What About Fall in SoCal?

Where to See the Best Autumn Colors

When you live near the ocean in Huntington Beach, you may not realize that Southern California offers some stunning autumnal vistas as we head into October. However, you are close to a wide variety of mountains, lakes, and even scenic villages where Mother Nature puts on a gorgeous display. We’ve gathered some top spots within easy driving distance from our home base at the Beach Boulevard of Cars.

Malibu Creek State Park

Make a full day of it when you take the family in the Hyundai Palisade up to Malibu Creek State Park north of Los Angeles. It takes about 90 minutes to get there. Stay on Mulholland Highway to catch the views from the car or stop at Reagan Ranch and hike or ride horseback through Lookout Trail.

Palomar Mountain Loop

For a weekend escape in your Mazda MX-5 Miata, hop on Interstate 15 down to Palomar State Park. The Palomar Mountain Loop road winds through the park, shaded by a mix of Canyon Live Oak, cedar, and pine to produce dazzling displays. Stop at the Observatory and take in open vistas.

Idyllwild-Pine Cove

For that stress-free escape from city life, check into a B&B for a night in the small town of Idyllwild-Pine Cove. Positioned deep within the San Jacinto Mountains, you are surrounded by trees turning shades of orange and crimson accented by the rich greens of evergreens.

Whittier Narrows Recreation Area

For some color closer to home, it takes less than an hour to reach Whittier Narrows near the Hacienda Hills. Rent a paddle boat for some aquatic fun while you drink in the scenery. Leave the crowds behind and take a hike on the Legg Lake Loop Trail to immerse yourself in bird song and beauty.

Stoddard Peak and Mount Baldy

Pack up the Jeep Wrangler and drive up past Pomona to enter the mountainous region surrounding Mt. Baldy. Find the best views from the driver’s seat on Mt. Baldy Road on your way through San Antonio Canyon. Park the SUV, put on your boots, and tackle Stoddard Peak for memorable sights worthy of a bucket list.

Apples and Pumpkins in Oak Glen

Not every Fall excursion will be wholly focused on the leaves. A destination waiting for your entire family is beautiful Oak Glen, the home of apple picking and down-home cooking. Located on the base of the San Gorgonio Mountains, the roads leading up to town will be littered with fallen leaves in yellow and gold. The town celebrates harvest season with U-pick orchards, petting zoos, and festivals.

Take in Autumn Colors Piloting a New SUV

Whether you want to push the limits on a new sports car or finally invest in a 3-row SUV big enough for the growing fam, you can find an avalanche of options at the Beach Boulevard of Cars. With a dozen dealerships, there is a Ford, Chevrolet, or Kia waiting for your leaf-peeping trip through Southern California.