.
I had tried at the Bowen Ranch and at JF3 with no success. Generally I found that mine would not pick up till nearly Ocotillo road. Yesterday, I decided to try hiking up the hill right behind the hill in order to test if they would work there. After a relatively steel climb I got totally carried away with taking in the view and taking photos and I forgot to test the cell phone.
However, while I was hiking out around 6:45, just as I reached the top of the trail that goes round the back of the first ridge and joins the trail that goes along the top of the ridge, my cell beep indicating I had a couple of messages. Ironically they were from Wizard coordinating for us to meet up and go to San Onofre beach together today.
Anyway, I thought it useful for you all to know that at this point you may be within cellular service range. At least it worked for me yesterday. This spot is only four to five minutes from the springs, so if you ever presence an emergency it may be your best alternative. It certainly beats going all the way up to Bowen Ranch.