Hike To A Picturesque Meadow Then Dine At A Small-Town Tavern On This Delightful Adventure In Southern California
By Natasha Kayes|Published May 01, 2023
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Natasha Kayes
Author
I was born and raised in sunny Southern California and will never tire of the West Coast, although I spent several years living in Southeast Asia, about as far from California as you can get. Wherever I am in the world, I love straying from the beaten path, experiencing local life, and discovering hidden gems - camera in hand. The beach is my happy place and when I am not there (or writing), you will usually find me baking, watching movies, and cuddling my pugs. I have traveled around the country and around the world, and it never, ever gets old. Being able to combine my passion for travel and my love of writing is nothing short of a dream.
When you venture outside the city in Southern California, you will find some small towns where you can unwind, breathe in some fresh air, and lose yourself in the calm and quiet of nature. One such place is located just about two hours from either Los Angeles or San Diego and makes for an idyllic small-town adventure. It’s time to plan for some hiking and dining in Idyllwild, CA.
Idyllwild, often combined with the nearby community of Pine Cove and referred to as Idyllwild-Pine Cove, is an unincorporated town tucked up in the San Jacinto Mountains. Also known as “mile-high Idyllwild,” it is surrounded by tall pine trees, fragrant cedars, and pristine wilderness.
There is an elevation gain of some 1,800 feet over the course of this moderately challenging trail. The incline is gradual and there is plenty of shade along the way.
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Along the trail, you will find expansive scenic views including wildflowers, ferns, a stream, mountain peaks, forests, and rock formations.
Skunk Cabbage Meadow is a spectacular opening in the forest - lush, green, and perfect for a picnic, so you might consider bringing along some food or snacks and enjoying some time here before completing the loop.
Devils Slide Trail 3E05, Devils Slide Trail, Mountain Center, CA 92561, USA
Interestingly, the cabbage-like plants that give the meadow its name are, in fact, not cabbages at all. They are corn lily plants that flourish near the water.
More than a restaurant, Idyllwild Brewpub is a beautiful piece of locally-designed architecture in downtown Idyllwild that not only serves up delicious food and brews but celebrates the natural beauty of the town. This is a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a meal after your hike.
Idyllwild Brewpub is proud to be a sustainable restaurant, from its solar panels for energy to using its own well water which is treated on-site after use and serves to irrigate the property’s landscaping.
The views of the outdoors are not the only thing on display here. The glass-encased brewery allows you to observe the state-of-the-art brewing process while sampling any of the 21 craft beers the restaurant keeps on tap.
Indulge in mouthwatering pub-style comfort food including gourmet burgers and sandwiches, loaded fries, steak salads, fish and chips, hot wings, and more.
54423 Village Center Dr, Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA 92549, USA
Are you ready for this small-town adventure in Idyllwild, CA? What small-town hiking and dining spots would you recommend? We would love to hear from you. If you plan to go to Idyllwild, consider extending your stay and spending the night in this cozy Idyllwild cottage.
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