Great California road trips: The Rim of the World Scenic Byway
Since it’s such a huge state, you better believe that California has some of the best road trips in the world. Highway 1 along the coast is a perennial favorite, and Highway 395 shows the state's rugged mountain beauty. But a lot of people forget there's an easy escape east of LA: the Rim of the World Scenic Byway. The 110-mile drive offers stunning views along the cliffs of the San Bernardino Mountains. The forested hills of the Inland Empire are the perfect place to reconnect with nature for a great California weekend getaway. Oh, and did we mention that you can hit the slopes of Bear Mountain come winter? Take a private car with Daytrip, and you won't have to worry about the hassle of driving. Just sit back and enjoy a door-to-door ride. You don't even have to worry about parking! And unlike your typical car service, we have a curated selection of sightseeing stops on the way so you can make the most of your getaway.
Los Angeles to Big Bear
If LA's got you feeling overwhelmed, hit the Rim of the World Scenic Byway from Los Angeles to Big Bear.
Keller Peak Fire Lookout
Golden wildflowers paint the San Bernardino Mountains with a burst of springtime joy captured by kristina zeleski
Ever wonder what California's first line of defense against fires is? Since the early 20th century, lookout stations atop mountain peaks have kept an eye out for blazes. Stop for 45 minutes for the spectacular views across the San Bernardino Valley and learn more about the fire lookout's function (it's closed in winter).
Arrival in Big Bear
Big Bear Lake’s twilight blues mirror the sky, capturing a perfect, peaceful evening through the lens Logan Voss
After skirting the edge of Lake Big Bear, you’ll arrive at the eponymous resort town. During summer, you have hiking and watersports galore. You can rent pretty much anything you need, including paddleboards, kayaks, or boats for waterskiing or fishing to enjoy the lake’s waters. But you’ll also want to get away from the shore for a bit. The hiking trails not only immerse you in the forested hills but offer great views! The sometimes steep, 3-mile Hike Castle Rock Trail is especially good, leading you past ponderosa pines and granite boulders (and a waterfall in spring or summer!). And if that’s not fast-paced enough, you can take a zipline tour through the trees! Remember how we said Keller Peak Fire Lookout is closed for the winter? That’s not the case at Big Bear. When the snow falls, ski or ride at Bear Mountain or the more “traditional” Snow Summit.
Big Bear to Los Angeles
When you need to get back to reality, head from Big Bear to Los Angeles. But don't worry; you'll get to enjoy the amazing views of the San Bernardino Valley the whole way back.
Lake Arrowhead
Lake Arrowhead's crystal waters reflect the charm of its forested shores Cody Moore
Get one last helping of nature by stopping for views at this well-to-do hideaway. Gangster Bugsy Siegal even had a lovely Tudor House here - his former den of sin is now a swank venue for brunch or dinner. Of course, you can hike or swim, but we think the best way to experience the lake’s history and beauty is a ride aboard the “Arrowhead Queen” paddleboat!
Not feeling Big Bear? Check out some other ideas for weekend getaways in California. Or really get away from it all with a trip into the Sierras on Highway 395.
