Mountain Views News, Combined Edition Saturday, July 18, 2020

NO. 1 continued from page 1 

But there’s one thing that many people overlook when it 
comes to Southern California, and that is the charm of our 
many small towns nestled throughout the southern part of 
the state. Here are 11 of our favorites. Which small town is 
tops on your list? 

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many 
aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. 
While we’re continuing to feature destinations that 
make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage 
you to go check them out immediately. We believe that 
supporting local attractions is important now more than 
ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! 
And on that note, please nominate your favorite local 
business that could use some love right now: https://www. 
onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/ 

1. SIERRA MADRE 

Located in Los Angeles County, this small town with a 
population under 12,000 feels like it's a million miles away 
from the big city. In addition to its charming main street 
and local shops, Sierra Madre is also nicknamed "Wisteria 
City" as it's home to the largest blooming wisteria vine in 
the world. 

2. JULIAN 

An official California Historic Landmark, the delightful 
town of Julian is one place in SoCal not to be missed. 
Whether you show up for apple season or you explore the 
peaceful countryside on foot in the spring, summer or fall, 
this peaceful town in San Diego County with a population 
close to 1,500 is an absolute treasure. 

3. FOREST FALLS 

Who can resist a tiny town that's nestled on the edge of 
the San Bernardino National Forest? With lots of fantastic 
trails to explore and several waterfalls to discover, this 
small SoCal destination with less than 800 houses is a little 
slice of magic. 

4. SAN DIMAS 

When you're seeking out a slice of SoCal that captures the 
look and feel of the good old days, then make sure to head 
to San Dimas, a small town with a population under 35,000. 
Take a stroll along the charming old town district along Bonita 
Avenue and browse the local shops and restaurants. 

5. OAK GLEN 

Located in San Bernardino County, approximately 15 miles 
east of San Bernardino, this charming town with a population 
of less than 1,000 as of its last census will steal your 
heart. You'll love taking a Sunday drive along rural roads 
and stopping along the way at Oak Tree Village for a day of 
shopping in a setting that will remind you of simpler times. 

6. PINE VALLEY 

Head down Old Highway 80 in the Cuyamaca Mountains 
in San Diego County and you'll discover the tiny town of 
Pine Valley with its equally tiny population of 2000. Make 
sure to swing by Major's, the local coffee shop, or stop for 
a burger and ice cream cone at Frosty Burger to make your 
visit complete. 

7. TRABUCO CANYON 

You know you are are in the heart of this small Southern 
California town when you reach the general store. Perhaps 
one of SoCal's most hidden gems, Trabuco Canyon is a spot 
few people know about but a destination you'll never forget 
once you have the chance to visit. 

8. AVALON 

What could be better than a tiny island town? Located on 
Catalina Island and reachable by ferry, the town of Avalon 
is one of SoCal's most delightful destinations that captures 
the charm of small-town living. 

9. SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO 

Perfect for strolling and enjoying the historic architecture 
and lush green trees, the town of San Juan Capistrano is 
positively delightful. Although not the tiniest town on this 
list, with a population that's under 40,000 this destination 
is just the right size. From great local shopping to picturesque 
areas for walking, this is one place that should be on 
everyone's bucket list. 

10. RUNNING SPRINGS 

17 miles west of Big Bear Lake you'll find the small town of 
Running Springs, with a population under 5,000, just waiting 
to be explored. From local parades to weekly farmers 
markets and frequent community events, this SoCal destination 
should definitely be on your radar if you want to 
experience a slice of Americana right here in SoCal. 

11. WRIGHTWOOD 

When you're seeking out some peace and quiet in Southern 
California in a destination that's filled with nothing but 
small-town charm, then Wrightwood is the perfect place to 
be. You'll find hiking, tasty restaurants, and wildlife galore 
in this small mountain town tucked inside the San Gabriel 
Mountains. 

2 


Mountain View News Saturday, July 18, 2020 

 
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