 The Cleveland National Forest is an unusual forest. Long stretches of chaparral (shrubs and scrub oak, for example) cover these slopes and hills. More typical forests cover the peaks of the mountains (which include the Santa Ana range, Mount Palomar and Mount Laguna). This is the southernmost of California's National Forests and its warm Mediterranean climate and desert like flora and fauna reflect that. Both the Palomar Observatory, home to the Hale Telescope, and the Mount Laguna Observatory are within this forest. The Corral Canyon Off-Highway Vehicle Area awaits lovers of off-road recreation, while the Sunrise Scenic Highway is more palatable to explorers of smoother roads. Hiking and horseback riding are also popular activities here. At 460,000 acres (or 720 square miles), the Cleveland National Forest encompasses an area from San Juan Capistrano to Escondido and El Cajon. It is partly within San Diego and Orange counties. The grand size of the forest makes it perfect for days and weeks of exploration. Fresh air and untouched hills await you.
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