01
Best close-to-town climb
Zanja Peak Trail
Foothills Just East Of Highland • Steep Desert-Foothill Climb With Big Views • Go-To Local Workout Hike
A short but stout climb up Zanja Peak that trades effort for sweeping views over Highland and the Inland Empire.
Starting from the eastern edge of town, this out-and-back climbs quickly through chaparral to a rocky summit on the Yucaipa Ridge. Expect roughly 4–5 miles round-trip with sustained uphill and very little shade, so it’s best early or on cooler days. On clear afternoons you can trace the freeways across the valley and watch the light drop over the San Gabriels on the way back down.
02
Best big-mountain day
San Bernardino Peak Trail
Angelus Oaks Along Highway 38 • High-Elevation Forest And Summit Trail • Big-Day Mountain Adventure
A challenging high-country route that rewards strong hikers with classic summit views over the Inland Empire and the San Gorgonio Wilderness.
From the trailhead above Angelus Oaks, this long, steady climb winds through pine forest, open ridges, and historic markers on its way to a 10,000-foot summit. Plan on a full day, 15–16 miles round-trip, with significant elevation gain and thinner air as you get higher. It’s a great choice when you want true alpine scenery close to Highland, but you’ll want an early start, plenty of water, and to check seasonal snow and permit requirements before you go.
03
Most photogenic short hike
Heart Rock (Seeley Creek Falls) Trail
Crestline – Valley Of Enchantment • Shaded Creekside Trail To Waterfall • Best For Casual Hikers And Photographers
A mellow forest walk to a small waterfall and the naturally carved heart-shaped pool that gives the trail its name.
This 1.5–2 mile round-trip hike follows Seeley Creek through pines and boulders to a cliffside viewpoint above the falls. The final approach to the rock can be a bit rough and exposed, so take your time near the edge, especially with kids or dogs. Go early on summer weekends if you want quieter photos, and bring sandals or a towel if you plan to scramble down to the water on hot days.
04
Best sunset viewpoint
Morton Peak Lookout Road
Mentone To Forest Falls Corridor • Gradual Forest Road Hike To Fire Lookout • Laid-Back Half-Day Outing
A moderate walk up a dirt road to a historic fire lookout with big views down to the valley and up toward the high country.
The route follows a gently climbing forest road, making it easy to settle into a rhythm without worrying about navigation or technical footing. It’s about 4 miles round-trip, exposed in places, with distant views opening up as you contour around the ridge. Time it for late afternoon and you can watch the Inland Empire light up from the lookout before heading back down with a headlamp.
05
Best easy nature walk
Heaps Peak Arboretum Trail
Skyforest Above Lake Arrowhead • Short Interpretive Loop Through Mountain Forest • Family-Friendly And Beginner Pick
A gentle, well-signed loop that showcases local pines, wildflowers, and boulders just off the Rim of the World Highway.
The trail is less than a mile long with minimal elevation gain, making it an easy stop for new hikers, multi-generational groups, or quick leg-stretch breaks on a mountain drive. Interpretive signs highlight native plants and trees, and benches tucked into the forest invite slow, lingering laps instead of a rushed walk. It’s a simple way to get a feel for the higher-elevation landscape without committing to a longer outing.