cleveland national forest

There is basically one road that runs through the middle of this forest, over the hills. Very attractive scenery and spectacular views, but that is all....nowhere really to stop on teh way through except a few lay-bys. Takes about 40 minutes to drive all the way through and worth it for the view and the enjoyment of driving the hilly windy road. Watch out for the many motor bikes and super cars that seem to like being out on this road, one of the few in the area that has hills and bends....

A leisurely drive through the Cleveland National Forest and a stop here and there and topping it off with dinner in Julian makes for a perfect day!

October Fest is in full swing! Beer, Brats and Music! You can see Fall has arrived with all the colors. the new handmade candle store on main street was great!! you can be taught how to do it yourself or watch him craft one for you while u watch in 20 minutes.

My son and I started our hike up Viejas Mountain at about 10:30 and it took about 2.5 hours up and down. It was a little hot so I would suggest starting at about 7:30 or 8:30. The trail was a bit steep in some areas and the rocks and gravel were loose so you have to pay attention going down so you do not slip. A good pair of trail running shoes are perfect! It is 4,187 feet to the top at 1.75 miles, a great work out! Then go over to the Viejas Casino Buffet for lunch.

We only had limited time, so we took the sunrise hwy drive. Around each corner was another amazing view. We got out of the car several times just to take photos.

We were coming back from Temecula wineries on our way to Irvine and wanted to avoid the traffic on the I-15 and 91 interchange. Google map showed highway 74 going across the mountains from Lake Elsinore to San Juan Capistrano so we gave it a try. It was such a beautiful drive. Greenery like an oasis in the middle of the California desert. The highway, a.k.a. Ortega Highway, is a winding road with lots of turns and some pretty steep grades so if you're a nervous driver or have an large RV or motion sickness, you may want to give it a pass but if not and you like nature, go for a drive. There are camping sites available and nice places for picnicking. There was at least one bar/restaurant too if you wanted to drive up, enjoy the view then dine/relax. I suspect there is also some hiking opportunities here too.

Simple put a wonderful experience for the family and friends. The beauty of the outdoors along with the great hiking trails were worth the trip.

Here is an example of the diversity California has to offer. A Tioga environment, this area has oaks, pines. sage and even palm trees,( Look hard and google it for a natural hot spring oasis). The highway that goes from San Juan Capistrano to Lake Elsinore is not for the faint of heart with its snake winding roads and sharp cliff faces but it is a memorable experience that has people travel from all over just to say they "drove the Ortega". Popular on Sundays with the motorcycle crowd there are eateries ranging from salt water taffy and turkey jerky to a roadhouse on the cliff serving barbeque with a view 1000' below of Lake Elsinore. A pleaser for visiting guests this is a great place to expose friends to.

This is a very large National Forest located about an hour east of San Diego. We drove through part of it on the Sunrise Scenic Byway . . . . . https://www.google.com/search?q=sunrise+scenic+byway&rlz=1C1RNPN_enUS414&espv=210&es_sm=93&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ei=p0f6UoylEueysQTs2oH4Cw&sqi . . . . . traveling north from Rt. 8. It is a very interesting drive. Activities offered include hiking, camping, and horseback riding plus plenty of spots for a picnic. There are a number of "Scenic Overlooks" along this Byway with spectacular views. I also suggest stopping at the Laguna Store and post office which is an old time general store for a snack and a drink.

Very disappointed that they didn't have National Forest Patches for sale. I try to collect one from every place i hike.

great place to visit any time of year. you can get to Julian or just look around. the lake has fishing and a good place to eat. take your time because there are lots of back roads, walking trails and camping areas. you need a pass to stop and park. remember that California is broke.

Driving thru the forest is beautiful and the hiking is great. You go for a hike and reach some spots that you can see all the way to the ocean. Just Beautiful at sunset.

Great for observing high desert scrub, animals, and rock outcroppings, especially in late fall and spring. Not advisable for hot summers which require expertise in warm weather hiking. Always bring lots of water and prepare for large temperature swings by dressing in layers (25*F nights- 85+*F days, even in winter). Beautiful vistas from hill/mountain tops to the ocean on clear days. Be aware that rattle snakes 'awaken' in the warmer days of spring, but sleep during cool winters, unless there is a prolonged warm-up Santa Ana. Dry river bottoms and gorges are subject to flash floods so check daily weather reports before hiking. A great, calming get-away from the city hassles and traffic without a long drive.

Wonderful all year around! Close to San Diego, unlike trying to get to the mountains in LA/Orange County

Great overnight trip & easy ride from LA. Camp sites offer restrooms with showers (not always necessary but a nice option) You can hike from the camp sites up to the observatory, almost 3 miles but it's worth it!! The observatory is a must-see!