Idyllwild

121 miles from LA. You need: 1 night, 2 days. Visit in the fall or winter.

Woodsy. If you’re ready to truly leave the grid, immerse in nature, and sleep above the clouds, a weekend in Idyllwild-Pine Cove is your next destination. Enjoy the winding drive up Black Mountain and get set-up at a number of scenic campsites. Although there are plenty of quaint inns and cabins in town to choose from, I recommend leaving the amenities behind for this getaway (we look for yellow-post campsites, or if no bathroom is a deal-breaker, checkout Boulder Basin campground). Once you set up camp, head out on a hike along Fuller ridge. Here you will intersect with the Pacific Coast Trail and come upon some amazing panoramic lookouts.

Whether it's a game of cornhole, reading in the hammock, or scrambling up the nearby boulders, your campsite will provide the space needed for all of your favorite activities. Spend your evening cooking over the fire and gazing up at the unobstructed night sky. To make sure dinner isn’t too stressful, be sure to pack this picnic backpack set, complete with wine glasses and supplies for an impressive camping charcuterie board.

Wake up early to enjoy the sunrise before heading back down the mountain into Idyllwild. On your drive into town, stop at Boulder Basin campground and enjoy a short hike up to the Black Mountain fire lookout. If you’re in search of the best post-hike/camping meal, Restaurant Gastrognome offers a burger-filled menu with a cozy bar, or plentiful outdoor seating if you just can’t get enough fresh air. Next, head to Idyllwild Brewpub for a beer on their back patio and gaze into the abutting coniferous forest. Walk along the streets neighboring Idyllwild Park and stop into Wooley’s for a new hat or jacket for your next camping trip. You will also find plenty of antique and vintage stores (Stop Light Thrift Shop is one of my favorites) offering everything from unique home furnishings to clothing and jewelry.

If you are really lucky, you may get to meet the Mayor of Idyllwild, Mayor Max, who often wanders around town to sniff and greet his visitors. What may be the greatest feature of Idyllwild is the tradition of electing a golden retriever as Mayor. You will find Mayor Max themed gifts wherever you turn, perfect for any dog-lovers back home. After saying your goodbyes to Max and the rest of the town square, make one last stop at Alpaca Coffee and Tea before your drive back to LA.

Don’t leave home without your Drybar Detox Dry Shampoo to preserve your strands without the shower.