Everything to know about Idyllwild, California

Idyllwild, California has some personal significance to me, so it was extra exciting to finally be able to see this California mountain town. I went with my fiancé and our dog to celebrate my fiancé's (somewhat) recent milestone birthday. Our overnight trip was in late February, and we were driving from Los Angeles.

Idyllwild is a mountain town located in the San Jacinto Mountains and is about a two-hour drive from Los Angeles. Idyllwild makes for a great day trip, overnight trip, or weekend trip. In this article, I’ll share what to know if you’re considering a mini-getaway to this quaint town in the mountains.

What is Idyllwild known for?
Idyllwild is a mountain town located in the San Jacinto Mountains in Southern California. It’s about a two-hour drive from Los Angeles. Idyllwild provides access to hiking, wilderness, and local businesses such as restaurants, shops, and wineries. The town is ideal for a short escape from the hustle and bustle of busier SoCal cities. Idyllwild is perfect for a day trip, overnight visit, or weekend getaway. 
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Does Idyllwild have snow?
Yes, Idyllwild has snow. This may be surprising considering it’s located in Southern California, but once you start driving up into the San Jacinto Mountains, it’s as if you’re being transported into a whole other world. You leave the desert climate of inland SoCal and enter a wintery landscape full of snow, beautiful mountains, and pine trees. Now, don’t expect snow in Idyllwild all-year-round, but if you go in the winter, there’s a good chance you’ll hit a beautiful snowfall. 

Is Idyllwild worth visiting?
Yes, Idyllwild is worth visiting. Idyllwild definitely embraces the quaint mountain town aesthetic. From cabin-like lodging to adorable local shops, you shouldn’t be disappointed. Plus, Idyllwild is super-relaxing and quiet; I slept the best I had in months during our overnight stay! Our dog, Piper, also got to meet the Idyllwild Mayor, an adorable golden retriever who made the rounds visiting folks in town. 

Where to Stay in Idyllwild
We stayed at the Silver Pines Lodge, which is located right around the corner from the center of town, so the location is great. Silver Pines Lodge offers cabin-style rooms that are very cozy. The rooms come with a fireplace that runs on a thermostat system, so it's easy to control. The main issue we encountered with our room was that the bathroom does not get heated, and as a result, the floor in there was extremely cold. A refrigerator was included with the room, though, which was a nice addition. They are also pet-friendly, so feel free to bring your dog on the trip if you stay here! 

How long to stay in Idyllwild
You should stay in Idyllwild for a day, overnight, or for the weekend. Idyllwild is not very big, so any time longer than a few days isn’t necessary.