Top 15 Things To Do In Idyllwild, California: Enjoy Breathtaking Sights

things to do in idyllwild california
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John 
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Find yourself among the top attractions in all of California! Idyllwild really is a Southern California location unlike any other, with state staples like Mount San Jacinto State Park, Middle Ridge Winery, and Lake Fulmor! No matter what you’re looking for, the endless Idyllwild activities will surely deliver an experience unlike any other. Just book your stay in some of the best Vrbo vacation rentals or cabins in and near Idyllwild and get ready to discover the many things to do in Idyllwild, California.

1. South Ridge Trailhead

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

South Ridge Trailhead is a 12.6-km-long (7.8-mi) trail that is located near Idyllwild-Pine Cove. The trail is filled with a plethora of wildflowers and trees that guarantees hikers a relaxing walk through the woods. Do note that the trail has been deemed as difficult to traverse, with the trail itself being tricky to even access as it involves going up a harrowing dirt road. Dogs are also allowed to traverse this trail despite the difficulty.

Finally, prospective hikers are required to procure a free permit for day hiking and overnight trips inside the federal wilderness area.

South Ridge Trailhead

Address: Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA, USA

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2. Suicide Rock

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Don’t be alarmed by the name. Suicide Rock is a granite outcrop near Idyllwild and is a popular place for rock climbers to visit. The name behind this granite outcrop comes from a Native American legend that is almost similar to the story of William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. There is also a nearby trailhead and it stretches to 10.8 km (8.7 mi) long. This trailhead is home to several wildflowers and trees as well as wonderful views of the forest.

Suicide Rock

Address: Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA 92549, United States

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3. Mount San Jacinto State Park

San Jacinto Mountain
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Orfeo 07 used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Start your visit to Idyllwild the right way, with a trip to the Mount San Jacinto State Park! Standing nearly two miles (3.21 kilometers) above sea level, this gem of the San Jacinto Mountains features stunning sights and thoroughly spectacular backgrounds. So long as you’re looking to get your own taste of Idyllwild, you’re going to want to visit the second largest mountain range in the entire United States! Check out the unique diversity of indigenous plants and animals at the Mount San Jacinto State Park, only a short distance from the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway! With camping and motorhome opportunities available to locals and visitors alike, the Mount San Jacinto State Park is the perfect sight in all of Idyllwild!

Mount San Jacinto State Park

Address: 25905 CA-243, Idyllwild, CA 92549

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4. Idyllwild Wellness Waters & Massage

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Relax and unwind with the best of them at the Idyllwild Wellness Waters & Massage facility in California! It’s time to keep the best for yourself, with the rejuvenation services provided only at one of the Golden State’s best relaxation centers. At the Idyllwild Wellness Waters & Massage, a fully customized, personalized, professional relaxation spa and wellness package is fashioned, catered to your individual preferences. Take advantage of their massage studio, at the hands of their fully certified, world-class massage experts. With dynamic massage packages like their Kangen Water massage, Ayurveda Bodywork, and Chair Massages, the Idyllwild Wellness Waters & Massage sets the absolute standard as the top location for rest in all of Idyllwild! Find yourself on premises, for serenity you won’t want to live without.

Idyllwild Wellness Waters & Massage

Address: 54735 N Circle Dr Idyllwild, CA 92549

Website: Idyllwild Wellness Waters & Massage

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5. Idyllwild Nature Center

Signage on the Idyllwild Nature Center loop
Source: Photo by Flickr user Laura Camp used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Take in the fullest extent of the Idyllwild outdoors, at the Idyllwild Nature Center! When it comes to the Idyllwild Nature Center, you’ll find yourself standing before and amidst the ideal combination of outdoors exploration and local education. Learn more about what makes the Idyllwild nature the unforgettable magnet for wildlife enthusiasts that it is, and then venture into it and explore it for yourself! Trails and Idyllwild picnic areas abound at the Idyllwild Nature Center; whether you’re simply searching for the superior means by which to immerse yourself in dynamic nature, or you’re looking to actively explore the sights and the sounds that take the Idyllwild outdoors to the next level, you’re going to find all of that at the Idyllwild Nature Center, where naturally conserved wildlife meets your desire to explore it!

Idyllwild Nature Center

Address: 25225 California 243, Idyllwild, CA 92549

Website: Idyllwild Nature Center

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6. Middle Ridge Winery


Simply put, for a wine tasting experience that’s going to thoroughly blow away the local competition, take advantage of Middle Ridge Winery in Idyllwild, California! For one, this venue has the unique capacity to host any and every social function you wish to hold in the area! No matter if it’s a birthday party or a work outing, you’ve always got the perfect excuse to walk through the front doors of the Middle Ridge Winery and enjoy great rates and unparalleled wine tasting endeavors. Specializing in boutique, premium wines, the Middle Ridge Winery features such wine legends as the 2015 Pinot Grigio, the 2014 Vin Gris of Pinot Noir, and the 2012 Meritage of California! Check out Idyllwild’s upcoming events that take place on the grounds of the Middle Ridge Winery, or simply stop by for a visit, and to immerse yourself in award-winning wines!

Middle Ridge Winery

Address: 54301 N Circle Dr, Idyllwild, CA 92549

Website: Middle Ridge Winery

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7. Idyllwild Park

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account


No matter the recreational activity in which you plan on indulging at Idyllwild Park, you’re sure to be satisfied under the park’s expansive trees and wide-open spaces. Locals and visitors alike routinely take advantage of Idyllwild Park’s diversified hiking, biking, and fishing opportunities, as venues for relaxation, recreation, and socialization with family and friends! Discover a peaceful, better you among the shade, or take the family out for a local park experience that everyone is sure to love! Take in the breathtaking natural sights that surround the complete extent of the park, right on the edge of town, and make sure that you come back during the year when the park hosts a series of outdoor events! This park also includes some of the area’s most challenging rock climbing courses, for experienced climbers to get their hands on some real recreational exertion. It’s all waiting for you a Idyllwild Park!

Idyllwild Park

Address: 54000 Riverside County Playground Rd, Idyllwild, CA 92549

Website: Idyllwild Park

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8. The Hub Cyclery

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Located in downtown Idyllwild, The Hub Cyclery is Idyllwild’s premiere bike provider, whether you’re looking to rent or to buy! With friendly service and a wide diversity of rental and purchasing packages, The Hub Cyclery is run by certified bicycle experts, who are willing to provide you with unbeatable prices on all of their bicycles. More importantly, their staff can and will provide you with all of the bike knowledge and tips for new and experienced riders alike, to get your next bike ride off on the right foot. The Hub Cyclery also hosts a regular series of bicycle events, geared toward getting the local community out of their respective houses, and into the astute Idyllwild sunshine outside! Enjoy a small-town vibe and an infectiously enthusiastic atmosphere alike at The Hub Cyclery!

The Hub Cyclery

Address: 28815 CA-243, Mountain Center, CA 92561

Website: The Hub Cyclery

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9. Lake Fulmor

Fulmor Lake
Source: Photo by Flickr user Jenny Salita used under CC BY-ND 2.0

Take as much time as you need at Lake Fulmor; you’re going to want to provide yourself ample time to soak in the full extent of one of Idyllwild’s first-class outdoor attractions! A hub for socialization during weather-conducive seasons, Lake Fulmor provides the perfect blend of wildlife and recreational opportunities! Take a walk around the lake’s grounds, where you’ll be able to gaze upon many of the awe-inspiring, breathtaking sights, that help to add to Idyllwild’s legacy as an absolute wildlife staple of the region. See if you can spot many of the animals and critters which make their home at Lake Fulmor, including tree frogs, dragonflies, ground squirrels, butterflies, and more! See if you can identify many of the distinct bird calls that characterize the area, and greet many of the friendly locals that frequent Lake Fulmor on a regular basis. Make Lake Fulmor your next outdoor destination!

Lake Fulmor

Address: Hall Decker Rd, Banning, CA 92220

Website: Lake Fulmor

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10. Humber Park

Humber Park Trailhead closure
Source: Photo by Flickr user San Bernardino Na... used under PUBLIC DOMAIN

One of Idyllwild’s most recognizable parks, Humber Park provides friends and family alike with the perfect excuse to get outdoors! Its distinct amenities include many trailheads, each of which leads respectively to a hike that you’ll thoroughly enjoy. Their hikes range in difficulty from easy to difficult, so no matter your skill level or preferred methods when it comes to hiking, Humber Park has a trailhead that anyone and everyone can come to enjoy. Take advantage of Humber Park, which leads hikers straight into the bliss of the San Jacinto Wilderness area, a park which also includes parking for all hikers! Find yourself enjoying the great outdoors with this easy outlet for individual of familial enjoyment, at Humber Park!

Humber Park

Address: 24559 Fern Valley Rd, Idyllwild, CA 92549

Website: Humber Park

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11. Indian Vista Scenic Overlook


Nine miles (14km) north of Idyllwild along the Palms to Pines Scenic Byway, you’ll find a parking area for the Indian Vista Scenic Overlook. The trail to the viewpoint is handicap/wheelchair friendly. You’ll find it on the way to Lake Fulmor. On the way to the viewpoint, you’ll find railings to hold onto. Some huge boulders make for great selfies. There are no restrooms, but those may be found at Lake Fulmore, a few miles on. Almost everyone suggests a short, easy downhill walk past the rock enclosure outlook reveals the best spectacular views

Indian Vista Scenic Overlook

Address: Banning-Idyllwild Panoramic Hwy, Banning, Idyllwild, CA 92220

Website: USDA

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12. Merkaba Tea

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by Merkaba Tea on Friday, February 22, 2019

Merkaba Tea is the sort of place you never thought existed. The shop is full of different organic teas. Taste tea, buy tea, talk tea and more. The owners also sell some eastern spiritual stuff like music for meditation, and incense. The atmosphere is laid back, relaxed and charming. There’s even a Tibetan water bowl on the premises. If you think tea is boring, this place is sure to change your mind. Stop in for a half hour or so, and if tea is not your cup of tea, you can always pick up some mukluk slipper socks.

Merkaba Tea

Address: 54210 N Circle Dr, Idyllwild, CA 92549

Website: Merkaba Tea

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13. Idyllwild Area Historical Society Museum

Idyllwild, CA 12-28-13a
Source: Photo by Flickr user Don Graham used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Another way to enjoy Idyllwild is by knowing more about the town’s history. There’s no better way to achieve this than visiting the Idyllwild Area Historical Society Museum. The museum is maintained by the Idyllwild Area Historical Society, a volunteer organization whose purpose is to preserve and share the history of the San Jacinto Mountains. The museum itself is in a historic summer cabin and is one of the many cabins in the area. Built in the 1930s with several original features like the fireplace, wood flooring, and handmade dining table still intact. Although the museum is small, it has plenty of exhibits like the history of Tahquitz and Suicide, Idyllwild Inn and the Emerson Family Legacy, and Elvis Presley’s “Kid Galahad”.

Idyllwild Area Historical Society Museum

Address: 54470 North Circle Drive Corner Oakwood, Idyllwild, CA 92549-3320

Website: Idyllwild Area Historical Society Museum

Opening hours: Fri - Sun: 10am - 5pm (closed from Mon - Thu)

Price: Free

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14. Town Gallery

Idyllwild, CA 12-28-13
Source: Photo by Flickr user Don Graham used under CC BY-SA 2.0

If you are an art aficionado, you’ll surely enjoy this little art haven in the bucolic side of California. Nestled in the rustic community of Idyllwild is Town Gallery, an art gallery that shares space and ownership with Idyllwild Town Real Estate, which is dedicated to promoting Idyllwid’s local artists and the art of those who use the beautiful town scenes as subjects. View local paintings, sketches, pottery, photography, and mixed media arts, all of which creatively reflect Idyllwild. Fine custom furniture made from reclaimed local wood is also featured.

Town Gallery

Address: 54425 N Circle Drive, Idyllwild, CA 92549

Website: Town Gallery

Opening hours: Wed - Sun: 12pm - 5pm (closed on Mon & Tue)

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15. Mile High Café

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

NEW SPECIAL! Come try our grilled jalapeño guacamole burger!! ? #milehighcafe #idyllwildrestaurants #dineinortakeout #idyllwildcalifornia #foodlover #avacado #foodie #instafood #burger

Posted by Mile High Cafe on Thursday, May 13, 2021

Experience exquisite dining in a homelike setting here in Mile High Café, a family-owned restaurant located off-road but still highly noticeable from your way in and out of Idyllwild Park. The mountain-themed, log cabin-style cafe serves a range of both American and Asian (mostly Korean and Japanese) food like jalapeño burger, eggs benedict, bibimbap, and beef bulgogi. They have a large patio for outdoor seating with a heating system installed to keep their guests as warm as they can be during the cold seasons. Live music is available during the weekends.

Mile High Café

Address: 26600 CA-243, Idyllwild, CA 92549, United States

Website: Mile High Café

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 7:30am - 3pm; Sat - Sun: 7:30am - 5pm

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Natural sights and sounds abound

Idyllwild, CA
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user inkknife_2000 used under CC BY-SA 2.0

If you’re still wondering what to do in Idyllwild, no matter what you’re looking to get out of your next visit, you’re going to find a distinctively wide range of available opportunities in the area! Take advantage of Idyllwild’s natural sights and sounds, each of which is spectacular in size and scope. Relax at the Idyllwild Wellness Waters and Massage center, and try choice, award-winning wines at Middle Ridge Winery! You can also bring your furry friends along and stay in one of the pet-friendly cabins. It’s all waiting for you to enjoy, when you find yourself loving all that Idyllwild, California has to offer you!

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Things To Do In Idyllwild, California
Source: Trip101

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John Gallagher is a digital marketing consultant and writer from San Diego, California. When he isn't thoroughly enjoying the writing process or pretending he thoroughly enjoys the revision...Read more

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