Top 10 Best Places To Live In San Bernardino Mountains

Discover the best places to live in the San Bernardino Mountains where nature's beauty and outdoor activities abound. Enjoy premier ski resorts like Snow Summit and Bear Mountain for winter sports thrills. Experience water fun at Lake Gregory Waterpark in Crestline and explore diverse hiking and biking trails across the area. Wildlife enthusiasts can visit Big Bear Lake's Wildlife Refuge and admire scenic overlooks at Kendall Hills and Carousel Mountain. These locales offer a serene lifestyle immersed in nature's wonders. More insights await on what makes these spots ideal for living amidst this picturesque mountain range.

Mountain Ski Resorts

winter sports in mountains

The San Bernardino Mountains boast several top-rated ski resorts, each offering unique experiences for winter sports enthusiasts.

From Big Bear Mountain Resort's expansive terrain to Snow Valley Mountain Resort's diverse slopes, there is something for every skill level.

Whether you're into freestyle features or picturesque views, these mountain ski resorts provide a variety of options for skiing and snowboarding.

Overview

Nestled in the scenic San Bernardino Mountains are a variety of ski resorts catering to winter sports enthusiasts. Popular options include Big Bear Mountain Resort and Snow Valley Mountain Resort. These destinations offer skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities in a picturesque mountain setting.

The mountains receive ample snowfall, creating ideal conditions for outdoor adventures. Visitors, both tourists, and locals, flock to these ski resorts for thrilling winter experiences.

Top-Rated Ski Slopes

Located within the breathtaking San Bernardino Mountains are top-rated ski slopes at various mountain ski resorts, offering thrilling winter experiences for enthusiasts of all skill levels.

Big Bear Mountain Resort provides 438 skiable acres across Snow Summit and Bear Mountain. Snow Valley Mountain Resort offers diverse terrain, while Mountain High Resort features night skiing.

Rim Nordic Ski Area in Running Springs has 13 miles of cross-country ski trails, and Snowdrift Snow Tubing Park in Forest Falls provides a fun tubing experience.

Lake Gregory Waterpark, Crestline

Lake Gregory Waterpark in Crestline offers a variety of water attractions, including water slides and a lazy river, perfect for a day of outdoor fun. Visitors can also enjoy paddle boating and fishing on Lake Gregory, set against the picturesque backdrop of the San Bernardino Mountains.

The waterpark's amenities such as picnic areas and snack bars provide a complete experience for families and individuals seeking leisure activities in a scenic setting.

Overview

Crestline is a picturesque mountain community renowned for its serene lake and abundant recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy outdoor recreation like fishing and boating in the cool mountain climate.

The popular attraction of Lake Gregory Waterpark offers water slides, swimming, and paddle boat rentals, making it a perfect destination for those seeking a fun-filled day amidst stunning mountain views.

Waterfront Dining Options

Nestled along the tranquil shores of Lake Gregory in Crestline, visitors can savor delectable cuisine amidst breathtaking waterfront views at the Lake Gregory Waterpark's dining options.

Enjoy a variety of delicious dishes and drinks while overlooking the tranquil waters, creating a unique dining experience by the water.

The waterfront dining options provide a scenic backdrop, making it the perfect setting for a memorable meal in beautiful natural surroundings.

Mountain Hiking Trails

exploring rugged mountain paths

San Bernardino Mountains offer an array of picturesque hiking trails, attracting outdoor enthusiasts of all levels.

Notable trails like the Pacific Crest Trail and Castle Rock Trail provide hikers with breathtaking views of the mountains, forests, and valleys.

The diverse terrain in the area caters to both leisurely strolls and more challenging hikes, offering opportunities to observe wildlife and unique plant species along the way.

Overview

With an extensive network of scenic paths meandering through rugged terrain, the hiking trails in the San Bernardino Mountains invite outdoor enthusiasts to commence unforgettable adventures in nature.

  • Trails cater to all skill levels
  • Opportunities for nature exploration
  • Stunning scenic views

These trails, including the famous Pacific Crest Trail, offer a perfect setting for hikers of varying abilities to immerse themselves in the beauty of the mountains.

Scenic Mountain Vista Trail

Offering hikers an unparalleled experience in the heart of the San Bernardino Mountains, the Scenic Mountain Vista Trail showcases breathtaking panoramic views and a rich diversity of flora and fauna.

This well-maintained trail caters to varying skill levels, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Birdwatching and wildlife sightings are common along the trail, adding to its allure for those seeking stunning mountain landscapes.

Snow Valley Ski Resort

Snow Valley Ski Resort in the San Bernardino Mountains offers a diverse range of winter sports activities. With over 240 acres of skiable terrain, the resort caters to both beginners and advanced skiers and snowboarders.

One of the highlights of Snow Valley is its Snowboarding Terrain Park, providing thrilling runs and slopes for all levels of experience.

Overview

Nestled in Running Springs, California, Snow Valley Ski Resort stands as one of the oldest and most renowned ski destinations in Southern California. The resort offers skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing activities, catering to all skill levels.

Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the San Bernardino Mountains, adding to the charm of this winter wonderland.

Snowboarding Terrain Park

The Snowboarding Terrain Park at Snow Valley Ski Resort in the San Bernardino Mountains caters to snowboarders of all skill levels with its array of obstacles and jumps meticulously designed for an exhilarating experience.

Featuring rails, boxes, and various challenges, the Terrain Park is known for its innovative design. Snow Valley's dedication to maintaining and updating the park guarantees riders enjoy a fun and challenging snowboarding experience.

Big Bear Lake's Wildlife Refuge

wildlife sanctuary in big bear lake

Big Bear Lake's Wildlife Refuge, spanning 1,800 acres, is a protected sanctuary for diverse wildlife, including bald eagles and black bears. This refuge offers visitors the chance to engage in activities like bird watching, hiking, and nature photography while exploring various ecosystems such as forests, meadows, and wetlands.

Educational programs and guided tours are also available for those interested in learning more about the local flora and fauna.

Overview

Surrounded by a protected area spanning approximately 13,000 acres, the wildlife refuge at Big Bear Lake teems with a diverse array of wildlife species. Visitors can engage in outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and nature photography.

The refuge's scenic beauty includes forests, meadows, and wetlands, providing a serene backdrop for conservation efforts focused on maintaining ecological balance.

Unique Alpine Wildlife Sanctuary

Nestled within the tranquil confines of Big Bear Lake's Wildlife Refuge lies the Unique Alpine Wildlife Sanctuary, a haven for a diverse range of wildlife species.

This sanctuary offers a protected environment where indigenous species like black bears, bald eagles, mule deer, and mountain lions thrive.

Conservation efforts within the sanctuary guarantee the preservation of the delicate ecosystem, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts seeking to observe Alpine wildlife up close.

Mountain Biking Trails

The San Bernardino Mountains boast a network of over 100 miles of mountain biking trails catering to riders of all skill levels. From gentle paths suitable for beginners to adrenaline-pumping downhill routes designed for experienced cyclists, the region offers a diverse range of biking experiences.

Popular areas like Big Bear Lake, Lake Arrowhead, and Crestline beckon riders with scenic vistas, pine-scented forests, and challenging terrains awaiting exploration.

Overview

In the San Bernardino Mountains, cyclists can explore a network of over 100 miles of picturesque mountain biking trails that cater to riders of all skill levels. Trails like Santa Ana River, Skyline, and John Bull offer diverse terrains including forests, meadows, and rocky paths.

Riders can experience breathtaking views and an exhilarating outdoor adventure in this stunning mountain biking destination.

Breathtaking Mountain Biking Trails

With a network of diverse and well-maintained trails catering to riders of all skill levels, the San Bernardino Mountains provide an exhilarating mountain biking experience for enthusiasts seeking stunning views and challenging terrain.

Trails like the Santa Ana River Trail and Skyline Trail offer both natural beauty and thrilling riding opportunities. Mountain bikers can explore varied landscapes, from lush forests to rugged mountain peaks, in a welcoming mountain biking community.

Kendall Hills Scenic Overlook

breathtaking views at kendall

Kendall Hills Scenic Overlook offers visitors stunning views of the San Bernardino Mountains, showcasing lush greenery, rolling hills, and majestic peaks. This serene spot is popular among photography enthusiasts capturing the beauty of nature.

Accessible by a short hike or drive, the overlook is a hidden gem for those seeking tranquility in the mountains.

Overview

What makes the Kendall Hills Scenic Overlook a sought-after destination for visitors seeking tranquility and stunning vistas in the San Bernardino Mountains?

The overlook offers breathtaking views, a serene setting for relaxation, and opportunities to witness mesmerizing sunrises and sunsets.

It is a paradise for photography enthusiasts capturing the beauty of nature.

Easily accessible, it's a haven for nature lovers wanting to immerse themselves in the outdoors.

Scenic Kendall Hills Overlook

Nestled amidst the picturesque San Bernardino Mountains, the Scenic Kendall Hills Overlook beckons visitors with its breathtaking panoramic views and serene ambiance. Popular among photography enthusiasts, this spot offers a peaceful retreat to immerse in the natural beauty of the area.

Sunset views from Kendall Hills Overlook are particularly stunning, making it an ideal location for picnics and a tranquil escape to appreciate the beauty of the San Bernardino Mountains.

Kendall Hills Scenic Overlook

Kendall Hills Scenic Overlook, known for its breathtaking panoramic views of the San Bernardino Mountains, is a popular destination for hikers, nature enthusiasts, and photographers.

Visitors frequent this spot to witness stunning sunrises and sunsets while enjoying the peaceful and serene environment it offers for relaxation and contemplation.

Easily accessible, Kendall Hills Scenic Overlook provides a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Overview

Perched atop the picturesque Kendall Hills Scenic Overlook is a vantage point that offers visitors breathtaking panoramic views of the majestic San Bernardino Mountains.

  • A popular spot for hikers, nature lovers, and photographers to enjoy the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
  • Located in a tranquil and serene setting, providing a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
  • Ideal for picnics, relaxation, and meditation while taking in the stunning vistas of the mountains.

Carousel's Scenic Overlook

The Carousel's Scenic Overlook in the San Bernardino Mountains offers visitors a mesmerizing vantage point to behold the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. Located in Kendall Hills, this hidden gem provides stunning panoramic views, especially during sunset, making it a picturesque vantage point for capturing memorable moments.

The overlook, a popular spot in the San Bernardino Mountains, showcases the area's serene and enchanting allure.

Carousel's Scenic Overlook Upgrade

carousel renovation offers views

Carousel's Scenic Overlook Upgrade provides visitors with a sweeping view of the San Bernardino Mountains. The new observation decks and seating areas offer ideal spots to admire the panoramic mountain vistas and stunning sunsets.

This enhancement aims to elevate the visitor experience and foster a deeper appreciation for the natural beauty of the area.

Overview

Nestled atop a vantage point overlooking the San Bernardino Mountains, the Scenic Overlook Upgrade beckons visitors with its panoramic views and enhanced amenities.

  • Breathtaking vistas of natural beauty
  • Enhanced viewing platforms and seating areas
  • Perfect spot for photography, relaxation, and enjoying mountain scenery

Panoramic Mountain Vista Viewpoint

Perched at an elevation that offers sweeping views of the San Bernardino Mountains, the Panoramic Mountain Vista Viewpoint beckons visitors with its unrivaled perspective on the natural splendor of the region.

Carousel's Scenic Overlook Upgrade provides breathtaking views, attracting hikers and nature enthusiasts seeking panoramic views.

This spot is perfect for capturing stunning photos of the mountain landscape, making it a must-visit location to experience the beauty of the San Bernardino Mountains.

Vibrant Carousel Mountain Overlook

The Vibrant Carousel Mountain Overlook offers visitors an unparalleled view of the San Bernardino Mountains, showcasing the region's natural beauty and diverse wildlife. This popular spot provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, inviting guests to explore hiking trails and enjoy peaceful picnics.

Photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike flock to Carousel Mountain Overlook to capture its breathtaking vistas and immerse themselves in the tranquility of the surroundings.

Overview

Gazing out from the Vibrant Carousel Mountain Overlook reveals a breathtaking expanse of the San Bernardino Mountains.

  • Peaceful sanctuary for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Diverse wildlife and plant species create a haven for exploration.
  • Perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and photography.

Panoramic Mountain Vista Viewpoint

Nestled atop the Vibrant Carousel Mountain Overlook, the Panoramic Mountain Vista Viewpoint offers visitors an unparalleled visual feast of the majestic San Bernardino Mountains.

This mountain viewpoint provides breathtaking views, attracting nature enthusiasts, hikers, and photographers.

The picturesque setting of Carousel Mountain Overlook allows for a serene experience, making it a must-visit destination to immerse oneself in the natural beauty of the San Bernardino Mountains.