Top 6 Mountain Passes in San Bernardino County

For breathtaking vistas, Onyx Summit, the highest paved pass in Southern California, offers views of dense forests, rugged terrain, and expansive valleys along State Route 38 towards Big Bear Lake. San Gorgonio Pass also provides scenic drives connecting the Inland Empire to the Coachella Valley, with views of the San Gorgonio Pass Wind Farm.

Cajon Summit (US Route 66), also known as Cajon Pass, is a historically vital transportation corridor. It has been used for thousands of years by Native Americans, Spanish explorers, and Mormon pioneers. Remnants of historic Route 66 can still be found along Cajon Boulevard, and it's a popular spot for railfans due to frequent train activity.

Yes, Mount Baldy is a challenging climb, marking the highest point in the San Gabriel Mountains and offering gorgeous views. Icehouse Saddle serves as a perfect resting point for hikers aiming for Cucamonga Peak or other summits in the Cucamonga Wilderness. Additionally, the climb to Onyx Summit is considered a legendary and challenging ascent for cyclists.

The mountain passes in San Bernardino County showcase diverse natural features. At Onyx Summit, you'll find dense forests and rugged mountain terrain. Cajon Pass, shaped by the San Andreas Fault, features desert landscapes. San Gorgonio Pass is known for its intense winds and the San Gorgonio Pass Wind Farm, serving as a gateway to the San Gorgonio Wilderness.

Onyx Summit is the highest paved pass in Southern California, reaching an elevation of 8,443 feet (2,573 meters) above sea level in the San Bernardino Mountains.

Yes, San Bernardino County offers numerous outdoor activities. For running, you can explore trails like Devil's Backbone Trail loop or Keller Peak via Exploration Trail. Mountain biking enthusiasts can enjoy routes such as Clark's Grade to Big Bear or Skyline Trail Loop. You can find more details on these activities in the Running Trails in San Bernardino County and MTB Trails in San Bernardino County guides.

The best time to visit depends on your activity. Summers can be hot, while winters bring stormy and chilly conditions, especially at higher elevations like Onyx Summit. For climbing, the south-facing crags at Onyx Summit allow for year-round climbing depending on snow conditions. Always check local weather forecasts and road conditions before your trip, especially during winter months for potential closures.

While many passes offer challenging terrain, areas around Cajon Pass, such as Cajon Junction, can be family-friendly for scenic views and observing train activity. The broader San Bernardino National Forest, accessible via passes like San Gorgonio Pass, also offers trails suitable for various skill levels, including some family-friendly options.

Near San Gorgonio Pass, you can find the iconic Cabazon Dinosaurs, a popular roadside attraction. Along Cajon Pass, remnants of historic Route 66 can be explored, offering a glimpse into the past of American road travel.

Cajon Summit (US Route 66) is renowned among railroad fans for its frequent freight train activity. Both Union Pacific and BNSF Railway lines traverse this pass, offering dynamic views of trains navigating the scenic and historic corridor.

San Gorgonio Pass, also known as Banning Pass, is one of the deepest mountain passes in the contiguous United States. It serves as a critical east-west corridor, connecting the Inland Empire to the Coachella Valley. It's also notable for its intense winds, making it home to the San Gorgonio Pass Wind Farm, a significant renewable energy installation, and provides access to the San Gorgonio Wilderness.

Onyx Summit is the highest paved pass in Southern California, located on State Route 38. If you're cycling, compact gearing and good brakes are recommended for the challenging ascent. Be prepared for varying weather conditions, from hot summers to stormy, chilly winters, especially if you plan to continue towards Big Bear Lake.