Living in Southern California affords locals with the unique benefit that of being within driving distance to the natural beauty of both forest and sea. Situated a mere 90 minutes away from Los Angeles, San Diego, and Orange County, the San Bernardino National Forest acts as a welcome sanctuary from busy day-to-day life.

In the last 3 million years, the mountains that surround San Bernardino County arose from the activity on the San Andreas Fault, proving that while nature may evolve over time, it remains constant. Life may move more slowly on the mountain, but the views that have developed over time will delight your senses and provide the much-needed respite that you can only find in nature.

We have assembled four of our favorite views in the Running Springs area, that you should make sure to see on your next visit.

1. Rim of the World Scenic Byway

Feast your eyes on the mesmerizing views all along this 110-mile drive that runs along the rim of the San Bernardino Mountains. Spanning across California Highways 138, 18, and 38, the Rim of the World Scenic Byway is open all year long! If you find yourself wanting to do this drive in the winter, make sure you have tire chains to put on your car in case of snowy conditions!

2. Arrowbear Lake

Feel the stress fade away when you visit the community of Arrowbear Lake is located just east of Running Springs, right off Highway 18. This charming city is aptly named, as it is located halfway between Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear. Surrounded entirely by beautiful National Forest, you can spot a wide variety of local wildlife with just a quick walk around the lake.

3. Pali Mountain

Amid two hundred fifty acres of unspoiled beauty, Pali Retreat is the perfect place to host your next conference, family reunion, corporate retreat, and more.

Although there are a myriad of paid activities that you can participate in while staying at Pali Retreat, you can also observe nature from one the gazebos or viewing areas that are available to all guests.

4. National Forest Association’s Children’s Forest

After the Bear Fire in 1970, this area of forest was replanted with trees that bear the names of the children that helped to reforest the area. The Children’s Forest is also home to one of the most popular hiking trails in the San Bernardino National Forest – the 4.5-mile Exploration Trail.

Located just east of Running Springs, from the Highway 330 junction, you will see a brown sign that indicates you have found the “Exploration Trail”. You will pass by beautiful trees, several streams, and take in beautiful views along the way. Should you decide to continue to make your ascent to Keller Peak, you can head on up to the Keller Peak fire lookout and see the San Bernardino Mountains, the San Gabriels, Saddleback, Sugarloaf, and more!