Things To Do In Idyllwild

Considered one of Southern California’s best-kept secrets, Idyllwild is a charming community nestled in the San Jacinto Mountains. The popular Riverside County town is characterized by its scenic peaks, towering trees, and abundance of fauna and flora.

While less than 3,800 call Idyllwild home, millions come from around the world to visit the charming town and enjoy a slower pace of life.

There are plenty of exciting things to do in Idyllwild while visiting. Whether you’re traveling solo, with children, or with a pet, you’ll find the small community of Idyllwild to be highly accommodating to all visitors.

Free Things to Do in Idyllwild

Mount San Jacinto State Park

With more than 13,000 acres of land and 50 miles of trails, there’s always something to explore at Mount San Jacinto State Park. Start your visit to Idyllwild with a hike up the second largest mountain range in the U.S. 

During your journey, you’ll discover a variety of indigenous plants and animals, such as mule deer, coyotes, bobcats, and an array of colorful bird species. The park is also located just a short distance from the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway.

Idyllwild Area Historical Society Museum 

Interested in learning more about the town of Idyllwild? Spend an afternoon at the Idyllwild Area Historical Society Museum. Maintained by the Idyllwild Area Historical Society, the engaging museum aims to share and preserve the history of the San Jacinto Mountains.

The museum is located in a historic summer cabin that was built in the 1930s and still retains many of its original features, such as wood flooring, a fireplace, and a handcrafted dining table. Admission is free and visitors can find many interesting exhibits, such as the history of the Idyllwild Inn and Elvis Presley’s “Kid Galahad.”

For more historical sightseeing in the region, check out California ghost towns or read stories of lost treasure in California.

Indian Vista Scenic Overlook

Head down Highway 243 just 9.5 miles northwest of Idyllwild and you’ll come across the Indian Vista Scenic Overlook. The overlook is open year-round and offers magnificent views for hundreds of miles. You may also spot some local wildlife, such as red-tailed hawks and a variety of lizards.

Visitors can also venture on the short back trail which is suitable for all skill levels. Bring your camera along and snap photos of the captivating sunset or mighty mountain ranges in the distance. This free activity in Idyllwild is well worth the short drive.

Kid-Friendly Activities in Idyllwild

Lake Hemet

Lake Hemet is one of the most popular attractions in Southern California for outdoor activities like fishing and boating. The kid-friendly destination is located in San Bernardino National Forest on Highway 74 near the San Jacinto Peak. 

Pack a picnic and enjoy a delicious lunch on the lakeside with the family. For a small entrance fee, children can fish for trout, catfish, and bass, or families can rent a boat and enjoy a leisurely ride through the calm water. There is also a café, store, marina, and water-park onsite. 

Idyllwild Nature Center

Located just one mile northwest of Idyllwild on Highway 243, the Idyllwild Nature Center is a fun and educational attraction for families with children. The attraction offers environmental education programs, field study trips, and guided tours that can be tailored to fit a group’s specific interests.

Families visiting the Idyllwild Nature Center can learn about the town’s unique culture and ecology. There are also several walking trails that guests can use to see the beautiful wildflowers that grow in abundance during the spring and summer months. Also, consider visiting during one of the center’s special events, such as the Butterfly Daze or Lemon Lily Festival. 

The Rustic Theatre 

Experience award-winning film at The Rustic Theatre in Idyllwild.  This 117-seat venue features a screen, concert sound system, and stage. Guests can also enjoy a wide range of video rentals, ranging from the classics to all the new releases. 

Families can have fun watching some of their favorite movies and genres on the big screen while munching on popcorn and other goods. The theater also has a unique history that many guests enjoy learning about. If you have a special event coming up, the theater can even be rented for parties and other occasions. 

Pet-Friendly Activities in Idyllwild

Tahquitz Peak Trail

Prior to 1994, Tahquitz was a working fire lookout. Today, the location is a popular hiking area spanning more than eight miles. The trail is suitable for pets but leash laws apply as the trail ventures through the San Jacinto Wilderness. The Tahquitz Peak Trail offers adventure to visitors and their dogs who enjoy the great outdoors.

Tahquitz Peak via Devils Slide Trail is adorned with beautiful wildflowers. It is also a common area for nature trips and bird watching. Along with dogs, horses are also welcome on the trail so you may encounter one during your hike. 

Café Aroma

Eat, drink, and enjoy live entertainment at Café Aroma. The dog-friendly bistro in Idyllwild is more than just a restaurant offering an extensive lunch and dinner menu, as well as a wine list. It’s also where you’ll find talented musical guests throughout the week.

Leashed dogs are welcome at the outdoor tables while their owners enjoy a tasty meal. The fare is French, Asian, and Nuevo Latino cuisines. Breakfast options are also served until 1 PM, and desserts include favorites like tiramisu, New York cheesecake, beignets, and mango sorbet. If you get hungry during your visit to Idyllwild, Café Aroma is a great place to visit.

Humber Park

Humber Park is the site of two popular trails: Ernie Maxwell Scenic Trail and Devils Slide Trail. Both options enter the San Jacinto Wilderness and provide spectacular views of nature. Leashed dogs are welcome at the park, which is located near Forest Drive and Fern Valley Road.

This popular location is also the site of Suicide Rock. This granite outcrop is popular with rock climbers and offers hikers panoramic views of Idyllwild and Strawberry Valley. If you and your pup are up for the trip, exploring Humber Park can be an amazing adventure that you won’t soon forget.