10 Amazing Road Trips from Los Angeles Under 300 Miles for Nature Lovers

1. Joshua Tree National Park (130 miles)

Why Go: Known for its iconic rock formations and desert beauty, Joshua Tree is a haven for hikers, climbers, and stargazers. The combination of two distinct desert ecosystems creates an alien-like landscape that feels like stepping into another world.

Highlights:

• Hidden Valley Nature Trail – a loop trail surrounded by boulders and towering Joshua Trees

• Keys View – offers sweeping views all the way to Mexico on a clear day

• Stargazing at Skull Rock – a celestial spectacle in one of the darkest skies in Southern California

Don’t Miss: Sunrise at Cholla Cactus Garden — a surreal golden glow you'll never forget.

Best Time to Visit: October to April

2. Big Bear Lake (97 miles)

Why Go: Nestled in the San Bernardino Mountains, Big Bear is the ultimate alpine getaway. Whether you're a snow bunny or a summer adventurer, Big Bear offers crisp air, pine forests, and family-friendly fun.

Highlights:

• Alpine Pedal Path – perfect for a relaxing bike ride with lake views

• Snow Summit – ski, snowboard, or ride the scenic sky chair

• Kayaking or paddleboarding on the calm waters of Big Bear Lake

Don’t Miss: A cozy cabin stay with a fireplace and forest views.

Best Time to Visit: Winter for snow sports, Summer for hiking and lake fun

3. Sequoia National Park (220 miles)

Why Go: Want to feel small in the best way possible? Walk among some of the tallest trees on earth. The towering sequoias and misty trails transport you to a fairy tale forest.

Highlights:

• General Sherman Tree – the largest tree (by volume) on Earth

• Moro Rock Trail – a short but steep climb with epic views

• Crystal Cave – a magical underground adventure (seasonal)

Don’t Miss: Driving through Tunnel Log — a fallen sequoia big enough for your car to pass through!

Best Time to Visit: May to October

4. Santa Barbara & Los Padres National Forest (95 miles)

Why Go: The perfect fusion of coastal charm and rugged wilderness. Enjoy a morning hike and end your day with wine tasting by the beach.

Highlights:

• Inspiration Point – a moderate hike with breathtaking city and ocean views

• Butterfly Beach – ideal for sunset picnics

• Cold Spring Tavern – historic stagecoach stop turned rustic restaurant

Don’t Miss: A scenic drive along San Marcos Pass for panoramic vistas.

Best Time to Visit: Spring and Fall

5. Death Valley National Park (270 miles)

Why Go: Venture into otherworldly terrain where extremes are the norm. It’s the hottest, driest, and lowest national park — and one of the most stunning.

Highlights:

• Zabriskie Point – layered hills and golden hues

• Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes – perfect for sunset photography

• Badwater Basin – stand at the lowest elevation in North America

Don’t Miss: Artist’s Palette — drive through multicolored mineral-rich hills that look like a painting.

Best Time to Visit: November to March (avoid summer heat)

6. Malibu & Point Mugu State Park (40-70 miles)

Why Go: Escape the LA crowds without going far. Malibu offers golden beaches, dramatic cliffs, and oceanview trails that soothe the soul.

Highlights:

• Solstice Canyon – hike past waterfalls and ruins

• El Matador State Beach – sea stacks, arches, and secluded coves

• Drive the Pacific Coast Highway – one of America’s most scenic routes

Don’t Miss: Picnic with ocean views at Point Mugu Rock.

Best Time to Visit: Year-round

7. Idyllwild-Pine Cove (118 miles)

Why Go: This hidden gem in the San Jacinto Mountains offers tranquility, tall pines, and a quirky arts scene. It's a peaceful retreat ideal for solo travelers and couples.

Highlights:

• Tahquitz Peak – a challenging hike with awe-inspiring views

• Idyllwild Nature Center – family-friendly exhibits and forest trails

• Stroll through town – art galleries, coffee shops, and locally made crafts

Don’t Miss: The chance to meet Max, Idyllwild’s golden retriever "mayor"!

Best Time to Visit: Spring and Fall

8. Ojai & Los Padres National Forest (83 miles)

Why Go: A spiritual sanctuary and nature haven, Ojai is perfect for those who seek quiet beauty, creativity, and a slower pace.

Highlights:

• Rose Valley Falls – an easy hike to a cascading waterfall

• Meditation Mount – for sunrise or sunset serenity

• Ojai Olive Oil Farm – tour and tasting of award-winning oils

Don’t Miss: The “Pink Moment” — when the Topa Topa Mountains glow at sunset.

Best Time to Visit: March to June, October

9. Palomar Mountain State Park (140 miles)

Why Go: A hidden alpine paradise in Southern California. Think of it as Yosemite's little cousin — minus the crowds.

Highlights:

• Boucher Hill Lookout – panoramic views of the ocean on clear days

• Doane Valley Nature Trail – peaceful forest walk with seasonal wildflowers

• Stargazing at Palomar Observatory – explore one of the world’s largest telescopes

Don’t Miss: Camping under a sky full of stars.

Best Time to Visit: Spring and Fall

10. Carrizo Plain National Monument (204 miles)

Why Go: Often called California’s Serengeti, Carrizo Plain offers sweeping grasslands, rare wildlife, and one of the state’s most dazzling wildflower blooms.

Highlights:

• Wildflower viewing (March-April) – vibrant carpets of yellow, orange, and purple

• Painted Rock – ancient Native American petroglyphs (permit required)

• Soda Lake overlook – shimmering salt flats and serene vistas

Don’t Miss: A detour through Temblor Range for jaw-dropping desert views.

Best Time to Visit: Spring