Looking for a relaxing activity that will show you a new side of SoCal rarely seen? Then pack a picnic, load up the car, and hit the road — we’re taking a leisurely drive along one of SoCal’s official scenic byways.

This is a fun activity for the whole family or a perfect way to spend some solo time when you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. Roll down the windows, play your favorite tunes, and enjoy this relaxing drive that will take you through absolute perfection.

The Sunrise Scenic Byway is approximately 24 miles long. A designated National Forest Scenic Byway, this scenic stretch of land offering mountain meadow views is one drive that should be at the top of your Sunday Drive Bucket List.
alltrails/mike LeBlanc
googlemaps
Traveling north, the Sunrise Scenic Byway begins near Pine Valley at the intersection of Old Highway 80 and Sunrise Highway. From there, simply travel along the Sunrise Highway as it winds through the Cleveland National Forest.  
There's something about the open road that will leave you feeling inspired, especially when it's nothing but blue skies overhead.
googlemaps/andrew stanick
The trees along the drive are spectacular. A variety of pine, fir, and spruce trees add to the beauty of this scenic setting.
alltrails/shawn ryan

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Along the trail you'll find plenty of places for future camping trips.
alltrails/valerie y carlos
Need a break from the car to stop and stretch your legs? Hiking trails galore can be found along this scenic drive. Pioneer Mail Trailhead is an easy 1.5-mile trail that looks like a fun spot to explore.
alltrails/robert mcspadden
And hopefully you packed a picnic lunch. Take a break from the road to enjoy a meal outside in nature. An al fresco setting always adds a little magic to the day.
alltrails/michael murray
The drive along Sunrise Scenic Byway is approximately one hour long without stopping. But half the fun is taking your time to enjoy the scenery, so make sure to pull over at designated viewpoints to enjoy the natural surroundings.
alltrails/shara williams

What a beautiful and relaxing way to enjoy a slice of SoCal’s scenery. Have you ever taken a drive along the Sunrise Scenic Byway? Looking for more scenic drives to take in Southern California? Here are 10 delightful backroads in SoCal that make a beautiful Sunday drive.

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Featured Addresses
Sunrise National Scenic Byway, County Rte S1, Julian, CA 92036, USA
Pine Valley, CA 91962, USA