This Scenic Drive Runs Straight Through Southern California’s Angeles National Forest, And It’s A Breathtaking Journey

Sometimes, all it takes to feel like you have gotten away from it all is a beautiful drive. Believe it or not, you do not have to go far from the city to find yourself surrounded by trees, mountains, and breathtaking wilderness. In fact, one of the most beautiful scenic drives in Southern California is almost entirely within Los Angeles County, passing through the Angeles National Forest, and it is one of the most picturesque mountain roads in the state. Let's explore the Angeles Crest Highway in Southern California.

The Angeles Crest Scenic Byway, also known as Angeles Crest Highway or California Highway 2, begins in La Canada Flintridge and winds for 66 miles up and through the Angeles National Forest.

It is hard to believe that miles and miles of pristine mountain forests, as far as you can see, are literally just outside the city.

The views at every turn are striking, from layers of mountain peaks to the canyons and valleys below.

Be prepared for a smooth road, but also for a lot of curves, twists, and turns. Motorcyclists (and car commercial film crews) love this drive!

As a national forest scenic byway, the road is well-maintained and cleared when it is not actively snowing, making this a dreamy drive any time of the year. The high elevation through most of the Angeles National Forest means thick blankets of snow in the winter.

Of course, as with any mountain road, severe weather does cause closures, so it is always a good idea to check road conditions before traveling.

In the spring and summer, the scenery is even more colorful, as evergreens and chaparral are complemented by the appearance of yucca and other blooms on the slopes.

The highway passes through the Angeles Crest Tunnels, a pair of tunnels cut through the rocky mountainside.

When conditions are safe, there is a little area between the tunnels to park and climb down to another tunnel below the road which leads to a secret overlook. Tread carefully as there is a slope and the ground can be loose and rocky.

There are several visitor centers, day-use and picnic areas, and restrooms along the highway, as well as many trailheads worth exploring.

If you want to break up the trip with a little hiking, there are stunning lakes and waterfalls to be discovered along the way.

One of the most beautiful waterfalls, especially after a wet winter, is Cooper Canyon Falls, pictured here.

An intriguing outcropping of boulders known as John Henge Rocks is located just a short walk from the highway.

There is a large turnout on one side of the highway and a small restroom building, so it is a nice place for a short stop.

If you began your drive in La Canada-Flintridge, you will reach the end of the scenic highway in Phelan at the junction of Highways 2 and 138.

You can stop here and enjoy a highly-rated homestyle meal at the ​​Mountain Top Cafe.

See what it’s like to drive on this breathtaking highway:

Start in the city, and find yourself on one of California’s most picturesque drives, surrounded by natural beauty. Have you driven the length of the Angeles Crest Highway in Southern California? What do you think of this beautiful drive? Stay up-to-date on road conditions and closures by visiting Angeles Crest Highway. Pack up the car and get to know a few more of SoCal’s scenic drives.