Hiking Destinations: San Bernardino Mtns. - CA

Pine forests, granite peaks, alpine meadows, and broad mountain views make the San Bernardino Mountains one of Southern California’s best hiking regions. Rising high above the desert and basin cities below, this range offers a dramatic change in scenery and temperature. Trails here climb to high summits, circle mountain lakes, and pass through tall forest that feels worlds away from nearby freeways. The mix of accessibility and real mountain terrain makes this region especially appealing.

This guide highlights 20 popular hikes across the San Bernardino Mountains, from major summit routes to scenic forest loops and alpine lake destinations. Expect dry conditions, exposed sections, and significant elevation on many hikes. Summer mornings are often best for longer climbs, while fall and spring can bring ideal hiking weather. Lace up and explore one of California’s most rewarding mountain regions.

1. SAN GORGONIO PEAK VIA VIVIAN CREEK

This demanding route climbs to the highest point in Southern California. The trail gains elevation quickly and keeps rising through forest and rocky alpine terrain. Summit views extend across desert, mountains, and distant ranges. The effort is serious, but so is the reward. It’s one of the premier peak hikes in the state.

2. CASTLE ROCK TRAIL (BIG BEAR AREA)

This short but steep trail leads to a granite outcrop with expansive lake and forest views. The route is popular because it packs a scenic punch into a relatively small distance. The top has dramatic boulders and good photo opportunities. It’s accessible while still feeling adventurous. A classic Big Bear-area hike.

3. SAN BERNARDINO PEAK TRAIL

This long climb reaches a high summit with broad views into the Mojave and beyond. The route moves through several ecological zones, which keeps the scenery interesting. It’s strenuous and often less crowded than neighboring San Gorgonio. High sections feel expansive and remote. It’s a great option for hikers who love big summit days.

4. HEART ROCK TRAIL (CRESTLINE AREA)

This easy-to-moderate hike leads to a heart-shaped pool carved into rock beneath a waterfall. The destination is photogenic and especially attractive after rain or snowmelt. The trail is short, but the setting feels magical. It’s a popular outing for families and casual hikers. The natural rock formation makes it memorable.

5. KELLER PEAK FIRE LOOKOUT TRAIL

This route leads to a historic fire lookout with excellent views across the surrounding mountains. The climb is steady but approachable for many hikers. Forest scenery keeps the route pleasant, especially in warmer months. The lookout adds a nice historic touch to the summit. It’s a rewarding half-day hike.

6. BIG PINE FLAT TRAIL

This trail offers a quieter forest experience away from some of the region’s busier destinations. The route passes through shaded woodland and gradually opens to broader views. It feels peaceful and lightly traveled. It’s a good choice for hikers who want scenery without heavy crowds. The steady terrain makes it enjoyable for a relaxed outing.

7. SIBERIA CREEK TRAIL

This scenic trail descends through forest to a beautiful creek corridor. Water, shade, and changing vegetation make the route stand out. The hike feels cooler and greener than many Southern California trails. Spring is especially nice when water is flowing well. It’s a refreshing mountain alternative to summit climbs.

8. FORSEE CREEK TRAIL

This route is one of the classic approaches toward San Gorgonio and surrounding high country. The climb is steady, scenic, and forested for much of the way. Higher sections reveal increasingly expansive views. It’s a favorite with hikers preparing for bigger alpine objectives. Even shorter out-and-backs here feel rewarding.

9. LIMBER PINE BENCH TRAIL

This beautiful high-country route leads to one of the most scenic camps and viewpoints in the San Gorgonio area. The trail rises through forest into more open terrain. The bench itself feels broad, airy, and alpine. It’s often done as part of longer objectives but stands well on its own. The views are especially strong in clear weather.

10. SUGARLOAF MOUNTAIN TRAIL

This hike leads to a summit with impressive views over Big Bear and surrounding peaks. The route is moderately steep and keeps a good rhythm throughout. Forested sections provide shade before the final open terrain. The summit reward feels larger than the mileage suggests. It’s a satisfying and accessible peak hike.

11. PINEKNOT TRAIL TO GRAND VIEW POINT

This popular trail climbs steadily through pine forest to an overlook above Big Bear Lake. The route is well traveled but scenic from start to finish. Wildflowers and birds add interest in warmer months. The viewpoint offers a broad perspective over the lake basin. It’s one of the area’s best moderate hikes.

12. COUGAR CREST TRAIL

This trail climbs above Big Bear Lake with increasingly open views along the way. The route is moderately challenging and often breezy near the top sections. Forest gives way to broader vistas as you gain elevation. It can be combined with longer ridge walks for more ambitious outings. Even as a shorter out-and-back, it’s very rewarding.

13. PACIFIC CREST TRAIL – ONYX SUMMIT SECTION

This stretch of the PCT offers high-country scenery with a relatively easy trail grade. The route passes through open forest, meadows, and broad ridgeline viewpoints. It’s one of the nicest ways to experience the San Bernardinos without a brutally steep climb. The scenery feels spacious and classic. It’s a great introduction to the region’s higher terrain.

14. JENKS LAKE LOOP

This easy trail circles a scenic mountain lake surrounded by forest. The path is gentle, family friendly, and pleasant in all seasons. Reflections on the water can be especially pretty in morning light. Fishing and picnicking add to the laid-back appeal. It’s a simple but enjoyable mountain outing.

15. HOLCOMB CREEK TRAIL

This route travels through forest and creekside terrain with interesting boulders and meadows nearby. The trail feels quieter than some of the Big Bear classics. Water and shade help keep the hike pleasant. It’s a good way to experience the softer side of the range. The overall mood is peaceful and scenic.

16. DEEP CREEK HOT SPRINGS TRAIL

This trail descends to one of the most famous hot spring areas in Southern California. The route can be hot and exposed, especially on the climb back out. The creek and pools create a striking destination. It feels more rugged than many first-time visitors expect. Timing and preparation make a big difference here.

17. ARROWHEAD PINNACLES TRAIL

This trail leads to unusual rock formations with sweeping mountain views. The route is moderately challenging and less famous than some nearby hikes. The pinnacles make for a memorable destination. It’s a nice choice for hikers wanting geology and scenery together. The surrounding terrain feels distinctly rugged.

18. HEEPS PEAK LOOKOUT TRAIL

This climb reaches a fire lookout site with wide views across the forested mountains. The trail is steady and enjoyable, with open stretches near the top. It feels like a classic Southern California mountain hike. The summit area offers strong visual payoff. It’s a very solid mid-length objective.

19. PACIFIC CREST TRAIL – HOLSER TO SILVERWOOD SECTION

This section offers ridgeline and mountain scenery with a quieter feel than more popular trailheads. The tread is generally pleasant and good for longer mileage. Views come and go as the trail moves through forest and open terrain. It’s ideal for hikers who enjoy covering ground. The route shows the range’s broader, less crowded side.

20. MORTON PEAK FIRE LOOKOUT TRAIL

This trail climbs to a historic lookout with broad views over the Inland Empire and surrounding mountains. The route is short but steadily uphill. The lookout and panoramic reward make it worth the effort. It’s especially nice in cooler months with crisp visibility. A hike like this nicely captures the region’s mix of history and scenery.

From alpine summits and granite outcrops to forest lakes and scenic lookouts, the San Bernardino Mountains offer a full spectrum of Southern California hiking. The region feels both accessible and wild, with routes for casual walkers and serious peak hikers alike. Every trail reveals a different side of these high mountains above the basin. Explore the San Bernardinos and discover one of California’s most rewarding mountain regions—one trail at a time.