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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 61 to 80 of 100
      Open details for Bertha Peak via Polique Canyon Road Hike

      Bertha Peak via Polique Canyon Road Hike

      Moderate
      4.5 km
      219 m
      1.5-2h

      The Bertha Peak via Polique Canyon Road Hike is an easy-going adventure in the San Bernardino Mountains that will take you to a summit viewpoint overlooking the surrounding landscape. While out hiking the trail, you will traverse a small stretch of the Pacific Crest Trail, before working along a dirt road to reach the summit of Bertha Peak. If you are after a quick hike that offers maximum views for a minimal effort, then this is the route for you.

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      Open details for 2N13 Trail: Green Valley Campground to Fawnskin

      2N13 Trail: Green Valley Campground to Fawnskin

      Moderate
      15.0 km
      392 m
      3.5-5h

      The 2N13 Trail: Green Valley Campground to Fawnskin is a fun adventure through the San Bernardino Mountains that utilizes a forest service road to easily traverse the rugged mountain terrain. While out hiking the trail, you will steadily gain elevation as you climb through the forest and enjoy views of nearby peaks, before arriving at the endpoint of the route. Hikers should take note that this is a one-way trail, so you will need to either arrange a pickup at the endpoint or traverse the entire distance of the trail on the return journey.

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      Open details for Sugarlump Bear Peak Trail

      Sugarlump Bear Peak Trail

      Moderate
      10.6 km
      476 m
      3-4.5h

      The Sugarlump Bear Peak Trail is an easy-going adventure in the San Bernardino National Forest that will take you up to a summit viewpoint with an awesome sightline over Southern California. While out hiking this route, you will traverse a forest service road that climbs uphill through the woodland terrain, before arriving at the summit of Sugarlump for gorgeous views of the Big Bear Lake area. Make sure that you display a valid adventure Pass prior to setting out on your mountain adventure.

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      Open details for Camp Creek National Recreation Trail

      Camp Creek National Recreation Trail

      Moderate
      11.3 km
      830 m
      4.5-6h

      The Camp Creek National Recreation Trail is a rough and rugged adventure in the San Bernardino National Forest that follows a steep trail into a canyon. While out on the trail, you will descend sharply through the forest and into a canyon, where you can explore the area surrounding the Siberia Creek Trail Camp. Make sure to wear proper hiking boots with good support and bring plenty of water for this rugged hike.

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      Open details for Metate Trail

      Metate Trail

      Easy
      3.7 km
      78 m
      1h

      The Metate Trail is a quick and easy hiking route in the San Bernardino National Forest that features a lovely forest setting and is an important historical site. While out on the trail, you will meander through the woodland landscape and gain elevation to arrive at a place where indigenous peoples once ground acorns using metates carved into local rocks. This is a great route if you are looking to take int he beauty of nature or have an interest in history.

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      Open details for Little Green Valley Trail

      Little Green Valley Trail

      Moderate
      3.9 km
      181 m
      1-1.5h

      The Little Green Valley Trail is a fun hiking route near San Bernardino that will take you uphill through the forest for views of the surrounding mountains. While out on the trail, you will navigate a route through a woodland setting that doesn’t offer much protection from the sun, but features beautiful views of the surrounding SoCal landscape. There are a few unmarked junctions along this route, so make sure to bring a trail map or GPS to stay on the correct path.

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      Open details for San Bernardino Town Trail

      San Bernardino Town Trail

      Easy
      4.5 km
      102 m
      1-1.5h

      The San Bernardino Town Trail is a quick and easy adventure in Big Bear Lake, California that is perfect for a fun family outing. While out hiking the trail, you will meander amongst the trees and take in the beauty of nature, before arriving at Knickerbocker Road and backtracking for the return leg. Hikers should take note that some of the land surrounding the trail is private property, so make sure to stick to the trail and be respectful.

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      Open details for Crystal Mountain via PCT Hike

      Crystal Mountain via PCT Hike

      Easy
      6.3 km
      174 m
      1.5-2h

      The Crystal Mountain via PCT Hike is a fun adventure in the San Bernardino National Forest that is well-suited for an easy-going family adventure. While out on the trail, you will climb and descend along the trail, all while taking in the views of the surrounding Southern California landscape. Due to the fact that this hike is fairly exposed to the sun, it is best saved for the Spring/Fall seasons when weather is cooler.

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      Open details for 2N10 Trail to Bear and Silvertip Peaks

      2N10 Trail to Bear and Silvertip Peaks

      Easy
      9.3 km
      351 m
      2.5-3.5h

      The 2N10 Trail to Bear and Silvertip Peaks is a great little adventure near Big Bear Lake, California that offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. While out on the trail, you will meander through the forest and gain elevation along the mountainside to reach the picturesque summits of bear and Silvertip peaks, before looping around on the return leg. Be sure to display a valid adventure Pass prior to setting out on your hiking adventure.

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      Open details for Cedar Lake Road to Elsie Caves Hike

      Cedar Lake Road to Elsie Caves Hike

      Moderate
      5.0 km
      141 m
      1.5-2h

      The Cedar Lake Road to Elsie Caves Hike is a lovely adventure near Big Bear Lake in the San Bernardino National Forest that will take you uphill to some rocky outcrops. While out hiking the trail, you will make your way through a peaceful stretch of forest, climbing slightly uphill through the woodland terrain before arriving at Elsie Caves, which is a great place to sit and relax while enjoying the beauty of nature. Hikers should take note that a high clearance is recommended in order to reach the trailhead, as the road leading into it is quite rough and rugged.

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      Open details for Mill Peak Trail

      Mill Peak Trail

      Moderate
      6.0 km
      244 m
      1.5-2.5h

      The Mill Peak Trail is a great hiking route in the San Bernardino National Forest that will see you climb uphill for wonderful views of the surrounding peaks. While out hiking the trail, you will navigate through the forest and gain a small amount of elevation, before coming to the summit of Mill Peak. This is a great route for casual hikers to explore the beauty of Southern California.

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      Open details for Moon Ridge Trail to Bow Canyon Loop

      Moon Ridge Trail to Bow Canyon Loop

      Moderate
      3.5 km
      158 m
      1-1.5h

      The Moon Ridge Trail to Bow Canyon Loop is a short but fun hiking route in the San Bernardino National Forest that offers beautiful views of the surrounding area. While out on the trail, you will climb uphill through the forest to the top of Moon Ridge, where you will enjoy a sightline out to the Big Bear and Baldwin lakes. Be sure to arrive prepared for your hike and have your adventure Pass displayed in your vehicle prior to setting out.

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      Open details for Exploration Trail

      Exploration Trail

      Moderate
      14.0 km
      455 m
      3.5-5h

      Hiking the Exploration Trail is a fun experience in the San Bernardino National Forest that features some rugged terrain and beautiful views. While out on the trail, you will traverse the undulating woodland terrain of the San Bernardino Mountains, while gazing out from your elevated positions at the nearby peaks and valleys. This hike can also be done in reverse by parking at the Deer Lick Fire Station in Running Springs.

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      Open details for Trick or Treat and Plantation Hike

      Trick or Treat and Plantation Hike

      Easy
      5.8 km
      153 m
      1.5-2h

      The Trick or Treat and Plantation Hike is a fantastic route in the San Bernardino Mountains that offers gorgeous views of the Southern California Landscape. While out hiking the trail, you will climb uphill through a tranquil stretch of woodland terrain, before arriving at a viewpoint overlooking the Santa Ana River Valley. This is a great bang for your buck route if you want to experience some gorgeous views.

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      Open details for Old CC Spur Trail

      Old CC Spur Trail

      Easy
      8.7 km
      269 m
      2.5-3h

      The Old CC Spur Trail is a nice and easy hike near San Bernardino that offers views of the city and surrounding landscape. While out hiking the trail, you will climb uphill along a dirt road, following it as it winds through the undulating landscape to offer views of nearby mountains, hills, and natural features. Hikers should take note that a valid adventure pass will need to be displayed in your vehicle to set out on this adventure.

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      Open details for Rainbow Bridge via PCT Hike

      Rainbow Bridge via PCT Hike

      Moderate
      13.4 km
      174 m
      3-4h

      The Rainbow Bridge via PCT Hike is a fantastic adventure in the San Bernardino National Forest that will see you traverse a creekside trail with scenic views. While out hiking this route, you will pass by the Mojave River Dam and follow along the banks of Deep Creek, taking in the views of the surrounding landscape before visiting the site of Hesperia Falls and the Rainbow Bridge. Hiking further along this trail will eventually bring you to the Deep Creek Hot Springs, which can also be accessed via the Deep Creek Hot Springs Trail.

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      Open details for Crafts Peak Trail

      Crafts Peak Trail

      Moderate
      11.6 km
      483 m
      3.5-4.5h

      The Crafts Peak Trail is a wonderfully scenic adventure in the San Bernardino Mountains that climbs up to a rock-strewn summit for views of the surrounding landscape. While out hiking the trail, you will steadily gain elevation through some woodland terrain, before pushing onto the summit of Crafts Peak for a sightline out to San Gorgonio. Hikers should take note that access to this route is usually closed when snowfall occurs and remains on the ground, so be sure to check trail conditions prior to setting out on your adventure.

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      Open details for Borea Canyon via Daley Canyon Road Hike

      Borea Canyon via Daley Canyon Road Hike

      Hard
      9.7 km
      416 m
      3-4h

      The Borea Canyon via Daley Canyon Road Hike is a challenging journey into the San Bernardino Mountains that will see you climb sharply uphill for views over San Bernardino. While out hiking this route, you will traverse a dirt road leading uphill through the undulating terrain of Borea Canyon, where you will experience some gorgeous views of the surrounding mountains and hills. Hikers should take note that this trail is exposed to the sun for the entirety of its length, so make sure to wear sunscreen/protective clothing and bring plenty of water.

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      Open details for Clark’s Grade to Big Bear Hike

      Clark’s Grade to Big Bear Hike

      Moderate
      28.2 km
      1,034 m
      8-11h

      The Clark’s Grade to Big Bear Hike is a long and challenging adventure in the San Bernardino Mountains that will see you traverse a rugged OHV Trail to reach Big Bear Lake. While out on the trail, you will climb steadily uphill along the road to reach the Skyline Ridge, before descending through the forest to arrive at Big Bear Lake. Hikers should take note that this is a one-way trail, so you will need to arrange a pick up at the end point of the route.

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      Open details for Delamar Mountain via PCT Hike

      Delamar Mountain via PCT Hike

      Moderate
      9.2 km
      300 m
      2.5-3.5h

      The Delamar Mountain via PCT Hike is a great adventure in the San Bernardino Mountains that follows along the world-renowned Pacific Crest Trail in order to reach a small summit. While out hiking the trail, you will follow along the PCT as it leads you through the woodland landscape, gaining elevation on the way to the summit of Delamar Mountain for views overlooking the San Bernardino National Forest. Don’t be afraid to do a bit of light scrambling at the end of the trail for the ultimate views of the surrounding landscape.

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