Amazing Hikes With Views Found In The Inland Empire Area

Skip the hiking trails in Los Angeles and head to the Inland Empire area to experience hikes with the most stunning views. This is because much (but not all) of the Inland Empire, also called the IE, is located in the foothills of the Angeles National Forest and San Gabriel Mountains. Here you can expect some zigzagging bends, trudging gently uphill for expansive views of the IE.

As an SoCal native, the Inland Empire area is notoriously known for its hot and dry climate. Natives joke that there’s really two seasons here “hot” and “burning hot”. During spring and winter are the typically the cooler seasons with some cities reaching even reaching the mid 30s. Usually it’s a wind chill passing through if it gets that cold, then the temperatures bump back up around 50-70 degrees Fahrenheit.

On the other hand, summer and fall in this Southern California area are arid, scorching, and dry with temperatures reaching as high as 103 degrees Fahrenheit depending on the city. The biggest difference in the seasons is the temperature drops more during the day when it’s spring and winter, rather than when it’s summer and fall.

Nonetheless, the climate makes it an excellent time to go hiking almost any time of year. Except for the occasional rain, expect warmish weather and sunshine. If you’re planning on hiking during the summer, make sure to pack extra water and consider hiking during the morning or evening time to avoid the unbearable heat.

The insane views will be worth it!

Best hiking trails in the Inland Empire Area

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Below you’ll find the top hiking trails in the Inland Empire area and some of the best hiking in Southern California. I’ve found some of these trails may pop up on hiking Los Angeles guides too since no one hikes in Los Angeles. Make sure to pack:

• plenty of snacks (i.e. trail mix, apples, granola bar, etc.)
• water (I like to use a Hydro Flask because it keeps your water cold and can store 40 oz of water)
• hat and sunglasses
• sunscreen and chap stick

Etiwanda Falls Trail

Trail highlights: waterfall at the top of the hike, creek, and exploring the woods

Located in the foothills above Rancho Cucamonga, this lovely 3.4 mike out and back hike is a popular option among locals. The hike is a steady incline for the duration, leading to the top of a 40 foot tall cascade, creek and the delightful forest Angeles National Forest.

The path is wide, well maintained with gravel, and clearly marked at all times. For those wanting to take this hike, be sure to arrive early so you can ensure a parking space. It’s limited parking and because of its popularity you now have to pay to park.

There’s no shade until you reach the falls and the trail get crowded during peak times. I highly recommend hiking during the early morning or late evening to avoid both. Besides, if you arrive either early morning or late afternoon, you’ll get some gorgeous photo-ops of the waterfall and the sun setting or rising over the city of Rancho Cucamonga.

Again, be sure to park in the designated area. I’ve seen cars get towed!

Related post: The Most Beautiful Hikes in Big Bear, California for Any Season

Claremont Hills Loop

Trail highlights: beautiful views, flat trails at the top of the hills, mountain biking and horseback riding

Another fabulous hike in the Inland Empire area is the well maintained Claremont Hills Loop. Found inside the Claremont Hills Wilderness Park, this loop is one section of the multiple miles of trails throughout the front hills of the San Gabriel Mountains and Angeles National Forest.

The 5 mile loop has a steep incline, gaining 847 feet in elevation. It leads to scenic views of the Inland Empire area stretching out below with lush verdant green hills and trees. In my opinion, it’s one of the best hikes to admire the cityscape and watch the sunset. Be sure to bring plenty of water, hiking snacks and sun protection as there is little to no shade on this trail. During summer, temperatures can soar into the hundreds, so get there early or late to avoid the heat.

Additionally the path is well maintained, with plenty of space for the heavy amount of traffic this trail sees. Claremont Hills Loop is a dog friendly trail with multiple receptacles to dispose your doggy bags. There are also several restrooms at the trailhead and a few water fountains along the route. They were closed when I was last there, so pack your own water to be safe.

Lastly, permits are required to park at the trailhead which costs $5 per weekday or $7 on the weekend days.

Potato Mountain

Trail highlights: insane views of the Inland Empire area, shaded, and mountain biking

Do you love scenic views? Are you seeking a trail where you can find a potato shrine at the top? Add Potato Mountain to your Inland Empire area hiking list!

There are two ways to reach the mountain top. First option is to hike from the Claremont Wilderness Park. Personally I haven’t attempted this, but several hikers via All Trails have and its around 9 miles — it’s great hill and backpacking training!

The second option is climbing the backside of the mountain. Parking is free here, but be mindful as the trailhead is a spacious turnout off the side of the freeway. Cautiously walk about a quarter mile along the road and cross to the service road.

Along the first half route you’ll find an abundance of shade from giant oak trees and shrubbery as you steadily climb 1,190 feet to the summit, covering almost 5 miles out and back. Hear the creek whistle and hum as you trek along the Angeles National Forest. The trail is wide and well maintained with short stretches of strenuous incline.

Be prepared for the shaded areas to disappear the second half of the climb. Here it’s much steeper and strenuous along the path, but the trails remain well maintained and wide. At the top are some of the best views of the Inland Empire area and Mount Baldy. It also offers unrivaled spots to sit and admire the reddish sunset.

While this hike is on the strenuous side of moderate, the end is totally worth the push to get to the top. It’s one of my favorites in the area, so I highly recommend it to anyone wanting a more intense hike.

Hiking tip: Hiking Potato Mountain? Pack lots of water if you’re and a little extra if its during the hot summer months. Grab some snacks or a pack-able dinner to stay and watch the sunset.

Santa Ana River Regional Park- Hidden Valley Wildlife Area

Trail highlights: 1500 acres of trails to explore, Santa Ana River Trail, seasonal wildflowers, wetland pond, and bird watching

With over 25 miles of hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails, Hidden Valley Wildlife Area is a must for outdoor and nature lovers. The trails are part of extensive and elaborate design that winds along one of the few river wetlands that are being preserved in the state of California.

This honeycomb of connecting trails is a part of the Santa Ana River Trail project, aiming to create a 110 mile biking and hiking trail running from the San Bernardino National Forest all the way to the rivers end in Huntington Beach! The trail is a hidden gem in the area, and this project is only about 60% done.

Currently, the wildlife area features flat paths that roam along the top of the bluffs and follows the river below. There are footpaths that climb the steep hills above the bluff, offering scenic views of both the bluffs and wetlands.

Another hiking option and one of my favorites is a leisurely hike near the wetlands, exploring the river valley. While you can’t walk right beside the moving water, there’s a surplus of shade down by the river bed. Horseback riding is popular here, so be prepared to dodge horse droppings. Also, this area is equipped with several educational plaques about the river’s ecosystem and wildlife.

There are multiple parking lots that join the trail at different points. Feel free to park at any of them and begin walking — the trail itself makes a somewhat continuous loop. Follow ‘the loop’ or walk out and back along the trail.

Day fees are $5 per person and $2 per dog.

Blue Mountain Trail

Trail highlights: giant boulders, amazing views, cycling, dirt biking and colorful wildflowers

There’s a bit of controversy when it comes to Blue Ridge Trail. All Trails lists it has on private property, but some hikers still attempt it. According to Redland Community News, there’s an annual hike permitting guest to hike here. Be careful hiking here and opt for hiking during the annual event.

Moreover, accessing the trailhead is a bit difficult, so here’s some directions to get you there in record time.

To start, follow the fire road past the yellow gate. Almost immediately, turn right at the intersection to begin hiking on the Blue Mountain Trail. It’s a fire road and extremely popular with cyclists and dirt bikers. There are several roads and trails that cross the north slope of the mountain, but the route described here follows the trail as it appears on Google Maps.

Blue Mountain Trail is an ascending hike that leads to impressive views of Riverside, San Bernadino and the general Inland Empire area. It’s 3.8 mile out and back, climbing approximately 1,100 feet. The trail itself is a heavily trafficked due to its ease of access, great location, amazing views, and colorful wildflowers in the spring time. While the mountain offers little to no shade, there’s a maze of service roads and foot trails to follow.

Climbing to the top? Turn right at the first to junctions, passing by the willow tree — the only shade on the hike. Around 0.6 miles, then left turn through a dirt lot, passing behind the back of some houses. After the trail then begins climb 950 feet over the next 1.4 miles. If you start to see giant rock formations and an antenna tower you’re going in the right direction.

Scramble over rocks when you reach the top or soak up the stunning views from this lookout point.

Sunset Trail

Trail highlights: mountain biking, hilly terrain, dog-friendly, beautiful spots for sunrise and sunset

If you’re looking for a trail that peaks over multiple hills, winds down into canyons rotating between hills and inclines — add the lovely Sunset Trail in Chino Hills to your hiking bucketlist. This day hike is one of our favorites within the city of Chino Hills because of its beauty.

This area specifically features over 3,000 acres of open space and 48 miles of trails. Here you’ll find 16 trailheads that lead to 28 trails throughout the Chino Hills community. For the Sunset Trail, start from the back side of Sunset Park. Follow the winding trail which leads hikers on a lovely 3 mile out and back journey through the hills and canyons of the area, providing a wild escape close to the city.

Sunset Trail features immaculate viewpoints of Chino Hills, Diamond Bar, Tres Hermanos Ranch, the Chino Valley, and the Inland Empire. The trail ends when it reaches Grand Avenue Park on the opposite end. Here you’ll find quaint spot to rest in the shade, enjoy a healthy snack or have a picnic.

For a go-to list of our favorite easy healthy lunches, read this popular post — easy plant-based lunches.

Additionally, be ready to endure a lack of shade on this trail! Pack plenty of water, sunblock and sun glasses. Otherwise, as the name suggest, Sunset Trail is best enjoyed at sunset or sunrise.

Lastly, there’s no parking fees, so your wallet will thank you and both parks have a public restroom. Keep in mind this is also a popular spot for off road adventures (e.g. mountain biking, etc.), so just be cautious and aware as you enjoy this hiking escape.

Dogs are welcomed here!

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Scully Ridge Trail

Trail highlights: scenic views at the top, wildflowers, bird watching, mountain biking, horseback riding and rock scrambling

Some trails are gentle adventures, while others take you on serpentine twists and turns. Scully Ridge Trails does both. It’s a continual incline loop trail that cuts into the heart of Chino Hills State Park. It welcomes hikers and city dwellers into the warmth and beauty of nature whilst escaping the suburb life.

Rated as moderate this gorgeous trail, covers an an expanse of 10 miles and an elevation gain of 1,850 feet. While the hike leads to some incredible views, the path is not well maintained leading to several sections of trail being overgrown. However, the mountainside views make it worth the trek. In my opinion, the views here are don’t compare amongst other trails on this list except for Potato Mountain.

From the top of the trail, viewpoints stretch out into the Inland Empire area and Orange County. Moreover, the best season for this odyssey is during the spring when the greenery and stunning pops of wildflowers coat the hillsides or during the fall.

In addition, this is another trail with little to no shade. I highly recommend to avoid hiking during the summer due to the scorching summer temperatures, unless you hike early in the morning or late in the evening.

Finally, this trail does not have restrooms, water, benches or tables, so plan accordingly.

Hiking tip: If you go right after rain fall, you might be able to catch a small waterfall along the way!

Borea Canyon Trail

Trail highlights: views of McKinley Mountain, wildflowers, abandoned electric station, and eucalyptus grove

If you love the stair master and getting your heart pumping — Borea Canyon Trail hike is all about the climb. It will leave you feeling both in-tuned with nature and breathless as it’s an intense workout. The trail is 6 mile out and back with an inclination of 1,400 feet. For those craving more expansive sights of the Inland Empire area, this trail connects to other trails in the San Bernadino Mountains.

Along the trail you’ll find several landmarks, such as an abandoned electric station that is now a concrete slab, a magical eucalyptus grove at the start of the walk, and a mountain road at the top. The trail begins in a neighborhood following a cool and calm eucalyptus grove — the last trace of shade until you return.

The path winds up and around Borea Canyon showcasing little peeks down into the gigantic IE. Once you reach the road at the top of the 6 mile, you can see the San Bernardino mountain range featuring a view of McKinley Mountain. Other main draws of this hike are the wildflowers in the spring time and the isolated hiking experience.

Keep in mind there are no amenities on this trail, so stay ready for some adventure. Also parking for this trailhead is found in a neighborhood.

Happy hiking!

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