Attractions and Places To See around Running Springs - Top 19

Running Springs is surrounded by diverse natural beauty. You can visit Bluff Lake Reserve, a pristine mountain marsh at 7,600 feet with an easy trail. Explore the Holcomb Creek, a reliable water source along the Pacific Crest Trail, or discover the 3,400-acre National Children's Forest, which includes the 4.5-mile Exploration Trail. The Heaps Peak Arboretum Day Use Area also offers a mile-long Sequoia Trail and various gardens.

Yes, there are several family-friendly options. Bluff Lake Reserve offers an easy trail suitable for all ages. SkyPark at Santa's Village provides year-round activities like zip-lining, rock climbing, and train rides. The National Children's Forest features educational programs and the Exploration Trail, designed by children. Additionally, the Heaps Peak Arboretum Day Use Area is ideal for families with its themed gardens and easy walking paths.

For incredible panoramic views, head to Keller Peak, which sits at an elevation of 7,882 feet and hosts the oldest fire lookout in the San Bernardino National Forest. Another excellent spot for scenic vistas is Oak Glen Vista Point, offering beautiful views of the valley below.

The San Bernardino National Forest surrounding Running Springs offers numerous hiking opportunities. You can explore the Exploration Trail in the National Children's Forest, or venture onto parts of the Pacific Crest Trail. Other popular options include the Wildhorse Trail, Snowslide Trail, Coyote Rock Trail, and Siberia Creek Trail. For more detailed routes, check out the Hiking around Running Springs guide.

Absolutely! Running Springs is a great base for mountain biking. SkyPark at Santa's Village offers dedicated mountain biking trails. Snow Valley Mountain Resort transforms into a mountain biking destination during warmer months, and Rim Nordic Ski Area also provides mountain biking opportunities in the summer. The Exploration Trail is also open to non-motorized bikes, offering a challenging downhill experience.

During the winter, Running Springs is a gateway to snow sports. Snow Valley Mountain Resort is a major draw for skiing and snowboarding. Rim Nordic Ski Area is Southern California's only cross-country ski area with machine-groomed trails, offering a different kind of winter adventure.

Yes, the region has a rich history. The Keller Peak Fire Lookout is the oldest still standing in the San Bernardino National Forest. The area was historically inhabited by the Serrano people, also known as 'Yuhaviatam' ('people of the pines'), and evidence of their presence, such as mortar holes, can still be found. The Rim of the World Historical Society and Mountain History Museum in nearby Lake Arrowhead also preserves the history and culture of the San Bernardino Mountains.

The Large camp area at Holocomb Creek is an excellent choice. It offers a spacious, beach-like area perfect for pitching tents, and Holcomb Creek itself provides a reliable source of cold, clear water that is easily accessible for campers.

Visitors particularly appreciate the natural beauty and tranquility. The easy trail around Bluff Lake Reserve, surrounded by boulders and towering pines, is a favorite. The incredible views from Keller Peak after a sustained effort are also highly valued. Many enjoy the accessibility of water from Holcomb Creek for camping and hiking.

Yes, the mountainous terrain around Running Springs offers challenging and scenic road cycling routes. You can find routes like 'Snow Valley to Onyx Summit via Big Bear Lake' or 'Lake Arrowhead, Lake Gregory, Running Springs, and Keller Peak loop.' For more options and details, refer to the Road Cycling Routes around Running Springs guide.

The best time depends on your preferred activities. For hiking and mountain biking, late spring through early fall (May to October) offers pleasant weather. During these months, you can also enjoy the Running Springs Farmers Market and Artisan Faire. For winter sports like skiing and snowboarding, December through March is ideal, when Snow Valley Mountain Resort and Rim Nordic Ski Area are fully operational.