The best walks and hikes around Redlands

Redlands offers a diverse range of landscapes, from rugged canyons and serene creeks to rolling hills and sprawling citrus groves. You'll find trails within the San Bernardino National Forest and the San Timoteo Canyon Nature Sanctuary, showcasing chaparral and desert vegetation, often with stunning views of the surrounding San Bernardino Mountains.

Yes, Redlands has several easy options perfect for families or beginners. Two Trees Trail is an easy 2.7-mile path. Additionally, trails like Prospect Park (0.7 miles) and parts of the Cocomaricopa Trail in San Timoteo Canyon offer shorter, relatively flat terrain. While some trails are stroller-friendly, it's always best to check specific trail conditions for accessibility.

Many trails offer spectacular views of the San Bernardino Mountains. For instance, Caroline Park provides a 180-degree mountain vista. You can also explore areas like the San Timoteo Canyon Nature Sanctuary with its diverse plant life, or aim for peaks like Box Springs Mountain Peak or Zanja Peak for panoramic views.

Many trails in the Redlands area are dog-friendly, but leash rules typically apply. It's always recommended to check specific trail regulations before heading out. The diverse terrain offers plenty of opportunities for you and your canine companion to enjoy the outdoors.

Redlands enjoys a pleasant Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild winters, making hiking enjoyable year-round. While trails are accessible throughout the year, spring and fall often offer the most comfortable temperatures and vibrant scenery, including wildflowers.

For those seeking a more challenging experience, Redlands and its surroundings offer several options. The Box Spring Peak — Box Spring Mountain Preserve route is a moderate 3.7-mile trail with significant elevation gain. The Scott Canyon Trail is a highly-rated 5.3-mile loop with gorgeous views, and Zanja Peak, near Yucaipa, is a 7.8-mile hike known for its substantial elevation gain.

Redlands trails are rich in wildlife. The Oakmont and Oakridge Trail is known for sightings of coyotes, jackrabbits, woodpeckers, and even rattlesnakes. Caroline Park also offers opportunities to spot various bird species like red-tailed hawks and great horned owls, as well as gray foxes, opossums, and deer.

Yes, Redlands features several loop trails. The Scott Canyon Trail is a popular 5.3-mile loop. Another option is the View of San Bernardino Valley loop from Yucaipa, which is a moderate 9.6 km (6 miles) route. The Blue Mountain loop from Grand Terrace is another moderate 6 km (3.7 miles) option.

Most trails within Redlands city parks and conservancy areas do not require permits for day hiking. However, if you plan to venture into the San Bernardino National Forest, it's advisable to check for any specific permit requirements, especially for overnight stays or certain activities. Always respect local regulations and signage.

Elevation gains vary significantly across Redlands trails, catering to different fitness levels. For example, the Borea Canyon via Daley Canyon Road route has an elevation gain of about 375 meters (1,230 feet). Other trails like Box Spring Peak feature around 328 meters (1,076 feet) of ascent, while easier paths will have less.

While some trailheads might be accessible via local public transportation routes, many are best reached by car. It's recommended to check local bus schedules and routes for specific trailheads you plan to visit, as direct access can be limited for more remote locations.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, from rugged canyons to scenic mountain views, and the variety of trails available for all ability levels. The opportunity to explore areas like the San Bernardino National Forest and San Timoteo Canyon is also frequently highlighted.