Snow Play: Located only thirty miles from the … Thank you! Be sure to stop by Legends to grab a Sarsaparilla float in a grand 1850’ssaloon. Activities include skiing, snowboarding, sledding, and cross-country skiing. 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. 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. Angela is the staff writer for Only in Your State - Southern California. Idyllwild. Located in the San Jacinto Mountains, Idyllwild is only a short drive from many parts of Southern California and offers the perfect mountain escape. 10 Small Towns In Rural Southern California That Are Downright Delightful. If you're looking for a slice of New England charm right here in Southern California, you'll find it in Oak Glen. Walking through Solvang is like stepping into a magical European village. Nov 24, 2017 - Fresh mountain air is calling your name! Southern California’s winters range from sunny beaches to snowy mountain tops. | Privacy Policy | French Website. Idyllwild. Baldy is more of a mountain destination than an actual town, it would be a shame not to include this on the list as it's one spot you don't want to miss. With so many getaway ideas, the California High Sierra should be on your bucket list for a romantic escape you won’t forget. There’s just something about a cozy cabin in the middle of winter that helps bring romance back into your life. I love all of these towns, and love visiting them. We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. Julian at 4220ft. It’s a top choice for hardy hikers, mountain bikers, and rock-climbing enthusiasts. Enter your e-mail address for things to do, restaurants to try and much more! Well, most (not all) towns in “Southern” California are not above 5000 feet. 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. Celebrate Culture See more of Alex’s work at https://localfreshies.com. Thinking more about the slopes? Big Bear City at 6750ft. This includes sports like rock climbing, backcountry skiing or even snowmobiling all in the same vacation. For those looking to get their foot on the property ladder, the charmingly affordable Murrieta may well be the best place to do it. 6. Snow Play: Head east into the White Mountains, strap on your snowshoes or cross-country skis and venture into the ancient Bristlecone forest. These are a few of my favorite mountain towns in So Cal. Love SoCal? Join our mailing list for updates on hidden gems, events, and more from California's High Sierra. Teach Others, Whose ready for some snow play? Get a glimpse of the stunning scenery to see and activities to do in the Sierra Nevada. So whether you’re headed to the San Gabriel Mountains or San Bernardino Mountains for the day, here is a list of the best places to play in the snow near Los Angeles. 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. Nestled in the San Jacinto Mountains above the desert communities of Riverside County, Idyllwild is known for its natural beauty and thriving artistic community. Roam Responsibly Snow Play: Snowshoe through giant sequoias at Calaveras Big Trees State Park for unrivaled views of these majestic trees. 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. Perhaps one of the most underrated mountain towns in SoCal, this heavenly pine-covered destination in San Bernardino County is worthy of a visit no matter what season. In true Californian style, the town has artsy leanings, so take a … Stay in a local rustic cabin and stroll to the center of town for a bite to eat. Spend the day hiking and breathing in that fresh mountain air, then come hang out at Mt. Dodge Ski Resort – Image appears courtesy Dodge Ridge Ski Resort. Stroll down historic Washington Street for a glimpse of the past. A true gateway for outdoor escapades, you’re only a few miles from a multitude of amazing recreational activities. This charming village is nestled in the San Jacinto Mountains, surrounded by lush forest and granite outcrops. Here are 4 amazing mountain towns to visit in the High Sierra that’ll rekindle the passion in your life: Sonora, California. Pine Valley at 3730ft. Located within the San Bernardino National Forest, Crestline is a little gem of a mountain town. The drive to get to Big Bear is fairly quick too. Head to these SoCal mountain towns for a quaint weekend away. Containing the oldest recorded living things on earth, these gnarled, twisted trees will make you appreciate the sweet moments in life. While there’s no shortage of getaway spots in Southern California, it often seems that towns like Joshua Tree, Big Bear, and Ojai hog the spotlight. 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. Safety First Learn more about visiting Sonora, CA . But whether you’re looking to get out of the city for a Sunday drive or head up to the mountains for a weekend retreat, there are plenty of underrated locations where you can avoid the crowds and see some truly unique sights. Aug 24, 2017 - If the smell of fresh mountain air inspires your senses, then head to these eight mountain towns in Southern California for a weekend away. Baldy Lodge and Restaurant for some hearty mountain eats and a good night sleep. 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. At this moment, all the stresses from daily life disappear. Shops, restaurants and inns are tucked inside well-kept 19th and 20th century buildings for hours of exploring and entertainment. People flock to Julian for the fresh mountain air, scenic surroundings, and the homemade apple pie. It’s for that ultimate sense of calm, a feeling of peace and the pure simplicity of togetherness. Preserve California Highway 395 hugging the Eastern Sierra mountain range is home to some of the most beautiful and least visited areas in the country. It’s about a 1-3 hour drive from any major city in Southern California. 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. Want to snowshoe instead? The High Sierra Region joins Visit California in its call for safe and responsible travel throughout the state.