The Most Criminally Overlooked Town in Southern California and Why You Need To Visit

We all have our favorite spots to visit in Southern California, from bustling big cities to quiet beachside communities and even dusty desert destinations. But one part of Southern California that's often overlooked deserves a little attention—SoCal's mountain towns. And there's one town in particular that is well worth a visit. Take a look at some of the fun things to do in Wrightwood, California.

The town of Wrightwood in the San Gabriel Mountains is one spot you should take some time to explore. Located on State Highway 2, only 90 minutes from Los Angeles, Wrightwood is the ultimate quick getaway that will take you out of the city and into a quaint small-town retreat.

From the moment you arrive in downtown Wrightwood, you'll experience charm at every turn. If you are hungry, make sure to head to the popular Evergreen Cafe for a hearty mountain meal, or grab a seat outside on a warm afternoon.

You'll notice the pine trees in Wrightwood are absolutely heavenly. The smell alone will make you stop and savor the fresh air. Wrightwood is home to Mountain High, Southern California's winter resort for skiing and inner tubing.

In the summer, Mountain High offers a different kind of adventure full of outdoorsy hikes with endless SoCal views. And of course, throughout other parts of Wrightwood, you'll find all sorts of picturesque trails, like Big Pine Nature Trail, that are made for wandering and exploring. And even though this charming mountain town may not have its own lake, Wrightwood is centrally located and only a short 10-minute drive to Jackson Lake. Now that's the best of both worlds!

But don't just head here for a day trip. This is the kind of town that deserves an entire weekend. Whether you want to spend time outdoors or just relax in the mountains, Wrightwood offers countless opportunities. It truly is the perfect spot, no matter what season you are visiting.