7 amazing Lake Arrowhead hikes and trails
Just two hours from Los Angeles but seemingly a world away, Lake Arrowhead is a charming mountain getaway surrounded by the San Bernardino Mountains. While the lake itself is reason enough to What are the best family-friendly Lake Arrowhead hikes? If you’re hiking with kids or just short on time, the Will Abell Memorial Trail is an easy and rewarding option. Spanning just 1.9 miles with 416 feet of elevation gain, it offers a leisurely trek with plenty of natural beauty. From the trailhead, the path winds gradually through the trees before opening to scenic lookout with views of Lake Arrowhead. The history of how this trail makes it even more special. Once destined to be a luxury residential development, the San Bernardino Mountains Land Trust purchased these 80 acres in 2011, reforested the area and built the trail, which is named after a longtime Land Trust volunteer, Will Abell to honor his dedication to local conservation. For those looking for easy and relaxing hiking near Lake Arrowhead, take a short drive to nearby Lake Gregory. The Lake Gregory Trail is a 2.6-mile, mostly flat loop that circles the water’s edge, perfect for a peaceful and accessible hike. It’s a popular trail for families and dog owners thanks to its gentle terrain and beautiful views. Walk the loop in the morning, then spend the afternoon at If you only have time for one of the many Lake Arrowhead hikes, make it the Heart Rock Trail. This local favorite combines forest scenery, waterfalls, and just enough rugged terrain to feel like an adventure. The 1.8-mile loop follows Seeley Creek through shaded pines, passing a few small cascades along the way. The highlight is Heart Rock, a naturally carved, heart-shaped hollow beside a 20-foot waterfall — one of the most photographed landmarks in the San Bernardino Mountains. The route starts on a short paved road before turning into a rocky dirt trail, making it a moderately challenging hike that takes about 45 to 50 minutes to complete. Some sections can be uneven, so sturdy shoes are recommended. Because the trail can be tricky to follow in spots, it’s best to download a map ahead of time. For a peaceful forest walk with gentle elevation and plenty of mountain scenery, try the Dogwood Trail — a 3.3-mile loop that winds through towering pines and cedars. It’s ideal for families, campers, and anyone looking to stretch their legs in the fresh mountain air while snapping a few photos at scenic viewpoints along the way. The hike takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to complete, with an elevation gain of roughly 430 feet. The trail sits close to Dogwood Campground, making it a convenient option if you’re staying nearby. Just note that the campground closes seasonally in winter, which can add a bit of extra mileage to your route. What are some more challenging Lake Arrowhead trails?
Less than 20 minutes from town, the Arrowhead Pinnacles Trail is a 3.5-mile out-and-back route that offers a rewarding challenge for experienced hikers. With an elevation gain of 1,036 feet, it’s considered moderately difficult with a steady climb though rugged terrain that feels far from the shaded Lake Arrowhead trails through the forest. Here,the landscape shifts to rocky scrubland dotted with boulders. The first mile starts off easy, but soon the path becomes steeper, requiring some light rock scrambling to stay on course. It’s recommended you download a GPS map ahead of time to navigate the turns, and follow the cairns left by earlier hikers to point the way. At the summit, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the Mojave Desert, Silverwood Lake, and Mt. Baldy. At 7.2 miles long and an impressive elevation gain of 1,584 feet, The Crafts Peak Trail is a scenic out-and-back route perfect for hikers who are up for a challenge. The trail begins at the Green Valley Campground and winds along forest service roads, through rocky inclines, and ponderosa forests. As you near the summit, a short scramble to the top of the rock formation leads to spectacular views — on a clear day, you can even see all the way to Big Bear Lake. It’s one of the most scenic Lake Arrowhead hikes for those looking to spend a few hours immersed in the mountains. For a longer and more adventurous hike, explore the Deep Creek Hot Springs Trail to Bradford Ridge Path. This 5-mile out-and-back route features about 1,300 feet of elevation gain and takes roughly 3 hours to complete. The trail descends from pine-covered mountains into desert terrain, with one sandy, slippery section that can be tricky to navigate, so start early and wear sturdy shoes. At the bottom, you’ll find a peaceful set of natural hot and cold springs along the creek, where you can soak in the warm pools and cool off in the cold ones before making the climb back up. The stunning scenery and unique experience make this one of the most rewarding Lake Arrowhead trails for seasoned hikers. What are some tips for hiking in Lake Arrowhead? Hiking in Lake Arrowhead means exploring mountain terrain that can change quickly — from shaded forest trails to rocky ridgelines and exposed desert slopes. For a safe and enjoyable experience, preparation is key. Before heading out, consider these essential tips to make the most of your time on the trail: Why co-own a vacation home near Lake Arrowhead? There are so many great Lake Arrowhead hikes that a quick Each Pacaso home in Lake Arrowhead is thoughtfully designed and fully furnished, featuring open-concept living spaces, cozy fireplaces, and expansive decks perfect for morning coffee or evening sunsets. Ownership includes professional property management, maintenance, and is always stay-ready, so you can focus on enjoying the great outdoors, entertaining guests, or simply unwinding in your mountain retreat. After a full day of hiking, you can unwind in comfort or head out to enjoy other local experiences like
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