Let's be honest, Northern California has some pretty spectacular beaches. From interesting geological features to dramatic cliffs to white sand that exfoliates your toes, there are so many different and beautiful places to explore. There's only one beach in the world like the Glass Beach in Fort Bragg, though, and we're lucky to have it right here in Northern California.
One of the most iconic destinations in Northern California, Glass Beach has dazzled generations of visitors and locals alike.
The site was closed as a dump in 1967 after decades of trash began piling up. Metal and other scraps were removed, but glass was one particle that remained.
Photographers from near and far come to capture the sparkling glass stones, which glisten in the sunlight and decorate the beach in a rainbow of colors.
You may be tempted to take a few pieces of glass with you, but it is actually illegal. Glass Beach is a reminder to take only pictures and leave only footprints.
Future generations should be able to visit Glass Beach for years to come. It's also a great reminder about the power of nature to heal itself and to make sure we treat it with respect.
In addition to the world famous glass beach, the park also features a variety of habitats that include other beaches, bluffs, headlands, dunes, forests and wetland.
Whether you come to snap a quick picture or to spend the whole day here, the journey will be well worth the spectacular sight of Glass Beach. It's something all Northern Californians should see at least once!
Explore One of California’s Most Beautiful, Clean Lakes at Inyo National Forest
Do you want to hike to an alpine gem in California? Get your gear ready for this incredible trail near Mammoth Lakes. Ediza Lake awaits the adventurous!
Some hikes are so stunning that words can’t capture their beauty, and the Shadow and Ediza Lakes Trail is one of them. Nestled beneath towering granite spires in the Ansel Adams Wilderness, this 14.9-mile out-and-back hike showcases the grandeur of the Sierra Nevadas. Despite its popularity, the immense scale of the scenery will make you feel miles away from civilization. Just make sure you’ve got the right gear. Like most high-altitude gems, this ascent is a calf-burner that's guaranteed to test your mettle.
The Shadow and Ediza Lakes Trail has earned a reputation for being a fantastic introduction to more strenuous mountain schleps. You’ll find it in the Inyo National Forest, home to wizened bristlecone pines including “Methuselah,” the world's oldest tree. The nearest town is quaint Mammoth Lakes. There, you’ll find a handful of lodges and campsites to make berth, along with various shops to gear up for your excursion. I recommend packing sunscreen, plenty of water, and the requisite snacks to keep you going.
You'll begin your alpine climb in the tranquil understory of Agnew Meadows. It won't take long before the canopy thins, revealing expansive views of the mountainside. Hikers will first arrive at Shadow Lake, where the crystal clear waters invite an al fresco dip. Remember, even in peak summer, these snow-fed lakes are frigid, so prepare to be refreshed but also, more than likely, entirely numb.
From here, the trail crisscrosses beneath sentinels of towering pine and across narrow streams. Heave up the rocky terrain until you reach Ediza, the route's crown jewel and your reward for several hours of effortful hiking. This postcard of Sierra Nevadan beauty is one of the range's most magnificent lakes, and many outdoor enthusiasts opt to stay overnight. Though I've never committed to a sleepover myself, it's hard to imagine waking up to a more breathtaking view.
If you're looking for a gorgeous lake hike in the Ansel Adams Wilderness area, I recommend an excursion to the Shadow and Ediza Lakes Trail. We might've officially bid summer adieu, but this route only grows more beautiful with autumnal reds and golds speckling the sheer slopes.
Plan your visit to this alpine lake before the end of October, and share some of your favorite Northern Californian hikes with other nature lovers!
Southern California is hardly the first place most people would think of when it comes to enjoying glorious fall foliage - any more than it is considered a white winter destination. But the truth is that, despite our generally moderate year-round weather, we do experience a lovely fall season (in fact, it happens to be my favorite season!) The fall here may not be quite as long or dramatic as some other states, but if you know when and where to go, you can immerse yourself in vibrant shades of red and gold, along with the beautifully crisp weather.
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When do leaves change color in Southern California? Where are the best places to see it happen? Every year, the Smoky Mountains team puts out a fabulous Fall Foliage Prediction Map for the whole country - yep, even Southern California - and we have zeroed in on some must-visit spots for 2024’s fall season!
In Southern California, as surprising as it sounds, Los Angeles County is often the first to start showing off its seasonal colors! It is expected to start as early as mid-September and reach peak color around the first or second week of October.
Los Angeles skyline at sunrise
Arguably the best place in LA County to revel in reds, golds, and yellows is Malibu Creek State Park, which also happens to be an amazing place to hike, with tons of trails, grassy meadows, pretty mountains, rock pools, a lake, and more to add to the incredible fall beauty.
With stunningly manicured gardens as well as trees and plants from all over the world, LA’s botanical gardens, such as Descanso Gardens and the Los Angeles County Arboretum are also enchanting when the fall season arrives.
During the first week of October, San Diego County should begin to join the fall show, and you can count on places like Palomar Mountain State Park to be displaying lovely colors. Consider taking the Palomar Mountain Loop for a wonderfully scenic drive that includes the park.
I would also suggest visiting the town of Julian which not only gives visitors a real fall experience but is noted to have some of the best pie in the state - how fall-worthy is that?
If I had to pick one place as Southern California’s fall town, it would be Oak Glen. Famous not only for its outrageous display of color in the fall, but for old-fashioned cider mills, apple and pumpkin picking, an old-timey theme park, and everything else you associate with a true fall wonderland.
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For the best fall foliage experience in Oak Glen, and the rest of San Bernardino County, aim for the second week of October through the end of the month.
Also in the San Bernardino Mountains, Big Bear Lake (which also happens to be a magical winter destination) comes alive in the fall. In the SoCal mountains, the deep green pines and other evergreens are intermingled with vibrant fall colors for a spectacular show.
Not far from Big Bear Lake, and perhaps a bit less crowded, you can also enjoy similar views at Lake Arrowhead. Take a boat ride to enjoy unbeatable views of the village bathed in gold, red, and green.
Nestled in the San Jacinto Mountains in Riverside County, the tiny town of Idyllwild-Pine Cove is an ideal place for a little getaway slightly later in the season. Expect the trees and foliage to start changing colors around the second week in October with the peak during the first half of November.
By mid-November, California’s changing of the leaves has passed its peak, although you can still enjoy glimpses of color in some areas as winter approaches. Now that you know when and where you can surround yourself in fall colors as the leaves change color in Southern California, it’s time to get planning! Pack the car, your favorite sweater, some road trip essentials (and of course, don’t forget the road trip snacks!), and enjoy the show!
In Southern California, as surprising as it sounds, Los Angeles County is often the first to start showing off its seasonal colors! It is expected to start as early as mid-September and reach peak color around the first or second week of October.
Arguably the best place in LA County to revel in reds, golds, and yellows is Malibu Creek State Park, which also happens to be an amazing place to hike, with tons of trails, grassy meadows, pretty mountains, rock pools, a lake, and more to add to the incredible fall beauty.
With stunningly manicured gardens as well as trees and plants from all over the world, LA’s botanical gardens, such as Descanso Gardens and the Los Angeles County Arboretum are also enchanting when the fall season arrives.
During the first week of October, San Diego County should begin to join the fall show, and you can count on places like Palomar Mountain State Park to be displaying lovely colors. Consider taking the Palomar Mountain Loop for a wonderfully scenic drive that includes the park.
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I would also suggest visiting the town of Julian which not only gives visitors a real fall experience but is noted to have some of the best pie in the state - how fall-worthy is that?
Cropped playful woman in coat walking and playing with maple leaves in the park in autumn
If I had to pick one place as Southern California’s fall town, it would be Oak Glen. Famous not only for its outrageous display of color in the fall, but for old-fashioned cider mills, apple and pumpkin picking, an old-timey theme park, and everything else you associate with a true fall wonderland.
For the best fall foliage experience in Oak Glen, and the rest of San Bernardino County, aim for the second week of October through the end of the month.
Also in the San Bernardino Mountains, Big Bear Lake (which also happens to be a magical winter destination) comes alive in the fall. In the SoCal mountains, the deep green pines and other evergreens are intermingled with vibrant fall colors for a spectacular show.
Not far from Big Bear Lake, and perhaps a bit less crowded, you can also enjoy similar views at Lake Arrowhead. Take a boat ride to enjoy unbeatable views of the village bathed in gold, red, and green.
Nestled in the San Jacinto Mountains in Riverside County, the tiny town of Idyllwild-Pine Cove is an ideal place for a little getaway slightly later in the season. Expect the trees and foliage to start changing colors around the second week in October with the peak during the first half of November.
By mid-November, California’s changing of the leaves has passed its peak, although you can still enjoy glimpses of color in some areas as winter approaches. Now that you know when and where you can surround yourself in fall colors as the leaves change color in Southern California, it’s time to get planning! Pack the car, your favorite sweater, some road trip essentials (and of course, don’t forget the road trip snacks!), and enjoy the show!
