Idyllwild

Although there aren't many unusual stops along the journey from Los Angeles to the San Jacinto Mountains, as you exit the freeway and wind your way up into the mountains, you'll be busy taking in the expansive views of the valley below and inhaling the aroma of fresh pine and sweet cedar. In contrast to Idyllwild Park, which provides hiking, bouldering, and gorgeous camping, Lake Fulmor is an excellent location for picnics, rainbow-trout fishing, and bird viewing.

Popular Idyllwild Park, with 202 acres of lovely open space, a mature forest, and breath-taking hiking paths, is situated on the edge of the colorful mountain community of Idyllwild. Idyllwild is the ideal location for reestablishing contact with loved ones, friends, nature, and the slower pace of small-town living in the mountains.

The day use part of Idyllwild Park provides hikers, climbers, and adventurers with a shaded meadow for picnics and group activities. Any of the five routes, which offer breath-taking beauty and expansive views, are open to visitors. Massive granite boulders provide some of the best rock climbing challenges available for more daring outdoor enthusiasts. The 88 wonderful woodland campsites in the park's basic but well-maintained campground each have a fire ring, picnic table, and are near to facilities and showers. Along with individual camping, visitors can take advantage of the Lawler Lodge and Lawler Alpine Cabins at RivCoPark.

• Location: Idyllwild