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San Bernardino National Forest Hiking Trails

Bertha Peak Trail

Bertha Peak Trail is an in-and-out trail located near Big Bear City, CA. The trail has great views of Big Bear Lake and the nearby snowy peaks of San Gorgonio Mountain. Dogs are allowed on leashes no longer than 6 feet.

Length: 6.8 miles

Intensity: Moderate
Bonita Falls Trail

Located near Big Bear, Bonita Falls Trail is an in-and-out trail that crosses a creek and includes a tall waterfall on a river alongside the path. Dogs are allowed on a leash and must be under control at all times.

Length: 1.5 miles

Intensity: Moderate
Bear Lake Woodland Trail

Bear Lake Woodland Trail is a loop trail near Big Bear City. You can pick up an interpretive guide at the trailhead and use it in conjunction with the numbered signs that are on the trail. The trail is well-maintained and offers nice views of the lake. Dogs are allowed on a leash that is no more than 6 feet.

Length: 1.6 miles

Intensity: Easy
Castle Rock Trail

An in-and-out trail, Castle Rock Trail is on Highway 18 and is close to Big Bear Lake Village. It is a short trail with a steep incline that provides great views of Big Bear Lake and the surrounding forests of pine trees. Dogs are allowed if leashed and under control.

Length: 2.6 miles

Intensity: Moderate
Arrowhead Pinnacles Trail

Arrowhead Pinnacles Trail is an in-and-out trail located near Lake Arrowhead, CA. If you hike in the spring and early summer, you will see a number of beautiful wildflowers along the path. The top point of the trail offers a nice view of the below terrain from the rocky formations.

Length: 1.6 miles

Intensity: Moderate

Activities in San Bernardino National Forest

Identifying Flora and Fauna

San Bernardino National Forest has a wide range of elevation levels and supports many species of plants. Acres of wildflowers bloom profusely in the spring and summer, and the fall is a great time to experience the beautiful fall colors of black oak, quaking aspen, big leaf maple, willow, and many other trees you will see throughout the area.

There are approximately 440 species of wildlife in the forest, many of which are endangered. The San Bernardino flying squirrel, California spotted owl, Southern rubber boa, Mountain yellow-legged frog, and Andrew's marbled butterfly are some of the more rare species inside the preserve. California grizzly bears once lived here, but they became extinct to the region by 1906. There are black bears, but they are not native and were imported from the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

Fishing

The San Bernardino National Forest has a number of streams and reservoirs where you can find excellent fishing. The lakes and streams are stocked with rainbow trout, catfish, bass, and bluegill.

Hiking

There are numerous hiking trails, including a portion of the Pacific Crest Trail. The PCT is a National Scenic Trail and travels from California to the state of Washington.

Geocaching

All national forests allow geocaching under certain restrictions and rules. Check with the local Ranger Stations before participating in any geocaching activites.

Stargazing

There are many opportunities for viewing the night skies inside the San Bernardino National Forest as light pollution is minimal in most of the forest.

How to get to San Bernardino National Forest

Address: Mill Creek Visitor Center, 34701 Mill Creek Road, Mentone, CA 92359

Fee: Entry fee $0

Visiting San Bernardino National Forest provides a seemingly endless array of opportunities to see a large swatch of Southern California. The forest is close to the cities of Los Angeles and San Diego to the west, Bakersfield to the north, and Las Vegas a bit further to the east. There are lots of national forests and wilderness areas, and several national parks are in close proximity. Driving an RV as you journey through the forest and beyond is an excellent avenue to everything you most want to visit.

Frequently Asked Questions About San Bernardino National Forest

What is the closest town to San Bernardino National Forest?

Big Bear is the closest town to San Bernardino National Forest. Oak Glen is also a nearby town. Yucaipa is one of the closest bigger cities where travelers can restock supplies, buy groceries, and find restaurants and lodging.

Does San Bernardino National Forest offer free camping sites?

Yes, there are free camping sites in San Bernardino National Forest. Dispersed camping is allowed in the forest and does not cost. Campers need to make sure the area is left as they found it, with no sign of camping or disturbances when they leave.

What type of wildlife lives in San Bernardino National Forest?

Wildlife in the San Bernardino National Forest includes bald eagles, peregrine falcons, bighorn sheep, black bears, mountain lions, and a variety of birds and small animals.

What is the best time to visit San Bernardino National Forest?

Summer is the best time to visit the San Bernardino National Forest. The temperatures are much cooler than in nearby San Bernardino or Los Angeles, so hiking and mountain biking is pleasant.

The forest is also a great winter destination, however, with snowshoeing and opportunities for downhill and cross-country skiing.

Do you need a permit to fish or hunt in San Bernardino National Forest?

Yes, you do need a permit to hunt in the San Bernardino National Forest. Everyone 16 and older also needs a permit to fish in San Bernardino National Forest, however, there are certain days during the year when anyone can fish without a license.

San Bernardino National Forest Guide

RV Rentals Near San Bernardino National Forest

San Bernardino National Forest Hiking Trails

Bertha Peak Trail

Bonita Falls Trail

Bear Lake Woodland Trail

Castle Rock Trail

Arrowhead Pinnacles Trail