Drive Angeles Crest Highway
There’s something magical about being in the majestic mountains that make Southern California so beautiful. Get up close and personal with a prominent landscape feature of Southern California by taking a 1.5- to 2-hour cruise (with minimal stops) through this 66-mile highway, a winding gem that runs through the Angeles National Forest.
While in the forest, make a point to stop at viewpoints and turnouts. The views offer visitors a new perspective, and the whisper quiet environment is also an experience worth getting out of the car for.
Take some snacks and drinks for the ride and find a spot to picnic while thousands of feet above sea level. Maybe even check out some hiking trails along the way.
Also keep an eye out for Newcomb’s Ranch, a restaurant located about 26 miles off the I-210 freeway in La Canada. Despite its seemingly isolated location (it’s really amazing how an establishment in the mountains is able to stay afloat!), Newcomb’s is popular among locals, especially to motorcyclists and bikers who frequent the highway.
The route ends in San Bernardino County in the Inland Empire, and immediately at the end of the drive are huge sandstones called Mormon Rocks, which are located along the San Andreas Fault. From there, there are two options in getting back to Los Angeles: by taking the winding road back down the mountains or by hopping onto the freeway and going through the Inland Empire.