Are you ready to escape the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles and dive into nature’s embrace? Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer looking for the next thrill or simply need a breath of fresh air, Los Angeles offers some incredible day trips perfect for nature lovers. This guide will walk you through some of the most breathtaking natural spots just a short drive from LA. Let’s start with Day 1.
Day 1: Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park is a desert paradise known for its unique Joshua trees, stunning rock formations, and star-studded night skies. Located about a 2-3 hour drive from Los Angeles, it’s the perfect destination for a nature-filled day trip.
Morning: Arrival and Hidden Valley Nature Trail
Upon arrival, head straight to the Hidden Valley Nature Trail. This one-mile loop is an easy hike but offers spectacular views of the park’s iconic rock formations and desert flora. The trail is well-marked and provides plenty of opportunities for great photography.
Midday: Barker Dam and Picnic Lunch
After exploring Hidden Valley, make your way to the Barker Dam Trail. This 1.3-mile loop takes you to a historic dam built in the early 1900s, and depending on the time of year, you may even find some water in the reservoir. It’s a great spot to see local wildlife and take a leisurely walk.
Pack a lunch and enjoy a picnic at one of the park’s designated picnic areas. The Hidden Valley Picnic Area is a great choice, with shaded tables and beautiful views.
Afternoon: Keys View and Cholla Cactus Garden
In the afternoon, drive up to Keys View for a panoramic view of the Coachella Valley, the San Andreas Fault, and on clear days, even Mexico. This is one of the best viewpoints in the park and perfect for a quick break and some stunning photos.
Next, head over to the Cholla Cactus Garden, an absolute must-see. This area is densely populated with Cholla cacti, and the light in the late afternoon makes for mesmerizing views and incredible photos. Be cautious as these cacti are known for their sharp spines!
Evening: Sunset at Skull Rock
No trip to Joshua Tree is complete without witnessing the sunset. Make your way to Skull Rock, a famous rock formation that looks like a giant skull. The surrounding area offers some short trails where you can find the perfect spot to watch the desert sky change colors as the sun sets.
As darkness falls, Joshua Tree is renowned for its dark skies, making it an excellent spot for stargazing. If you’re not in a rush to return to LA, consider staying a bit longer to gaze at the stars.
Day 2: Malibu Creek State Park
On Day 2, head to Malibu Creek State Park. This stunning park, located just 25 miles from downtown Los Angeles, offers a beautiful escape into nature. Known for its scenic views, hiking trails, and historical significance, Malibu Creek State Park is a perfect day trip destination.
Morning: Rock Pool and Malibu Lake
Start your day with a visit to the Rock Pool. This area features a natural swimming hole surrounded by impressive rock formations. It’s a great spot for a morning dip or just to relax and enjoy the serene environment.
Next, take the trail to Malibu Lake. The walk offers picturesque views and is suitable for all skill levels. The lake itself is a beautiful spot where you can enjoy the reflections of the surrounding hills on the water.
Midday: Century Lake and M*A*S*H Site
After exploring the lake, make your way to Century Lake, another scenic spot that’s perfect for a leisurely hike and taking in the natural beauty of the park. This area is well-known among locals for its tranquility.
For a bit of history and something unique, visit the site where the TV show M*A*S*H was filmed. There are remnants of the set, and the location is well-marked with informational signs. It’s an interesting twist to your nature hike and offers some great photo opportunities.
Afternoon: Mulholland Highway Scenic Drive
In the afternoon, take a scenic drive along Mulholland Highway. This drive offers some of the best views of the Santa Monica Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, making it a perfect way to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the region.
There are several lookout points along the highway where you can pull over, enjoy the view, and take some stunning photographs. Don’t miss the Piuma Road overlook for a particularly breathtaking view.
Evening: Malibu Seafood and Beach Sunset
Conclude your day with a delicious meal at Malibu Seafood, a popular spot known for its fresh seafood and ocean views. Try the grilled fish or clam chowder while enjoying the sea breeze.
After your meal, head to one of Malibu’s beautiful beaches, such as Zuma Beach, to watch the sunset. The sight of the sun setting over the Pacific Ocean is truly mesmerizing and a perfect end to your nature-filled day trip.
Day 3: Angeles National Forest
On Day 3, explore the expansive Angeles National Forest. Situated just north of Los Angeles, this forest covers over 700,000 acres and offers a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, picnicking, and wildlife watching.
Morning: Mount Wilson Observatory and Hiking Trails
Start your day with a visit to the Mount Wilson Observatory. This historic observatory sits at an elevation of 5,710 feet and provides incredible views of the Los Angeles Basin. It’s open to the public and offers guided tours that delve into both astronomy and the history of the site.
After exploring the observatory, take on one of the many hiking trails in the area. The Mount Wilson Trail offers a moderate hike with breathtaking views of the forest and surrounding areas. Don’t forget to bring your camera for some fantastic photo opportunities.
Midday: Picnic at Crystal Lake
Head to Crystal Lake, the only naturally occurring lake in the San Gabriel Mountains. This beautiful spot is ideal for a picnic lunch. Pack a meal, find a cozy spot by the lake, and enjoy the serene surroundings. You can also take a leisurely walk around the lake or just relax and take in the views.
Afternoon: Sturtevant Falls and Nature Exploration
Next, make your way to the Sturtevant Falls trailhead. The hike to the falls is about 3.25 miles round trip and is moderately challenging. The waterfall is a beautiful reward at the end of the trail, cascading into a serene pool surrounded by lush vegetation.
Take some time to explore the flora and fauna of the area. The forest is home to a diverse array of wildlife, and if you’re lucky, you might spot some deer, squirrels, or an array of bird species.
Evening: Sunset at Inspiration Point
End your day at Inspiration Point, a lookout that offers some of the best views in the Angeles National Forest. The hike to the viewpoint is relatively easy, and the vantage point provides a stunning panorama of the forest and the city of Los Angeles in the distance.
Arriving at Inspiration Point around sunset will allow you to witness the sky painted in hues of orange and pink, a fitting end to a day immersed in nature. The sight of the mountains bathed in the soft glow of the evening sun is truly spectacular.
