01
Best big-mountain challenge
San Bernardino Peak Trail
San Bernardino Mountains Near Angelus Oaks • High-Elevation Summit Route • Best For Seasoned Hikers
A long, demanding climb to a 10,000-foot summit with sweeping views over the Inland Empire and neighboring peaks.
If you want a true all-day mountain outing without driving to the Sierra, this is the local classic. The trail is steady but relentless, gaining serious elevation through pine forest and open ridges before topping out at San Bernardino Peak. Start early, pack extra water and layers, and plan to savor the views from the summit sign before the long hike back down.
02
Best quick waterfall escape
Big Falls Trail
Forest Falls Canyon • Short Creekside Waterfall Hike • Best For Casual Hikers
An easy-to-moderate walk along Mill Creek leading to views of one of Southern California’s tallest year-round waterfalls.
When Muscoy is baking, Forest Falls usually runs cooler, and the short walk to Big Falls makes the temperature drop feel even better. The main viewpoint is close to the parking area, but wandering the established paths and picnic spots lets you stretch the outing. Stay behind railings and posted signs—the rocks near the falls are slick and rescues are common when people ignore closures.
03
Best river canyon adventure
Upper Deep Creek Canyon to Devil’s Hole
Backcountry North Of Lake Arrowhead • River Canyon And Swimming-Hole Hike • Best For Strong Hikers Who Like Water Stops
A rugged out-and-back into a deep canyon, ending at a popular swimming hole on a remote stretch of Deep Creek.
This hike trades sweeping summit views for a more intimate, wild-feeling canyon experience. The trail rolls through chaparral and forest, with exposed stretches that can feel hot but are rewarded by the cool water of Deep Creek at Devil’s Hole. Go prepared for a real backcountry outing—carry plenty of water, expect limited shade, and pack out every bit of trash so the swimming hole stays special.
04
Best classic SoCal peak
Cucamonga Peak via Icehouse Canyon
Above Mount Baldy Village • Alpine Peak Climb With Canyon Approach • Best For Experienced Day Hikers
A scenic canyon-to-peak route that passes cabins and pines before topping out on a rocky summit above the Inland Empire.
Icehouse Canyon feels storybook at the trailhead, with old cabins, a lively creek, and dense forest giving the first miles a cool, shaded character. Beyond the saddle, the climb to Cucamonga Peak is rockier and steeper, but the payoff is one of the area’s most dramatic viewpoints, with the valley floor spread out thousands of feet below. Check parking, permit, and weather details ahead of time—this is a popular but serious mountain hike.
05
Best family-friendly foothill hike
Etiwanda Falls Trail
Foothills Above Rancho Cucamonga • Foothill Preserve Trail To A Small Waterfall • Best For Families And Newer Hikers
A straightforward dirt road climb through open foothills to a shady picnic area and modest but charming waterfall.
Etiwanda Falls is a go-to option when you want a real workout without technical terrain. The route is mostly exposed, but the wide path and steady grade make it easy to manage for motivated kids and newer hikers who can handle some uphill. Aim for early morning or late afternoon to avoid heat, and linger in the shaded grove around the falls once you get there.