There are times when you just need to get away from it all and take a break from the city. Luckily, Southern California has plenty of spaces and places where you can escape the hustle and bustle and retreat to a more quiet and peaceful setting. Here are 11 of our favorite spots to go off-the-grid in SoCal.
1. Franklin Canyon Park -- 2600 Franklin Canyon Drive in Beverly Hills, CA.
Sometimes you want to escape to a remote location without having to stray far from home. This little slice of zen inside the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area is not far from the city, but it will get you out in nature in no time for some much needed rest and relaxation.
2. Mount San Gorgonio -- San Bernardino National Forest.
For a true off-the-grid experience, nothing's quite like scaling a mountain. And not just any mountain, but one that has the highest peak in the region. The peak of Mount San Gorgonio in the San Bernardino National Forest can be reached at 11,503 feet. It's quite a hike to get there, but you can bet you'll truly be off-the-grid when you reach the top.
3. Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve -- 8833 Harmony Grove Road in Escondido.
For hiking, sightseeing, bird watching, and relaxing, Elfin Forest in Escondido is the perfect destination that offers a little something for everyone. With 11 miles of trails to wander, this is one spot where you'll never run out of quiet places to explore.
4. Wildwood Regional Park -- 928 Avenida de los Arboles in Thousand Oaks.
Another gem that feels like it's worlds away even though it's nice and close to the city is Wildwood Regional Park. You can enjoy an outdoorsy escape filled with scenic trails with soaring views of rolling hills and clear blue skies.
5. Self Realization Fellowship/Lake Shrine -- 17190 W Sunset Blvd, Pacific Palisades, CA
You'll want to leave your cell phone at home as you stroll through this zen getaway that will completely relax you. Take a walk along the lake or just sit and gaze at the surroundings and soak up the peace and quiet. It's the kind of place that will make you feel at one with nature while you enjoy this hidden oasis in SoCal.
6. Castle Rock Trail -- Big Bear Lake
It sure looks nice and quiet from up here! For a view of a lifetime that will take you far away from city life, just head to Castle Rock Trail located near Big Bear Lake for a true off-the-grid adventure. You'll be surrounded by towering pines and cedars and have an epic view of Big Bear Lake all to yourself if you choose to head to the top.
7. Los Penasquitos Canyon Preserve -- 12115 Black Mountain Rd in San Diego.
Whether by foot or horseback, you can wander through this canyon preserve filled with trails galore, a mini waterfall, and even a tree swing. With its picturesque surroundings, you may feel as though you've had a mini escape in a fairytale setting.
8. Angeles National Forest
To truly get away from it all, sometimes you just need to head out on a trail in the woods. The Angeles National Forest is the perfect place to disconnect and unwind as you hike along one of the many trails tucked inside this picturesque setting. Pictured here: Icehouse Canyon Trail in Mt. Baldy.
9. Anacapa Island -- Channel Islands National Park
For an island experience that will get you off-the-grid for a truly remote getaway, you might want to consider a day trip to one of the Channel Islands. You'll be surrounded by lush natural beauty and mile after mile of peace and tranquility. Pictured here: Anacapa Island.
10. Angeles Crest Highway
Load up the car and head out on a relaxing Sunday drive. Angeles Crest Highway will surround you with jaw-dropping views and scenic outlook points that will remind you exactly why you need to get out of town every now and again.
11. Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve -- 1209 Farmer Road, Julian, CA 92036
What could be more relaxing than heading out to farm country and taking a long scenic drive before meandering through a nature preserve with endless views of the rolling hills all around you? Volcan Nature Preserve is filled with trails, open meadows, and stunning scenery in every direction.
Are you ready for a little peace and quiet away from the city? These 11 spots look like the perfect way to recharge and refresh out in nature. Where is your favorite spot to go off-the-grid? Did one of your favorite locations make our list?
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