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    San Bernardino National Forest

    Hikes in San Bernardino National Forest

    Region in California, United States

    San Bernardino National Forest encompases a vast area of 823,816 acres of wild land, which is largely split into two separate mountainous regions. These consist of the San Bernardino and San Gabriel Mountains of the Transverse Range, as well as the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains of the Peninsular Range, which make for a rugged, yet truly beautiful landscape that begs to be explored. With plenty of charming lakes, winding rivers, and low-lying valleys to break up the undulating terrain, there is always a new and exciting adventure waiting around every corner.

    With its close proximity to several high population areas in Southern California, the San Bernardino National Forest is one of the most popular hiking destinations in the entire state. Featuring hundreds of miles of hiking trails (including the world-renowned Pacific Crest Trail), beautifully scenic mountain peaks, seven designated wilderness areas, and forty-seven Yellow Post campsites, there are nearly endless possibilities when it comes to exploring this vast and beautiful part of So Cal.

    10 Amazing Hiking Routes In San Bernardino National Forest

    The diverse landscape of the San Bernardino National Forest includes rugged mountain peaks, great expanses of woodland terrain, sprawling deserts, and beautiful lakes, making it perfectly suited for exploration on foot. Not only are there plenty of terrain types that will keep you busy for countless hours, but there are trails that suit every age and skill level. So whether you are a seasoned trekker looking to navigate backcountry mountain paths, or are setting out with the family for a low key creekside adventure, you can check out the below list of amazing hiking routes in San Bernardino National Forest for inspiration.

    • Deep Creek Hot Springs Trail: A fantastic hiking route in San Bernardino National Forest, this trail will lead you through a stretch of desert terrain to reach a series of relaxing thermal pools set along the expanse of Deep Creek.
    • The Living Desert Wilderness Loop Trail: Featuring beautifully scenic views overlooking the Coachella Valley and access to the nearby zoo, this hiking route is perfectly suited for a great family-friendly adventure.
    • Bonita Falls Trail: While the Bonita Falls Trail may be a bit on the short side, it is an exceptional route that features easy-going terrain and wonderful views looking out onto a cascading waterfall.
    • Jenks Lake Trail: For those adventurers that are after a relaxing forest walk with views of a scenic lake, the Jenks Lake Trail is the perfect route that can be enjoyed with the entire family.
    • Castle Rock Trail: The Castle Rock Trail is a steep hiking route in the Big Bear Lake area of San Bernardino National Forest that will lead you uphill to a rocky vantage point with gorgeous views overlooking the water.
    • Heart Rock Trail: Another quick and easy family-friendly hike, the Heart Rock Trail is a lovely adventure through the forest that will take you to a viewpoint looking onto the Seely Creek Falls and an interesting weathered rock depression in the shape of a heart.
    • Bear Lake Woodland Trail: A lovely interpretive trail in the San Bernardino National Forest, this hike will see you traverse a short loop along laidback terrain that features informative signs to learn about the flora and fauna of the surrounding area.
    • Bertha Peak Trail: This amazing route will lead you up the rugged terrain of the Cougar Crest Trail in order to summit Bertha Peak, where you will experience wonderful views overlooking Big Bear Lake.
    • Pine Knot Trail to Grand View Point Hike: Another great route in the Big Bear Lake area, this trail will take you uphill through some beautiful stretches of forest and meadow to access the stunning lookout at Grand View Point that offers sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.
    • Champion Lodgepole Hike: This is a fantastic hiking route in the Big Bear Lake area that will lead you up the steep trail past Castle Rock and Bluff Lake to visit a tall Lodgepole Pine that is estimated to be around 450 years old.

    When is the Best Time to Hike in San Bernardino National Forest?

    Many of the hiking trails within San Bernardino National Forest are accessible year-round; however, some - particularly those that are at higher elevations in the mountains - are not suitable in the winter. If you are looking to get the most out of your hiking excursion in the wild expanse of the San Bernardino National Forest, try timing your trip for the spring to autumn seasons when the weather is most favourable.

    Other Outdoor Activities in the San Bernardino National Forest

    With hundreds of miles of recreational trails in the area, hiking is certainly one of the most popular activities in the San Bernardino National Forest; however, there are a wide variety of things to do outdoors if you are hoping for a different experience. In the summer, popular adventures include cycling, camping, horseback riding, fishing, hunting, and wildlife viewing, as well as water sports like kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. For those who prefer the winter months, alpine activities like skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and even snowmobiling are available in the higher elevations of the nearby mountains.

    Fantastic Adventure Tours Near the San Bernardino National Forest

    While there are countless hiking trails within the boundary of the San Bernardino National Forest that are just waiting to be explored, the sheer number of options can sometimes make planning a fun hiking trip a bit confusing or complicated. If you want to visit the area but don’t want to deal with all the fuss of planning a trip, why not check out these amazing adventure tours in California and leave all of the small details to the adventure travel professionals.

    Frequently Asked Questions About the San Bernardino National Forest

    Is camping permitted in San Bernardino National Forest?

    There are a wide variety of options for camping within the boundaries of San Bernardino National Forest, including 47 Yellow Post Campsites that are free.

    What animals can be found in the San Bernardino National Forest?

    The vast expanse of the San Bernardino National Forest is home to over 440 species of wildlife, including spotted owls, flying squirrels, and black bears, although the latter are not native to the region.

    Are dogs permitted in the San Bernardino National Forest?

    Yes, dogs are permitted on hiking trails within San Bernardino National Forest, although they must be kept on a leash at all times.

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    Best Hikes in San Bernardino National Forest

    Showing 41 to 60 of 100
      Open details for Bear Creek from Glory Ridge Road Hike

      Bear Creek from Glory Ridge Road Hike

      Moderate
      2.9 km
      312 m
      1.5-2h

      The Bear Creek from Glory Ridge Road is a short, but challenging, adventure in San Bernardino National Forest that begins atop a ridge and descends a steep trail to reach the banks of the creek. While out hiking the trail, you will make your way through the forest along a steep and switchbacking trail, before arriving at Bear Creek to explore the area. Make sure to either bring a GPS or leave a marker at the end of the trail near Bear Creek, as the trail can be difficult to find for the return leg.

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      Open details for San Jacinto River South Fork Hike

      San Jacinto River South Fork Hike

      Moderate
      8.7 km
      322 m
      2.5-3.5h

      The San Jacinto River South Fork Hike is a fantastic outdoor adventure in the San Bernardino National Forest that will take you along a rocky trail to reach the banks of the river. While out on the trail, you will climb slightly uphill through the brush covered hills to the south, before traversing the slopes of a valley and descending towards the edge of the water. Hikers should take note that the majority of this route is family-friendly, but there are a few narrow and exposed sections where you will want to keep an eye out for children.

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      Open details for Cedar Springs Trail

      Cedar Springs Trail

      Moderate
      10.3 km
      518 m
      3-4.5h

      The Cedar Springs Trail is a fun hike in the San Bernardino National Forest that features a good amount of elevation gain and sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. While out hiking the trail, you will climb uphill alongside East Canyon Creek and traverse a series of switchbacks, before experiencing views of nearby mountains and visiting Cedar Creek. Hikers should take note that some parts of this trail are fairly overgrown and there are plenty of insects, so make sure to bring bug spray along.

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      Open details for Miller Canyon Trail

      Miller Canyon Trail

      Hard
      17.2 km
      636 m
      5-6.5h

      The Miller Canyon Trail is a straightforward hiking route in San Bernardino National Forest that will see you traverse an off-road vehicle path through a scenic canyon. While out hiking the trail, you will steadily gain elevation through Miller Canyon, before the steep climb up towards Lake Arrowhead. Hikers should take note that there will likely be off-road vehicles and mountain bikes along this route, so be sure to keep an eye out and allow others to safely pass.

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      Open details for Mount Thomas via Ramona Trail

      Mount Thomas via Ramona Trail

      Hard
      19.8 km
      712 m
      5.5-7.5h

      The Mount Thomas via Ramona Trail is an excellent hiking adventure in the San Bernardino National Forest of California that takes you uphill for sweeping views. While out on the trail, you will climb up the forested slopes of the mountain, before pushing up to the summit to enjoy views of San Jacinto Peak to the northeast. As there are several campsites located along this route, it is the perfect hike to pair with a fun weekend of camping outdoors.

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      Open details for Bristlecone Road Hike

      Bristlecone Road Hike

      Easy
      4.7 km
      38 m
      1-1.5h

      The Bristlecone Road Hike is a quick little adventure in Big Bear Lake that will lead you through a peaceful stretch of forest on the edge of town. While out hiking the trail, you will meander through the woodland terrain and take in the natural beauty of the San Bernardino National Forest, before turning back on the return leg. There are several campsites along this hiking route, making it the perfect activity to pair with a fun weekend of camping.

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      Open details for Forest Service Road N22 Hike

      Forest Service Road N22 Hike

      Moderate
      12.1 km
      438 m
      3.5-4.5h

      The Forest Service Road N22 Hike is a fun route near San Bernardino, California that will see you climb uphill through the forest for views of the surrounding San Bernardino Mountains. While out hiking the trail, you will steadily gain elevation along an old, overgrown forest service road while taking in the beautiful views of wildlife and the mountainous landscape. Hikers should take note that you will need to display an adventure pass on your vehicle in order to set out on this hike.

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      Open details for Siberia Creek Trail

      Siberia Creek Trail

      Moderate
      29.3 km
      1,618 m
      9.5-13.5h

      The Siberia Creek Trail is an exceptional long-distance hike in the San Bernardino National Forest that will see you traverse some rugged mountain terrain with gorgeous views. While out hiking the trail, you will make your way across the undulating landscape of the San Bernardino Mountains and enjoy exceptional views, before making the final climb up to the Bluff Lake Reserve to visit the 450 year old Champion Lodgepole Pine Tree. Hikers should take note that this is a very long hiking route, so make sure to plan out your day, arrive prepared, and leave enough time for the return leg to avoid hiking in the dark.

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      Open details for Black Mountain Lookout Hike

      Black Mountain Lookout Hike

      Easy
      2.1 km
      97 m
      0.5-1h

      The Black Mountain Lookout Hike is a quick and easy adventure in the San Bernardino National Forest that will take you up to a summit viewpoint for a gorgeous sightline across the surrounding terrain, While out on the trail, you will work your way uphill along a forest road, gaining a small amount of elevation before arriving at a lookout tower that, when open, provides sweeping views of the Southern California landscape. Hikers should take note that the road leading into the trailhead isd quite rough and rugged and will require a high clearance vehicle to safely traverse.

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      Open details for Butler Peak Trail

      Butler Peak Trail

      Moderate
      16.1 km
      467 m
      4-6h

      The Butler Peak Trail is a fantastic hiking route in the San Bernardino National Forest that will take you on a steady climb up to a scenic summit viewpoint. While out hiking the trail, you will climb uphill through the forest and traverse some rocky stretches of trail, before pushing onto the summit of Butler Perak for views of the surrounding San Bernardino Mountains. Make sure to bring bear spray along for this hike and make plenty of noise, as bears are sometimes spotted in the area.

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      Open details for Cahuilla Mountain Trail

      Cahuilla Mountain Trail

      Moderate
      9.2 km
      415 m
      3-4h

      The Cahuilla Mountain Trail is a slightly overgrown, yet easy to navigate hiking route in the San Bernardino National Forest that will take you uphill to reach the summit of the mountain. While out hiking the trail, you will steadily gain elevation through the woodland landscape, enjoying what little views there are along the trail due to the thick cover of the foliage surrounding you. Hikers should take note that there will likely be ticks hiding in the brush, so make sure to check yourself after your adventure and wear long clothing.

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      Open details for Seven Oaks Trail

      Seven Oaks Trail

      Moderate
      9.3 km
      604 m
      3.5-4.5h

      The Seven Oaks Trail is an unrelenting journey through the mountainous terrain of the San Bernardino National Forest that will see you climb uphill to a scenic viewpoint. While out hiking the trail, you will traverse a quiet road, before branching off into the mountains for an uphill climb to the breathtaking summit of Grand View Point. Hikers should take note that the warmer months of the year will see a large number of flies along the trail, so make sure to bring bug spray to protect yourself!

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      Open details for Lion Peak Trail

      Lion Peak Trail

      Moderate
      14.3 km
      623 m
      4-6h

      The Lion Peak Trail is a fantastic adventure in the San Bernardino National Forest that will lead you along a winding trail up the mountainside for gorgeous Southern California Views. While out hiking the trail, you will climb uphill through a series of switchbacks to reach the Pacific Crest Trail, which you will follow south on the climb to the summit of Lion Peak. Hikers should take note that the terrain along this route is quite rugged and rocky, so make sure to wear proper hiking boots with good ankle support and bring hiking poles for stability.

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      Open details for Onyx Peak Hike

      Onyx Peak Hike

      Moderate
      10.0 km
      203 m
      2.5-3.5h

      The Onyx Peak Hike is a pleasant adventure in the San Bernardino Mountains that features easy-going terrain and beautifully scenic views. While out hiking the trail, you will traverse a forest service road that will bring you up to the summit of Onyx Peak for amazing views of the surrounding landscape. Make sure to purchase a valid Adventure Pass and have it displayed in your vehicle prior to setting out for this hike.

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      Open details for Pipes Canyon and Olsen Ruins Hike

      Pipes Canyon and Olsen Ruins Hike

      Moderate
      6.1 km
      95 m
      1.5-2h

      The Pipes Canyon and Olsen Ruins Hike is an exceptional trail in the San Bernardino National Forest that will see you traverse a scenic canyon landscape filled with historic ruins. While out on the trail, you will make your way through the woodland and desert terrain of the canyon, taking in the views of local plant and animal life, before visiting the ruins of what was once a gold miners home. Make sure to bring bear spray, as there are often sightings in the area.

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      Open details for Ramona Trail

      Ramona Trail

      Moderate
      12.2 km
      495 m
      3.5-5h

      The Ramona Trail is a fantastic hiking route in the San Bernardino National Forest that will see you work your way uphill through some rugged terrain to reach a campsite. While out hiking the trail, you will gain a moderate amount of elevation as you trek through the forest and enjoy views of the surrounding mountains on your way to the Toolbox Springs Campground. With two campgrounds located at the top of the trail, this is an excellent route to pair with a fun weekend of camping.

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      Open details for Eye of God Trail

      Eye of God Trail

      Moderate
      2.9 km
      78 m
      0.5-1h

      The Eye of God Trail is a great little hiking route near Big Bear Lake, California that will lead you along a rocky road to reach a fascinating geological feature. Once consisting of a giant whit quartz megalith, the Eye of God was a sacred site to the Native American Serrano people before it was destroyed by miners in search of gold. Hikers should take note that this trail follows along a rocky and rugged road, so be sure to wear proper hiking footwear.

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      Open details for Mojave Forks River Dam Overlook Trail

      Mojave Forks River Dam Overlook Trail

      Moderate
      5.1 km
      167 m
      1.5-2h

      The Mojave Forks River Dam Overlook Trail is a fun little adventure within the boundary of San Bernardino National Forest that will see you climb uphill for sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. While out on the trail, you will traverse a forest service and climb uphill until you reach a lookout with some amazing views over a dried up dam and the Mojave River Valley spread out before you. While this route does follow along a road for its duration, there are ticks in the area, so make sure to wear long clothing if you can and check for any of the pesky critters after your hike!

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      Open details for 2W07 Trail from Fisherman’s Group Campground

      2W07 Trail from Fisherman’s Group Campground

      Moderate
      7.1 km
      280 m
      2-3h

      Hiking the 2W07 Trail from Fisherman’s Group Campground is a fun adventure in the San Bernardino National Forest that will take you through some rugged terrain between two campsites. While out on the trail, you will pass through forested and exposed areas along the banks of the Deep and Crab creeks, before climbing uphill to arrive at the Tent Peg Campground. Hikers should take note that the road leading into the trailhead is very rough and will require a 4x4 high clearance vehicle to safely traverse.

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      Open details for Sugarloaf to Sand Canyon Loop Trail

      Sugarloaf to Sand Canyon Loop Trail

      Easy
      4.5 km
      106 m
      1-1.5h

      The Sugarloaf to Sand Canyon Loop Trail is a great family-friendly adventure in the San Bernardino National Forest that features a pleasant woodland landscape. While out hiking the trail, you will meander along peaceful forest paths and gain a small amount of elevation, before looping back around to arrive at the trailhead. Make sure to display a valid Adventure Pass in your vehicle when setting out on this hike.

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