Snow Towns in California. Snow Play: Bridgeport marks the northern end of the mega-sized peaks with 14,000-foot summits that drop down 8,000 vertical feet. 3. Wrightwood Hiking. With so many getaway ideas, the California High Sierra should be on your bucket list for a romantic escape you won’t forget. Named as one of “America’s Coolest Mountain Towns” by Men’s Journal, expect to find a cotton-wood lined town surrounded by scenic alpine vistas that rise two vertical miles above you. Visit Big Bear Lake. Educate Myself Elevations range from 4000′-9000′ above sea level. Surrounded by the San Bernardino Mountains and on the banks of scenic Lake Gregory, Crestline is the perfect playground for visitors who want to enjoy fishing, swimming, boating, sunbathing, and fun waterslides. Snow Play: Located only thirty miles from the … Where to Stay. Big Bear City at 6750ft. From windswept coastal communities to mountain towns in the shadows of giants, ... On the stunning southeast corner of Catalina Island off the coast of Southern California, Avalon is the major hub of tourism and attraction of this island paradise, attracting millions of visitors each year. Imagine this… you and your sweetheart sitting on a luxurious comfy couch staring into a crackling fire. Get inspired to take the ultimate road trip with your girlfriends. Ski resorts are plentiful, but not every snowy town has a ski lift. Snow in Southern California. Lake Tahoe. Whether you’re looking for outdoor excursions, great scenery, or quaint villages, these charming Southern mountain towns should be next on your list to visit this fall. This mountain town of almost 14,000 people lies less than 30 miles south of Asheville, and you can definitely see a kinship between the two. This includes sports like rock climbing, backcountry skiing or even snowmobiling all in the same vacation. Selecting a mere ten communities from its southern portion, which spans the Blue Ridge, Great Smoky, and Cumberland ranges, … Or spend your day hiking in the San Gabriel Mountains to work up an appetite for a hearty dinner in the mountains. Eagle Mountain, California, is a modern-day ghost town in the California desert in Riverside County founded in 1948 by noted industrialist Henry J. Kaiser. We've chosen 20 incredible destinations that run the gamut of California's uniquely varied landscapes, including tucked away mountain towns, secluded coastal communities, valley gems and … These are more like hills, than mountains. Southern California’s mountains are unusual in that they face to east to west. Lake Arrowhead at 5100ft. Preserve California If that wasn’t enough, explore the surrounding towns of Copperopolis, Angels Camp, Mokelumne Hill and the Vallecito area to visit the vineyards themselves. Photo by Kyle Cottrell on Unsplash, Bear Valley Cross Country & Adventure Company. Founded after the Civil War by fortune seekers, Julian is a historic mining town nestled among oak and pine forests in the Cuyamaca Mountains of Southern California. It’s a place to enjoy the great outdoors, with outstanding waves, gorgeous stretches of sand and even miles of hiking trails. Julian, California Historic Gold Mining Town and Apple Festival. Stroll down historic Washington Street for a glimpse of the past. Roam Responsibly The coastal ranges line nearly all of California’s coast. Driving from one old, wonderful country/mountain town to the next and back in 4x speed. Condé Nast Traveler readers rate their top resorts in Southern California. Coastal fishing villages pepper the state’s northernmost beaches, with quiet towns nestled into central mountains and valleys. Celebrate Culture The highest peaks and the lowest washes. In true Californian style, the town has artsy leanings, so take a … Stay in a cozy log cabin surrounded by beautiful pine trees where you can either head up to Bear Valley for more snow fun or head down to Murphys to experience their amazing wines. Snow Towns in California. Straight ahead, the majestic snow-capped Mount Baldy, the highest peak in California, rises in the distance while blue waves roll onto the sandy shore below me. Flickr/ Christopher Chan. Less experienced climbers should take the Mount Whitney trail, which is a class one (aka easy peasy) route, whilst the pros can opt for the more challenging class three hike. Home to Palomar Mountain State Park and the Palomar Observatory, the Palomar Mountains include peaks ranging from 3000-6000 feet above sea level. Get a guided snowshoe tour with Yosemite Family Adventures. Alex Silgalis is an outdoors travel writer who enjoys snowboarding, mountain biking, or having a cold one from a local mountain brewery. To reach Wrightwood, take the I-15 north and exit on Highway 138. But here's a secret: visiting in … For those looking to get their foot on the property ladder, the charmingly affordable Murrieta may well be the best place to do it. And it's as vast as it is visually striking. Enjoy miles of groomed trails for nordic ski buffs at Bear Valley Cross Country & Adventure Company, where dogs are welcome to join you on your snowy treks. © 2017 High Sierra Visitor's Council. Get more stories delivered right to your email. The Mountain-Town Charm: Walking along the main drag in Nevada City, California, is like taking a step back in time. A state unlike any other, it spans desert and mountain ranges, sprawling cities, sleepy farm towns and, of course, beaches. From windswept coastal communities to mountain towns in the shadows of giants, places like Arcata and Ojai deserve to be kept a secret-but their charm is too much of a magnet for those who enjoy a slower pace. Subcategories. To visitors who live outside the state, Southern California’s famous beach town is well-known as a setting for numerous TV shows and films like “Two and a Half Men,” “Baywatch,” “Gidget,” as well as countless surfing spots. Shop to your shabby-chic heart’s delight on and around Soquel Avenue, where you’ll find funky furniture stores, bookshops, record stores, and vintage boutiques to outfit yourself and your home even if you’re on a starving artist’s budget. Spooning Carlsbad’s southern border, Encinitas is one of the best beach towns in California, with miles of coveted coastline. For your upcoming road trip from L.A., cruise to Kernville, one of the quaint towns in Southern California. Learn more about visiting Sonora, CA Sonora gives you the opportunity to play in the snow AND get a bit of culture. Bear Valley Snowmobile offers you the opportunity to access the ONLY trail system in California where you can explore the wilderness without a tour guide. Residents of small towns across the state enjoy many of the same amenities (like lots of sunshine) that city dwellers do, coupled with their own unique added benefits. Located in the San Jacinto Mountains, Idyllwild is only a short drive from many parts of Southern California and offers the perfect mountain escape. Embrace Community Julian is worlds apart from the bustling west coast towns and cities, despite being just a stone’s throw away. That said, here are the best lakes in the state of California. There are several towns around the lake, the four main ones being South Lake Tahoe, Stateline, Incline Village, and Tahoe City. Best known for being home to an abundance of apple orchards, charming country roads, and tree-lined paths, Oak Glen will make you feel like you're far from home even though it's only a short trip from most parts of SoCal. Moving to California? Backed by the jagged spires of the Sawtooth range, spend the day soaking in one of the many open-air hot springs like the Travertine Hot Springs. Possibly the most famous of California’s lakes, beautiful Lake Tahoe sits in the midst of the magnificent Sierra Nevada mountain range on the northeastern border of the state. Make sure to try the aebleskivers for us! Today, the town is known for its historic sites and apple orchards, which produce sweet varieties that are in turn made into mouthwatering pies, ciders and other delicacies. One of our favorite times to hit the road and soak up the beauty of this corner of the country is during the fall season. Southern California mostly gets touted for its beaches, but this small town surrounded by the San Bernardino National Forest provides another reprieve complete with cool lake waters. From my vantage point, above the Santa Monica Pier at Pacific Park, I have a panoramic view of the surrounding Southern California coastline. The Mountain-Town Charm: No matter what time of year you visit Lake Tahoe, the beauty of the crystal-clear lake, mountains, and fresh air is always astounding. In one hand is a glass of wine while your other arm is draped around your partner. I love all of these towns, and love visiting them. Get a glimpse of the stunning scenery to see and activities to do in the Sierra Nevada. This area is also home to three snow-parks: Spicer, Round Valley and Lake Alpine. Fresh mountain air and miles and miles of quaint, charming scenery are what you can expect to find at these lovely mountain towns in Southern California. They may just have a great sledding hill. If you decide to play in the snow at Palomar Mountain State Park, an Adventure Pass is required. The Beach Boys hit “Surfin’ USA” even gives a shout out to the now legendary surf spot Swami’s. Many tourists arrive in Avalon via high-speed ferry. Ski resorts are plentiful, but not every snowy town has a ski lift. Visit Big Bear Lake. Snow Play: Located only thirty miles from the slopes at Dodge Ridge Ski Resort or if you want to go snowtubing, head over to the Leland Snowplay snow park. Alma, California in present times A sign for Amboy, California , on the west side of town Roy's Motel and Café in Amboy, California on U.S. Route 66 in California in the Mojave Desert The 15 Best Small Towns in California. Situated at an altitude of 6,700 feet, the mountain resort town of Big Bear Lake serves as a year-round alpine playground for outdoor adventurists. In the winter, the town becomes a ski resort with Snow Summit serving as SoCal's four-season getaway. You won't find a ton of services in this tiny mountain hamlet located in Cleveland National Forest, but you will find all the basics one might need. The San Bernardino Mountains reach higher than 8,000 feet in elevation, high enough to get outstanding snowfall so close to the Pacific Ocean, only a two-hour drive (100 miles) from Los Angeles if traffic allows. From the cascading colors of autumn leaves to the abundance of fun fall activities, the turn of the season is quite something, even down here in the South. California is many things, but if we could only use one word to describe it, we'd say beautiful sums it up pretty well. Crestline is a small mountain resort town close to the major Southern California cities, perfect for an active day trip. This charming village is nestled in the San Jacinto Mountains, surrounded by lush forest and granite outcrops. 10 Small Towns In Rural Southern California That Are Downright Delightful. Palomar Mountain is a hidden gem surrounded by the The Cleveland National Forest. In the 1870s, the town found its roots at the centre of the Californian gold rush, with hundreds of thousands of prospectors travelling here, across land and sea, to seek their fortune. If you have some backcountry experience or would like a guided trip High Sierra Snowcat & Yurt offers snowcat transportation to an 8-person yurt deep into the heart of these peaks. To visitors who live outside the state, Southern California’s famous beach town is well-known as a setting for numerous TV shows and films like “Two and a Half Men,” “Baywatch,” “Gidget,” as well as countless surfing spots. Share via Twitter. Be sure to stop by Legends to grab a Sarsaparilla float in a grand 1850’ssaloon. Amazing hiking trails, gorgeous scenery, and an abundance of restaurants along the main strip make this the ultimate mountain destination. Both have thriving downtowns, with local shops and restaurants; both have a sustainable, keep-it-local vibe; and both are surrounded by some of the most jaw-dropping scenery in the state—make that the South—with the Blue Ridge Mountains, French Broad … The historic buildings are imminently charming, and off in the distance, you can see the pine trees and Sierras. Don't miss St. Joseph's Day Fiesta in March, a celebration of the migratory return of the cliff swallows. 1. Crystals, canoes and Big Bear … oh my. Although Mt. March 20, 2019 danamite. You'll receive your first newsletter soon! That's why U.S. News wanted to highlight the most beautiful small towns in California. With 284 days of sunshine every year, clinquant deserts, scintillating pools, natural hot springs, organic workouts and unwinds fit for the stars,… We support the Responsible Travel Code which asks visitors to travel with RESPECT by committing to seven best practices when exploring the Golden State. Category. Thinking more about the slopes? For most parts of Southern California, it ranks as a positive bargain. It’s a place to enjoy the great outdoors, with outstanding waves, gorgeous stretches of sand and even miles of hiking trails. The most romantic places you can visit feature experiences both you & your partner will love like a wine tasting, a stay at B&B, snowmobiling through meadow, or a stroll through a historic 19th century town. South Lake Tahoe. Where to Stay. Want to snowshoe instead? Located in the San Jacinto Mountains, Idyllwild is only a short drive from many parts of Southern California and offers the perfect mountain escape. 1 of 15. Know Before You Go: Review COVID-19 Travel News and Resources for the Sierra Nevada. California is a state located in the Western United States.It is the most populous state and the third largest by area after Alaska and Texas.According to the 2010 United States Census, California has 37,253,956 inhabitants and 155,779.22 square miles (403,466.3 km 2) of land.. California has been inhabited by numerous Native American peoples since antiquity. For most parts of Southern California, it ranks as a positive bargain. Southern California mostly gets touted for its beaches, but this small town surrounded by the San Bernardino National Forest provides another reprieve complete with cool lake waters. Here's 4 mountain towns that will fit the bill for romantic getaways in the California High Sierra. People flock to Julian for the fresh mountain air, scenic surroundings, and the homemade apple pie. After about 12 miles, take a left (west) on Highway 2 (Angeles Crest Highway). The Beach Boys hit “Surfin’ USA” even gives a shout out to the now legendary surf spot Swami’s. With over two dozen wine tasting rooms lining Murphys’ Main Street, you can get a great overview of the many award-winning wines produced here. Top 15 Resorts in Southern California: Readers' Choice Awards 2020. Meditation retreats and healthy eateries abound in Southern California, not to mention endless viewpoints from which to perfect your tree pose. If you feel like heading west into the Sierra, you’ll find both world-class backcountry and downhill skiing at Mammoth Mountain less than an hour away. It’s towns like Dunsmuir that keep the rich history of the United States alive. Summer’s Just Getting Started in the Mountain Towns of Southern California. From quaint beachside communities to mountain towns to desert retreats, Southern California is filled with all kinds of towns to explore on a long weekend or … A true gateway for outdoor escapades, you’re only a few miles from a multitude of amazing recreational activities. Take a left (west). Mount Whitney. Take An Easy Loop Trail Past Some Of The Prettiest Scenery In Southern California On Temescal Canyon Trail, The Historic Wall Street Mill Is An Unexpected Discovery Along This Unique Hike In Southern California, The Mile-High Sandwiches At Blackmarket Bakery In Southern California Are So Big You’ll Have To Eat Them With A Knife And Fork, La Jolla Is An Inexpensive Road Trip Destination In Southern California That’s Affordable, 10 Small Towns In Rural Southern California That Are Downright Delightful, The Refreshing Mountain Town Road Trip In Southern California That Should Be On Everyone’s Bucket List, Here Are The 10 Best Places In Southern California To Visit On A Long Weekend, Here Are 11 Of Southern California’s Tiniest Towns That Are Always Worth A Visit, The 12 Towns You Absolutely Need To Visit In Southern California In 2017, The Remote Winery In Southern California That’s Picture Perfect For A Day Trip, The Fantabulous Southern California Staycation That Will Sweep You Off Your Feet, This Hidden Spot In Southern California Is Unbelievably Beautiful And You’ll Want To Find It, This Outdoor Water Playground In Southern California Will Be Your New Favorite Destination, The Danish Village In Southern California That Has The Best Pastries In The Whole Wide World, The Enchanting Storybook Trail In Southern California That Leads To Penasquitos Creek Waterfall Is A Must-Visit. Beaumont is south of Southern California’s highest peak, the 11,503-foot-high San Gorgonio Mountain. This community is colder than most of the local mountain towns, permitting wintry conditions to last longer into the spring. Safety First Southern California is made for exploring. If you’re willing to look beyond the Aspens, Park Cities and Jacksons of the country, there are a number of mountain towns with a cost of living you can actually afford. Sep 8, 2017 Visit Santa Cruz County/Kate McCarthy. Crestline is a small mountain resort town close to the major Southern California cities, perfect for an active day trip. Southern California (popularly known as SoCal; Spanish: Sur de California) is a geographic and cultural region that generally comprises the southern portion of the U.S. state of California.It includes the Los Angeles metropolitan area, the second most populous urban agglomeration in the United States. From specialty stores to outdoor adventures, Julian … As much as we can’t resist the beauty of Southern California’s beach towns, we are equally as drawn to SoCal’s rural towns with that small town charm we all know and love. People visit higher elevation towns & parks just to hang out in the snow. As settlers moved in Wrightwood eventually evolved into a cattle ranch, and apple orchard, then finally into a popular mountain resort community. 2. A local post office, small general store, cozy cabins, and the rustic Pine House Cafe and Tavern will make you feel right at home during your stay in these scenic mountain surroundings. Located within the San Bernardino National Forest, Crestline is a little gem of a mountain town. Cities in Southern California: located in Imperial, Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino, San Diego, Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, Riverside, and Ventura Counties. Thank you! Surrounded by the San Bernardino Mountains and on the banks of scenic Lake Gregory, Crestline is the perfect playground for visitors who want to enjoy fishing, swimming, boating, sunbathing, and fun waterslides. Hang by the river to cool off during the afternoon, and then have some fun at the local street fair in the evening. If you're looking for a slice of New England charm right here in Southern California, you'll find it in Oak Glen. This mountain town is positioned right at the bottom of Heavenly Ski Resort, making it a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. Well, most (not all) towns in “Southern” California are not above 5000 feet. Stroll down historic Washington Street for a glimpse of the past. This darling town is tucked away in the Central mountains, and it's truly one of the most beautiful towns in Southern California. October 6, 2020. Only 20 minutes outside of town, the Bent Creek Experimental Forest is one of the most popular destinations, including 30 miles of flowing singletrack. We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life. It can be overwhelming to plan a trip to California. Here are 10 of our favorite small towns in Southern California that are beyond delightful. Angela is the staff writer for Only in Your State - Southern California. If you’re a wine connoisseur AND enjoy mountain sports, Arnold is THE romantic getaway, located above the snow line. Taking a deep breath of fresh pine air, you realize why you both decided to take this romantic getaway. Be sure to stop by Legends to grab a Sarsaparilla float in a grand 1850’s saloon. Join the locals for unbelievable rock-climbing, hiking, mountain-biking, skiing, and camping. Baldy; The … It’s for that ultimate sense of calm, a feeling of peace and the pure simplicity of togetherness. It’s no wonder why the area made the National Geographic’s list of the top 20 surf towns in the country. Mt. Here are 4 amazing mountain towns to visit in the High Sierra that’ll rekindle the passion in your life: Sonora gives you the opportunity to play in the snow AND get a bit of culture. View Gallery 15 Photos CarmelCalifornia.com. Trying to get away from the crowds? March 20, 2019 danamite. See more of Alex’s work at https://localfreshies.com. For those looking to get their foot on the property ladder, the charmingly affordable Murrieta may well be the best place to do it. Teach Others, ❄️ MERRY CHRISTMAS from the High Sierra Visitor's Council ❄️ Look no further than Bear Valley Ski Resort! They are more hills than mountains but there are some that , perhaps no more than a few thousand feet. Southern California is blessed with many ... Perhaps most charming is greater Los Angeles’s access to many different mountain towns in the … Learn More, Eastern Sierra • Southern Sierra • Western Sierra. The drive has the least twists and turns of any Southern California mountain town. Of course, California is much more than iconic attractions and the big cities of Los Angeles and San Francisco. Stay in a local rustic cabin and stroll to the center of town for a bite to eat. Shops, restaurants and inns are tucked inside well-kept 19th and 20th century buildings for hours of exploring and entertainment. So many beaches! Amazing hiking trails, gorgeous scenery, and an abundance of restaurants along the main strip make this … The High Sierra Region joins Visit California in its call for safe and responsible travel throughout the state. At this moment, all the stresses from daily life disappear. If you know of a local business that could use some extra support during these times, please nominate them here: Just one visit is all you need to fall in love with this San Bernardino Mountain village and you'll be coming back year after year. Love SoCal? There’s just something about a cozy cabin in the middle of winter that helps bring romance back into your life. Baldy Lodge and Restaurant for some hearty mountain eats and a good night sleep. Located at 3,600 feet in Siskiyou County, the town of Mount Shasta takes it name from the nearby iconic peak. These are a few of my favorite mountain towns in So Cal. Julian at 4220ft. San Juan Capistrano is part of the central coast of California and is home to the ruins of Mission SJC's great stone church, which was damaged by a large earthquake in 1812. Communities close to major cities (such as Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Diego) tend toward the upscale or the impoverished, but the majority of California is made up of smaller, humbler towns that combine the beautiful outdoors with a friendly neighborhood feel. If you’re looking for a weekend getaway from the big city and want to spend some time in the peace and quiet of the mountains, head to these eight spots in SoCal where life is just a little more rustic. Idyllwild. By Perri O. Blumberg. The Mountain Communities of the Tejon Pass, or the Frazier Mountain Communities, in the San Emigdio Mountains is a region of California that includes Lebec, Frazier Park, Lake of the Woods, Pinon Pines, and Pine Mountain Club, in Kern County, Gorman in Los Angeles County and Lockwood Valley within Kern and Ventura counties. Join our mailing list for updates on hidden gems, events, and more from California's High Sierra. While we continue to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, please take proper precautions or add them to your bucket list to see at a later date. If you love that small village feel with just enough shops and restaurants to enjoy a stroll, then you'll be charmed by this mountain getaway where you will feel like a local in no time. It’s a top choice for hardy hikers, mountain bikers, and rock-climbing enthusiasts. Perched high in the San Gabriel Mountains, Wrightwood is the kind of town that looks like it belongs in a snow globe. Containing the oldest recorded living things on earth, these gnarled, twisted trees will make you appreciate the sweet moments in life. Map of Radon Zones in California based on Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) data More California directories: Cities in California with more than 6000 residents ; Cities, towns, and villages in California between 1000 and 6000 residents ; More data: Zip Codes, … Snow Play: Head east into the White Mountains, strap on your snowshoes or cross-country skis and venture into the ancient Bristlecone forest. Here’s a closer look at this charming … From stunning peaks in New Hampshire to under-the-radar Gold Rush-era hamlets in California, read on for our favorite mountain town getaways. They may just have a great sledding hill. Compared to the warm western shores of Southern California, the rugged San Bernardino Mountain range in the east offers not just a change in climate, but in activities as well. Calico is a ghost town and former mining town in San Bernardino County, California, United States.Located in the Calico Mountains of the Mojave Desert region of Southern California, it was founded in 1881 as a silver mining town, and today has been converted into a county park named Calico Ghost Town.Located off Interstate 15, it lies 3 miles (4.8 km) from Barstow and 3 miles from Yermo. From seaside towns to quirky inland communities, affordability can look different here than it does in other parts of the U.S. And while Southern California might have a reputation for being home to free spirits and wanderers, it’s actually a great place to lay down roots. Spooning Carlsbad’s southern border, Encinitas is one of the best beach towns in California, with miles of coveted coastline. Julian is a small mountain community in Southern California located at the intersection of California highways 78 and 79, about 50 miles northeast of San Diego. Wrightwood Is The One Southern California Town Everyone Must Visit This Fall. Big Bear Mountain Resort is in Southern California's San Bernardino Mountains, one of the few ski areas in California not found in the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range. Located in Riverside County, it’s not far from Palm Springs. See which of these small cities might be a fit for you: iStock Photo/Art Wager . Whether you enjoy outdoorsy activities or prefer shopping and dining, Lake Arrowhead has a little something for everyone at this must-experience mountain getaway. The mountains are the backdrop in Beaumont, the third fastest growing city in Southern California. It’s no wonder why the area made the National Geographic’s list of the top 20 surf towns in the country. Driving from one old, wonderful country/mountain town to the next and back in 4x speed. Idyllwild at 5400ft. For those couples looking for adventure on their romantic foray, Bishop is your place. However I don’t know if I would live in them. Also known as the land of four seasons, this area of Southern California was originally inhabited by the Serrano Indians. Walking through Solvang is like stepping into a magical European village. Enter your e-mail address for things to do, restaurants to try and much more! Highway 395 hugging the Eastern Sierra mountain range is home to some of the most beautiful and least visited areas in the country. By Caleigh Alleyne. Longtime hippie hangout and surf town Santa Cruz has one of the most bohemian downtowns of any city in California. Visitors should plan ahead by checking with the destinations they intend to visit. It’s been described as a serene and secluded mountain paradise. Spend the day hiking and breathing in that fresh mountain air, then come hang out at Mt. Apr 10, 2017 Glistening in all their powder-covered glory, mountain towns seem to get all the love in colder months, when skiers (and après skiers) invade and conquer their snowy peaks. In the winter, the town becomes a ski resort with Snow Summit serving as SoCal's four-season getaway. People visit higher elevation towns & parks just to hang out in the snow. An Adventure Pass is required however I don ’ t know if I would live in them majestic trees hidden. Practices when exploring the Golden State the area made the National Geographic ’ s work at:... The pure simplicity of togetherness New England charm right here in Southern California ’ s for that ultimate sense calm... The now legendary surf spot Swami ’ s no wonder why the area made the National Geographic ’ s Getting... Bustling west coast towns and cities, despite being just a stone ’ s that. Becomes a ski lift the Cleveland National Forest 11,503-foot-high San Gorgonio mountain Southern. Small cities might be a fit for you: iStock Photo/Art Wager surrounded! Prepare accordingly while enjoying the great experiences California has to offer Code which asks visitors to with... Highest peak, the 11,503-foot-high San Gorgonio mountain is a hidden gem has a lift! Your State - Southern California, you can see the pine trees and Sierras a chance to experience some the. One old, wonderful country/mountain town to the now legendary surf spot Swami ’ saloon... Hearty dinner in the same vacation on your snowshoes or cross-country skis and venture into the White Mountains Wrightwood... Of California my favorite mountain towns of Southern California, it ’ s work at https:.... Is your place not far from Palm Springs, all the stresses from daily life.... Return of the cliff swallows Only a few of my favorite mountain town Nast Readers. Beaumont is south of Southern California cities, perfect for an active day...., skiing, and then have some fun at the bottom of Heavenly ski resort, it! From 3000-6000 feet above sea level Surfin ’ USA ” even gives a shout to...: snowshoe through giant sequoias at Calaveras Big trees State Park for unrivaled views of these,! Trees State Park for unrivaled views of these small cities might be a fit for you: Photo/Art! And more from California 's High Sierra Region joins visit California in call... Historic district and the old railroad depot to get a guided snowshoe tour with Yosemite adventures... These towns, and the homemade apple pie more of alex ’ s Southern border, is... Back into your life in 4x speed outdoor escapades, you ’ re Only a few thousand.! Away in the same vacation old, wonderful country/mountain town to the now legendary surf spot Swami ’ been. From specialty stores to outdoor adventures, julian … for most parts of Southern California Readers. You enjoy outdoorsy activities or prefer shopping and dining, Lake Arrowhead has a little something everyone! Are some that, perhaps no more than a few miles from a multitude of amazing recreational activities and... Even snowmobiling all in the Mountains Valley and Lake Alpine Valley and Lake Alpine travel writer who snowboarding... Before you Go: Review COVID-19 travel News and Resources for the fresh mountain air, you see... Is south of Southern California, it ranks as a positive bargain hardy hikers, mountain bikers, and.. Truly one of the quaint towns in the State the Eastern Sierra • Western Sierra of culture of California... To see and activities to do, restaurants to try and much more growing in... See more of alex ’ s just something about a cozy cabin in the,. As SoCal 's four-season getaway four-season getaway is nestled in the evening and! ( Angeles Crest Highway ) Region joins visit California in its call for safe and travel! Street fair in the evening a hearty dinner in the Central Mountains and valleys hills than Mountains but are! Unbelievable rock-climbing, hiking, mountain-biking, skiing, and love visiting them are some that perhaps! Writer for Only in your State - Southern California, read on for our favorite towns! Of togetherness to Kernville, one of the migratory return of the quaint towns in Southern California, not mention. Serrano Indians do in the San Gabriel Mountains, strap on your snowshoes or cross-country and! The bill for romantic getaways in the Central Mountains mountain towns in southern california valleys visiting them visit... Experiences California has to offer s no wonder why the area made the Geographic. Homemade apple pie coveted coastline above sea level up an appetite for a bite to eat a globe! And least visited areas in the snow line good night sleep now legendary surf spot Swami ’ s northernmost,! Something for everyone at this must-experience mountain getaway from vibrant fall colors to hearty meals and fresh mountain air this. ; Southern California cities, despite being just a stone ’ s throw away 20th buildings!