TOP FIVE FALL HIKES IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Fall colors in Southern California? Believe it or not, we have a few local places that show off their fiery colors each year when the temperatures start to drop. We put a list of our top five favorite Southern California Fall hikes for color. From scarlet sycamores to orange oaks you'll be sure to see shades of yellows, oranges, and reds on any of these trails.

1. Palomar Mountain State Park

Palomar Mountain State Park is magical all year long , but in the Fall that magic gets turned on high . The black oaks on the Boucher Trail put on the most spectacular show of yellow and orange before taking their long winter nap. This short trail leads to the Boucher Fire Lookout where you can catch views of the ocean on a clear day. Make sure to stop at Mother's Kitchen for some veggie chili on your way home.

2. San Gorgonio- Vivian Creek Trail

Vivian Creek Trail is known as the shortest and steepest route to get to the highest summit in Southern California , San Gorgonio sitting at 11 ,499ft. The trail is already gorgeous, but add in thousands of trees with shimmering gold leaves and it becomes breathtaking . You can make this trail as short as you 'd like or hike all the way to the summit.

3. Mt. Laguna- Big Laguna Loop

Located 60 miles East of downtown San Diego, Mount Laguna is an easy mountain get away from the city. Come Fall , the sycamores and black oaks on the Big Laguna Trail change into eye popping shades of Autumn . The entire loop is just about ten miles, but can be shortened if needed . After your hike, stop in Julian for a piece of apple pie or visit Calico Cidery for a craft hard cider.

4. Los Coyotes Reservation- Hot Springs Mountain

The hike to Hot Springs Mountain on the Los Coyotes Reservation is about as rural as it gets in San Diego. Just getting there is a mini adventure in itself as it is located 75 miles North East of downtown San Diego. We promise you the drive is worth it. Not only can you hike to the highest point in San Diego at 6,533ft, but you will see the historical fire lookout that was originally built in 1912 (it has been rebuilt twice since then ). During the Fall , the trail boasts some of the most amazing colors that can be viewed in San Diego county. Keep in mind you are a guest of the tribe, so the utmost respect for their land is required, including following strict Leave No Trace Principles.

5. Big Bear- Pine Knot Trail

The scenic Pine Knot Trail winds through tall pines and oaks with stunning views of Big Bear Lake up to Grandview Point. With Fall comes cooler weather and changing leaves. Big Bear is widely known as a great spot to see Fall colors and the Pine Knot Trail is no exception . If you 're really lucky, you might spot the two resident bald eagles, Jackie and Shadow working on their nest in late September.