What to See and Do
Hiking and Biking
Deep Creek Hot Springs Trail
The trail is open all year round, and dogs are welcome. An out-and-back route near Hesperia offers a chance to view wildflowers and hot springs. There is no shade along the trail, and a fee might be required to get access. The trail is best for hiking and backpacking.
Length: 3.6 miles
Intensity: Hard
Arrowhead Pinnacles Trail
It is also an out-and-back trail near Lake Arrowhead and is a popular spot for hiking and horseback riding. Visitors can bring dogs on a leash, but some areas don't need leashes. It remains open throughout the year, and visitors can observe wildlife and wildflowers or visit a nearby cave.
Length: 4.6 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Deep Creek Hot Springs to PCT
The out-and-back trail allows hikers and backpackers to explore a broader part of the area. It's a great place if you desire solitude, and it gives you the chance to visit hot springs.
Length: 11.9 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Metate Trail
The trail is rocky but manageable for hikers, trail runners, and anyone looking to go for a short walk. It is also child friendly. There are few people on this trail, but it has excellent spots for wildlife viewing.
Length: 1.9 miles
Intensity: Easy
Fishing and Boating
There are nearby creeks that campers at Juniper Flats can visit if they plan to fish. Deep Creek is to the south of San Bernardino National Forest. It is known to be home to wild trout. Another place to try your luck is Willow Creek. There is plenty of rainbow trout, salmon, and steelhead. A California fishing license is required before fishing any waters. If you want a boating adventure, consider visiting Lake Arrowhead, where you will find motorboats, sailboats, canoes, and kayaks.
Wildlife Viewing
The best time to view wildlife in this area is during the early morning and evening hours. Many birds gather in thick vegetation, so bring a pair of binoculars for better viewing. Common species are the black-chinned hummingbird, gray vireo, juniper titmouse, western bluebird, and ash-throated Flycatcher. Animals inhabiting the area include coyotes, kit foxes, mountain lions, white-tailed antelope, squirrel, and the black-tailed jackrabbit. Bring a camera to capture shots of these animals in their natural habitat.
Hunting
A hunting permit is required and can be purchased online from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Juniper Flats provides game for you to hunt, but if you want a better experience, consider San Bernardino National Forest. It has most of the big game in this area, including mule deer, bighorn sheep, black bears, and mountain lions.
Off-highway Vehicle Activities
If you want fun activities in your OHV, try some trails in San Bernardino National Forest like the 10.6-mile point-to-point Juniper Flats OHV Route. It is an excellent route for off-roading and scenic driving. Another recommended trail is the out-and-back Willow Creek OHV Trail, which stretches for about 6.2 miles. It is moderately challenging, leading you to higher ground where you can view the surroundings.
