7 amazing Lake Arrowhead hikes and trails

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Pacaso’s Editorial Team
November 6, 2025
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Key takeaways
This guide covers the best Lake Arrowhead hikes, providing details on trail lengths, difficulty, and unique sights on each. Lake Arrowhead offers various hiking trails for all skill levels, with many offering incredible views. Pack your hiking shoes, and check out these seven, must-try Lake Arrowhead trails on your next outdoor adventure.
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 call Lake Arrowhead your home away from home, it’s also a paradise for outdoor lovers. With pine forests, lakefront paths, and panoramic mountain views, Lake Arrowhead hikes and trails offer a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

What are the best family-friendly Lake Arrowhead hikes?

Will Abell Memorial Trail

Length1.9 miles
Elevation416 feet
DifficultyModerate
Trail typeLoop
Unique featuresWooded, short hike, family-friendly, dog-friendly, lookout views of Lake Arrowhead
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.

Lake Gregory Trail

Length2.6 miles
Elevation72 feet
DifficultyEasy
Trail typeLoop
Unique featuresWooded, short, flat hike, family-friendly, dog-friendly, circles along Lake Gregory, public beach access for swimming, kayaking, fishing, picnics, and more
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 Lake Gregory Regional Park where you can swim, kayak, fish, or enjoy a lakeside picnic. Unlike Lake Arrowhead, which is privately owned, Lake Gregory is open to the public and has ample space for swimming and watersports.

Heart Rock Trail

Length1.8 miles
Elevation72 feet
DifficultyModerate
Trail typeLoop
Unique featuresWooded, rocky, short hike, family-friendly, dog-friendly, creek, waterfalls, and heart-shaped hole in rock formation
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.

Dogwood Campground Loop Trail

Length3.3 miles
Elevation433 feet
DifficultyEasy
Trail typeLoop
Unique featuresWooded, short hike, family-friendly, dog-friendly, nearby campground for easy access to trail, beautiful trees and views
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?

Arrowhead Pinnacles Trail

Length3.5 miles
Elevation1,036 feet
DifficultyModerate
Trail typeOut-and-back
Unique featuresBouldery/rocky, requires some scrambling, views of Mojave Desert, Silverwood Lake and Mt. Baldy from the top of The Pinnacle, less than 20 minutes from town, trail can be more difficult to follow
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.

Crafts Peak Trail

Length7.2 miles
Elevation1,584 feet
DifficultyModerate
Trail typeOut-and-back
Unique featuresWooded, rocky, views of Big Bear Lake and Butler Peak to the East and Arrowhead Lake to the West, great sunset or sunrise watching, steep at the top, requires some scrambling
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. 

Deep Creek Hot Springs to Bradford Ridge Path Trail

Length5 miles
Elevation1,312 feet
DifficultyHard
Trail typeOut-and-back
Unique featuresRocky, no shade, hiking out of the mountains into desert, access to hot springs, steep climbs and sandy descents
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:
  • Prepare for terrain: Bring sturdy shoes for rocky trails like Arrowhead Pinnacles and Crafts Peak that require some scrambling.
  • Stay hydrated: Prepare enough water to last the entire hike, especially for longer hikes like Crafts Peak.
  • Bring snacks: Bring plenty of snacks to refuel and avoid burnout, especially on longer hikes.
  • Check the weather: Hike early to avoid afternoon heat, especially on exposed trails like Deep Creek Hot Springs to Bradford Ridge Path.
  • Use GPS: Download GPS maps for trails like Arrowhead Pinnacles ahead of time to navigate cairn-marked paths and avoid getting lost.
  • Family-friendly options: Choose Will Abell Memorial Trail or Lake Gregory Trail for kids and beginners.
  • Pack appropriate clothing: Bring layers that are easy to put on and take off as needed, and consider packing a swimsuit if you plan to take a dip in the hot springs.

Why co-own a vacation home near Lake Arrowhead?

There are so many great Lake Arrowhead hikes that a quick weekend getaway in Lake Arrowhead just won’t suffice. Co-owning a Pacaso second home in the “Alps of Southern California” gives you ample time to easily explore the many beautiful trails near this lakefront community and enjoy a hassle-free mountain retreat.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 dining al fresco with sweeping views of Lake Arrowhead and the San Bernardino Mountains, exploring charming shops at Lake Arrowhead Village, and kayaking or paddleboarding. With Pacaso, you can settle in the moment you arrive since every visit is like coming home.

Lake Arrowhead hikes FAQ

01: What is the best hiking trail near Lake Arrowhead?

It depends on the experience you’re looking for. For scenic views and a bit of a challenge, the Arrowhead Pinnacles Trail is a favorite. Families often enjoy Will Abell Memorial Trail or Lake Gregory Trail, while adventurous hikers love the Deep Creek Hot Springs Trail for its unique natural pools and rugged terrain.

02: Can you hike around Lake Arrowhead?

Parts of Lake Arrowhead are accessible for hiking, but you cannot hike a full loop around the lake since it is private and has private property along its shores. However, public trails like Will Abell Memorial Trail and Lake Arrowhead Pinnacles Trail are great hiking options that offer incredible views of Lake Arrowhead.

03: What are some easier, family-friendly Lake Arrowhead hikes?

Will Abell Memorial Trail, Lake Gregory Trail, Heart Rock Trail, and Dogwood Campground Trail are the most family-friendly hikes in and around Lake Arrowhead, as each trail is three miles or less, easy or moderate in difficulty, and shaded by the forest.

04: Are there unique viewpoints Lake Arrowhead trails offer?

Yes! Many Lake Arrowhead trails feature scenic lookouts with views of the lake and surrounding San Bernardino Mountains. Heart Rock Trail offers a natural heart-shaped rock formation and waterfall, while Arrowhead Pinnacles Trail rewards hikers with sweeping views of the Mojave Desert, Silverwood Lake, and Mount Baldy.

05: Is there anything I should prepare before hiking Lake Arrowhead?

Yes — bring sturdy hiking shoes for uneven or rocky terrain, plenty of water and snacks, and a GPS map download to stay on track. Weather in the mountains can change quickly, so check conditions before you go and dress in layers.

06: How can I buy a second home near Lake Arrowhead?

If you love the area and want to spend more time here, consider co-owning a second home with Pacaso. Pacaso’s fully managed co-ownership model makes it easy to own a luxury home in Lake Arrowhead without the hassle of full-time upkeep. You enjoy turnkey ownership, professional management, and a home that’s ready whenever you are.

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