6 Unique Romantic Outdoor Places in California for Valentine’s Day
Last Updated on February 10, 2025
- Length: 1.6 miles out-and-back
- Elevation Gain: 34 feet
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Heart Rock
This heart-shaped rock stands out in the barren landscape, but it’s a completely natural formation!
The Joshua Tree setting is also stunning—rugged desert terrain with an otherworldly vibe that makes you feel like you’re on a different planet. If you want to surprise your loved one, Heart Rock is one of the most unique romantic outdoor places in California. It also has a special place in my heart because I had my elopement here!
The trail is accessed via the Arch Rock Trail, a beginner-friendly path just 1.6 miles long. The path goes down from the Twin Tanks parking lot, then far right to Heart Rock. Be mindful of the fork on the road–Heart Rock is on the left turn, while Arch Rock is on the right.
n February, Joshua Tree tends to be on the cooler side, so pack water and sturdy boots regardless.
- Length: 3.0 miles out-and-back
- Elevation Gain: 1,175 feet
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
Heart Lake Trail
Nestled in the quiet forests of Mt. Shasta, Heart Lake is an underrated attraction and hiking route. The majestic views and scenic trail make for a memorable experience with someone you love. The final lake view is just the cherry on top!
The trail to the lake’s best viewpoint starts north and climbs up the mountain down south. It’s a 3-mile path with clear markings to lead visitors up. Come with a comfortable pair of shoes and extra layers, as the area gets quite chilly in February.
- Length: 3.7 miles out-and-back
- Elevation Gain: 1,200 feet
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
Hot Springs Canyon Trail
Imagine soaking in a heart-shaped spring with crystal-clear blue waters, surrounded by lush greenery and stunning mountain views—sounds like a dream date, right? Hot Springs Canyon has just that! Located close to Santa Barbara, the naturally warm waters are a perfect place to relax and unwind with your loved one. Overall one of the sweetest places to go on Valentine’s Day, assuming you’re up for the hike!
The trail to the Hot Springs is 3.7 miles out-and-back, and stretches though the river terrain makes it a little more challenging to navigate. The path is very popular, so try coming on a weekday earlier in the morning if you’d like to enjoy the springs for yourselves. To see the vibrant blue color of water, come before sunrise.
- Length: 0.5 miles out-and-back
- Elevation Gain: Minimal
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Wild Willy’s Hot Spring
Set against the majestic backdrop of the Eastern Sierra, Wild Willy’s Hot Spring is a wonderful place to go on Valentine’s Day. One of the pools here is heart-shaped! Brimming with calm, hot water, it’s the ideal spot to relax.
Wild Willy’s is also pretty easy to find. Head south from Mammoth Lakes and look for a gravel road off of Highway 395. Once you drop off by the nearby parking lot, you can go further in to follow a flat boardwalk that leads directly to the springs. The heart-shaped springs should be the second pool you come across while walking.
While you’re in the area, check my detailed guide on what to see in Eastern Sierra.
- Length: 1.8-mile loop
- Elevation Gain: 500 feet
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
Heart Rock Trail, Crestline
Don’t mistake this for the Heart Rock in Joshua Tree! This beautiful heart carving near San Bernardino National Forest is very different but equally beautiful. North of the quaint forest town of Crestline, this naturally sculpted heart sits beside a picturesque waterfall. The soothing sound of cascading water and the surrounding greenery add a touch of magic to this serene location.
The Heart Rock Trail is a relatively easy 1.8-mile out-and-back hike, starting near Camp Seeley. This place doesn’t get as crowded as others in the list. It is a true hidden gem!
- Length: 1.0 mile out-and-back
- Elevation Gain: Minimal
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Heart Arch
Rounding out our list, we have one of the more subtle hearts in California, though with the added bonus of a majestic landscape. Alabama Hills is an amazing place to check out if you love the sights of Joshua Tree and Death Valley. The Heart Arch in particular is a nice place to go on Valentine’s Day.
You can see the heart from the Mobius Arch Loop Trail parking area, then just follow the trail and take the right turn to reach the Heart Arch. It’s hardly half a mile away and the terrain is surprisingly straightforward to trek, so I think it’s well worth the journey.
