Portuguese Bend Landslide
Posted by: 
TerryDad2
N 33° 44.383 W 118° 22.103
11S E 373244 N 3734137
The underlying rocks, structure, current erosion, and human development have worked together to keep the Portuguese Bend Landslide continuously moving since 1956.
Waymark Code: WM2QPF
Location: California, United States
Date Posted: 12/08/2007
Views: 138
The road is narrow as it passes over the landslide, so there is no possibility of stopping for a quick grab. Cycling is popular long this road and may be the best way to access the coordinates.
Palos Verdes Drive drops down a relatively short steep incline at (N33 44.373 W118 22.155). This marks the edge of the slide.
The road at the coordinates is under constant motion. Cracks form in the asphalt as the soil underneath slide down hill and entire sections move at different speeds. Periodically, the road is repaved and straightened. Each time, the white line marking the right edge of the road is painted straight. Over time this line becomes offset.
Also notice the pipes that parallel the road. These are utilities that are typically underground. However, due to the constant movement in this area, they have been put above ground, presumably so they can be moved and repair easier.
Some sections of the slide have been stabilized by dewatering the soil, however, that technique has been unsuccessful in this portion of the slide.
Prior to this slide, Los Angels County didn’t require geologic evaluations prior to grading. As a result of the slide, new ordinances were passed requiring an engineering geologist’s review of grading.
Waymark is confirmed to be publicly accessible: yes
Parking Coordinates: N 33° 44.602 W 118° 22.781
Access fee (In local currency): .00
Requires a high clearance vehicle to visit.: no
Requires 4x4 vehicle to visit.: no
Public Transport available: Not Listed
Website reference: Not listed
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Visit Instructions:
No specific requirements, just have fun visiting the waymark.