California has many great mountain towns that are perfect for families looking for outdoor adventures and scenic views. Add them to your family travel bucket lists. Here are some of the best mountain towns in California for families:
Mammoth Lakes
Mammoth Lakes is located in the Eastern Sierra and is a popular destination for families looking to enjoy outdoor adventures in a picturesque setting. In the winter, the town offers excellent skiing and snowboarding, with more than 3,500 acres of skiable terrain, including beginner and advanced slopes. Families can also enjoy snowmobiling, sledding, and ice skating.
In the summer, Mammoth Lakes offers plenty of outdoor activities for families, including hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and kayaking. The town is also home to several hot springs that families can soak in after a long day of activities.
Mammoth Lakes offers a variety of accommodations, ranging from hotels and lodges to vacation rentals and campsites. Some of the popular lodging options for families include The Village Lodge, Juniper Springs Resort, and Tamarack Lodge and Resort.
Read our guide on Mammoth Lake Fishing for Families.
South Lake Tahoe
South Lake Tahoe is located on the southern end of Lake Tahoe and offers families a range of year-round outdoor activities. In the winter, the town is home to several world-class ski resorts, including Heavenly Mountain Resort, Kirkwood Mountain Resort, and Sierra-at-Tahoe.
In the summer, families can enjoy hiking, boating, and swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tahoe. The town also offers mountain biking trails, zip-lining, and golf courses. It’s certainly one of the best mountain towns in California.
South Lake Tahoe has a variety of lodging options, including hotels, resorts, vacation rentals, and campsites. Some of the popular family-friendly accommodations in South Lake Tahoe include the Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel, The Landing Resort and Spa, and Camp Richardson Historic Resort and Marina.
Learn more about the Best Things to Do in South Lake Tahoe in Winter.
Truckee
Truckee is located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains and is a historic town with plenty of charm and character. The town offers several skiing and snowboarding options in the winter, including Northstar California Resort and Sugar Bowl Resort.
In the summer, families can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and swimming in nearby Donner Lake. The town also has several parks and playgrounds for children to enjoy.
Truckee has a variety of lodging options, including hotels, vacation rentals, and campsites. Some of the popular family-friendly accommodations in Truckee include The Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe, The Cedar House Sport Hotel, and Donner Lake Village Resort.
Discover the top Things to Do in Truckee With Kids.
Big Bear Lake
Big Bear Lake is located in the San Bernardino Mountains and is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding in the winter. The town is home to two ski resorts, Snow Summit and Bear Mountain, which offer a variety of slopes for all skill levels.
In the summer, families can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and boating on the lake. The town also has several playgrounds and parks for children to enjoy.
Big Bear Lake has a variety of lodging options, including hotels, vacation rentals, and campsites. Some of the popular family-friendly accommodations in Big Bear Lake include Big Bear Lakefront Lodge, Holiday Inn Resort The Lodge at Big Bear Lake, and Big Bear Frontier Cabins and Hotel.
Check out The Ultimate Travel Guide to Big Bear Lake Fishing.
Julian
Julian is located in the mountains of San Diego County and is known for its apple orchards, historic buildings, and outdoor activities. Families can visit one of the many apple orchards in the area and enjoy apple picking and homemade apple pies.
The town also offers several hiking trails, including the Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve, and horseback riding tours. Families can also explore the historic buildings in town, including the Julian Pioneer Museum and the Julian Gold Rush Hotel.
Julian has a variety of lodging options, including bed and breakfasts, vacation rentals, and campsites. Some of the popular family-friendly accommodations in Julian include Butterfield Bed and Breakfast, Julian Lodge, and Julian Gold Rush Hotel.
Discover the best Things to Do in Julian California With Kids.
Idyllwild
Idyllwild is a small mountain town located in the San Jacinto Mountains and offers families a peaceful retreat with great hiking trails, rock climbing, and stunning views. The town is surrounded by the San Bernardino National Forest, which offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures.
In the winter, families can enjoy snowshoeing and cross-country skiing on the trails. The town also hosts several events throughout the year, including the Idyllwild Jazz Festival and the Idyllwild Arts Academy Summer Program.
Idyllwild has a variety of lodging options, including cabins, vacation rentals, and campsites. Some of the popular family-friendly accommodations in Idyllwild include Idyllwild RV Resort and Campground, Fireside Inn Cabins, and Idyllwild Vacation Cabins.
Learn more about Things to Do in Idyllwild With Kids.
No matter which mountain town you choose to visit in California, families will find plenty of outdoor adventures and activities to enjoy. From skiing and snowboarding to hiking and fishing, California’s mountain towns offer something for everyone.
