Just an hour drive from Palm Springs, tucked around the back side of the San Jacinto mountains, lies a hidden gem called Idyllwild. Idyllwild is a resort mountain town that hasn’t lost it’s small town charm. It also has a reputation as a thriving artist community. I took a late morning drive up to explore for the day.
Arrive & Check Out The Joint
First Up – Lunch!
It’s a beautiful 70 degree day so I sat on the patio. There’s something about the smell of pine needles and fresh mountain air. I briefly talked to a couple hikers sitting next to me but they were on their way out. They were both foreigners hiking the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). Some of the hiking trails around here connect with sections of the PCT. I’ve run into a few of these PCT hikers now…all attempting to summon their inner Reese Witherspoon.
Next up – Find a Hike
In my head I had planned to just stroll around a bit and soak up the town. I did bring my hiking gear with me and thought I’d find a very light easy hike to do – almost not wanting to break a sweat.
While waiting for lunch I researched hiking options. The #1 rated hike in Idyllwild is called Suicide Rock. Well, now I feel like I need to do that. Why wouldn’t I want to simply do any number of the lesser rated hikes, many of which are shorter and easier!? No of course not. Sometimes it seems like I have a hard time taking my foot off the gas.
I am truly not mentally prepared for this hike at all! But off I go…
Hike Stats
Time: 3-4 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Max Elevation: 7,510 ft
The first 2+ miles of this hike are a straight and steady climb. At some point probably around mile 1, I was stopping to catch my breath and really second guessing my decision to do this hike. It was at this point that I also realized that I had forgotten my sunscreen. Ugh! That should be an indication of just how prepared I was to do any sort of significant hiking today.
I had some very strong thoughts of turning around at this point but knew I’d be disappointed with myself if I did – so I forged on. The last mile is half downhill into a valley then climbing again the last 1/2 mile up to Suicide Rock. Once I got there I was glad I stuck it out.
According to legend, the name Suicide Rock comes from a story of the Cahuilla Indian version of Romeo and Juliet who ended their lives here. Well, one thing is for certain – it’s the quicker way down. Okay – bad joke. I think I’ll head back down the way I came.
Post Hike Reward
Drove back into town and stopped at a local watering hole for a couple cold ones.
Final Thoughts
There is so much to like about Idyllwild. It’s such a quaint and charming town. Lot of shops, art galleries, places to eat, and plenty to offer outdoor enthusiasts. A great place to spend the day.
During my time at the ‘ole Crazy Train Pub & Grill, I also learned an interesting tidbit and perhaps my favorite. The mayor of Idyllwild is a dog!! That’s right, this guy here.
Okay – it’s official! This is one of the coolest towns in America.