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3-Day Adventure Itinerary for July 2023

  1. Day 1: Mount Baldy
    1 hour 15 minutes (44 miles) from Downtown Los Angeles

    Morning: Start your day early and head to Mount Baldy, the highest peak in the San Gabriel Mountains. Hike the 6.4 miles Devil's Backbone Trail to the summit and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding area.

    Afternoon: Take the chairlift down to the base of the mountain and enjoy a picnic lunch in the shade of the trees. Then, head to the nearby San Antonio Falls for a refreshing swim in the natural pool.

    Evening: Head back to Downtown Los Angeles and catch a baseball game at Dodger Stadium, home of the Los Angeles Dodgers. Grab a famous Dodger Dog and cheer on the team as the sun sets over the city.

  2. Day 2: Joshua Tree National Park
    2 hours 45 minutes (135 miles) from Downtown Los Angeles

    Morning: Head east to Joshua Tree National Park and spend the morning hiking the 3.4 miles Lost Palms Oasis Trail. Take in the unique rock formations and stunning desert landscapes along the way.

    Afternoon: Drive to the nearby town of Joshua Tree and enjoy some of the local cafes and shops. Then, head back into the park and spend the afternoon rock climbing on some of the world-famous boulder formations.

    Evening: Set up camp in the park and enjoy a campfire dinner under the stars. Then, take a night hike to experience the park's incredible nocturnal wildlife.

  3. Day 3: La Jolla Cove
    2 hours 15 minutes (124 miles) from Joshua Tree National Park

    Morning: Pack up camp and drive southwest to La Jolla Cove, a stunning beach known for its sea caves and sea lions. Spend the morning snorkeling, kayaking, or simply lounging on the beach.

    Afternoon: Grab a late lunch at one of the nearby seafood restaurants, then head to the Birch Aquarium to learn about the local marine life.

    Evening: Finish your trip with a sunset hike along the coastal cliffs of Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. Take in the panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and reflect on your amazing Southern California adventure.

Recommendations

If you have extra time, consider taking a side trip to Big Bear Lake for some mountain biking and water sports. For a unique experience, try hot air ballooning over the Temecula Valley or take a guided tour of the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Mount Baldy hike (6-8 hours, free)
  • San Antonio Falls (2-3 hours, free)
  • Dodger Stadium game (3-4 hours, $20-100)
  • Joshua Tree National Park (1-2 days, $30 per vehicle)
  • Rock climbing gear rental (4-6 hours, $50-100)
  • La Jolla Cove beach day (3-5 hours, free)
  • Birch Aquarium (2-3 hours, $19.50)
  • Torrey Pines hike (2-3 hours, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $99.50-249.50
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