Outbound Collective logo

Apple Valley, California

Apple Valley, California, is a prime location for the best trails and outdoor activities. One of the top trails is the Mojave Riverwalk, which offers scenic views of the Mojave River and its surrounding landscapes. This trail is moderately difficult, making it suitable for most hikers. Another must-visit trail is the Victor Valley Museum trail, where you can spot various unique rock formations and native plants. If you're into water activities, the Jess Ranch Lakes are perfect for fishing. For those who prefer bird watching or wildlife photography, the Apple Valley Bird Sanctuary is a great spot. Near Apple Valley, you'll find the Deep Creek Hot Springs, a natural hot spring that's a popular attraction. For a mix of history and outdoor adventures, the Calico Ghost Town and its surrounding trails are worth exploring.

Top Spots in and near Apple Valley

  • Apple Valley, California

    Deep Creek Hot Springs

    4.2
    3.64 mi / 948 ft gain
    Deep Creek Hot Springs is nestled along the Mojave River at an elevation of 3,000 feet in the San Bernardino Mountains. This year-round mineral water retreat consists of three pools the size of large hot tubs, that range in temperature from around 96 degrees in the first pool to 102 in the third....
    Read more
  • San Bernardino County, California

    Deep Creek Hot Springs via Bradford Ridge

    4.0
    4.75 mi / 1335 ft gain
    Located in the San Bernardino National Forest and part of the Pacific Crest Trail, the Deep Creek Hot Springs are a relaxing site for those of us without access to a Jacuzzi. There are at least 4 pools of hot (not just warm) water that you can soak in with your fellow neighbor (who may or may not...
    Read more
  • San Bernardino County, California

    Hike to Aztec Falls

    3.3
    1.2 mi
    From Lake Arrowhead, take the 173 to Hook Creek Road until you dead end onto Squint Ranch Road. Take a right at the first fork in the road, and park in the lot for Splinters Cabin. The dirt road can be a bit rocky and might not be the best for small cars. Once you're there, be sure to display you...
    Read more
  • Crestline, California

    Hike the Heart Rock Trail

    4.5
    1.8 mi
    This short but nice hike near Crestline, CA in the San Bernadino Forest is one for the whole family. Although finding the trailhead/parking lot can be a bit confusing, it is definitely worth it.  Driving in from the Inland Empire/LA Area, follow The Rim of the World Trail (SH18) until you see the...
    Read more
  • Fawnskin, California

    Grays Peak Trail

    1.0
    6.95 mi / 1293 ft gain
    This is a fairly easy mountain peak to climb.  The trailhead is easily accessible right off of Hwy 38 by the town of Fawnskin.  There is a large National Forest sign noting the parking area to Grays Peak Trail.  Note that parking in this lot requires either a day pass or a California Adventure pa...
    Read more
  • Big Bear, California

    Camp at Holcomb Valley Campground

    This campground is awesome! With great views, plenty of space and clean bathrooms it'll have you in for a treat! Whether it be a multiple day trip or just one night this campground is awesome. Read below for information if you are looking for a trip in the mountains! Cost: This campground is a bi...
    Read more
  • Big Bear, California

    Rock Climb Holcomb Valley

    5.0
    Most of the drive to Holcomb Valley is done on regular paved roads until about the last hour when you get above Big Bear Lake and you start your journey on dirt roads. The road is extremely bumpy and has lots of pot holes but there are generally quite a few cars up there that don't have 4 wheel d...
    Read more
  • Fawnskin, California

    Castle Rock Trail at Big Bear Lake

    4.5
    2.7 mi / 719 ft gain
    Follow the directions to the trail head, and park on the side of the road. You will see a sign that says Castle Rock Trail, and the path is directly behind that sign. The hike up to the peak is steep, sandy, and very rocky, so shoes with good traction is recommended. There are also lots of oak a...
    Read more
  • Big Bear, California

    Explore Van Dusen Cabin

    4.0
    This is a great day trip to spend in the mountains. from Highway 18 at the Big Bear Dam you turn left onto highway 38 around the north shore of Big Bear. Continue till you see the sign Van Dusen Rd and turn left. The paved road takes you through residential neighborhoods where the dirt road begin...
    Read more
  • Big Bear, California

    Hike the Cougar Crest Trail

    5.0
    6.7 mi / 938 ft gain
    On the north side of Big Bear Lake, just off the 38, you will find a turn off for the Cougar Crest Trail. The parking lot is well marked, and signs for the trailhead are easy to spot. Parking is not an issue if you come in later in the afternoon, but the hike can get crowded during peak hours. Fo...
    Read more
  • Big Bear Lake, California

    Snowshoe to Grand View Point

    6.1 mi / 1200 ft gain
    Grand View Point is accessed via Pine Knot Trail, a 6.5 mile out and back hiking trail located at the Aspen Glen Picnic Area, 1 mile from Big Bear Village. With its close proximity to town, Pine Knot Trail is popular in the summer with mountain bikers and the trailhead is often crowded in the win...
    Read more
  • Big Bear, California

    Alpine Pedal Path

    5.0
    5.08 mi / 292 ft gain
    Alpine Pedal Path is an out-and-back trail that takes you by a lake located near Big Bear Lake, California.
    Read more
  • Big Bear Lake, California

    Mountain Bike Pine Knot Trail in Big Bear

    5.0
    6 mi / 1413 ft gain
    Park at the free parking lot behind the village off of Knickerbocker Rd between Village Drive and Pedder Road. Ride up Knickerbocker Rd towards the mountain. Look out for the fire service road 2N08 that veers left and uphill. The first 2 miles is challenging steep uphill, but beautiful nonetheles...
    Read more
  • San Bernardino County, California

    Off-Road Jacoby Canyon

    2.9 mi
    This is now my favorite trail in the San Bernardino National Forest. Ranging from desert scenes at the bottom and pine trees at the top, you experience such high levels of outdoors feel you can't resist. This trail has so many awesome spots for camping and off-roading that it has a great mix for ...
    Read more
  • Lytle Creek, California

    Old CC Spur Trail via Big Tree Cucamonga Rd

    5.11 mi / 1138 ft gain
    Old CC Spur Trail via Big Tree Cucamonga Rd is an out-and-back trail that takes you by a waterfall located near Fontana, California.
    Read more
  • Forest Falls, California

    Summit Mt. San Bernardino from Angelus Oaks

    16 mi / 4775 ft gain
    The trailhead is somewhat 'interesting' to get to given the dirt roads are in questionable shape and some of the roads in Angelus Oaks are not easily identifiable but I didn't have any problems finding it by closely following Google Maps.    Trailhead parking requires an Adventure Pass parking pe...
    Read more

Camping and Lodging in Apple Valley

North Shore (Ca)
San Bernardino, California

North Shore (Ca)

Ironwood Group Camp
Forest Route 3N97

Ironwood Group Camp

Crab Flats
3N16

Crab Flats

Fishermans Group
Fisherman's Trail

Fishermans Group

Dogwood
Lake Arrowhead, California

Dogwood

Hanna Flat
Fawnskin, California

Hanna Flat