Sometimes, all it takes to feel like you have gotten away from it all is a beautiful drive. Believe it or not, you do not have to go far from the city to find yourself surrounded by trees, mountains, and breathtaking wilderness. In fact, one of the most beautiful scenic drives in Southern California is almost entirely within Los Angeles County, passing through the Angeles National Forest, and it is one of the most picturesque mountain roads in the state. Let’s explore the Angeles Crest Highway in Southern California.

The Angeles Crest Scenic Byway, also known as Angeles Crest Highway or California Highway 2, begins in La Canada Flintridge and winds for 66 miles up and through the Angeles National Forest.
Map data ©2023 Google
It is hard to believe that miles and miles of pristine mountain forests, as far as you can see, are literally just outside the city.
mike isshac/Google Local
The views at every turn are striking, from layers of mountain peaks to the canyons and valleys below.
Thomas Powers/Google Local
Be prepared for a smooth road, but also for a lot of curves, twists, and turns. Motorcyclists (and car commercial film crews) love this drive!
Spiderplay/Getty Images
As a national forest scenic byway, the road is well-maintained and cleared when it is not actively snowing, making this a dreamy drive any time of the year. The high elevation through most of the Angeles National Forest means thick blankets of snow in the winter.
Chien-Chang Chen/Google Local
Of course, as with any mountain road, severe weather does cause closures, so it is always a good idea to check road conditions before traveling.

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In the spring and summer, the scenery is even more colorful, as evergreens and chaparral are complemented by the appearance of yucca and other blooms on the slopes.
Adam Terry/Google Local
The highway passes through the Angeles Crest Tunnels, a pair of tunnels cut through the rocky mountainside.
CrankingChick/TripAdvisor
When conditions are safe, there is a little area between the tunnels to park and climb down to another tunnel below the road which leads to a secret overlook. Tread carefully as there is a slope and the ground can be loose and rocky.
There are several visitor centers, day-use and picnic areas, and restrooms along the highway, as well as many trailheads worth exploring.
CrankingChick/TripAdvisor
If you want to break up the trip with a little hiking, there are stunning lakes and waterfalls to be discovered along the way.
Chien-Chang Chen/Google Local
One of the most beautiful waterfalls, especially after a wet winter, is Cooper Canyon Falls, pictured here.
An intriguing outcropping of boulders known as John Henge Rocks is located just a short walk from the highway.
Andy Cheung/Google Local
There is a large turnout on one side of the highway and a small restroom building, so it is a nice place for a short stop.
If you began your drive in La Canada-Flintridge, you will reach the end of the scenic highway in Phelan at the junction of Highways 2 and 138.
Mountain Top Cafe, 7637 CA-138, Phelan, CA 92371, USA
Jack Pouchet/Google Local
You can stop here and enjoy a highly-rated homestyle meal at the ​​Mountain Top Cafe.

See what it’s like to drive on this breathtaking highway:

Start in the city, and find yourself on one of California’s most picturesque drives, surrounded by natural beauty. Have you driven the length of the Angeles Crest Highway in Southern California? What do you think of this beautiful drive? Stay up-to-date on road conditions and closures by visiting Angeles Crest Highway. Pack up the car and get to know a few more of SoCal’s scenic drives.

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William Suphan | August 25, 2023

What are the most jaw-dropping views in Southern California?

The most jaw-dropping views in Southern California include:

  • Laguna Beach. If you walk along the cliffs you’ll see a wondrous 60-foot stone tower right by the shore.
  • Cabrillo National Monument. This is a popular vista for locals with views that overlook the idyllic San Diego harbor.
  • Joshua Tree National Park. The alien-looking trees in this desert landscape make it look like another planet.
  • La Jolla Cove. The caves here are especially beautiful when seen from a kayak in the water, with wildlife all over them.

Learn more about the most jaw-dropping views in Southern California. 

What are the most beautiful towns in Southern California?

The most beautiful towns in Southern California include:

  • Valley Center. Surrounded by stunning lavender fields and picturesque mountains, this little town smells as lovely as it looks.
  • San Diego. This is widely considered one of the most beautiful cities in the country and its beautiful beaches, cliffs, canyons, buildings, and trees are evidence of it.
  • Joshua Tree. This desert town is surrounded by its namesake trees that help create an otherworldly landscape.
  • Marina Del Rey. This is a quaint fishing village with old-fashioned buildings and wonderful marinas.

Learn more about the most beautiful towns in Southern California. 

What are some bucket list natural attractions in Southern California? 

Bucket list natural attractions in Southern California include:

  • Shaw's Cove at Laguna Beach. The rocky seashore here is full of tidepools filled with tiny ocean life and the views are gorgeous.
  • Vasquez Rocks Natural Area. The 25-million-year-old rocks jut diagonally out of the Earth in this amazing place.
  • Franklin Canyon Park in Beverly Hills. This is a quiet little spot where locals go to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
  • Trail Canyon Falls in Tujunga Canyon. Take a 6-mile hike to some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the state.

Learn more about bucket list natural attractions in Southern California. 

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Featured Addresses
Angeles Crest Highway, Angeles Crest Hwy, La Cañada Flintridge, CA, USA