Redlands, California offers outdoor travelers a friendly base to explore nearby hiking and biking trails, paddle calm river stretches, and enjoy charming historic streets. Best from fall through spring, it balances adventure and relaxed small-town vibes.
Redlands, California offers outdoor travelers a friendly base to explore nearby hiking and biking trails, paddle calm river stretches, and enjoy charming historic streets. Best from fall through spring, it balances adventure and relaxed small-town vibes.
Outdoor Activities in Redlands, California
Redlands is a sunny Southern California town that combines historic charm with easy access to outdoor adventures. Located near the San Bernardino National Forest and the Santa Ana River, it’s an ideal destination for hiking, biking, and paddling.
Discover the unique natural wonders, summits, and scenic landmarks that make Redlands, California special.
★ 6.5⌖ 10.78 milesModerateExplore Wildwood Canyon State Park in Yucaipa, CA. With its moderate trails through oak woodlands, this area offers great hiking and wildlife observation. Best experienced in the spring and fall for mild weather.
★ 7.4⌖ 11.05 milesHardKeller Cliffs is a rugged rock formation near San Bernardino, California, offering challenging off-road driving and hiking opportunities. Best in spring and fall, it features scenic views, diverse wildlife, and quiet, remote conditions for adventurous visitors.
★ 8.2⌖ 11.51 milesExplore the scenic 2W09X Trail near Big Bear, CA. Enjoy panoramic views and diverse wildlife along the route. Best visited in spring or fall, this is perfect for adventure seekers and wildlife watchers.
★ 8.5⌖ 13.47 milesExplore San Bernardino National Forest's diverse 823,000-acre expanse near Big Bear, CA. With moderate difficulty trails and activities like hiking, fishing, and camping, it offers panoramic views and seasonal beauty. Ideal for adventure seekers in cooler seasons.
★ 8.2⌖ 13.85 milesExperience the peaceful charm of Green Valley Lake Recreation. Perfect for fishing, kayaking, and leisurely picnics. Located in San Bernardino Mountains, CA, this site offers tranquil beauty with activities for all ages. Best enjoyed in spring and fall.
★ 7.2⌖ 15.98 milesExplore the striking granite formations and diverse trails of Jurupa Mountains in Jurupa Valley, CA. A favored spot for hiking, rock climbing, and bird watching, it offers panoramic views and a variety of trails suited for all skill levels. Best visited in spring or fall.
⌖ 16.47 milesExplore the towering Champion Lodgepole Pine in Angelus Oaks, CA. Hike through lush forest trails and experience the serenity of this natural wonder. Ideal for birdwatching and nature exploration in spring and fall.
★ 8.2⌖ 16.58 milesEasyLocated in Forest Falls, California, Big Falls offers a short, easy hike with stunning waterfall views. Ideal for families and photographers, the best time to visit is in spring and early summer for the fullest cascade. Enjoy accompanied by the sounds of rushing water.
★ 6.8⌖ 16.93 milesModerateLocated near Green Valley Lake, the Holcomb Creek 4x4 Trail offers a moderate off-roading challenge across rocky terrain and creek crossings. The area also provides hiking and camping opportunities amidst scenic pine forests in San Bernardino National Forest.
★ 7.8⌖ 17.09 milesExplore Butler Peak in California's San Bernardino Mountains, known for its historic fire lookout. Enjoy hiking and bird watching in a serene setting. Best visited in late spring to early fall for stunning views and wildlife sightings.
★ 6.5⌖ 17.27 milesModerateExplore Whispering Pines Trail 1E33 near Angelus Oaks, CA. This moderate path through San Bernardino National Forest offers hiking amidst towering pines with opportunities for wildlife watching and photography. Enjoy tranquil settings best in spring and fall.
★ 7.8⌖ 17.77 milesLocated near Big Bear Lake, CA, Castle Rock Trail 1W03 offers a scenic hiking experience through rocky terrain and lush forest. Suitable for adventure seekers, it features unique rock formations and wildlife viewing opportunities. Best visited in spring or fall.
Discover the top 15 adventure activities and curated experiences in Redlands, California, verified by our editors to help you make the most of your trip.
Book unforgettable outdoor adventures, guided tours, and gear rentals with verified Local Experts in Redlands, California.
⌖ 14.0 miOne- to two-hour luxury Duffy rentals on Lake Gregory for groups up to nine; this guide explains where to meet, what rules govern the trip, and what to bring.
A concise, personalized Mod Squad tour that combines access to the interior of one mid‑century modern home with a survey of Palm Springs’ architectural exteriors.
⌖ 39.7 miA focused walking tour that opens three private mid‑century interiors and ends with a bartender‑led martini at Melvyn’s — an efficient primer on Palm Springs’ architecture and era‑defining cocktail culture.
⌖ 38.9 miA small-group evening tour that moves by Mercedes Sprinter limo bus through Temecula vineyards with cellar access at Somerset and dinner plus live music at Lorimar.
⌖ 39.9 miA two‑hour guided route led by expert storytellers that lets you customize stops at celebrity homes, iconic Palm Springs sites, and mid‑century architectural landmarks like the Kaufmann House.
⌖ 39.9 miAll-day access to a reserved poolside lounger at Royal Sun Palm Springs with towel service, complimentary Wi‑Fi and self‑parking—an adult‑only pool experience in Palm Springs.
⌖ 39.7 miA concise, factual guide to the Diva Royale - Drag Queen Show in Palm Springs, operated by Diva Royale Show, compiling what’s verified and what to confirm before you go.
⌖ 39.7 miA one-hour drag dining experience in Palm Springs—brunch or dinner shows with rotating celebrity impersonators, VIP seating, and prepaid meal packages—this guide explains what to expect and how to plan.
⌖ 20.2 miTourZilla is a history tour at Big Bear Lake run by Big Bear Off-Road Experience; this guide compiles the verified practical facts you need to plan the outing.
⌖ 38.9 miA private designated‑driver service that runs vineyard tastings in Temecula and craft‑beer stops in the San Diego area, handling routing, reservations and logistics so your group can focus on tasting.
⌖ 13.2 miA guided, mild walking tour up Mt. Rubidoux that combines local history with panoramic 360-degree views—useful for planning your visit and what to bring.
⌖ 12.1 miA docent‑led, 1.2‑mile walking tour of downtown Riverside that uncovers the stories and styles behind the city’s most iconic buildings.
⌖ 12.1 miA concise walking introduction to Riverside’s civic identity, architecture and citrus-era roots—this guide clarifies what to expect on the Historic Downtown Walking Tour and how to prepare.
⌖ 44.1 miA two-hour, beginner-friendly workshop at Brewheim in Anaheim where all materials are provided and each attendee pots and takes home their own bonsai.
⌖ 23.1 miA concise guide to Skull Canyon Zipline’s Sky Gym Level 1—an instructor-led aerial adventure with 24 elements that’s ideal for participants ages 8 and up.
Make the most of your visit to Redlands, California with these essential planning tips, seasonal events, and protected lands.
Redlands, California hosts celebrated events throughout the year showcasing the region's culture, outdoor lifestyle, and community spirit.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Redlands, California during the iconic Redlands Bicycle Classic. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Redlands, California during the iconic Redlands Bowl Summer Music Festival. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Redlands, California during the iconic Christmas in the Canyon. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Redlands, California is surrounded by incredible protected natural lands offering pristine trails, wildlife habitats, and wilderness conservation.
San Bernardino National Forest is a diverse expanse of mountainous wilderness offering abundant recreational opportunities from hiking to skiing, just a short drive from Southern California's urban areas.
Located in the San Gabriel Mountains, Angeles National Forest offers diverse landscapes, from chaparral-covered hills to peaks surpassing 10,000 feet, offering ample opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is California's largest state park, renowned for its diverse desert landscapes and vibrant spring wildflower blooms.
Located in southeastern California, Joshua Tree National Park is known for its striking desert landscapes and iconic Joshua Trees.
Early mornings offer cooler temperatures for hiking and biking.
Carry water and sun protection; Southern California sun can be intense year-round.
Some trailheads in the National Forest may require a National Forest Adventure Pass.
Parking at trailheads can fill up on weekends during peak season.
Check weather before paddling the Santa Ana River due to occasional flash flood risk.
Always check local regulations, fire restrictions, trail conditions, and weather forecasts before setting out on any adventure in Redlands, California. Respect nature, wildlife, and fellow adventurers by following Leave No Trace principles.