Best Winter Snow Hikes in Redlands
Redlands sits at the foot of some of Southern California's most accessible snow country, with San Bernardino National Forest rising sharply to the north and east. Winter transforms the chaparral and pine corridors above the city into quiet, frost-dusted landscapes that reward hikers willing to layer up and hit the trail early. Most snowfall occurs between December and February, though elevations above 6,000 feet can hold snow well into March. Whether you want a casual dusting of white or a full subalpine experience, the mountains above Redlands deliver both within an hour's drive.
Top 8 snow hikes for winter
The highest peak in Southern California at approximately 11,500 feet, this trail offers deep winter snowpack and subalpine scenery. A wilderness permit is required and conditions can shift rapidly, so check forecasts and go with an experienced group.
A quieter approach into the San Gorgonio Wilderness, this trail climbs through mixed conifer forest that collects snow reliably above 6,000 feet. The lower section stays passable most of winter and offers great views back toward the Redlands valley.
Accessible from Forest Road trailheads east of Redlands, the ridge sits just high enough to catch light snowfall while remaining less crowded than the main San Gorgonio approaches. Pack traction devices for icy patches on the north-facing slopes.
When snow blankets the Jenks Lake area, the road and surrounding forest service trails become a popular snowshoe and micro-hike destination. The flat terrain around the lake is beginner-friendly and well-suited for families.
This gentle meadow trail near Big Bear's southeastern corridor sees consistent snow cover in winter and offers open views of snow-dusted pines. The approach from Redlands via Highway 38 is one of the most scenic winter drives in the Inland Empire.
A moderately strenuous out-and-back into the wilderness area, Dollar Lake sits in a glacially carved bowl that holds snow long after lower trails have melted. Crampons or microspikes are strongly recommended above 9,000 feet.
At lower elevation than the national forest, Crafton Hills occasionally sees a light dusting of snow after cold fronts pass through. These trails offer a rare chance to see the chaparral landscape briefly frosted without requiring high-clearance vehicles or technical gear.
Named for one of Southern California's rare aspen stands, this trail near the upper Highway 38 corridor offers snow-covered views through groves that look especially striking in winter light. The trailhead can require chains or snow tires after major storms.
Why Redlands Is a Winter Snow Hiking Base.
Sitting at roughly 1,300 feet elevation, Redlands enjoys mild Mediterranean winters that make it an ideal staging point for snow hikes. You can wake up to 50-degree mornings in the city and be crunching through fresh powder at 7,000 feet within 45 minutes. Highway 38, which originates just north of downtown Redlands, climbs continuously through Mill Creek Canyon and into the heart of San Bernardino National Forest, providing straightforward access to some of the most varied winter terrain in Southern California. Unlike Big Bear or Wrightwood, Redlands sees very little tourist traffic on its approaches, meaning quieter parking areas and more solitude on the trail.
Snow Conditions and What to Realistically Expect.
Snow in the mountains above Redlands is highly elevation-dependent. Trails between 5,000 and 6,500 feet may only hold snow for a day or two after a storm, while routes above 8,000 feet can remain buried for weeks. The San Gorgonio massif regularly accumulates several feet of snow in strong La Niña or El Niño winters and can be skiable into April. Crafton Hills and lower Yucaipa Ridge sit below the reliable snow line and typically see only occasional light dustings. Before any outing, consult the San Bernardino National Forest's road and trail conditions page and cross-reference with recent trip reports from other hikers for current on-the-ground information.
Safety Essentials for Winter Hiking Near Redlands.
Winter hiking above Redlands carries real risks that are easy to underestimate on a clear, sunny day. Hypothermia can set in quickly if afternoon clouds roll in and temperatures drop while you are still miles from the trailhead. Always carry the Ten Essentials, with particular emphasis on extra insulation, a map and compass as backup to GPS, and a headlamp in case your return stretches past sunset. Tell someone your itinerary and expected return time before you head out. Hiking with a group significantly improves your safety margin — a twisted ankle on an icy slope is manageable with partners and a serious emergency when you are alone.
Building a Winter Hiking Community in the Inland Empire.
Winter hiking is exponentially more enjoyable and safer when you go with people who share your pace and skill level. The Inland Empire has a strong outdoor community, and connecting with local hikers before committing to a serious snow route can mean the difference between a memorable day out and a miserable slog. Group hikes also open access to carpooling, shared gear knowledge, and real-time from people who were on the trail last weekend. Starting with moderate group outings to Jenks Lake or Heart Bar Meadow is a practical way to build cold-weather skills and meet partners before attempting longer routes like Vivian Creek or Dollar Lake.
Planning tips
- Check Caltrans chain control requirements on Highway 38 before driving toward the national forest; conditions can change overnight and chain compliance is enforced.
- Obtain a San Gorgonio Wilderness permit for any overnight trip or day hike into the designated wilderness area — quotas apply on weekends and permits are issued through the Forest Service reservation system.
- Carry traction devices such as microspikes or crampons for any trail above 6,500 feet; packed snow and ice are common on north-facing slopes well after a storm has passed.
- Layer with moisture-wicking base layers, an insulating mid-layer, and a waterproof shell — temperatures at San Gorgonio elevations can drop well below freezing even on sunny afternoons.
- Start hikes by 7 or 8 a.m. to maximize daylight and avoid afternoon clouds that can reduce visibility and make descending icy slopes more hazardous.
Hike a TrailMates group event this winter
TrailMates makes it easy to find winter hiking partners near Redlands who match your skill level and pace. Browse upcoming snow hike group events in the Inland Empire, or create your own outing with TrailMates' built-in safety features — including 3-person minimum meetups and profile verification — so you can head into San Gorgonio's backcountry with confidence. Download the TrailMates app or download TrailMates from the App Store.