01
Best overall pick
Potato Mountain via Evey Canyon
Claremont Foothills • Steep Summit Fire-Road Hike • Local Favorite With Big Views
A short but punchy climb to a quirky, potato-themed summit overlooking Montclair and the wider Inland Empire.
Starting at the end of Evey Canyon Road above Claremont, this route follows a shaded dirt road before breaking into open slopes with expanding views. The grade is steady and feels like a workout, but the round-trip distance stays manageable for most moderately fit hikers. Aim for sunrise or late afternoon to beat the heat and catch the best light over the valley below.
02
Best family-friendly pick
Etiwanda Falls Trail
North Rancho Cucamonga • Waterfall Canyon Hike • Best Family-Friendly Adventure
A moderate out-and-back to a shaded creek and small waterfall tucked just above suburban streets.
The trail climbs gradually through the North Etiwanda Preserve, trading neighborhood views for chaparral hillsides and, eventually, the sound of running water. It’s wide and well-traveled, which makes it feel approachable for newer hikers and families, though it can be hot and exposed on sunny days. Pack extra water, start early if it’s warm, and plan to linger a bit in the cool air around the falls before heading back down.
03
Best quick workout loop
Claremont Hills Wilderness Park Loop
Claremont Wilderness Park • Wide-Open Loop Trail • Go-To After-Work Workout
A popular 5-mile loop with steady climbing, sweeping city views, and a social trail vibe close to town.
This fire-road loop climbs above the Claremont Colleges into rolling foothills, offering big panoramas of Montclair, the 210 corridor, and the front range. Locals use it as a fitness route, so expect a mix of hikers, runners, and dog walkers, especially at sunrise, sunset, and on weekends. Come on a clear day after rain or wind for some of the crispest views of the valley and the San Gabriels you’ll find this close to home.
04
Best classic mountain hike
Icehouse Canyon to Icehouse Saddle
Mt. Baldy Village • Alpine Canyon-To-Saddle Route • Classic Mountain Day Hike
A standout San Gabriel hike that climbs through pine forest and past old cabin ruins to a high saddle with big-mountain views.
From the trailhead near Mt. Baldy Village, the path follows a rocky creek past historic cabins before switchbacking into cooler, denser forest. The elevation gain is real, but the varied scenery and frequent shade help the miles go down easier than many steeper local climbs. From Icehouse Saddle you can see deep into the high country and, on clear days, trace the urban grid all the way back toward Montclair.
05
Best challenge hike
Cucamonga Peak via Icehouse Canyon
High San Gabriel Backcountry • Big-Mountain Peak Ascent • Top Challenge For Experienced Hikers
A demanding all-day trek to a high granite summit with one of the most dramatic overlooks above the Inland Empire.
Building on the Icehouse Canyon approach, this route continues past the saddle and winds along mountain ridges before making a final push to Cucamonga Peak. The distance, elevation gain, and thinner air add up, so it’s best tackled by fit hikers who are comfortable with long days and changing mountain weather. In return, you get a rocky summit perch where the whole valley — from Montclair’s neighborhoods to distant freeways — sprawls out below your feet.