Southern California may be known for its surf and sand, but through the kindness of Mother Nature, the region is also blessed with breathtaking deserts and towering mountains. It’s most idyllic in the fall when temperatures cool off, the stars illuminate the sky and the summer crowds have dispersed. So dust off the bike and air out the tent as you prepare to embark on a bucket list adventure in San Bernardino County.
Biking: Nothing clears the mind or bonds the family like an afternoon of two-wheeling fun. San Bernardino County (SBC) has a breadth of trails, from simple to sublime, for both the novice and the pro. Enjoy a leisurely trek along Silverwood Lake Bike Path an easy trail spanning 12.5 miles at an elevation of 3,400 feet. Keller Peak National Children’s Forest, which also spans 12.5 miles and boasts a lovely scenery, offers a more moderate experience at just 1800 feet and, as the name implies, is ideal for kids, too.
Camping: Escape the light pollution of the city and pitch a tent under the stars, instead, in the San Bernardino National Forest. Imagine crackling campfires, crystal lakes and towering pines as a backdrop for a weekend escape. There are plenty of developed campsites with all the modern-day amenities needed–restrooms, showers, picnic tables, fire rings and grills–the only things missing are perpetual traffic and endless crowds. For a more rugged adventure, there are several remote areas where you can hike in/hike out and hunker down in Yellow Post Sites. Reservations can be made by calling 1 (877) 444-6777 or visit www.recreation.gov to see what sites are available as well as for rules and regulations.
Hang Gliding & Parasailing: Hang ten San Bernardino County-style on a glider or parasail with Rhodes Hang Gliding. You’ll enjoy a birdseye view of San Bernardino County’s expansive terrain. Owner Dusty Rhodes is a seasoned pro and often rides in tandem guiding first-timers on their initial flight. Be sure to pack your Go Pro or video recording device of choice so you can relive the experience long after it’s ended. Book your flight here.
Rock Climbing and Hiking:
Rock and stroll to your heart’s content with a rock-climbing expedition or vigorous hike. San Bernardino County boasts some of the best rock climbing outposts in all of California. San Bernardino National Forest provides hand-curated trail maps so you can choose where to hike and climb and at what level. Mormon Rocks Interpretive Trail, punctuated with wildlife and mesmerizing scenery, is ideal for a family hike as it’s relatively easy for parents, kids and grandparents with a one-mile loop that is pet-friendly, too. We give it two paws up! This location also has rock climbing opportunities that are equally easy to master along with plenty of parking. Check here for photos and more details.
Photo credit: @zeyyynn
Fishing: Hook ‘em and cook ‘em at Lake Gregory Regional Park, tucked among the San Bernardino Mountains in the alpine community of Crestline. Anglers of all skill levels can cast a line with hopes that brown or rainbow trout will take a bite or, perhaps, a meaty catfish. Fish from the shore or captain a boat, but be sure to secure your fishing license. The cost is $8 a day with kids four and younger fishing for free.
Photo credit: @batesphotos
So what will it be? A biking expedition, an overnight campout, hang gliding or parasailing, rock climbing or hiking, fishing or some other adventure awaiting discovery. San Bernardino County offers a multi-faceted escape for a fabulous fall daycation or getaway that can be enjoyed with friends, family or solo.
