Idyllwild Guidebook
Food scene
An Idyllwild favorite. Higher end menu of delicious entrees, mocktails & cocktails. Book in advance. This is one of Idyllwild's most popular dining spots. Go Thursday night's for Jazz night. Beautiful back patio dining area with heat lamps.
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FERRO
25840 Cedar StAn Idyllwild favorite. Higher end menu of delicious entrees, mocktails & cocktails. Book in advance. This is one of Idyllwild's most popular dining spots. Go Thursday night's for Jazz night. Beautiful back patio dining area with heat lamps.
TOP PICK 2023* Our favorite place for gourmet 5-star cuisine in a lovely indoor/outdoor dining setting in Idyllwild. Very romantic setting. They serve lunch and dinner. Sometimes you are even treated to live music at the venue. Be sure to make reservations! This is a highly popular spot and gets booked up early on busy weekends. Check schedule for when they are open. Fantastic menu. Cozy, eclectic vibe. Be sure to check out the gallery next door too!
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Cafe Aroma
54750 N Circle DrTOP PICK 2023* Our favorite place for gourmet 5-star cuisine in a lovely indoor/outdoor dining setting in Idyllwild. Very romantic setting. They serve lunch and dinner. Sometimes you are even treated to live music at the venue. Be sure to make reservations! This is a highly popular spot and gets booked up early on busy weekends. Check schedule for when they are open. Fantastic menu. Cozy, eclectic vibe. Be sure to check out the gallery next door too!
Higher Grounds is in the center of town so if you are wandering around and need a boost visit this quintessentially Idyllwild old-school coffee shop. Filled with old locals, tourists, mountain folk... it is a snap shot of the character of the town. That said, if you are a coffee aficionado, we must share that we recommend the coffee and interior styling of the fantastic Alpaca cafe just outside town and next to Mile High Cafe. Try both!
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Higher Grounds
54245 N Circle DrHigher Grounds is in the center of town so if you are wandering around and need a boost visit this quintessentially Idyllwild old-school coffee shop. Filled with old locals, tourists, mountain folk... it is a snap shot of the character of the town. That said, if you are a coffee aficionado, we must share that we recommend the coffee and interior styling of the fantastic Alpaca cafe just outside town and next to Mile High Cafe. Try both!
A long-tme popular favorite. More old-school Idyllwild. The service can be slow so don't go if you are starving. Classic menu and filling.
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Restaurant Gastrognome
54381 Ridgeview DrA long-tme popular favorite. More old-school Idyllwild. The service can be slow so don't go if you are starving. Classic menu and filling.
Surprisingly decent Mexican food for a tiny town mountain town. That said, we've had far better in Southern California. But the only mex in town and they offer classic options of burritos, tacos, enchiladas etc. If you are in a mex mood, it will do the trick. They have a nice, expansive outdoor patio area to enjoy your lunch or dinner. Check hours. They close early.
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La Casita
54650 N Circle DrSurprisingly decent Mexican food for a tiny town mountain town. That said, we've had far better in Southern California. But the only mex in town and they offer classic options of burritos, tacos, enchiladas etc. If you are in a mex mood, it will do the trick. They have a nice, expansive outdoor patio area to enjoy your lunch or dinner. Check hours. They close early.
Red Kettle is a popular greasy spoon option. Classic menu. Filling. If you dig greasy spoon type places, this one is for you.
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Red Kettle
54220 N Circle DrRed Kettle is a popular greasy spoon option. Classic menu. Filling. If you dig greasy spoon type places, this one is for you.
In the mood for pizza? This is your best option in town. Decent pizza. Very filling. Thick chewy crust. Many options. Always packed. You can order for pick up or eat outside on their cafe. They share the same center and parking lot as a grocery store and other supply shops.
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Idyllwild Pizza Company
54391 Village Center DrIn the mood for pizza? This is your best option in town. Decent pizza. Very filling. Thick chewy crust. Many options. Always packed. You can order for pick up or eat outside on their cafe. They share the same center and parking lot as a grocery store and other supply shops.
If you are hankering for sushi or other Asian dishes, try Idy Roll... a great local option. Call ahead. It's more of a take-out place.
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Idy Sushi Rolls
25980 CA-243If you are hankering for sushi or other Asian dishes, try Idy Roll... a great local option. Call ahead. It's more of a take-out place.
If you are in the mood for delicious chocolate treats, try this chocolateria for hot cocoa and a large variety of chocolate treats.
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El Buen Cacao
54423 Village Center DrIf you are in the mood for delicious chocolate treats, try this chocolateria for hot cocoa and a large variety of chocolate treats.
A delicious assortment of baked treats, pies, and cakes along with breakfast and lunch options such as French toast, omelets, sandwiches, bagels, salads and soups.
The Sunflower Bakery & Cafe
A delicious assortment of baked treats, pies, and cakes along with breakfast and lunch options such as French toast, omelets, sandwiches, bagels, salads and soups.
Opened a year ago, Mamma's Egg House is a big hit in Idyllwild featuring a mouth-watering collection of breakfast options (as well as lunch!) including the classics and some fantastic twists on breakfast favorites like the Prosciutto Benedict, Lobster Benedict and the Tiramisu French Toast with espresso, mascarpone cheese, vanilla & cookie crumbs.
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Mama's Egg House
54241 Ridgeview DrOpened a year ago, Mamma's Egg House is a big hit in Idyllwild featuring a mouth-watering collection of breakfast options (as well as lunch!) including the classics and some fantastic twists on breakfast favorites like the Prosciutto Benedict, Lobster Benedict and the Tiramisu French Toast with espresso, mascarpone cheese, vanilla & cookie crumbs.
ALPACA BRUNCH CAFE, COFFEE & TEA. By far, our favorite breakfast/brunch spot in Idyllwild. Alpaca Cafe has two sections: The best coffee, tea and matcha lattes in Idyllwild as well as a superb restaurant with many unique twists on classics and interesting specials like their decadent pumpkin pancakes! The eggs shakshuka is the best we've ever had - anywhere! We also love the generous serving of eggs Benedict and huevos rancheros. Indoor and outdoor seating. Also open for lunch. Just out of town at 26600 CA-243, Idyllwild. They are changing their menu a lot, so sometimes also offer Asian Inspired dishes for lunch.
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Alpaca Coffee & Tea
26600 CA-243ALPACA BRUNCH CAFE, COFFEE & TEA. By far, our favorite breakfast/brunch spot in Idyllwild. Alpaca Cafe has two sections: The best coffee, tea and matcha lattes in Idyllwild as well as a superb restaurant with many unique twists on classics and interesting specials like their decadent pumpkin pancakes! The eggs shakshuka is the best we've ever had - anywhere! We also love the generous serving of eggs Benedict and huevos rancheros. Indoor and outdoor seating. Also open for lunch. Just out of town at 26600 CA-243, Idyllwild. They are changing their menu a lot, so sometimes also offer Asian Inspired dishes for lunch.
Neighborhoods
Wander the mountain village of Idyllwild. Visit the eclectic shops... oddball antique shops, jerky, ice cream, moccasins... Idyllwild is your quintessential mountain town filled with souvenirs, cafes, and restaurants. Fun to spend an afternoon exploring.
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Idyllwild-Pine Cove
Wander the mountain village of Idyllwild. Visit the eclectic shops... oddball antique shops, jerky, ice cream, moccasins... Idyllwild is your quintessential mountain town filled with souvenirs, cafes, and restaurants. Fun to spend an afternoon exploring.
Hiking
Ernie Maxwell trail is one of Idyllwild's most popular trails and just a 2 minute drive from Haven. Head up toward Humber Park (go back down Encino Road and turn RIGHT on Fern Valley Road - instead of left, which takes you back into town). You will need a forest service parking permit but you can buy those at many places in town or at the state park ranger station in town. Even if you don't buy the pass... don't worry, the ranger might give you a notice to pay the $5 fee which you can do after by mail. This easy in-and-out heads back towards the town of Idyllwild and you can even start the trail at the other end. It's a 5 mile hike and gently sloped so perfect for families or just an easy stroll for anyone.
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Ernie Maxwell Scenic Trail 3E07
Fern Valley RoadErnie Maxwell trail is one of Idyllwild's most popular trails and just a 2 minute drive from Haven. Head up toward Humber Park (go back down Encino Road and turn RIGHT on Fern Valley Road - instead of left, which takes you back into town). You will need a forest service parking permit but you can buy those at many places in town or at the state park ranger station in town. Even if you don't buy the pass... don't worry, the ranger might give you a notice to pay the $5 fee which you can do after by mail. This easy in-and-out heads back towards the town of Idyllwild and you can even start the trail at the other end. It's a 5 mile hike and gently sloped so perfect for families or just an easy stroll for anyone.
Devils Slide Trail is our favorite trial in all of Idyllwild and only 2 minutes from Haven. A stunning, steady climb that goes for miles. You can even hike to the peak of San Jacinto and come back (a whole day hike). Bring water and snacks! The climb is high elevation and a wonderful workout. The views are breathtaking. DON"T MISS THIS ONE. Even if you just hike in a mile or two if you don't have all day, be sure to check this one out. We love it!
Head up toward Humber Park (go back down Encino Road and turn RIGHT on Fern Valley Road. Instead of left, which would take you back to town). You will need a forest service parking permit but you can buy those at many places in town including gas stations and the Idyllwild market. We also have an extra pass in the Haven guide book but please return the parking pass when you finish using it so other guests can also use it. Even if you don't buy the pass... don't worry, the ranger might give you a notice to pay the $5 fee which you can do after by mail.
Most important: Be absolutely sure to fill out a trail permit (found in our Haven guide book in the house and at the Idyllwild Ranger Station in town). Keep the yellow copy on you for your hike. Leave the white copy at the ranger station. Sometimes it is a bother to have to drive all the way back into town just to drop off a white slip to the ranger kiosk, so, well, you can just bring the yellow slip with you. But be sure you have the yellow copy with you on the trail. We've been half way up the mountain on a beautiful day and turned back by a finger-wagging ranger because we didn't have the silly yellow hiking permit. It's an extraordinarily safe trail, well-marked and impossible to get lost. But regardless, the rangers make a big deal about having that yellow slip.
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Devils Slide Trail 3E05
Devils Slide TrailDevils Slide Trail is our favorite trial in all of Idyllwild and only 2 minutes from Haven. A stunning, steady climb that goes for miles. You can even hike to the peak of San Jacinto and come back (a whole day hike). Bring water and snacks! The climb is high elevation and a wonderful workout. The views are breathtaking. DON"T MISS THIS ONE. Even if you just hike in a mile or two if you don't have all day, be sure to check this one out. We love it!
Head up toward Humber Park (go back down Encino Road and turn RIGHT on Fern Valley Road. Instead of left, which would take you back to town). You will need a forest service parking permit but you can buy those at many places in town including gas stations and the Idyllwild market. We also have an extra pass in the Haven guide book but please return the parking pass when you finish using it so other guests can also use it. Even if you don't buy the pass... don't worry, the ranger might give you a notice to pay the $5 fee which you can do after by mail.
Most important: Be absolutely sure to fill out a trail permit (found in our Haven guide book in the house and at the Idyllwild Ranger Station in town). Keep the yellow copy on you for your hike. Leave the white copy at the ranger station. Sometimes it is a bother to have to drive all the way back into town just to drop off a white slip to the ranger kiosk, so, well, you can just bring the yellow slip with you. But be sure you have the yellow copy with you on the trail. We've been half way up the mountain on a beautiful day and turned back by a finger-wagging ranger because we didn't have the silly yellow hiking permit. It's an extraordinarily safe trail, well-marked and impossible to get lost. But regardless, the rangers make a big deal about having that yellow slip.
Idyllwild Park Trail is a 2.3 mile moderately trafficked loop trail located in Idyllwild is a lovely moderately easy hike (more of a nature walk) perfect for a lazy day taking in the mountains, and surroundings if you are in the mood to hike but don't want to commit to a difficult trek. It features beautiful wild flowers, views, and loops through various meadows, forests and passes creaks. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, nature trips, and bird watching and is best used from March until November. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
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Idyllwild Park
54000 Riverside County Playground RdIdyllwild Park Trail is a 2.3 mile moderately trafficked loop trail located in Idyllwild is a lovely moderately easy hike (more of a nature walk) perfect for a lazy day taking in the mountains, and surroundings if you are in the mood to hike but don't want to commit to a difficult trek. It features beautiful wild flowers, views, and loops through various meadows, forests and passes creaks. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, nature trips, and bird watching and is best used from March until November. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
This is one of southern California's most spectacular trails. Not to be missed! Just stunning. Gorgeous views, old growth forests of cedar, pine and oak. And a breath-taking finish: a Yosimite-esque view over the rock face of Suicide Rock. We recommend a sunset hike. Leave the trail head at 4:30pm, return at dusk. Be sure to pack a flash light if you take your time. Suicide Rock via Deer Springs Trail is a 6.5 mile busy out and back trail located a few miles out of town back down the 243 towards the 10 freeway. You may see a gaggle of cars parked at the trailhead. This is one of the most popular trails in Idylliwld but if you go really early or leave later and walk back pask dusk, you can avoid the crowds. Bring plenty of water and snacks. If it's late fall or winter, even if there is snow, you should be able to do this trail. It is well-defined trail even with the snow!. Slightly icy in the morning and super slushy by the afternoon. Check the weather before heading out. And for nearly all trails in Idyllwild, be sure to fill out a trail permit (found in our Haven guide book in the house and at the Idyllwild Ranger Station in town). Keep the yellow copy on you for your hike. Leave the white copy at the ranger station.
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Deer Springs Trail
Deer Spring TrailThis is one of southern California's most spectacular trails. Not to be missed! Just stunning. Gorgeous views, old growth forests of cedar, pine and oak. And a breath-taking finish: a Yosimite-esque view over the rock face of Suicide Rock. We recommend a sunset hike. Leave the trail head at 4:30pm, return at dusk. Be sure to pack a flash light if you take your time. Suicide Rock via Deer Springs Trail is a 6.5 mile busy out and back trail located a few miles out of town back down the 243 towards the 10 freeway. You may see a gaggle of cars parked at the trailhead. This is one of the most popular trails in Idylliwld but if you go really early or leave later and walk back pask dusk, you can avoid the crowds. Bring plenty of water and snacks. If it's late fall or winter, even if there is snow, you should be able to do this trail. It is well-defined trail even with the snow!. Slightly icy in the morning and super slushy by the afternoon. Check the weather before heading out. And for nearly all trails in Idyllwild, be sure to fill out a trail permit (found in our Haven guide book in the house and at the Idyllwild Ranger Station in town). Keep the yellow copy on you for your hike. Leave the white copy at the ranger station.
Just a 5 minute walk from Haven, you'll find one of Idyllwild's best hikes-practically in our backyard. It's a 45 minute hike to the rock face and an easy climb to the base of Suicide Rock. You can also explore the rocks when you arrive (no ropes required). Walk down Encino road, turn right on Fern Valley Road, walk three minutes up the road until you see Forest Dr ... Across the street and you'll see a set of stairs going down to a creek. Follow that trail, turn right on the newly paved asphalt road and you'll come to a trail head sign indicating the way! Don't leave without enjoying this epic trail! It is tricky to find both the beginning and the end scramble is a bit confusing so we recommend using AllTrails to download the trail map to your phone.
Climber's Trail 3E06 Trailhead
24598 Fern Valley RdJust a 5 minute walk from Haven, you'll find one of Idyllwild's best hikes-practically in our backyard. It's a 45 minute hike to the rock face and an easy climb to the base of Suicide Rock. You can also explore the rocks when you arrive (no ropes required). Walk down Encino road, turn right on Fern Valley Road, walk three minutes up the road until you see Forest Dr ... Across the street and you'll see a set of stairs going down to a creek. Follow that trail, turn right on the newly paved asphalt road and you'll come to a trail head sign indicating the way! Don't leave without enjoying this epic trail! It is tricky to find both the beginning and the end scramble is a bit confusing so we recommend using AllTrails to download the trail map to your phone.
Black Mountain Trail is a gorgeous hike. And a solid workout for those wanting something a little more challenging. Plan on at least 4-5 hours for this stunning wilderness excursion. It's a 8.7 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located a few miles down the hill back towards the 10 freeway. to see wildlife and is rated as difficult. Best used from May until December. Dogs are also able to use this trail. Check weather conditions. Bring bug repellent and a hat and insect net. Although a pretty trail, the gnats are maddening unless you are hiking in the winter. At the top, you'll find a fire tower perched on top Black Mountain with magnificent views across to San Grogonio (Big Bear) and out to the LA basin. (It makes sense they'd built a fire watch tower here). It's a fantastic work out and you'll be ready for a big meal when you get back to Idyllwild. Pack plenty of water and snacks! Or a packed lunch to enjoy when you make it to the top.
Black Mountain Trail 2E35
Black Mountain TrailBlack Mountain Trail is a gorgeous hike. And a solid workout for those wanting something a little more challenging. Plan on at least 4-5 hours for this stunning wilderness excursion. It's a 8.7 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located a few miles down the hill back towards the 10 freeway. to see wildlife and is rated as difficult. Best used from May until December. Dogs are also able to use this trail. Check weather conditions. Bring bug repellent and a hat and insect net. Although a pretty trail, the gnats are maddening unless you are hiking in the winter. At the top, you'll find a fire tower perched on top Black Mountain with magnificent views across to San Grogonio (Big Bear) and out to the LA basin. (It makes sense they'd built a fire watch tower here). It's a fantastic work out and you'll be ready for a big meal when you get back to Idyllwild. Pack plenty of water and snacks! Or a packed lunch to enjoy when you make it to the top.
Shop
Our favorite shop in Idylliwld, Wild Idy is female owned and has an eclectic assortment of home accessories and clothes. Properly funky and vibrant, it's a fresh break from the typical mountain souvenir shops you find in Idylliwld. Pop in an explore. 54340 N Circle Dr, Idyllwild
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Wild Idy
54340 N Circle DrOur favorite shop in Idylliwld, Wild Idy is female owned and has an eclectic assortment of home accessories and clothes. Properly funky and vibrant, it's a fresh break from the typical mountain souvenir shops you find in Idylliwld. Pop in an explore. 54340 N Circle Dr, Idyllwild
Great place for souvenirs run by two local brothers. Flavored popcorns, jerkys, jams, random assortment of dry foods and treats, gift-worthy items.
Coyote Red's
54225 N Circle DrGreat place for souvenirs run by two local brothers. Flavored popcorns, jerkys, jams, random assortment of dry foods and treats, gift-worthy items.
The epitome of Idyllwild eclectic. The name is the perfect indication of what you'll find. We vote the owner the most interesting man in Idyllwld. He'll give you a tour you will not soon forget. A random assortment of strangeness... and the funnest part is the owner's enthusiasm for the shop's contents and history.
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The Funky Bazaar
54875 N Circle DrThe epitome of Idyllwild eclectic. The name is the perfect indication of what you'll find. We vote the owner the most interesting man in Idyllwld. He'll give you a tour you will not soon forget. A random assortment of strangeness... and the funnest part is the owner's enthusiasm for the shop's contents and history.
Our favorite (and newest) shop in Idyllwild. A beautifully designed collection of fantastic beauty and skin products, soaps, shampoos and moisturizers–as well as home decor and a curated collection of items from designer hunting knives to South American slippers. A mountain version of a designer store on Abbot Kinney in Venice. But also very friendly! Tucked away in a small plaza of shops (all worth exploring) along the main ‘drag’. 54425 North Circle Drive.
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Wildland
54425 N Circle DrOur favorite (and newest) shop in Idyllwild. A beautifully designed collection of fantastic beauty and skin products, soaps, shampoos and moisturizers–as well as home decor and a curated collection of items from designer hunting knives to South American slippers. A mountain version of a designer store on Abbot Kinney in Venice. But also very friendly! Tucked away in a small plaza of shops (all worth exploring) along the main ‘drag’. 54425 North Circle Drive.
(Formally Idyllwild Soda & Sweet Shop) Remember When Toys is one of our favorite shops, not just in Idyllwild, but anywhere. Remember those fantastic retro toys from your childhood? Or your parents' childhood? They still exist and there is a place to find all of them. Check out the wonderfully fun, small yet packed-to-the-ceiling delight of Remember When Toys. Filled with games, puzzles, toys and treats. You cannot walk foot in here without picking up some fun object d’delight. Many of the toys are well-priced starting at only $2. A fun place to take the kids as well as the inner-kid we all have. Say hi to Dan, the friendliest shop owner you’ll ever meet. His inner-child is definitely alive and well. 54225 N Circle Dr #17 (Upstairs in the collection of 2-story shops in the middle of town. The sign still says ‘Idyllwild Soda & Sweet Shop’ as a tribute to the former owner.)
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Idyllwild Soda Pop & Sweet Shop
54225 N Circle Dr(Formally Idyllwild Soda & Sweet Shop) Remember When Toys is one of our favorite shops, not just in Idyllwild, but anywhere. Remember those fantastic retro toys from your childhood? Or your parents' childhood? They still exist and there is a place to find all of them. Check out the wonderfully fun, small yet packed-to-the-ceiling delight of Remember When Toys. Filled with games, puzzles, toys and treats. You cannot walk foot in here without picking up some fun object d’delight. Many of the toys are well-priced starting at only $2. A fun place to take the kids as well as the inner-kid we all have. Say hi to Dan, the friendliest shop owner you’ll ever meet. His inner-child is definitely alive and well. 54225 N Circle Dr #17 (Upstairs in the collection of 2-story shops in the middle of town. The sign still says ‘Idyllwild Soda & Sweet Shop’ as a tribute to the former owner.)
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What to pack
For Idyllwild, the number thing you'll want to bring is hiking shoes. We have a near limitless supply of gorgeous trails in the area. The trails can be mellow and easy to extremely steep and difficult. Bring a hiking backpack, water, bug repellent and, if it is summer, even a hat with bug screen. Certain trails get a ton of annoying gnats. Also, it is good to bring something warm if you are hiking into the early evening. As soon as the sun drops, it can get chilly.
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Walking the town of Idyllwild
Idyllwild is the quintessentially adorable mountain town. To really enjoy it, it's best to explore on foot and roam around and poke into shops, galleries and cafes on all the hidden little side streets and shopping plazas that invite you to explore. Go down a side street, walk into a hidden gallery, and basically let your curiosity lead you. The local shop owners are friendly and often showcase art, pottery and other crafts from locals.