Banning, California

Banning, California, is home to some of the best trails and outdoor activities. The top pick is the Black Mountain Trail, a scenic, must-visit hiking route. It's a 7.6-mile loop, known for its challenging inclines and unique rock formations. You'll also enjoy the breathtaking views of Fuller Mill Creek, a lively river that accompanies the trail. Another notable attraction is the Mount San Jacinto State Park near Banning, offering a variety of outdoor adventures. From hiking, camping, to wildlife viewing, it's a perfect spot for outdoor activities. The park is also home to the famous Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, which provides stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. So, if you're in Banning, don't miss these outdoor attractions.

Top Spots in and near Banning

  • Palm Springs, California

    Seven Falls via Murray Canyon Trail

    4.01 mi / 587 ft gain
    A very scenic 4-mile round trip with a rewarding waterfall after a 2.5-mile hike/stroll. Lucky visitors may catch a glimpse of the Peninsula Big Horn Sheep (an endangered species), mule deer or other wild animals still roaming the high ground above the canyon. Less visited, Murray Canyon has its ...
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  • Palm Springs, California

    Andreas Canyon

    5.0
    1.03 mi / 154 ft gain
    Andreas Canyon in Indian Canyons is located very close to Palm Springs in the Agua Caliente band of Cahuilla Indians Reservation. It is one of the few places with abundant shade and running fresh water in an otherwise dry desert landscape. Enjoy a longer hike to a waterfall (Seven Falls) or stay ...
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  • Palm Springs, California

    Maynard Mine Trail

    5.82 mi / 2487 ft gain
    Maynard Mine Trail is a good choice if you're looking for decent elevation gain to get the hear rate up. The trailhead is at Andreas Canyon (in the Indian Canyons).  The trail has a rapid elevation gain of 2300' in the first 2.5 miles. The entire trail, out and back, is about 6 miles. The actua...
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  • 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...
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  • Palm Springs, California

    Earl Henderson and Shannon Trail Loop

    4.31 mi / 1257 ft gain
    This is a short but sweet trail close to the Araby and Garstin Trails. Great views of Palm Springs and the San Jacinto Mountains. Parking area is off of Lansdale Street. From here, head down the Earl Henderson Trail and you will see where in connects with the Shannon Trail. You can choose to swit...
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  • Fawnskin, California

    Pine Oak Lane Beach

    Pine Oak Lane Beach, is located on the western side of Big Bear Lake. Whether you're seeking a tranquil escape or an action-packed day on the water, this scenic beach has something for everyone. Activities: At Pine Oak Lane Beach, you can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, including swi...
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  • Palm Springs, California

    Araby and Berns Trail Loop

    4.76 mi / 1293 ft gain
    The Araby and Berns Trail Loop in Palm Springs offers a moderately challenging hike with stunning views of both urban and natural landscapes. Hikers begin by passing notable landmarks like the famous Bob Hope house before ascending into more rugged terrain with rocky single-track paths. As you cl...
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  • Palm Springs, California

    Murray Hill via Araby Trail

    5.0
    8.85 mi / 2844 ft gain
    Murray Hill is the highest point in the surrounding trail system. You can access it from Araby Trail or anyone of the others in the area. It's about 9 miles round-trip and a healthy 2,850 vertical feet gain. From the top of the Shannon Trail bear right until you reach the Wildhorse Trailhead. Go...
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  • Palm Springs, California

    Araby Trail

    4.58 mi / 1545 ft gain
    This hike takes you up to Bob Hope’s massive mushroom shaped house. The neighborhood also includes a house where Steve McQueen lived and the Elrod House featured in the James Bond film “Diamonds are Forever”. It’s a fairly easy hike up to Bob’s but really climbs after you pass the estate.  You c...
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  • 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.
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  • Palm Springs, California

    Palm Canyon Trail

    4.5
    1.94 mi / 308 ft gain
    The fifteen mile long Palm Canyon, one of the Indian Canyons, is among the most beautiful natural sites in Western North America. Its indigenous flora and fauna, expertly used by the Cahuilla people, and its abundant Washingtonia Filifera (California Fan Palm) stand in breathtaking contrast to th...
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  • Big Bear, California

    Cougar Crest Trail

    5.0
    5.57 mi / 892 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...
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  • 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...
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  • Riverside, California

    Hike Two Trees Trail

    2.5 mi / 977 ft gain
    Parking is free at the trailhead, but there is only room for approximately five cars. The trailhead is on the edge of a neighborhood, so you can park there if needed. From the parking lot, head west, and immediately veer right and across the bridge. If you go left at the first fork, you can stay ...
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  • Desert Hot Springs, California

    Hidden Trail to Flag Mountain

    4.5 mi / 950 ft gain
    Hidden Trail to Flag Mountain is a lesser-known local trail in Desert Edge, California. The trail leads to Flag Mountain, which displays an American flag and a Canadian flag at the summit. 
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  • Canyon Lake, California

    Kabian Memorial Park Loop

    5.0
    3.48 mi / 335 ft gain
    Kabian Memorial Park Loop is a loop trail that takes you by a lake located near Quail Valley, California.
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