01
Best overall ridge climb
Zanja Peak Trail
Crafton Hills Above East Redlands • Rugged Ridgeline Hike With Summit Views • Best Half-Day Workout
A steady climb through chaparral to a rocky summit with sweeping views over Redlands, Yucaipa, and the San Bernardino mountains.
Starting from the Crafton Hills area, this route wastes little time gaining elevation, trading switchbacks for wide-open vistas. The trail is exposed and can get hot, so it is a strong early-morning or cool-season pick. Expect a mix of hikers and mountain bikers, plus a real sense of being up above the neighborhoods below.
02
Best mellow nature walk
San Timoteo Nature Sanctuary
South Redlands Canyon • Shady Riparian Canyon Trail System • Best For Relaxed Nature Walks
Wide, mostly flat dirt paths follow the creek and historic rail corridor, making this an easygoing escape just minutes from downtown.
San Timoteo is where locals go when they want miles without much climbing, plus birdsong and big sycamores for company. The main trail is straightforward to follow, with side paths that let you stitch together longer loops if you want more time out. It is great for families, casual walkers, and anyone easing into local hiking, though it can be muddy after heavy rain.
03
Best quick summit
Blue Mountain Trail
Between Colton And Grand Terrace, Northwest Of Redlands • Steep Peak Climb With 360-Degree Vistas • Top Choice For Big-Sky Sunsets
A short, steep climb up a broad dirt road to the top of Blue Mountain, rewarded by expansive views over the Inland Empire and nearby ranges.
Blue Mountain is a straightforward but demanding slog that turns into a local rite of passage for many hikers. The route is mostly open, so you get views almost the entire way, with an especially dramatic panorama at the top on clear days. Go for sunrise or sunset to avoid the heat and to see the lights of nearby cities flicker on below you.
04
Best family-friendly climb
Oakmont Park and R Trail
North Redlands Foothills • Neighborhood Park Trail To Hillside Landmark • Iconic Local Leg-Burner
A community park at the base of the hills anchors a popular trail that climbs to the big R overlooking Redlands.
The outing starts gently at Oakmont Park, where lawns and shade trees make it easy to gather the group and get organized. From there, a dirt path quickly tilts uphill toward the R, delivering a short but punchy workout and wide views over the city and citrus groves. It is a go-to for locals who want something close to home that still feels like a proper climb.
05
Best open-space ramble
Herngt 'Aki' Preserve
West Redlands Open Space • Rolling Multi-Use Trail Network • Go-To Spot For Varied Loops
A web of old carriage roads and singletrack weaves through protected hillsides, offering flexible loop options and long views toward the valley.
Herngt 'Aki' is one of those places where you can tailor the day to your mood, from quick after-work spins to longer exploratory rambles. The trails undulate gently across open slopes, with enough climbing to feel active without being punishing. Watch for mountain bikers and occasional equestrian traffic, and time your visit for golden hour when the light on the hills is at its best.