Nestled in the San Jacinto mountains of Riverside County is 'Mile-high Idyllwild'...
a popular southern California resort town.
As we left the church service in Nuevo on Sunday...
we headed for the hills....
and the little town which sits one mile above sea level.
I can't imagine a nicer season to visit Idyllwild than autumn!
We did a drive-through tour...
...and settled at Oma's Cafe for lunch.
It is where the locals hang out.
Jo-an's seems to attract those who are just passing through...
...and there were many of those on Sunday.
Idyllwild is flanked by two large rocks...
attracting rock climbers to the area.
After lunch...
we opted for a hike.
The Ernie Maxwell Trail was labeled 'easy-moderate'...
...and 5.2 miles seemed the perfect length.
The trail rose and fell...
and wound it's way around one rock after another.
We had great views of Tahquitz Rock and Suicide Rock...
and the valley floor below us.
There weren't many others on the trail...
and all was silent in the forest.
It was a great way to spend the afternoon.
We doddled along and paid little attention to the time...
and forgot that darkness would be coming an hour earlier with the time change.
Ours was the only vehicle in the parking lot when we were done our hike...
...and the sun was setting as we wound our way back down the mountain.
Idyllic Idyllwild...
a perfect day trip destination from Palm Springs.
Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful country!
ReplyDeleteI agree with Sandy. Idyllwild is truly idyllic. What gorgeous view on your hike!
ReplyDeleteWow - so beautiful Judy!!
ReplyDeleteOh what fun. Greg and I spent one of our anniversaries up in Idylwild and ate at the Charthouse there. I don't even know if the Charthouse is still around. There were several in Southern California back in the day...
ReplyDeleteThere was a hummingbird house there, too. That's too cute that you found Oma's place to eat. I think the ladies from Steve's church have their retreats at Idylwild. You found a lovely hike.
What a beautiful view from Idyllwild! Enjoy the beautiful weather!
ReplyDeleteWhat an amazing view in your last photo. And what a wonderful way to spend an afternoon.
ReplyDeleteAh...so glad you made it home safely. What a beautiful hike up there in the Idiwild mountains.
ReplyDeleteWe just might have to visit Palm Springs again...one day.
I can tell we'd see a lot more of the Palm Springs area if we travelled with you! So glad you are having a great time.
ReplyDeleteBeen down those roads on bike and in car.....but never the path for a hike. Note to self!:)
ReplyDeleteWe go in March and often have snow. We also go in August for Jazz in the Pines....really a great time. Love that little town :-)
ReplyDeleteHugs!
I almost felt like I was with you as I looked at each of these gorgeous pictures! Hiking has taken a new dimension since I have been visiting this blog. You find some of the most outstanding places nature provides in your hiking travels. Do you ever find yourselves humming worship music as you hike?
ReplyDeleteSuch gorgeous views! I'd love to hike in those mountains.
ReplyDeleteJudy these are glorious pictures! They brightened up an otherwise dismal day!!
ReplyDeletehugs
Sandi
Your lovely post has reminded me it's been way too long since I've visited Ildyllwild. It's only a couple of hour's drive away too. I need to get out more!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the memories your post brought. We too have enjoyed that little town and the very scenic ride with amazing landscape along the way.
ReplyDelete