Attractions and Places To See in the San Bernadino Mountains - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see in the San Bernadino Mountains include a diverse range of natural features, historical sites, and recreational areas. The region is characterized by the expansive San Bernardino National Forest, which encompasses several lakes like Big Bear Lake and Lake Arrowhead. Visitors can explore numerous hiking trails, geological formations, and historical landmarks within this mountainous landscape. The area offers opportunities for outdoor activities and discovery across its varied terrain.
Best attractions and places to see in the San Bernadino Mountains
- The most popular attraction is Hidden Valley Trail, a trail that meanders through large rock formations. This one-mile loop is suitable for families and includes educational signs about local plants and animals.
- Another must-see spot is Barker Dam, a man-made monument and historical site. This location is known for its photographic opportunities, especially when water is present.
- Visitors also love Skull Rock, a natural monument. This impressive rock formation, shaped by erosion, is part of a 1.7-mile nature trail featuring many unusual rock formations.
- San Bernadino Mountains is known for its natural monuments, historical sites, and diverse hiking trails. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from unique rock formations to historical mining operations.
- The attractions in the San Bernadino Mountains are appreciated by the komoot community. With 55 upvotes and 74 photos, these spots offer diverse experiences for outdoor enthusiasts.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
Hidden Valley Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
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Skull Rock
Highlight • Natural Monument
Seeing-usa.com/sightseeing/california/joshua-tree-national-park.html
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Wall Street Stamp Mill
Highlight • Historical Site
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Cholla Cactus Garden
Highlight • Natural Monument
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Split Rock
Highlight (Segment) • Natural Monument
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Forty-Nine Palms Canyon
Highlight (Segment) • Natural Monument
komoot.de/tour/22631982
See also: de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joshua-Tree-National Park
Another sad note on the side rtlnext.rtl.de/cms/joshua-tree-nationalpark-suchtrupp-findet-corpses-arm-in-arm-sind-es-rachel-nguyen-und-joseph-orbeso- 4130178.html which makes you aware of how tragic it can end if you don't have enough to drink with you and even leave the hiking trails behind ...
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Wooden path Stanfield Marsh
Highlight • Trail
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Big Bear Lake access via Cougar Crest Trail
Highlight • Lake
To mail a resupply package here, use the following address:
Hiker Name
General Delivery
Big Bear Lake
CA 92315
Hours: Monday through Friday 8.30 to 5 pm, Saturday 10 to 12 am.
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Worth Bagley Stone Marker
Highlight • Historical Site
This is the location of a shootout between Worth Bagley and William F Keys in 1943. According to Keys' testimony, the two constantly argued over water access, land ownership and use. Their arguing culminated in a gunfight after Bagley ambushed Keys. The gunfight ended with Bagley dead and Keys convicted of manslaughter.
After his release from San Quentin State Prison in 1948, Keys returned to his home at Desert Queen Ranch (Keys-Ranch) and carved a stone marker that once stood here.
Someone vandalized the marker in 2014. Park staff relocated the stone to the park’s museum for safekeeping. This is a to-scale representation of the original marker.
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Barker Dam
Highlight • Monument
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Tips from the Community
It's easy to miss it because it's at the very beginning of the trail :)
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Probably the most crowded place in Joshua Tree NP - and that's because the skull is right next to the parking lot.
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Skull Rock lives up to its name with two hollowed out holes in the shape of eyes. In addition to the eponymous rock, you can take the Skull Rock Nature Trail to see Elephant Rock and other geologic formations that have been eroded into the rocks over millennia.
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Good to walk and not too long. But take water with you. The panorama really impressed me. One of the most beautiful places ever.
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Here you can ride your bike or walk along the footbridge on Big Bear Boulevard.
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The Hidden Valley Trail is a one-mile loop that offers meander through large rock formations, perfect for families and rock scrambling. Along the trail, you’ll find educational signs about local plants and animals, and you can spot "Cow Rock," a cow-shaped formation on the valley wall. The trail is easy but includes stairs and rock steps at the start and end. It’s a popular hike, so arriving early, especially on weekends, is recommended. The trail has little shade and bad cell service.
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The Stanfield Marsh Boardwalk is a lovely 1.6-mile path along Baker's Pond, located at Stanfield Marsh and Wildlife Preserve. This peaceful boardwalk offers fantastic wildlife-watching opportunities, with views of birds such as ducks, geese, herons, and even Bald Eagles. The preserve, situated at the intersection of Stanfield Cutoff and Big Bear Boulevard, features easy access with parking available at the corner or along the bridge. The boardwalk is also dog-friendly, but biking is not allowed. You can lock your bikes at the parking area, take a break from the saddle, and stroll down the boardwalk.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most popular natural attractions in the San Bernardino Mountains?
The San Bernardino Mountains are rich in natural beauty. Visitors frequently enjoy the unique rock formations at Hidden Valley Trail and Skull Rock. Other notable natural features include the expansive San Bernardino National Forest, the majestic Mount San Gorgonio, and the popular year-round destination of Big Bear Lake. You can also explore the serene Lake Arrowhead, Silverwood Lake, and Lake Gregory, each offering distinct outdoor experiences.
Are there any historical sites or significant landmarks to visit in the region?
Yes, the San Bernardino Mountains offer several historical sites and landmarks. The Barker Dam is a man-made monument with historical significance, especially when water is present. Another historical highlight is the Wall Street Stamp Mill, an operable gold ore crushing mill from the late 19th century. Beyond these, you can find the iconic natural landmark known as The Arrowhead, visible above the city of San Bernardino, and the striking geological formations of Mormon Rocks in the Cajon Pass.
What are some family-friendly activities available in the San Bernardino Mountains?
Many attractions in the San Bernardino Mountains are suitable for families. The Hidden Valley Trail is an easy one-mile loop with educational signs and rock scrambling opportunities. The Skull Rock area also features a 1.7-mile nature trail with fascinating rock formations. Lake Arrowhead offers family-friendly lodging and activities, while Glen Helen Regional Park and Yucaipa Regional Park provide fishing, swimming, and camping facilities.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints or drives in the San Bernardino Mountains?
For breathtaking views, consider the Rim of the World Scenic Drive, an approximately 110-mile byway that winds along the mountains' crest, offering spectacular vistas of the San Bernardino Valley and surrounding lakes. The Strawberry Peak Fire Lookout also provides 360-degree unobstructed views of the mountains, forests, and even Catalina Island on a clear day. Many trails, like those leading to Big Bear Lake access via Cougar Crest Trail, also offer excellent viewpoints.
Are there accessible attractions for visitors with mobility considerations?
Yes, some areas are designed with accessibility in mind. The Wooden path Stanfield Marsh features a boardwalk that is wheelchair accessible, allowing visitors to enjoy the lake and wetland environment. While many trails in the mountains can be rugged, efforts are made to provide inclusive experiences where possible.
What outdoor activities, such as hiking or cycling, can I do near these attractions?
The San Bernardino Mountains offer a wide range of outdoor activities. For hiking, you can explore easy trails like the Barker Dam Nature Trail or the Split Rock Loop Trail. If you're interested in cycling, there are routes such as the Big Bear and Baldwin Lake loop or the Queen Valley Loop. For more detailed information on routes, you can check out the Easy hikes in the San Bernadino Mountains or Cycling in the San Bernadino Mountains guides.
Are there any unique natural formations or hidden gems to discover?
Beyond the well-known spots, the region holds several unique natural formations. The Heart Rock Trail near Crestline leads to a distinctive heart-shaped rock formation. Deep Creek Hot Springs offers a relaxing natural setting for soaking, accessible via a 2.5-mile hike. The Split Rock and Cholla Cactus Garden also present unique landscapes and plant life.
What are some of the best hiking trails for different skill levels?
The San Bernardino Mountains cater to various hiking abilities. For easy walks, the Hidden Valley Trail is a great option. Intermediate hikers might enjoy trails like the Lost Horse Mine trail, which leads to a historical mining operation. For more challenging adventures, Mount San Gorgonio is the tallest peak in Southern California and a popular destination for experienced hikers. You can find more options in the Easy hikes in the San Bernadino Mountains guide.
What do visitors enjoy most about the San Bernardino Mountains?
Visitors frequently praise the diverse experiences offered, from the unique rock formations and educational signs along trails like Hidden Valley Trail to the photographic opportunities at Barker Dam. The impressive and unusual rock formations found on trails like the Skull Rock Nature Trail are also highly appreciated. The region's blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and varied outdoor activities consistently receives positive feedback.
Are there any cultural institutions or museums nearby?
While many attractions are natural, there are cultural sites at the base or nearby. These include the San Bernardino History and Railroad Museum, located in the restored Santa Fe Depot, and the First Original McDonald's Museum on historic Route 66. The San Bernardino County Museum offers exhibits on local natural and cultural history, and the California Theater of the Performing Arts hosts various performances.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see in the San Bernardino Mountains?
The San Bernardino National Forest and surrounding areas are home to diverse wildlife. In the alpine environment around Big Bear Lake, you might spot bald eagles and various rare plant species. The Hidden Valley Trail also features educational signs about local plants and animals, providing insights into the region's biodiversity. Birdwatching is also popular at Silverwood Lake.
Can I find places for water activities like boating or swimming?
Yes, the region's lakes offer numerous water-based activities. Big Bear Lake is a hub for fishing, water sports, and winter sports. Lake Arrowhead also provides opportunities for water skiing. Silverwood Lake is popular for boating, and Lake Gregory offers a picturesque setting for enjoying the water. Yucaipa Regional Park features a swim complex with water slides, perfect for cooling off.
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