There is a natural wonder in Southern California that must be seen to be believed as it is pure untouched beauty like you've never witnessed before. And, unlike many things this precious, you can actually see it for yourself in person. Here's a look at this rare gem hiding in SoCal that will bring out the explorer in you. Did you have any idea this spot even existed?
This beautiful lava tube is a SoCal treasure that can be witnessed in person by taking a scenic and adventurous Southern California hike.
To reach this destination, just head to Aiken Mine Road in the Mojave National Preserve located in Baker, CA.
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The terrain in this area is a bit rugged, so plan accordingly in the vehicle department. The sturdier the car the better as there are lots of rocks to navigate on this drive.
Be on the lookout for Lave Tube Trail when you arrive. Go ahead and park near the trail sign and plan to hike from here. It's approximately a quarter mile from this spot to reach the lava tube.
That's the sun beaming through the cave opening. It's absolutely radiant. Early afternoon is the best time of day to witness this light so plan your hike accordingly if you can.
To experience the sheer magnificence of this cave, take a look at the breathtaking four minute video captured by the talented Matt Skuta,who takes us on an inside tour of this fascinating natural wonder.:
Isn't this stunning? Like I said, this is one spot you'll want to see in person. Make sure to take a friend as this isn't a place you'll want to explore alone. And fill up your water bottle -- it gets scorching hot out here.
If you love discovering unique rock formations you might also like the fascinating Vasquez Rock Formation that has been gracing SoCal for over 25 million years. So much beauty to discover in Southern California.
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!
