Idyllwild is an artistic community in the San Jacinto Mountains. Together with the neighbouring villages of Pine Cove and Fern Valley, it invites you to experience life in small-town California. Shop and dine in the lively downtown district, stroll around the prestigious arts campus and gear up for outdoor adventures.
Things to do in Idyllwild
Stroll around the village and browse galleries and studios run by local artisans. Independent boutiques sell handmade ceramics, jewellery, glassware, woodwork and paintings. Stroll around the scenic Idyllwild Arts Academy campus to experience student life and enjoy art exhibitions, concerts and performances in the outdoor amphitheatre.
Lace up your hiking boots and explore the trails of Mount San Jacinto State Park. The park protects more than 50 square kilometres of rugged granite peaks, lush pine forests and flower-strewn alpine meadows. Tahquitz Peak and Suicide Rock, a pair of dramatic rock formations, tower over the park and are popular with rock climbers.
Ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to the summit of Mount San Jacinto. The tram cars slowly rotate throughout the 10-minute journey and reveal panoramic views over the surrounding forests, peaks and valleys. There’s plenty to discover at the 3,302-metre-high summit, including observation decks, a natural history museum and several dining options.
From artisan coffee roasters to craft breweries, local flavours take centre stage in Idyllwild. Enjoy breakfast at a farm-to-table diner and sample award-winning blends at the urban winery. Some establishments are housed in cosy log cabins and others feature sun-drenched decks with spectacular mountain views.
Getting around Idyllwild
Idyllwild is compact and easy to get around on foot, though you’ll need a car to explore the San Jacinto Mountains at your own pace. The resort is in Riverside County, a three-hour drive from Los Angeles and 2.5 hours from San Diego. Los Angeles International Airport is a 3.5-hour drive away.