01
Classic local climb
Bell Mountain Trail
North Apple Valley • Steep Desert Summit Hike • Iconic Local Climb
A short, steep grind up a rocky ridge with big Mojave Desert views and a true Apple Valley sense of place.
Bell Mountain is the hike locals point to when you ask for a quick but legit workout close to town. The trail climbs quickly on loose, dusty tread, so sturdy shoes and an early start pay off, especially in warm weather. From the top you get wide-open views over Apple Valley, Victorville, and the surrounding desert plateaus.
02
Easiest in-town stroll
Mojave Riverwalk
Along The Mojave River • Paved Riverside Path With Dirt Spur Trails • Relaxed In-Town Walk
A mellow riverside corridor that mixes paved path, shade, and short dirt detours for low-effort fresh air.
The Mojave Riverwalk is ideal when you want to move your legs without committing to a big desert climb. The main path is mostly flat and accessible, with occasional views of the usually-dry riverbed and pockets of cottonwoods. It’s a good choice for families, casual walkers, or anyone easing into the local climate before tackling more rugged routes.
03
Best boulder playground
Horsemen's Center Park Trails
Southeast Apple Valley • Boulder Garden And Desert Washes • Best For Sunset Exploring
Low-key looping routes through massive granite boulders, sandy washes, and broad desert views right on the edge of town.
Horsemen's Center Park offers a network of informal paths weaving through stacked granite boulders and open desert flats. It’s less about a single defined trail and more about wandering, scrambling, and picking your own lines as the light changes on the rocks. Go late in the day for cooler temps and some of the best sunset colors within a few minutes of Apple Valley neighborhoods.
04
Big adventure outing
Deep Creek Hot Springs Trail
San Bernardino National Forest, East Of Hesperia • Strenuous Canyon Hike To Riverside Hot Springs • Adventure Day Trip
A demanding out-and-back into a rugged canyon, rewarded with a cold river, natural hot pools, and a true backcountry feel.
Deep Creek Hot Springs is a serious hike rather than a casual soak, with significant elevation loss on the way in and a stout climb back to the trailhead. The route drops into a rocky canyon where the creek runs cool and the springs bubble up right at the water’s edge. Start early, pack plenty of water, and treat it as a full-day outing from Apple Valley, especially in warmer months.
05
Cooler mountain-lake option
Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area
Southwest Of Apple Valley Near Hesperia • Lakeside Forest Trails • Cooler Summer Escape
A nearby reservoir ringed by rolling hills and pines, with shoreline paths and viewy singletrack above the water.
Silverwood Lake offers a welcome change of scenery when you need a break from bare desert slopes. Trails range from easy lakeside rambles to longer loops that climb into the surrounding foothills for wide views across the reservoir and out toward the high desert. It makes a good half- or full-day escape, with cooler air and picnic spots that work well for groups.