Two hours from Los Angeles in the San Jacinto Mountains, Idyllwild’s small-mountain-town vibes are the perfect escape for a laid back weekend in the woods.

Set among tall pine trees, surrounded by rocky mountains, and with miles of hiking trails, Idyllwild is sometimes described as a mini-Yosemite — an alpine paradise without the crowds. Its cute downtown is walkable and un-cosmopolitan as it comes; although you will need an appointment to meet with the famous town mayor, canine Mayor Max though (long may he reign.)

Part of the adventure in a trip to Idyllwild is the drive. If you have a little extra time, take the Palms to Pines Scenic Byway up from Palm Desert into Idyllwild. The change in landscape is fascinating, with lots of designated vistas and scenic spots to pull over and admire the view.

Idyllwild’s downtown area is small and cute, filled with independent shops, cafés, and restaurants. It’s walkable and easily explored in a day. Highlights include Wild Idy, Wildland Organics, and Speakeasy Bookmarket, a charming independent bookstore tucked into The Collective alongside Raven Hill Bagels. If you have a sweet tooth, check out the Candy Cupboard for throwback candy store vibes.

Idyllwild is a hiker’s paradise, with trails ranging from easy woodland walks to challenging mountain climbs. One of the area’s most popular hikes is Tahquitz Peak via Devil’s Slide Trail, an approximately 8-mile round trip with more than 2,000 feet of elevation gain. The reward is sweeping views of the surrounding mountains from a historic fire lookout.

For something easier, the Ernie Maxwell Scenic Trail is a lovely 5-mile out-and-back winding through pine forest, with mountain views and relatively little elevation gain. Another favorite is Deer Springs Trail, which climbs gradually through the forest toward Suicide Rock. You don’t have to complete the entire route to enjoy it — turn around whenever you’re ready for a shorter hike.

Before heading out, check trail conditions and permit requirements with the San Jacinto Ranger District. Wilderness permits are required for hikes into the San Jacinto Wilderness, including Devil’s Slide and Deer Springs, but not for Ernie Maxwell. Some trailhead parking areas also require an Adventure Pass or an America the Beautiful Pass.

With all the hiking around Idyllwild, you’ll surely work up an appetite! Post-hike favorites include Idyllwild Brewpub, with its mountain views and outdoor seating; Gastrognome, a longtime local institution; and Ferro, for pizza and other Italian dishes. For a casual breakfast, stop by Raven Hill Bagels for freshly made NY-style bagels, or Amelia’s Donuts & More for coffee, donuts, and a little old-fashioned small-town charm.

Idyllwild specializes in cozy cabins and vacation rentals, from rustic A-frames to beautifully restored midcentury homes tucked among the pines.

For a previous two-night stay, we chose Idyllcove, a cozy two-bedroom A-frame from Experience Idyllwild. Conveniently located near town, it’s a great home base for hiking, with a wood stove, outdoor dining area, and hot tub for stargazing after a day on the trails.

Another favorite is DTWild, a retro-inspired, midcentury cabin set along Strawberry Creek, just minutes from downtown Idyllwild. The two-bedroom retreat sleeps four, with soaring windows, skylights, a wood-burning fireplace, and plenty of playful vintage touches throughout. Outside, a wraparound deck overlooks the forest and creek, with a private hot tub, hammock, ping pong, and plenty of room to relax beneath the pines. Hiking trails are accessible right from the property, making it an especially appealing home base for a weekend in the mountains.

Other favorite cabins of note include the super cute, super dog friendly Whiskey Creek Cabin, midcentury modern gem Idyllhaus, both tucked into the woods, and both with stunning views. You can also find cabin-style boutique hotels, such as the cozy Fireside Inn with fireplaces in its rooms, or the kooky Hicksville Pines Bud & Breakfast, which features a few Twins Peaks-themed rooms.