Basics
- Location:
- Southern California through San Bernardino National Forest.
- Surface:
- Paved
- Length:
- 67 miles (107 km)
- Time:
- About 1.5 hours
- Season:
- Drivable year round
Description
The Palms to Pines Scenic Byway shows a different side of southern California. Palm trees give way to pines and firs as the byway climbs into the San Bernardino National Forest. Other drastic changes in scenery come with the Mojave Desert, full of Joshua trees and huge granite boulders left behind by primeval forces.
The Palms to Pines Scenic Byway starts in Banning, 84 miles east of Los Angeles. Take HWY 243 to the junction of HWY 74. Continue on HWY 74 to the town of Palm Desert and the end of the byway.
Rock climbing and camping are both very popular in this region and Joshua Tree National Park is the best place to go for these. En route, consider a stop at one of the five Native American Reservations located along the way, or local craft stands for souvenirs. If you're looking for a place to base try Idyllwild, an atmospheric mountain town that offers easy access to the San Jacinto Wilderness Area.
Tourism Resources
Helpful Links
Tourism Resources
Points of Interest
Points of Interest Along The Way
San Bernardino National Forest (CA)
The mountains of Southern California offer clean air, blue skies, mountain lakes, challenging trails, and beautiful views of the valley below.
San Jacinto Ranger District Visitor Center (CA)
Here you'll find information about the San Jacinto Ranger Distrcit area.
Santa Rosa & San Jacinto Mountains and National Monument Visitor Center (CA)
The visitor center offers a wealth of information on the natural, cultural and recreational opportunities with the 272,000 acres of newly designated National Monument. Located at the gateway to the National Monument, the Visitor Center is a starting point for numerous trails and the scenic Palms to Pines Highway. The Visitor Center offers information on hiking, camping, horseback riding, scenic overlooks and other outdoor adventures through out the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument and the Colorado Desert.
