Blooming Anza-Borrego wildflowers will enrich any desert visit. California wildflowers are beautiful to see all across the state, but the Anza-Borrego Desert is known for showing off in Spring. The typical sandy landscape is transformed into a carpet of vibrant colors during historical “super bloom” seasons. In this portion of our guide to Anza-Borrego with kids, we cover all you need to know about enjoying the Anza-Borrego wildflowers.
I highly recommend planning a visit during wildflower Spring blooms. Wildflower blooms begin in February and peak in mid-March through April. I also like to check the Anza Borrego Desert Natural History Association’s current wildflower update to know what is going on in the park before we head out.
Depending on the level of rain during the previous winter, in combination with colder temperatures (that hold the moisture in the ground), a potential “super bloom” can cover the valley floor. We had a great visit during the 2017 super bloom. More on that visit and strategy for super bloom weekends below.
WHERE CAN I SEE THE WILDFLOWERS?
Anza-Borrego wildflowers bloom throughout the park in Spring, but some areas are known to pop with extra color. These are our favorite places to view the blooms.
ANZA-BORREGO STATE PARK VISITOR CENTER WILDFLOWERS
I always recommend checking in with the Visitor Center before visiting Anza-Borrego to ask about current conditions. However, this is an especially convenient strategy as the Visitor Center landscape is one of the best places to see the Anza-Borrego wildflowers!
BORREGO PALM CANYON TRAIL WILDFLOWERS
As one of Anza-Borrego State Park’s most popular hikes, The Borrego Palm Canyon Trail leads to a lush oasis in the desert. At a 3-miles round trip, this hike is family-friendly and a great option any time of the year. In addition, due to the water in the area, this hike is a top pick when exploring Anza Borrego wildflowers. You can read this post for more about the Borrego Palm Canyon Trail.
DESERT MEADOW ALONG HENDERSON CANYON ROAD
The open desert landscape becomes a beautiful meadow during wildflower season. The surrounding mountains and flowers that seem to go on forever make this a fun place to explore. In addition, when other areas like the Visitor Center and Borrego Palm Canyon Trailhead have no parking available, these meadows are accessible by just pulling over on the side of the road.
DESERT MEADOW ALONG DIGIORGIO ROAD
This is another meadow we love that is easily accessible by pulling off the side of the road. These meadows are especially great with kids, as they can hop out of the car and roam. They also make for some beautiful pictures with your kids.
HOW CAN I ENJOY A VISIT DURING SUPERBLOOM?
DO NOT SPEND HOURS WAITING IN TRAFFIC, FOR PARKING, FOR MEALS, ETC.
Super bloom years, like 2017 and 2019, draw hundreds of thousands of visitors to Borrego Springs searching for the colorful blooms blanketing the desert floor. In 2017, visitors to Anza-Borrego were at an all-time high, and traffic was horrendous. What usually takes about 10 minutes coming down the hill was backed up over two hours. Parking for one of the best places to see blooms, the Borrego Palm Canyon Trail, was packed full by 8 am. Here is our strategy for a successful family trip to see the Anza-Borrego super bloom.
SUNRISE ARRIVAL
We are NOT morning people, but after reading about how impacted Borrego Springs was by all of the visitors, I knew we needed to take a more drastic approach to our visit. So we left North County San Diego around 4:30 am, with the goal of parking shortly after sunrise. It was very early, but we had just moved our son in pajamas, and he continued sleeping in the car. We packed had a picnic packed to avoid the hours of waiting we had read about in town.
Although the majority of the drive was in the dark, as we came over the hill, the sun began to rise. The drive into the desert is something I always love, but this time was even more spectacular. Our excitement was building, knowing we would soon be some of the first to explore.
HIKE BORREGO PALM CANYON TRAIL
Our early morning strategy did not disappoint. We pulled into the Borrego Palm Canyon Trailhead with ease as the sun began shining over the valley. Although shortly after 6:30 am, cars were already filling in behind us. We headed out into one of the best places to view Anza-Borrego wildflowers, the Borrego Palm Canyon Trail. You can read more about this trail here.
Due to our early arrival, we were leaving the trail shortly after 9 am. This also allowed us to beat the desert heat that was starting to pick up. The backup to get down the hill and into the parking area for the Visitor Center and Borrego Palm Canyon Trail was VERY long and looked incredibly frustrating. We knew immediately that our early arrival was key.
EXPLORE AND PICNIC IN THE DIGIORGIO ROAD AND HENDERSON CANYON ROAD
After our hike, we headed out to the meadows on DiGiorgio Road and Henderson Canyon. The rangers at the Visitor Center told us that these were some of the best spots to see the wildflowers. In addition, they make an easy stop with kids because you can pull off on the side of the road. We were able to have our late morning picnic lunch here as well. I HIGHLY recommend packing a picnic as the lines in town during super blooms are VERY frustrating.
LEAVE TOWN BEFORE THE AFTERNOON CROWDS AND HEAT PICK UP
At this point, you will have been up almost 8 hours and hiked over 3 miles. As the afternoon heat and crowds pick up, you will probably find that trying to do more will flip the mood of your trip. We recommend leaving town on the 78 towards Julian and stopping in for a beverage when you get there. Also, don’t forget to enjoy the daffodils blooming near the Julian Library and Wynola Pizza.
LEARN MORE ABOUT WHAT TO DO IN ANZA-BORREGO
Click the images below to read more of our favorite things to do in Anza-Borrego State Park and Borrego Springs.
In this portion of our guide to Anza-Borrego State Park, we will cover the marvel known as the Galleta Meadows Estate. You may recognize these iconic sculptures from photos you have seen of the Anza-Borrego Desert and Borrego Springs. The Galleta Meadows Estate is a stop you do not want to miss when visiting Anza-Borrego State Park!
Galleta Meadows is the unique creation of Ricardo Breceda that can be seen throughout Borrego Springs. Locals refer to the sculptures as “Sky Art.” The free-standing sculptures attract visitors of all ages to Borrego Springs. The sculptures were commissioned by Dennis Avery (yes, Avery, like your printer labels). He loved the town of Borrego Springs and purchased over 3,000 acres in the 1990s to keep it protected from development. He wanted his land to become an outdoor gallery for all to enjoy. As a result, Galleta Meadows now has over 130 statues scattered across the estate.
The giant free-standing statues can weigh up to 1000 pounds. The sculptures are a tribute to the prehistoric animals that once roamed the desert land. The designs have cultural and historical significance to the area. Fossils similar to many of the prehistoric designs have been found nearby. You will see giant birds, sabertooth cats, mammoths, dinosaurs, prehistoric animals, and the famous Borrego serpent.
HOW TO TOUR GALLETA MEADOWS
Touring the statues is fun for kids of all ages. As you head into the dirt roads of Galleta Meadows, the paths around the statues curve around cactus and other native plants. There is no one correct way to drive in or out. There are multiple areas to explore around Borrego Springs. Although we have visited several times, we still have not seen all 130 statues! Several creatures are located behind the Borrego Chamber of Commerce, making it an excellent stop for pictures and information!
In my opinion, there is no better way to end a day in the desert with kids than to watch the cotton candy skies appear in Borrego Springs in Galleta Meadows. We love to pick a new statue from the map, park our car, and set up our camping chairs or picnic blankets to watch the sun go down. Then, as the pink fades away, the stars come out, and you are left in awe of the incredible sight.
LEARN MORE ABOUT WHAT TO DO IN ANZA-BORREGO
Click the images below to read more of our favorite things to do in Anza-Borrego State Park and Borrego Springs.
When you are planning a visit to Anza-Borrego, you will want to take some time to explore Borrego Springs. The desert town is surrounded by Anza-Borrego State Park and makes for a great stop with kids. With over 2,000 residents, the town offers a unique view of desert living. Although small and seemingly quiet, Borrego Springs has a variety of restaurants, hotels, and shops that line the downtown area. So, if you are looking for a hotel, restaurant, or market in the Anza-Borrego Desert, Borrego Springs is where you will need to be.
The town of Borrego Springs is the most popular and central place to stay (with the exception of camping) and dine when visiting Anza-Borrego State Park. There are no stoplights in town, and all roads lead to different parts of Anza-Borrego State Park. Scattered around town, you will see the massive animal sculptures of Galleta Meadows. Most shops and restaurants are a walking distance from the town center, Christmas Card Circle (a park inside a roundabout). At night, the skies above Borrego Springs transform from cotton candy pink to a star-studded panorama.
STARGAZING IN BORREGO SPRINGS
Borrego Springs is the only town in California designated as an International Dark Sky Community, making it an incredible place for stargazing. In addition, the city works to preserve the night sky for generations to come by using responsible outdoor lighting and educating citizens about light pollution. Between these conservation efforts and the wide-open landscape, stargazing is a must when visiting Borrego Springs.
SELEY RANCH RED GRAPEFRUIT
When I first heard about grapefruit in Borrego Springs, I was skeptical. It did not fit the typical desert landscape I thought of when I pictured our visits to Anza-Borrego. However, I will never visit Borrego Springs without taking home a bag of these delicious, oh-so-sweet Seley Red organic grapefruits.
There are several farm stands in town. We opted to check out the farm stand by the ranch entrance at 901 Borrego Valley Road. The fruit stands operate on the honor system, so cash is necessary. At the farm stand by the ranch, we grabbed a bag of 13 giant grapefruits for $4. Unfortunately, the farm was closed on the day of our visit, but you can always reach out to Seley Ranch to see if you can stop by to say hello. The citrus orchard has been a family-run business in Borrego since 1957.
Just along Christmas Circle, you will see the blue Kiwanis building pictured below in the heart of town. Here, you can grab a bag for $5 as you explore the city of Borrego. Either way, you will be thrilled to have these to enjoy once you are home.
WHERE TO EAT IN BORREGO SPRINGS
CARLEE’S PLACE
When we first drove through Borrego Springs, the large neon sign had me thinking Carlee’s Place was a liquor store or biker bar. I wanted to know more about it, and I am glad I looked into it! It has become one of our favorite places to eat in Borrego Springs. Carlee’s Place is a staple in the community and has been a part of town for many years. Carlee’s Place serves classic American fare and is open for lunch and dinner.
We visited during COVID, so we could not enjoy the pool table or live music that is a staple on weekends at Carlee’s Place. However, we enjoyed our time on their outdoor patio. We had Carlee’s burger because I had heard so much about it, and it was delicious! Everything is made from scratch, and the burger was cooked to perfection. Carlee’s Place is a family-friendly place with a wait staff that makes you feel welcome and comfortable. In addition, they have a full bar and craft beer list to please any beer lover!
RED OCOTILLO
Red Ocotillo serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner just off Christmas Circle in Borrego Springs. They have delicious farm-to-table cuisine. The menu includes fresh garden salads, burgers, steaks, pasta, soups, and desserts. Red Ocotillo has a full bar with signature cocktails, mimosas, beer, and wine. The patio has been expanded due to COVID restrictions on dining, and the patio is pet-friendly. The twinkle lights wrapped all around the surrounding have me dreaming of a steak and glass of wine under the twinkling stars of Borrego’s fantastic night sky. Next visit!
We loved our breakfast here. The breakfast burrito ingredients were all chopped finely and not overwhelming. The variety of signature benedicts all sounded delicious, and we opted for the crab cake benedict, which did not disappoint. The garlic and rosemary potatoes as our breakfast side dish were perfectly crispy on the outside and smooth inside. Our OJ was freshly squeezed, and they even surprised us with slices of coffee cake while waiting for our meal.
KESLING’S KITCHEN
I have wanted to try Kesling’s Kitchen for a long time. The menu changes daily, and the focus of the restaurant is the wood-fired stove in the kitchen. Next door to the Borrego Art Institute, the food and desserts are forms of art themselves. The menu plays on all cuisines, and the food is unique. Unfortunately, there are no options for kids, so if your child is not open to various new flavors, be prepared to get creative while paying full entree prices. Check their Facebook page for the updated menu to know if it will work for your family that day!
During our COVID-era visit, the restaurant had packed many dishes to-go, and the patio had plenty of options for outdoor dining. We ordered at the counter, and our son was incredibly excited about the cookie and dessert options. In addition, they have a large cooler with a great beverage selection. This is ideal on a hot desert day! I was thrilled to see kombucha options and LOVED this lavender lemonade option!
We stopped for lunch, and my husband and I shared the fish tacos and Asian pork tacos. We loved all of the flavors and sauces. Our son had the fried chicken sandwich plain as it was the best option for him. We loved adding everything back on the second half to share! Our table neighbors got the Asian BBQ ribs box for two, and it looked great. They said it was delicious as well! It is a fun idea to take for a sunset picnic out by the sculptures in Galleta Meadows.
ONE FINAL THOUGHT
I need to say that although the food was tasty, the woman working was pretty rude and left us feeling like the visit did not live up to what I had hoped. I like to think of us as pretty easygoing, and we both understand what it is like to work in restaurants. The guy working the cash register was super nice, but the woman running food was just… not. We were pretty surprised.
I know COVID has drained everyone, and restaurants in CA have suffered immensely. I will not judge the whole restaurant on this part of the experience, but I do see it in other reviews. We want to try Kesling’s Kitchen again and will update you after our next visit. I feel like I have to be honest with my people! And please let me know if you have a different experience.
BIG HORN BURGERS & SHAKES
Big Horn Burgers & Shakes is the counter order restaurant in the Palm Canyon Hotel and RV Resort. This is an excellent hotel for families, and the burgers and shakes are great here. The menu is super easy to customize, and the restaurant has plenty of outdoor and indoor seating. The menu is simple but will appeal to most visitors of any age.
We had a 1/4 beef burger with caramelized onions, lettuce, tomato, ketchup & mustard. It was delicious! We let our son have a taste test between the vanilla and Oreo shake! He voted Oreo, and we all agreed they were both excellent. They also had an “adult” shakes menu that would be fun to sip by the patio heaters under the starry sky. Big Horn Burgers and Shakes makes grabbing dinner with your family easy after a busy day exploring Anza-Borrego State Park.
CENTER MARKET
Center Market is central in town and a go-to place for whatever you need to pick up last minute. Water bottles, band-aids, sunscreen, souvenirs- you can find it all at the Center Market. NEVER head out to explore in the desert without food and water. I was excited about the deli and the idea of picking up deli sandwiches, pasta salads, and drinks on our way out for some desert adventures. However, we quickly realized the deli is not always staffed. Premade sandwiches and sides like pasta salad, potato salad, and broccoli salad were available in the deli coolers.
We tried the deli at Center Market on a Saturday, and nobody was available to make sandwiches. We tried again on a Sunday by texting in our order as it says online and received a text saying they were “unable to confirm our request.” So not too sure the texting option works. On Sunday, we ended up grabbing roast beef sandwiches to-go, but by Sunday, the side salad options were gone. This visit was during peak season, but also COVID, so hard to know if this is the norm.
WHERE TO STAY IN BORREGO SPRINGS
LA CASA DEL ZORRO
La Casa Del Zorro is a luxury resort outside of town. Although we have not stayed here, I know we will soon enough and love it. We have friends that love coming here each year, and it is the place to go in town for a desert resort-style stay. The property is filled with historic adobe buildings, several pools, fountains, lush gardens, and beautiful rooms. Just outside of town, the resort offers food and beverage options along with family-friendly casitas and pools. Prices start around $280-400/night. We always book with Expedia to ensure a competitive rate.
PALM CANYON HOTEL & RV RESORT
The Palm Canyon Hotel & RV Resort is an excellent option for families. The entire hotel is built with a wild west theme that our son LOVED. In addition to your room needs, there are RV sites and vintage Airstreams available as well. There is a pool to cool off in, and Big Horn Burgers and Shakes will take care of all of your food and beverage needs. In addition, we received chocolate chip cookies and two saloon drink coupons at check-in. Something for the whole family!
More of a motel style, the rooms have everything you need for a comfortable stay. We had two queen beds, a refrigerator, and a microwave. Although our room did not have a balcony (some do), we had a great view from our front door. Another highlight was stargazing from right outside our room once our kids fell asleep. I highly recommend this hotel for families planning to be out and about in Anza-Borrego State Park during the day. Palm Canyon Resort runs $120-$180/room on Expedia, depending on the season. Your rate includes free parking, free Wifi, and fresh cookies upon arrival!
GLAMP at the DESERT SANDS VINTAGE RV RESORT
Next door to the Palm Canyon Hotel and RV Resort is the Desert Sands Vintage RV Resort. Although we have not stayed here, the vintage trailers look like a fun way to enjoy the desert. Most trailers require a two-night minimum, but they offer a fun way to feel like you are camping with everything set up for you! I will update here once we can check them out!
CAMPING IN ANZA-BORREGO STATE PARK
Anza-Borrego State Park is unique because they allow dispersed camping in the park. Unlike so many state parks, you do not need to plan months in advance to score a campsite. This is especially helpful in our new COVID-era. Even more remote, 4WD can take you deep into the desert camping under the stars with NOBODY around you. Camping rules require you to not park your car more than one car length off the road and at least 100 yards away from water. Please keep in mind that no campground also means no amenities, so make plans for responsible fires, bathroom use, and pack out what you pack in! Always check the weather before setting up camp yourself. Desert rains can quickly turn into flash floods.
Less than two hours away from San Diego, Anza-Borrego State Park is the largest State Park in California. The desert is an exciting and beautiful place to escape as a family and explore for the day. Some may wonder what to do in the Anza-Borrego desert. The goal of our guide is to show you that time in the desert is time well spent! With over 100 miles of paved road and five times that in 4WD roads to explore, Anza-Borrego State Park is sure to quench your thirst for adventure.
Our family-friendly guide will help you decide what to do in Anza-Borrego. Check out all of the adventures to help you plan a perfect experience for your family. You can spend the day exploring the art scene in Borrego Springs, off-roading to some incredible landforms (4WD required), hiking a variety of unique trails, or taking scenic drives along the highway with short stops along the way. Watching the sun go down under the cotton candy skies of Borrego Springs is a must-do for all. Not to mention the stars that come out at night! Wildflowers are abundant in spring and should not be missed. So, let’s get started planning your next adventure!
Anza-Borrego State Park is about an hour and 45 minutes from San Diego. Although a bit of a longer stretch, you can do it in a few different ways. No matter the route you choose, coming down the hill into the desert is spectacular.
FROM SAN DIEGO
The highlighted route that heads through Ramona is how most GPS will take you to Anza-Borrego State Park from San Diego. This route almost takes you into Julian, but you turn off Highway 78 in Santa Isabel. We have gone this way several times, and it is a pretty direct and scenic route.
If you live in East County San Diego, you can also head through Cuyamaca Rancho State Park into Julian. You will then head east on Highway 78 to enter Anza-Borrego State Park. This route provides exciting scenery, including Lake Cuyamaca, but the roads are very windy and not ideal for anyone prone to carsick.
I love to leave Anza-Borrego through Julian. The town of Julian is a favorite of ours. We enjoy stopping in for a beverage after a hike in the desert. This also gives you a bit of a loop home, which is always an excellent option to change up the scenery.
FROM NORTH COUNTY SAN DIEGO
Coming from North County San Diego, our favorite way to the desert is to take the highlighted route below. This drive takes you through Cleveland National Forest by Mount Palomar and Lake Henshaw. The scenery is lovely, and we enjoy being in the mountains and pines and then coming down into the desert. There are several vista points on this route to step out and stretch your legs as well.
ANZA-BORREGO STATE PARK VISITOR CENTER
If you follow my blog, you know we love a good old stop at the Visitor Center on the way into a park. I love collecting park maps, information and checking in with park rangers on suggestions for hikes, exploring, and current conditions. Our son loves picking up his Junior Ranger booklet to complete as we explore the park. I highly recommend you do the same. Stop at the State Park Visitor Center to ensure you are headed in the right direction. Rangers are a great resource to help you decide what to explore during your visit on that particular day.
The Anza-Borrego State Park Visitor Center is a unique stop because the actual building is built into the desert landscape. It has several desert exhibits and shows five different 15-minute films about the surrounding Anza-Borrego desert. In addition, park rangers and volunteers are available with information, maps, and hiking guides. The Anza-Borrego State Park visitor center is always our first stop coming into town. Please note cellular service is not reliable in Anza-Borrego. Hence, it is great to have hard copies of photos of the information you hope to reference during your visit.
EXPLORE THE VISITOR CENTER GROUNDS TOO!
The Visitor Center is surrounded by a desert garden that gives a glimpse into flora and fauna of the surrounding park. The garden also includes a pupfish pond, which kids will enjoy seeing. These fish date back to the ice ages and have continued to adapt for survival. They can survive in fresh and salty water, desert heat, and near-freezing temperatures. In addition, the garden offers picnic tables and walking trails for exploring.
Both designated trails are flat and paved, making them accessible for visitors of all ages and abilities. In addition, a short, 15-minute all-access Nature Trail leaves from the Visitor Center entrance and includes interpretive panels about the surrounding area. There is also a 1.4-mile trail to the campground and back that teaches visitors about the area’s plants and animals. Dogs are allowed on this campground trail.
WHEN SHOULD YOU VISIT ANZA-BORREGO STATE PARK?
Although the park is open year-round, the desert heat can peak June through September. Visits from October through May offer more comfortable temperatures for exploring and hiking. Wildflowers are abundant in spring. There is a $10 parking and day-use fee when using the Visitor Center area to explore. An annual pass for CA State Parks, including the beach parking pass, will cover your day-use fee anywhere in the park! Machines like the pay & display below are available for credit card payments.
CHECK CURRENT ROAD CONDITIONS
If you are interested in exploring some of the 4WD roads, the volunteers at the Visitor Center will have the most updated information about specific road conditions. The desert road conditions frequently change due to flooding and heat, so I HIGHLY recommend checking in before heading out on a 4WD adventure. I also recommend taking a picture of the updated info, so you can access it while exploring the park.
We have a Subaru with AWD, so we were disappointed to find out during a recent visit that the road to Font’s Point was not a great option for us in its current heavy, thick sand state. The volunteers at the Visitor Center informed us that even Jeeps have been getting stuck in the sand. Between no cell service and the closest tow coming from Ramona, being stuck in the sand with hungry and hot kids is not a way to kick off a family-friendly adventure. Therefore, checking in on CURRENT road conditions is essential for a successful experience.
Now that you have the CURRENT information you need for an incredible trip, you are ready to get out and enjoy all that Anza-Borrego State Park has to offer!
LEARN MORE ABOUT WHAT TO DO IN ANZA-BORREGO
Click the images below to read more of our favorite things to do in Anza-Borrego State Park and Borrego Springs.
Felicita Park is an excellent place for a morning or afternoon adventure with kids. Located just north of San Diego in Escondido, California, the park is filled with trails to explore. The park was once a Kumeyaay Indian Village and is surrounded by climbing rocks, oak trees, a creek, and a waterfall. In addition, San Diego County has enriched the park with playgrounds and picnic areas to enhance your visit.
FELICITA COUNTY PARK INFORMATION
Felicita County Park is located in Escondido, California. The park is open 9:30 am – sunset. There is a $3 charge to park. Although there is a credit card option, it is not always reliable. I recommend bringing $3 cash for the parking machine. If you bring a $5 bill, your change comes in Andrew Jackson or Susan B. Anthony $1 coins which our son enjoyed! He thought he had found gold!
FELICITA PARK FACILITIES
In addition to the 2.5 miles of trails to explore, Felicita County Park has two large playgrounds for children to enjoy. Seven large picnic sites can be reserved in advance for up to 100-300 people depending on the site. This is a beautiful location for a family event or company picnic. Check this link for more information on the individual picnic sites. There is also a wedding and reception venue. Alcoholic beverages under 20% alcohol are allowed on site. In addition to the large reservable picnic areas, many individual picnic tables and areas are scattered throughout the park.
SAN DIEGO COUNTY PARKS KIDS IN PARKSPROGRAM
Not only is Felicita County Park a great place for hiking with kids in San Diego County, but they also participate in the Kids in Parks program. If you follow my blog, then you know I love anything Junior Ranger for the kids! This excellent program provides nature-based scavenger hunts during hikes, bicycle rides, and frisbee golf games for kids.
Before your visit, sign your child up to track your Felicita County Park adventure online. Then, when you arrive at the park, look for the display sign and brochures near picnic area 7. Grab a pamphlet, and let your child lead the way. The brochures keep your child engaged through the hike. Our son loved the “Felicita Scavenger Hunt” and “The Need for Trees.”
After your adventure, have your child “track” their adventure online. As your child submits hikes and experiences, Kids in Parks will mail them prizes for their progress! Our son was thrilled to receive a large package that was filled with prizes from recent hiking adventures! Check out this post for more details on the Kids in Parks program, available in six other San Diego county parks.
FELICITA COUNTY PARK TRAILS
Felicita County Park offers easy trails that loop through the park and along Felicita Creek. We enjoyed looping up by the playground and wedding venue before heading down along the creek towards the waterfall. Our son loved climbing on boulders, exploring around the creek, checking out the large oak trees, and using his Kids in Parks TRACK trail guide to tell us about Felicita County Park.
As we followed the creek towards the waterfall, my son and husband opted for a more adventurous way to cross the road.
The dirt path is wide and reasonably flat. Although we carried the baby in the Ergo, a stroller (like our BOB Stroller) would do great on this path. As we approached the waterfall, we found a place to have a small picnic and kombucha before looping back on the other side of the creek.
After our picnic, we crossed the creek and headed back up the creek towards the picnic areas and parking. There is a small museum about the cultural history of the area and the Kumeyaay Native Americans that once lived on the land. The park brochure explains this history in more detail. Our son loved seeing the metates, or rocks that the Kumeyaay used to grind acorns. He remembered seeing this same style of Native American “kitchen” in Sequoia National Park!
Felicita County Park is a great place to explore with kids. You can pack a picnic (or happy hour) to extend your visit or enjoy a morning hike and lunch nearby. My pick would be lunch or dinner in the gardens at nearby Stone World Bistro & Gardens – another excellent place for kids to explore AND a delicious adult beverage selection for you! Cheers!
If you are visiting San Simeon, California, chances are good you are heading to the famed Hearst Castle. However, a visit to San Simeon has more to offer than “la cuesta encantada,” or the enchanted hill and castle. Between hiking, wine tasting, wildlife, and unbelievable coastal views, San Simeon is worth a stop on your next California highway adventure. But, if you take the time to explore a bit more, the area’s beauty shines.
It won’t take long for you to realize why William Randolph Hearst chose this area for his famed estate. The natural beauty of this coastal gem packs photo-worthy views and is located in the middle of your San Francisco to Los Angeles highway 101 road trip through Big Sur. The central coast of California is a gem that leaves me in awe after every visit. Here are our favorite things to do in San Simeon, California.
WHERE IS SAN SIMEON, CALIFORNIA?
San Simeon is a gem on California’s coastline in San Luis Obispo County. Located just north of Cambria and south of Big Sur, San Simeon is best known for its famed Hearst Castle, the sprawling estate of William Randolph Hearst.
With a population of just over 650, San Simeon is an isolated coastal enclave worth more of your time than just a stop into Hearst San Simeon State Park. There are several exciting stops for families in town, and I highly suggest you carve out some time during your next Highway 101 road trip to enjoy them!
HEARST SAN SIMEON ZEBRAS
Driving North on Highway 1 from Cambria, watch the rolling hills on your right. The Hearst Family Ranch encompasses the majority of acreage around Hearst Castle. During the day, wildlife remnants of William Randolph Hearst’s private zoo can be seen grazing the hillside.
The herd of wild zebras travels along with the cattle and makes for a fun sight heading into San Simeon. You may even spy some elk further north near the Piedras Blancas Lighthouse. When you approach a group of cars pulled off on the side of Highway 1, make sure to look east from the highway, as you are almost sure to spot a herd of zebras and cows grazing the hillside. Park along the road to snap a photo and enjoy these incredible views!
SAN SIMEON BAY
San Simeon Bay offers incredible views without a crowd. The bay is home to various marine animals on the Pacific coast. The bay is a protected marine sanctuary that creates a perfect place to enjoy the ocean and wildlife views for free. Photo enthusiasts love to spot sea otters, elephant seals, and even humpback whales from the pier throughout the year.
San Simeon’s Pier is home to fishermen throughout the day, and you do not need a license to fish off the pier. However, limits are enforced. The beach parking lot and pier set you up for our favorite adventure in San Simeon – hiking out to San Simeon Point.
WILLIAM RANDOLPH HEARST MEMORIAL BEACH
Located off Highway 1 across from the Hearst Castle exit, William Randolph Hearst Memorial Beach State Park offers picnic areas, grills, restrooms, and parking. California State Parks maintains this area along Highway 1. A short walk from the parking lot leads you to the incredible 850-foot San Simeon Pier and beach. Enjoy the ocean under your feet as you walk out on this marvelous structure. Watch for elephant seals and sea otters playing in the water below you.
The pier’s history in Hearst San Simeon State Park is pretty amazing. This was the entry point of the construction supplies so many of the beautiful art and antiques you see in the Hearst estate. Try to enjoy the view and imagine the incredible pieces unloaded on this pier! Also, don’t miss the terrific photo opportunity from the pier.
SAN SIMEON POINT TRAIL
We discovered this gem on our last visit, and it is something we will return to time and time again. I cannot believe a beauty like this can sit without the heavy traffic on trails we see in San Diego. This hiking trail is something I HIGHLY recommend you take the time to explore. At only 2.5-miles roundtrip, this hike can be done with kids of all ages.
START YOUR HIKE ON THE BEACH
Starting at the pier, walk north along the beach. Several Hearst family historic homes dating back to the 1800’s line the bluff. So does the Hearst Family Wines tasting room (more on the tasting room later- it is a perfect stop after your hike)! Shortly after the property, you will see a small path jetting off the beach up the hill to the right. Start heading into nature up the path!
HOW TO FIND THE TRAIL
You’ll continue along the beach but steadily climb up the bluff a bit. Once you come to a white taped post, cross through the “PRIVATE PROPERTY” fence. Although the Hearst family owns this property, they are kind enough to share it with the world during daylight hours. Continue up the path and soak in the incredible views.
Shortly after crossing the fence line, you find yourself on a trail opening up to an unforgettable coastline view. Don’t forget a photo of the bay! Suddenly, you will realize you are right where you are supposed to be!
We took a moment to rest and calm our baby while giving our son a snack. It was a perfect spot as the bay and beach views were front and center!
HIKING ON SAN SIMEON POINT
The climb up is not too extreme, and as we continued out, we were not disappointed with the views. At the top, we headed to the right, not through the trees of the main trail (which looks beautiful), but on a bluff-side trail parallel to the trees. Our reward was an incredible, unforgettable private view.
We took some time to relax on the bluff and take in the coastal views. We wished we had brought a blanket and our picnic (in the car for the Hearst Wines Tasting Room after the hike). These views were astonishing, and the quiet trail through nature was what dreams are made of in our new COVID world. Our son loved the bird and seal watching with his binoculars.
After relaxing for a bit, we headed back out to explore. It is beyond beautiful here. I cannot wait to come back and enjoy the view again. I can only imagine sunset would be unreal from this spot. This is a hike that I cannot recommend enough for families. At 2.5 miles out and back and only 100 miles of elevation increase, this trail is a “must-do!”
HEARST RANCH WINERY TASTING ROOM
Hearst Ranch wines are part of a pedigree of success. The Hearst Ranch Winery’s new bayfront tasting room is a DO NOT MISS in San Simeon. Why not sip the incredible Randolph Red or Three Sisters Cuvee by the bay? Hearst Ranch Winery is your perfect stop after a hike or visit to Hearst Castle. The tasting room staff will welcome you like family, and between the fantastic wines and stunning views, you will not be disappointed.
Although they have rotating food trucks, you can also purchase all you need for an incredible charcuterie from the tasting room. Or, bring your picnic, soak in the views, enjoy the wine and stay awhile. We love grabbing sandwiches from one of our favorite spots in Cambria before heading up to San Simon. San Simeon’s Hearst Family Wines are a must-try on your coastal adventure.
HEARST CASTLE
Most people venture to San Simeon to see the famed Hearst San Simeon Castle. Hearst Castle is now owned and operated by the State of California and attracts over one million visitors a year. This masterpiece designed by architect Julia Morgan is truly a piece of art and a spectacular sight.
HEARST CASTLE HISTORY
The hillside mansion was built in 1919 by the famed newspaper publisher William Randolph Hearst. The castle is over 90,000 square feet and boasts 56 bedrooms, 61 bathrooms, 19 sitting rooms, indoor & outdoor sitting rooms, a tennis court, a movie theater, a private zoo, a private airfield, and numerous guest homes.
Famous guests include Winston Churchill, Charles Lindbergh, Clark Gable, Charlie Chaplin, and various other Hollywood stars and noteworthy politicians. In the 1920s and 1930s, an invitation to Hearst Castle was considered a high honor. Between the outdoor activities, stunning gardens, lavish events, and costume parties (and a liquor cellar stocked full during prohibition), guests on the estate enjoyed their stay as long as they were able.
There are several options for touring Hearst Castle. I highly recommend the Grand Rooms ticket for traveling with kids. It is especially festive during the holidays. Booking ahead will ensure you get the time you want, as the state park is a tourist destination filled with tour buses and other groups. You can also check for seasonal and special ticketed events, such as the Holiday Twilight Tour.
VISITING WITH KIDS
Our son was amazed by it all and wanted to see more. However, there is a lot of information, and multiple tours may be asking too much from your kids and their attention span. The tours run in groups, so the last thing you want is to be corralling your free-spirited children during the tour. Ensure your kids eat prior, as there is no eating or snacking during your visit.
AFTER YOUR HEARST SAN SIMEON STATE PARK VISIT
Art is abundant in every room, and you are welcome to take a photo with no flash. One of the best parts of the castle tour is that you are welcome to explore the gardens at your own pace, no matter what tour you take. The views from the grounds are phenomenal. This is a great place to explore before hopping on the shuttle back down to the visitor center. Watch for the natural beauty of zebras and other wildlife grazing under the sunset as you take the 15-minute ride back to the state park visitor center.
ELEPHANT SEALS AT THE PIEDRAS BLANCAS ROOKERY
The elephant seal rookery at Piedras Blancas is located just outside of San Simeon and is a must-do with kids. Parking is free and plentiful, as are the elephant seal views. Children will be fascinated by the antics of marine mammals. Male elephant seals assert their dominance to impress their female partners, and you can see the male seals mating fights throughout December and January. Shortly after, you can begin to see pregnant females lining the beach.
The Friends of the Elephant Seal and their docents offer great information for visitors. The elephant seal rookery is a great place to see elephant seals thriving in their natural habitat.
PIEDRAS BLANCAS LIGHT STATION
The Piedras Blancas Light Station is one place I have to admit we have not been to yet. I hate to say that because it is a fantastic place for families. The lighthouse has been a beacon on the coast for years, protecting mariners from the jagged cliffs of the Central Coast since it was built in 1875. My mother-in-law has wanted us to visit, and we will be visiting on our next trip when COVID restrictions change. As the tours resume, the hours should be updated here.
POINTS OF INTEREST NEAR SAN SIMEON
TO THE SOUTH – CAMBRIA
Cambria is one of our favorite places to visit. This seaside town is just 9-miles south of San Simeon and makes an excellent location for a home base during your Central Coast adventure. Some of our favorite hotels are located in Cambria, and we cover all of our favorite things in Cambria in this guide! Cambria is filled with great food, wine tasting, free nature preserves, and stunning sunset views.
TO THE NORTH – RAGGED POINT
Although 15-miles outside of San Simeon and heading towards Big Sur, Ragged Point is worth mentioning here! We have not taken many drives more beautiful than Highway 1 up the California Coast. We have been lucky enough to make the journey north and south, and a stop at Ragged Point is a MUST. Do not miss this photo opportunity!
The views are second to none on the coast, and the Ragged Point Inn offers a variety of dining options – a wine bar, an espresso bar, a sandwich stand, and a restaurant. If you have a picnic, you are more than welcome to enjoy it on their grounds. If you pass through on your California road trip, definitely make this a stop.
At times I use my blog as my travel list. I want to check out this short hike next time we are near Ragged Point – the Salmon Creek Trail. I will update here once we do. It would be amazing to spend a day hiking and then relaxing at the Ragged Point Inn. If you are reading this, I suggest you do the same! Let me know how it is.
ONE FINAL THOUGHT…
Take some time to enjoy the healing properties of this beautiful area in California. Here my husband and I were on a weekend away in 2018. We took this trip to help process some pain and disappointment in our growing family. Although trying to process these events and enjoy our vacation, this pain was real.
However, when I look at this photo, I know the ocean DOES heal. If you need a getaway, please consider a trip to the central coast of California. You cannot escape the pain you need to feel to grow, but you can take a deep breath and reframe it all.
These are the gems of Cambria, our favorite things to explore when visiting. I suggest starting here – choose what matters the most to you and build the rest of your day from here. There are so many things to do in Cambria, CA. So many of these are places have astonishing views. If you have the time, try to see them all. Plan where you want to spend your morning coffee and sunset views and fill in the rest with our additional recommendations. Several of these places are on our *DO NOT MISS* list of favorite things to do in Cambria, CA.
A MAP OF THE EAST & WEST VILLAGES
Cambria is a small, coastal town, with Main Street divided into two parts – the West Village and East Village. The two villages are separated by about 1/2 to 3/4 mile, so it is all very close together. There are so many things to do in both villages. When visiting Cambria, you will want to explore the shops and restaurants in both villages. We have walked from one end of Main Street to the other several times. You can get a feel for the distance by looking at this map. However, the entire walking route does include a hill between the two villages. With parking so plentiful throughout town, driving is your easiest option when exploring Cambria.
Just a little over one mile long, the Moonstone Beach Boardwalk is one of the most beautiful walks you can take as a family. The boardwalk is also one of our favorite things in Cambria, CA. There are several benches along the path to take in the wildlife. You can watch the dolphins, birds, and even whales during the morning hours. Then, you can take the stairs down to Moonlight Beach or follow the small pathways down to different tidepools you can explore. I HIGHLY recommend heading out here for sunset.
The boardwalk runs parallel to Moonstone Beach and starts next to the El Colibri hotel on Moonstone Beach Drive, just off Windsor Boulevard and Highway 1. There is a small dirt lot for parking at the start of the boardwalk, or there are many dirt areas on Moonstone Beach Drive to park and hop on the boardwalk. Many of Cambria’s cute motels and lodges are also across the street from the path.
MOONSTONE BEACH
*DO NOT MISS – A FAVORITE IN CAMBRIA*
Moonstone Beach is famous for its jaw-dropping views. The beach runs parallel to Highway 1 up the coastline to San Simeon. Moonstone is also known as a spectacular beach for wildlife viewing and beachcombing. Our son loves walking with his Mimi looking for moonstones in the sand and funky driftwood creations. When staying close, it is a fun beach to head out at night to look for moonstones shining under the night sky. It is not uncommon to see dolphins, whales, sea lions, and other animals from Moonstone Beach and the boardwalk above it. The beach is accessible from the boardwalk above, Leffingwell Landing State Park, or Shamel Park off Windsor Boulevard.
SHAMEL PARK
Shamel Park is a beachfront park off of Windsor Boulevard with plenty to do for kids! The playground is always clean and the views are astounding. Shamel Park is home to the Discover the Whale Trail due to the likelihood of seeing whales and other marine mammals from the park. It is the perfect place for your kids to play before or after a visit to Moonstone Beach. The park has a large grassy area, picnic facilities, and a swimming pool. Parking is easy as you can pull up right in front of the park and walk through the park to the beach. Shamel Park is a perfect stop for beautiful views and happy kids.
WINDSOR BOULEVARD
Windsor Boulevard runs parallel to the coastline and is home to some of Cambria’s most beautiful oceanfront properties. There are several areas with beach access and lookouts along Windsor Boulevard and benches to rest on along the road. Many of the homes are available for weekly or monthly rentals as well. We love taking a bike ride down the street with hotel bikes or a morning coffee walk towards the gem at the end of the road, The Fiscalini Ranch Preserve.
THE FISCALINI RANCH PRESERVE
*DO NOT MISS – A FAVORITE IN CAMBRIA*
Hiking around Fiscalini Preserve is one of my favorite things in Cambria, CA. I have taken in the foggy morning views with a hot cup of coffee and watched the sunset from the coastline with a glass of wine. Fiscalini Ranch is excellent no matter when you visit. The views along the bluff are unreal, and the Friends of Fiscalini Ranch Preserve Foundation does an incredible job of keeping the trails maintained and the plants flourishing. I do not think I have ever seen litter, let alone any graffiti or other damage. During COVID, the trails have been turned into one-way circles to keep people socially distanced. I dream of retiring one day and being a friend of the preserve, planting trees and weeding the ranch to preserve this special place.
Along the trails, you will find artistic benches made from driftwood and sea glass to stop, slow, rest, and take in the views. We have seen dolphins and elephant seals and I am still waiting for my whale sightings from one of the benches! With over 440 acres to explore, Fiscalini Ranch Preserve is a must-see in Cambria. Parking is easy, and we love to enter from the parking at the end of Windsor Blvd (North), although there are several areas to enter “the Ranch” in Cambria. The Windsor South or North entrance will allow you to enjoy the boardwalk along the cliffs, which is my absolute favorite.
NIT WITT RIDGE
Nitt Witt Ridge is a house made from glass bottles, auto parts, shells, and other garbage and is a sight to see. The home is now a California Registered Historical Landmark and sits high on the hills above Cambria. Arthur, “Art” Beal (or Capt. Nitt Witt) was an artist with a unique personality that used to work at Hearst Castle. He purchased the property in the 1920s and worked to create his home entirely out of hand tools and household materials. Driving by the house is a fun thing to do in Cambria, CA. We have only driven by, but you can take a tour of the property if you are more interested. Tours run daily, and you can call 805/ 927-2690 for more information.
SHOPPING AND DINING IN THE EAST VILLAGE
The East Village is filled with great restaurants and shops to explore. In our guide to visiting Cambria, California, you can read more about the dining, sipping, and shopping options in Cambria’s East Village. Cambria is such a unique town, and you can see so much of the relaxed vibe as you stroll through different art galleries, nurseries, antique stores, and other shops that fill the East Village. Wandering around the East Village between meals is a necessary thing to do in Cambria, CA. Even the trash cans are pretty!
CAMBRIA HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM
Cambria has a rich history of miners and cowboys. If history is of interest to you, the Cambria Historical Society Museum is the place to take it all in and learn more about the town you are enjoying. The Cambria Historical Society has a wealth of information about the town, and I especially love their Historical Walking Tour. The tour allows you to explore the area with an appreciation for the area’s rich history.
The Cambria Historical Society Museum is housed in the Guthrie-Bianchini House built in 1870. The gardens surrounding the museum are always fun to explore and are a magnet for butterflies in spring. During the COVID pandemic, the gardens have doubled as a place to enjoy your take-out meal.
Cambria is a magical seaside town on California’s Central Coast, and it is one of our favorite places to visit. My husband grew up visiting Cambria often as his Grandma would rent a house each summer. We hope to continue the tradition. Our son already loves our visits, and, at four months old, our daughter has already had her first visit. Cambria is a beautiful place to escape for a weekend getaway- or longer! Here is our guide to visiting the coastal gem of Cambria, California.
WHERE IS CAMBRIA, CALIFORNIA?
Cambria is a quiet, beautiful town full of fun shops, delicious food, and beautiful places to explore. Whether or not you stay in the east village or west village, you will find yourself surrounded by the ocean and Monterey Pines. Cambria is the perfect destination for a relaxing weekend away. California’s Central Coast has so much to offer, and I hate to write too much about it because I don’t want our favorite places full of crowds. However, the magic of Cambria is something everyone should experience.
WHAT SHOULD I DO WHEN VISITING CAMBRIA?
Check out the following pages for our ultimate guide to Cambria! If you plan to head up the coast a bit, check out my post about San Simeon too. Here are our favorite family-friendly places to explore, eat, drink, shop & stay when visiting Cambria, California.
Mount Laguna is one of our favorite places to visit for a hiking day trip or camping weekend away. We have spent many weekends enjoying the hiking trails of the Laguna Mountain Recreation Area in beautiful weather. However, after a winter storm rolls through the San Diego area, the Laguna Mountain Recreation Area becomes a hot destination for snow play in the days that follow.
A little over an hour away, San Diego County families flock to the mountains in masses to enjoy the fresh powder. A snow day on Mount Laguna can lead to lifelong memories for your family if carefully planned. Here are some of my tips to ensure a safe and successful day (versus frustration with crowds and parking) while respecting the beauty of the mountains and local community.
Obviously driving into the mountains in search of a snowy adventure without checking the weather is not a great plan. Weather conditions can change suddenly, so be aware of what is expected. We always check the weather in advance and I love checking the Laguna Mountain Lodge webcam to see real-time footage of what the snow looks like on the ground. The Mount Laguna weather webcam is available year-round and gives you a heads up on current conditions.
CHECK CURRENT DRIVING CONDITIONS
Knowing current weather and driving conditions is a must. Just a few days before our last visit, CHP completely shut down the Sunrise Highway from Highway 8 due to crowds. The roads can be closed due to snow before plowing as well. I HIGHLY recommend checking this info before heading up the mountain. You can read more about our favorite routes up the mountain here.
CHECK THE LAGUNA MOUNTAIN LODGE FACEBOOK PAGE
The Laguna Mountain Lodge Facebook page is another great resource to check before you head up. During the winter, they usually post each morning with a picture of the view, inches of snow on the ground, the current driving conditions, current trail/recreation area closures, and other important info. The Laguna Mountain Lodge Facebook page also shares current links from the CHP and National Forests.
THE LAGUNA MOUNTAIN ADVENTURE PASS
If you are not familiar with Mount Laguna, check out my post about some of the basics to “Know Before You Go.” The US Forest Service requires an “Adventure Pass” to recreate and park in many of the areas on the mountain. Make sure you are prepared to avoid a ticket. A ticket is one way to bring down a fun day and can easily be avoided by planning. Not all areas require an adventure pass, so you can always check here for updated info on what areas require the pass.
WHAT TO PACK FOR YOUR SNOW ADVENTURE
The beauty of a day trip after a snowstorm is chances are you can enjoy some beautiful blue sky! Temperatures will still be cooler (like 45-50°), so you definitely want to pack in layers. When planning a family day, I always plan on the kids being hungry and getting soaked at some point. I love having lots of snacks and backup layers. I also plan on something warm for them to put on before we drive home. My son loves taking off his shoes and putting on his cozy socks to warm up with on the drive home. You know your family’s needs best, but here are some of the things I recommend you consider!
PACK FOR COMFORT AND SUCCESS
If you have snow gear for your kids, it is great to bring for a snow day on Mount Laguna! If you don’t have snow gear for your kids, do not panic. Please remember, I am talking about a day trip in sunny weather. If you are planning something more, you should definitely organize full-blown snow gear for your kids. Nothing ruins a day faster than being wet and cold, especially for kids. We have cut some corners for our day trips.
This advice is not for the seasoned snow family, more of the “we live in San Diego and want to be comfortable while we play for the day” family! Target & Amazon have great snow gear options you can order online if you are planning ahead. Also, ask your friends! You may be surprised what you can borrow. Local Targets usually have some great options for hats and gloves in-store that you can order for pickup on your way out of town. Sometimes these adventures need to come together quickly.
SNOW GEAR HACKS FOR KIDS
My son does not have snow boots in his size right now, so we have done thick socks with rain boots or he has also used his hiking boots and been more than happy for the day. I always bring a change of socks in case he falls in a puddle or something so the day doesn’t go downhill. Worst case you can also double layer socks with ziplock bags in between. Again, I am talking about throwing things together for one day in sunny weather! We layer him up in long sleeves, sweatshirts, a jacket, and his snow hat that he loves. We do make sure to bring gloves because our son LOVES a good snowball fight and his hands get cold quick.
For the baby, we layer her up the same. She is not playing in the snow yet, so layers are key for her. We were gifted a cozy suit like this one and it was perfect! Paired with a beanie underneath and she was good to go. I have read these baby booties are amazing for bigger snow adventures or hikes with toddlers. I will update once we get to that stage with our girl.
For the adults, just remember layers. My husband tends to be the one targeted with snowballs the most or getting the most involved in sledding runs. Layers are key. However, he did jeans and Nike shoes during our last visit and was fine. We both do gloves though, because… snowball fights. They can be intense with a seven-year-old.
SNOW PLAY GEAR
If you have a snow sled, definitely bring it! If you don’t, the Laguna Mountain Lodge sells snow gear and sleds to fill in what you are missing. Or just get creative with what you have. We looked around our garage the night before we headed out and grabbed two kickboards that worked great! Very silly but did the trick. I am planning to order a disc like these from my childhood for future trips. If you have snowman accessories, throw those in too. Otherwise, the nature surrounding you will provide you with all you need to create a perfect “Frosty!”
FOOD & SNACKS
When heading to Mount Laguna, we always pack a picnic. There are only two restaurants/bars on the mountain- the Blue Jay Lodge and the Pine House Cafe & Tavern. Due to COVID, these have been closed quite a bit. You can read more about the Pine House Cafe & Tavern in my Mount Laguna post. We are excited to try this restaurant during our next visit, but we have been enjoying picnics (or our campsite) on recent visits during COVID times. We feel a lot more comfortable avoiding crowds during COVID, so picnics have been our go-to! Another option is leaving town through Julian and grabbing food there. The Laguna Mountain Lodge Store also sells a variety of snacks and if you need to grab any snacks.
4WD/AWD/CHAINS FOR SNOW ON MOUNT LAGUNA
If you do not have AWD or 4WD on your car, bring your chains if you want get away from the crowds. If you don’t have chains, it does not mean you cannot enjoy the mountain, you just need to be VERY aware of where you are driving and what the weather is planning next. You don’t want to get stuck! We watched a family venture down the road too far in a Prius and get stuck in the snow. That stress will not lead to an exciting day!
WHERE TO SIT/RELAX
As I mentioned above, we love a picnic. In the snow, you are not just going to throw a blanket down so creative thinking is a must. We had a truck during our last visit, so the bed of the truck was an ideal spot. We saw other visitors with lawn chairs and coffee carafes in the snow. You can always pack a waterproof blanket as a resting place. My favorite was a couple relaxing in their hammock between the trees. Definitely packing our camping hammock for our next snow day on Mount Laguna. If you have young kids, it is nice for them to have a space to sit when they need a rest during snow play.
ROAD TRIP EXTRAS
For general tips on road trips with kids, check out my post on our favorite things to pass the time.
On a less exciting note, we always have Dramamine for Kids packed with us on our way to Mount Laguna. Our son tends to get carsick, and Dramamine has been a lifesaver when we take the windy roads through Julian. Before I knew they had a kid version, we used these vomit bags to prevent messes that can put a stop to your day. Not the most exciting thing to pack, but it only takes a time or two when you don’t have a bag to help you remember to always have one in the car.
As always, plan to pack out whatever you take in when enjoying the beauty of the mountains. We keep extra grocery bags in the back (who isn’t overflowing with them since COVID?!) so we always have a trash bag in the car. I saw pictures of the trash left behind after the recent rush to snow play that shocked me. Don’t add to that problem. Respect the land and local community that is sharing it with us. Be prepared to take everything off the mountain that you bring up!
WHERE TO FIND GREAT SNOW PLAY ON MOUNT LAGUNA
No matter what side of the mountain you drive up, you will begin to see the snow and cars start lining the road. The snow on the Anza-Borrego (East) side of the mountain tends to melt quicker. That side also tends to have cliffs with great views for stopping along the route, but not ideal for snow play, especially with kids.
Kwaaymi Point – Great views, but less snow and lots of cliffs
SIDE OF THE HIGHWAY– IN A SAFE/DESIGNATED PARKING AREA!
EVERYONE SEEMS TO BE DOING THIS AND NOT NECESSARILY IN A LEGAL/SAFE WAY
Although we had a great day earlier in 2020 pulling off the side of the road, I do not recommend this during more crowded times. During this visit, snow was scarce and there was no big rush to the mountains for snow play. During peak snow days, cars will be sticking out all over the Sunrise Highway, groups of people can be seen trespassing and sledding through local’s properties while also setting up large groups on sled runs along the highway. This is not ideal and not appreciated by the local community.
If you choose to pull off the side of the Highway, please make sure you are in an area where parking is allowed and you are parked safely, not halfway in the highway. This sounds silly, but when you see how some people are parking you will understand. Please respect the land and do not trespass on private property. In addition, with the surge of COVID numbers during our last visit, massive crowds on a sled run are not where any of us should be.
Remnants of a snowstorm on Mount Laguna
OUR PICK: EXPLORE A SIDE ROAD IN A DESIGNATED RECREATION AREA
BY SHORT HIKE OR DRIVE OFF SUNRISE HIGHWAY
During crowded times, I HIGHLY recommend venturing off the Sunrise Highway to a planned destination in a designated recreation area. The roads are plowed fairly quickly, so depending on the amount of snow and conditions, taking a road a small distance off the main Highway does not always require chains. Another option is to park on the Sunrise Highway and walk further down a road (not through private property) away from the crowds. To give you an idea of the conditions, we visited 5 days after a snowstorm that reported 9″ of snow. On the day we visited, the am report was 3″ of snow. You can see how fluffy so much of the snow still was.
*WOODED HILL NATURE TRAIL*
A GEM DURING ANY SEASON
Our favorite spot for snow play is the Wooded Hill Nature Trail. The road to this trail is located between mile markers 22 and 21.5 and has a sign for the Wooded Hill Group Campground and DOES NOT require an Adventure Pass (check here to confirm before you go). It is about .3 miles down the road to the parking for the trailhead. I love this family-friendly hike throughout seasons, (more info about the hike here) and it did not disappoint in winter. It gave us an incredible snow day. I would love to post a picture of the sign for the road, but unfortunately, the cars on Sunrise Highway were piled up all over and the sign was hidden. If you find yourself in a similar situation, it is the second right after passing the Pine House Tavern coming from Julian.
We were able to park right where we were playing and we practically had the place to ourselves. A few hikers and cars passed by and another family was enjoying the snow at the top of the hill. No crowds, no gross snow from people trampling all over it for the last 5 days. We knew we were visiting a little late after the storm and did not know what to expect with snow quality. Some of the main spots on the highway were well trafficked. Having the car close was key with the baby for nursing and diaper changes. In addition, we could picnic, change clothing and take a rest right in the “play zone.” Baby and I were able to hang on the back of the pickup to watch my son and husband sled. It was a great spot that we are sure to return to.
*BIG LAGUNA TRAIL AT PENNY PINES TRAILHEAD*
Penny Pines Trailhead is one of our favorite places to explore throughout the seasons. At this point, Penny Pines Trailhead DOES NOT require an Adventure Pass (check here to confirm before you go). When parking at the Penny Pines trailhead, you can head west towards the Big Laguna Trail out to the Laguna Meadow. This is a bit of a hike, about a mile, so you will be away from your car. Make sure to pack for your adventure (and have what you need to pack it out!) so you are not running back and forth. However, this meadow is beautiful no matter the season and is a great place to get away from the crowds and enjoy a snow day on Mount Laguna!
Have you enjoyed a day in the snow on Mount Laguna? What are your favorite ways to escape the crowds?
Are you looking for a quick way to submerge yourself in nature from the East Bay? Living in Southern California, we were craving some of the lush greenery Northern California hiking offers after the holidays. The Huckleberry Botanic Regional Preserve Interpretive Loop Trail was a great way to escape the post-holiday business and enjoy a short afternoon hike. The loop takes you down into a beautiful forest and luscious change in scenery filled with bright green ferns and aromatic bay trees.
The Huckleberry Botanic Regional Preserve is tucked away in the Oakland hills, sandwiched between the East Bay and San Francisco. The preserve is run by the East Bay Regional Park District and is well maintained. At the start of the trail, you can pick up a park brochure that includes a trail map and information about the 21 interpretive panels along the 1.7-mile loop.
PARKING AT THE HUCKLEBERRY BOTANIC REGIONAL PRESERVE
Parking was easy, as there is a small lot at the park entrance on the left side of Skyline Blvd., just after the Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve. The parking area has several picnic tables to enjoy, as well as bathrooms and trash/recycling cans. Unfortunately, there are no dogs or bikes allowed on the Huckleberry Loop.
The Huckleberry Botanic Regional Preserve Interpretive Trail loop is 1.7 miles and took us less than 1.5 hours. The loop takes you down into a beautiful green fern and bay forest and teaches you about the local flora and fauna along the way. The unique climate of this area has created a moist environment that is home to many native plants that cannot be found anywhere else in the Bay Area. We loved the change of scenery and damp feel under the canopy of greens.
STARTING YOUR HIKE
At the start of the loop, you can either take the Lower Huckleberry Loop Trail to the left or the Upper Huckleberry Loop Trail to the right. The left takes you down a set of stairs into the fern and bay forest. We opted for this direction, knowing we would be climbing back up as we looped around. Many hikers opt to take the flatter Upper Huckleberry Loop Trail out a bit and back for a less strenuous hike. This is an excellent option for families with young kids concerned about distance. However, the Lower Huckleberry Loop Trail was the highlight of our hike. I highly recommend starting to the right, down the Lower Loop Trail.
LOWER HUCKLEBERRY LOOP TRAIL
We visited after light rains, so the trail was slightly muddy. The sun was peeking through the clouds, but the canopy of trees made for a primarily shady and damp hike. The trail can be slippery and steep at times. I can see this trail being very muddy after heavier rains, so plan your footwear appropriately. The smell of bay leaves filled the air throughout the hike, making for a peaceful feeling winding through the fern and bay forest on the lower half of the loop.
The greenery was plentiful, and the tree canopy made you feel like you were hours away from the busy Skyline Blvd and cities just outside of the preserve. The Lower Huckleberry Loop covers interpretive panels 21 to 16 as you move down the interpretive panel list when starting from the lower trail. Shortly into your hike, you reach another fork in the trail. Continue on the trail to the right, the Lower Huckleberry Loop Trail. The path to the left will take you to the 31-mile Skyline National Trail into Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve (North) or Reinhart Redwood Regional Park (South).
UPPER HUCKLEBERRY LOOP TRAIL
After interpretive panel 16, you will see a sign heading up towards the Upper Huckleberry Loop Trail. As you begin to climb up, turn around for beautiful views of Mt. Diablo through the trees.
The climb up the “connector” portion of the Lower Trail to the Upper Trail is steep but short at .11 miles. There are several sections of stairs to help on muddy days.
We looked down at the climb we had just made up to the Upper Huckleberry Loop Trail.
After the climb, you will reach another sign and head right to continue on the Upper Huckleberry Loop Trail back towards the trailhead. Heading left will take you on the Upper Pinehurst Trail into Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park.
DETOURS
Shortly after connecting to the Upper Loop Trail, we took a slight detour to the right towards interpretive panels 14 & 15. After an uphill stretch through some bushes, we came out into a clearing with beautiful views of Mt. Diablo. There was also a bench where we enjoyed a snack and the sunshine. This would be an excellent place for a picnic or extended rest when hiking with our kids.
After our detour, we continued along on the Upper Huckleberry Loop. We immediately noticed it was a much flatter path along the ridge. We took another detour to see interpretive panels 9, 10 & 11. The clearing was much smaller than the previous clearing we discovered, so we quickly headed back to the main trail. As we continued along the main trail, we enjoyed seeing the red bark of the manzanitas as well as the sprawling bushes of the coast huckleberry.
MANZANITA TREES
At one point, a live manzanita tree has grown over the trail and gives you an up-close view of the beautiful bark. It is against the law to carve into the branches of these beautiful trees, as they are protected in this preserve. Although manzanitas are abundant on the upper loop in this preserve, they are eventually overtaken by the huckleberry or chinquapin native to the area.
As you approach the trailhead, you find yourself winding through similar greenery as the start of your hike. Finally, there are two benches where you can rest and take in the final views and smells of bay leaves surrounding you!
This trail was a beautiful getaway from the East Bay. We visited in December 2020, when COVID numbers were surging, and everyone on the trail was wearing a mask. The trial is thinner, but we could step aside when parties need to pass. I would love to explore the Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve next door with more time. Some trails connect the two preserves.
LAST STOP – GRIZZLY PEAK
Don’t forget to stop at Grizzly Peak for incredible views (on a clear day) of the Bay Bridge, San Francisco skyline, and Golden Gate Bridge. Grizzly Peak is right on your way to Huckleberry Botanic Regional Preserve from the East Bay. As you head up towards the Preserve from the East Bay, you exit Fish Ranch Road right before the Caldecott Tunnel and then take a left onto Grizzly Peak Blvd. for a little over 2 miles before hitting Skyline Blvd. Although giant logs have blocked the main turnouts, the view is still exceptional from different points on the road.
Views of the city from Grizzly Peak
We pulled on the side of the road as we left the preserve and crossed Grizzly Peak Blvd. to take in the view. This pullout was a great spot to take in city views at night in high school. However, I did read police are patrolling and citing between 9 pm-6 am. Apparently, the views were not only attracting people but also smoking, bonfires and fireworks. These do not pair with high fire danger, so “hanging out” is no longer allowed. But do stop to enjoy the view!
Do you love getting into nature from the East Bay? Check out my post on Muir Woods. What are some of your favorite hikes in the Bay Area? We are always looking for new things to explore!
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