Lake Arrowhead, also known as “The Alps of Southern California,” is a town in the San Bernardino mountains.
The beautiful lake is an artificial reservoir built as part of a failed commercial venture. Now it is a major tourist attraction and a recreational area.
When visiting Lake Arrowhead, you will probably end up at the Village – a retail and entertainment complex overlooking the lake.
You can buy clothes and trinkets in the Village, or even groceries. Or you can enjoy Belgian Waffles, Pizza, wine tasting, sandwiches, tea, and coffee.
For an inexpensive meal, McDonald's has a large restaurant with a splendid view from a terrace overlooking the lake.
On summer nights, you can also catch a free summer concert.
The area offers many recreational activities every season of the year.
Located nearby, you'll find skiing at Snow Valley, Snow Summit, and Mountain High.
At the community of Blue Jay at Lake Arrowhead, try out ice skating at the Ice Castle. In summer, go hiking around the lake, swim in the refreshing water, or rent a boat to explore the lake.
You can also take a tour on Lake Arrowhead Queen Paddle boat or rent a bicycle to go mountain biking.
A visit to the nearby Wildhaven Ranch will give you a chance to see wildlife indigenous to the area.
Nature lovers will enjoy the Heaps Peak Arboretum with gardens, hiking trails, and interpretive information.
One of the best ways to enjoy Lake Arrowhead is by staying at a resort or renting a cabin for a few days.
From your Basecamp, you can explore Arrowhead and the natural wonders surrounding it.
Hiking Trails
Will Abell Memorial Trail
This 1.9-mile loop trail near Lake Arrowhead is considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 59 min to complete.
It is a very popular area for hiking, so you'll encounter other people while exploring. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.
An adventure pass is required to be displayed in vehicles when using the Forest for recreation purposes.
The trail has lots of shade and a view of Lake Arrowhead at the top!!
Depending on the time of the year, you may see many wildflowers.
Forest Overlook Trail
If you are looking for an easy hike, enjoy this 1.9-mile out-and-back trail. It will take an average of 37 min to
complete, and it is usually not crowded.
It is a beautiful trail, but it runs along a road, so expect some road noise.
Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.
An adventure pass is required to be displayed in vehicles