You’re not just booking a cabin — you’re stepping into one of Southern California’s most spectacular mountain playgrounds. Here’s how to make the most of every day.
From gentle lakeside walks the whole family can enjoy to serious summit climbs with sweeping desert views — the mountain has trails for every level.
One of the most loved easy hikes in the area — follows Seeley Creek through the forest to a natural heart-shaped rock formation and small waterfall. Flat, shaded, and accessible for all ages. No Adventure Pass required at this trailhead. A must-do for first-time visitors. Magical after winter rains when the waterfall is running.
A beautiful short loop through the forest with several viewpoints overlooking Lake Arrowhead. Lush greenery, wildlife sightings, and that perfect feeling of being away from everything. Dog-friendly on leash. Well-marked trail — follow the signs at the viewpoints. The most popular trail in the area with a 4.7-star rating on AllTrails.
A self-guided interpretive trail through a stunning grove of giant sequoias with 25 points of interest about native plants and wildlife. Perfect for kids who love learning while exploring. Located off Hwy 18 near Skyforest at 6,000 feet elevation — views down to San Bernardino are breathtaking. Wheelchair accessible on the main path.
A lovely flat trail circling Lake Gregory in nearby Crestline — perfect for a relaxed morning walk with the whole family, including the dogs. The lake is stunning and you can jump in for a swim on warm days. A great change of scenery from the Lake Arrowhead trails, and only 15 minutes from the cabins.
One of the best trails on the mountain — a proper forest adventure that winds through dense cedars with wildlife sightings around every turn (squirrels, lizards, deer). Accessible year-round. Park along Daley Canyon Access Road early (no official lot). After the hike, you’re minutes from Jetties for a well-deserved lakeside lunch.
A great hike next to North Shore Family Campground and McKay Park, with scenic variety and solid elevation changes that make it satisfying without being brutal. Passes a kids’ playground and dog park at McKay Park midway. Lake views along the route. Trailhead on Hospital Road off Hwy 173 — close to the cabins.
Hike down to natural hot spring pools (96–102°F) along the Pacific Crest Trail — one of Southern California’s most rewarding hikes. The descent is easy; the climb back up is the workout. Day-use only, no overnight camping. Bring plenty of water — the trail is exposed and the California sun is relentless heading back up. A bucket-list hike.
The most dramatic scenery on the mountain — boulder terrain reminiscent of Joshua Tree with sweeping panoramic views of the Mojave Desert, Silverwood Lake, and Mt. Baldy from the summit. Fully exposed with light rock scrambling required. The trail isn’t well-marked so download a GPS map before you go. The payoff is worth every step.
A serious half-day hike for those who want a real challenge. The first half follows a jeep track; the second half is a steep, rocky footpath requiring scrambling. The reward: exquisite views over Lake Arrowhead and the high desert that you won’t find on shorter trails. Don’t underestimate the length — start early and bring extra water.
The closest ski resort to the cabins — SoCal’s oldest continually operating resort with a high-speed 6-person chairlift. Skiing, snowboarding, and a Snow Play area with sled runs accessed by chairlift. Great for all skill levels including beginners. Lessons available. Member of the Indy Pass.
The bigger mountain experience — Bear Mountain and Snow Summit combined offer the most terrain in Southern California. Worth the drive for a full ski day with the group. More runs, bigger park, better apres-ski scene. Plan ahead on holiday weekends — the roads fill fast. Chains may be required in winter.
Groomed sledding lanes, restrooms, and parking — perfect for families who want snow fun without the ski resort cost. When there’s fresh snow, this is where the kids (and adults) want to be. Check conditions before heading up as they can change quickly.
Both Kennedy Kabins include access to a private dock — your best seat on the lake. Fish at sunrise, jump in for a swim, tie up a kayak, or just sit in an Adirondack chair and watch the water. This is what you came for. No reservations required.
A guided 50-minute narrated boat tour of Lake Arrowhead — one of the best ways to see the lake and learn its history. Tickets available at LeRoy’s Boardshop dock-side in the Village. Great for all ages and a unique perspective on the lake you’ve been swimming in. Check seasonal schedule before going.
Water ski and wakeboard lessons on Lake Arrowhead with experienced instructors — perfect for first-timers or those looking to sharpen their skills. Gear provided. One of the most memorable activities you can do on the lake, especially for kids experiencing it for the first time.
Unlike Lake Arrowhead (private lake), Lake Gregory in Crestline is open for public swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, and pedal boats in summer. A great beach day option with the whole group when you want to get in the water beyond the dock. Lifeguards on duty, sandy beach area, concessions available.
230 acres of outdoor adventure park just minutes from the cabins — mountain biking, hiking trails, zip lines, archery, rock climbing, fly fishing, and seasonal ice/roller skating. Historic log cabin village with shops and food. Transforms into a magical holiday experience in December. Fri–Sun admission; check current hours. A full day for kids and adults alike.
The mountain’s bowling alley — a perfect rainy day or evening activity for the whole group. Casual, fun, and a total hit with kids of all ages. A classic mountain entertainment option that’s been part of the local fabric for years. Grab Cedar Glen Malt Shop burgers before or after.
Get up close with native wildlife — bobcats, coyotes, eagles, hawks, and you can even feed a bear. An incredible educational experience that’s unlike anything else in the area. Kids absolutely love it. One of those hidden gems most visitors never discover. Check their website for tour availability and hours.
A short, easy drive up Keller Peak Road to a fire lookout tower with spectacular 360° views of three lakes: Lake Arrowhead, Lake Gregory, and Silverwood Lake. On clear days you can see the Pacific Ocean and Santa Catalina Island. A free, easy experience that delivers one of the most impressive views in the San Bernardino Mountains.
The heart of Lake Arrowhead — specialty shops, outlets (Coach, Bass, Famous Footwear), restaurants, the boat tour dock, and live events throughout the year. A stroll through the Village is a daily ritual for most guests. Summer brings farmers’ markets, car shows, boat shows, and weekly concerts. Beautiful at night with the lake lit up.
The local’s version of the Village — less touristy, more authentic. Home to Jensen’s Foods, Puglia, Spade & Spatula, Mountain Thrift Shoppe, and the Blue Jay Christmas Parade and Jazz Festival in season. Great for picking up supplies or exploring the area like a local rather than a tourist.
A charming mountain community with antique shops, local restaurants, the Cedar Glen Malt Shop, Rim Lanes bowling, and Lake Gregory. The Saturday Farmers’ Market (April–November, 9am–1pm) is a highlight for fresh produce and local artisan goods. A quieter, more laid-back alternative to the Village.
Most San Bernardino National Forest trailhead parking requires a National Forest Adventure Pass — $5 daily or $30 annual. Pick one up at the Lake Arrowhead Visitor Center, 7-Eleven near the Village, or Heaps Peak Arboretum. Heart Rock Trail is a notable exception — no pass required there.
At 5,000–6,000 feet elevation, the sun is stronger than you expect and dehydration happens fast. Bring more water than you think you need on any hike over 2 miles. Sunscreen, hats, and layers are essential — mountain weather can shift quickly regardless of season.
California law requires chains or snow tires when Caltrans mandates them on Hwy 18 and 138. Check Caltrans QuickMap or follow @Caltrans8 on social media before any winter drive. The mountains can get 2–3 feet of snow overnight — plan accordingly and always have chains in the car Dec–March.
Cell service is spotty to nonexistent on many mountain trails — especially at Arrowhead Pinnacles and deeper PCT routes. Download AllTrails maps offline before you leave the cabin. GPS works without cell service. Never rely on live navigation on a challenging trail up here.
Weekday mornings are the sweet spot — cooler temperatures, empty parking lots, and more wildlife sightings. Summer weekends on popular trails (Deep Creek, Heart Rock) can get crowded by 9am. In fall the foliage is spectacular. Winter trails after a snowfall are magical but check conditions first.
Most San Bernardino National Forest trails allow dogs on leash — and your cabin is pet-friendly too. Bring water for your dog (they need more than you think at elevation), and be aware that some designated wilderness areas have restrictions. Heart Rock, Will Abell, North Shore, and Lake Gregory are all great dog hikes.
Now you know the mountain. Book your cabin and start planning the adventure.
Lakefront Cabin → Waterfront Cabin →