If you read our recent post about going through old drafts, you’d know that most of our ideas didn’t make the cut. A lot of those restaurants aren’t open right now. While many of the ideas are outdated and relevant, some are more welcome now. With restrictions in place across the country, isolated outdoor activity has become more popular than ever. People who never cared for hiking are discovering the beauty of the great outdoors. While we lived in Los Angeles, we were fortunate to discover one of its greatest escapes: Idyllwild.
Located about two hours (without much traffic) east of downtown LA, tucked in the San Jacinto mountains, you’ll find the quiet little town of Idyllwild. This mile-high town of just over 2,000 people feels even less crowded than its population suggests, and with endless hiking trails throughout San Jacinto State Park, you’re not very likely to run into other people. During our three-hour hike, that started at the visitor’s center, we didn’t pass a single person. This was back in early November 2017.
When you live on Hollywood Blvd, you’re accustomed to noise, light and some tough air to breathe. You won’t find any of that in Idyllwild, where an 8 pm walk is dark, quiet and filled with cool, clean air. At least, that was the case when we visited. The movie theater in town was adorable. (We saw Thor: Ragnarok.) All of the small shops were charming. Eateries were reasonably priced and provided delicious meals. There were many dog-friendly accommodations. It really reminded me of Lake Placid, New York, in many ways.
We aren’t entirely sure how the restrictions in California impact Idyllwild or hiking in San Jacinto National Park. While we definitely think it is safe to hike in such an open area, with so many trails, we wouldn’t want you to break any laws doing so. Consider this escape if you’re in the area, whether that means you live in LA or are visiting. It is truly a magical place. Exploring new locations and discovering new things helps you stay hungry and fit!
