Winter in Southern California is always something to look forward to. Since most of the year in SoCal is sunny with a chance of more sun, the winter season provides a break from the heat and a chance to seek out some chilly weather. Now that winter is officially here, we’ve put together a list of our favorite places to experience the winter season in SoCal. From snowy hikes to Christmas lights and everything in between, a SoCal winter is something to embrace. You can easily turn them into some charming winter day trips in Southern California!

1. Enchanted Forest of Light
1418 Descanso Dr, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011, USA
facebook/descanso gardens
The winter season in SoCal isn't complete without an annual visit to the Enchanted Forest of Light at Descanso Gardens. This magical winter wonderland of dazzling lights is an outing the whole family will enjoy! Make sure to grab tickets as this event often sells out each year.
2. Wrightwood
Wrightwood, CA, USA
flickr/russ allison loar
During the winter season, we all need a little snow. One of the best tiny towns to visit in SoCal where you most likely will find fresh snow this winter is the town of Wrightwood. With a small local village and nearby access to skiing, this mountain getaway in SoCal is a local favorite. 
3. The Grill at Antler's Inn
26125 CA-189, Twin Peaks, CA 92391, USA
facebook/the grill at antler's inn
Winter is made for hearty meals. And it doesn't get any better than the Grill at Antlers Inn to hit the spot. Although you can visit this gem all year long, we especially love the winter season for comfort food like this mouthwatering meal that looks simply divine.
4. Big Bear Snow Play
42825 Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315, USA
googlemaps/abdullah siddique
Dig out your winter gear and head to Big Bear Snow Play for a day of fun at SoCal's longest snow tubing run. Whether you're a kid or just a kid at heart, this thrilling winter adventure is a blast for everyone.

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5. Festival of Lights
3649 Mission Inn Avenue, Riverside, CA 92501, USA
facebook/mission inn hotel and spa
The Festival of Lights is an annual tradition in SoCal that draws an audience from all over the world. With millions of holiday lights on display at the historic Mission Inn Hotel and Spa, the magic of Christmas comes to life in downtown Riverside during November and December each season. 
6. SkyPark at Santa's Village
28950 CA-18, Skyforest, CA 92385, USA
facebook/SkyPark at Santa's Village
A SoCal winter simply is not the same without making a visit to SkyPark at Santa's Village during the holiday season. Step inside an enchanting winter park that feels just like a magical snow globe. Visit with Santa, take a spin around the outdoor ice skating rink, and sip hot cocoa in a gingerbread house. It's a delight!
7. Round Valley Trail, Mt. San Jacinto State Park
Round Valley Trail, California, USA
flickr/mitch barrie
Looking for a great winter hike to experience right after a fresh snow? Head to Round Valley Trail at Mt. San Jacinto State Park for this 2.5-mile trail, and you'll be treated to a refreshing nature hike in a serene setting that will surround you with peace and quiet.
8. Jumbo Rocks Campground
Jumbo Rocks Campground, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277, USA
googlemaps/reuben cohn
Camping may not be the first thing that comes to mind during the winter season, but here in SoCal that can be one of the best times of year to pitch a tent and enjoy a peaceful slumber under the stars. Especially when it comes to camping in the desert, as SoCal temps are way too hot to enjoy these areas during the summer. By the time winter rolls around, the weather is perfect for enjoying the climate at Jumbo Rocks Campground.

Where’s your favorite place for a winter vacation in Southern California? With so many options, it’s quite hard to choose! If you’re curious about what to expect during the winter in SoCal, keep reading to find out how to survive a Southern California winter.

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Winter Day Trips in Southern California

Tori Jane | December 14, 2021

What are some fun things to do in winter in Southern California?  

Some fun things to do in winter in Southern California include:

 

There are so many fun events, festivals, and activities to do all over the state; for example, look up towns that are having Christmas boat parades, or take a relaxing bike tour of your favorite city or town to admire the lights, décor, and holiday spirit. And did you know that winter is the peak season for whale watching off the coast? It’s true – it totally is, and there are few experiences quite as inspiring as whale watching. If you’re craving that mountain town vibe, you’ll want to visit Mount Laguna. Some years, there’s enough snow for skiing and snowboarding and all your other favorite winter activities; check it out and you’ll love it as much as we do! You’ll want to check out Snowdrift Snow Tubing Park, in Green Valley Lake. It’s a blast and a half!  

What are the best ski resorts in Southern California?  

The best ski resorts in Southern California are

  • Bear Mountain
  • Snow Summit
  • Mammoth Mountain

 

Bear Mountain, is known for its awesome freestyle skiing and snowboarding. It’s home to SoCal’s only Superpipe! Then, there’s Snow Summit, a resort that’s perfect for the whole family. This resort uses state-of-the-art snowmaking machines to keep the slopes nice and powdery for some of the best skiing in all of SoCal. Mammoth Mountain is another popular one; it’s huge, and it has one of the longest on-seasons in the United States. We also love Snow Valley, which has plenty of slopes for beginners. 

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