This article is sponsored by San Bernardino County — California’s Outdoor Playground. It does not reflect the work or opinions of NBC Los Angeles’ editorial staff. To learn more about San Bernardino County, visit californiaoutdoorplayground.com.
We all love weekend escapes to the mountains, but often times a daunting drive can discourage us from making the trek up into higher elevations.
Thankfully, the charming town of Wrightwood, California is closer than you think. Nestled amid the towering peaks and pines of the San Gabriel Mountains, Wrightwood is a picturesque, laid-back community located only 76 miles from northeast Los Angeles.
Famous for its winter ski slopes, Wrightwood is equally fun during the warmer months. From its sprawling network of hiking and mountain biking trails to the quaint antique shops, cozy restaurants and fun bars throughout town, you’ll find just the right mix of adventure and relaxation in this authentic mountain hideaway.
To help get you started on your perfect weekend escape, we’ve put together your Wrightwood to-do list.
Hiking
With 16 trailheads and more than 43 miles of trails, Wrightwood is the perfect destination for adventurous nature lovers. Perched at an elevation of 6,000 feet, you’ll have access to a network of routes, from gentle walks underneath towering Jeffrey pines to rugged trails leading to magnificent peaks and equally magnificent views. You can even tackle a section of the legendary Pacific Crest Trail, which passes directly through Wrightwood, bringing thousands of thru-hikers to the area every year.
Zipline Tours
Sure, scaling a peak is quite an accomplishment, but it doesn’t rival the rush of descending one at 55 miles per hour. Book a visit to Big Pine Zipline Tours and you’ll soar 300-feet above the forest floor for as long as 1,500 feet. With eight different ziplines, an obstacle course, rope bridges and three different tours, you’re guaranteed to have an action-packed day.
Disc Golf
Skip a lazy day on the suburban links and play a round of disc golf on Mountain High’s spectacular course. Designed by industry vet Dave Dunnipace, Mountain High's Sky High Disc Golf Course is considered one of the best courses in the country. Not to mention one of its most scenic. Take in sprawling views of snow-capped mountains and catch glimpses of local wildlife as you play 27 holes while hiking 2.5 miles through the Angeles National Forest.
Dining
Of course all the adventuring will have worked up an appetite. Head to the Grizzly Cafe, where you can dine al fresco on top sirloin steaks as the the setting sun casts the town in a pink glow.
To learn more about Wrightwood and all the adventure San Bernardino County has to offer, visit californiaoutdoorplayground.com.
