Arrowhead Ridge Trail Will Abell Memorial
A shaded 2-mile loop trail in Lake Arrowhead offering a pleasant workout with forest views and glimpses of the lake.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, ample parking
Arrowhead Ridge Trail Will Abell Memorial
Best Time
Fewer crowds, ample parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A shaded 2-mile loop trail in Lake Arrowhead offering a pleasant workout with forest views and glimpses of the lake.
"Beautifully built trail! Lots of filtered shady patches, so very pleasant even in the heat of the day."
👟 Sturdy Hiking Shoes Needed
Loose gravel on steep sections requires good shoes to prevent slips. :athletic_shoe:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Leashed dogs are welcome on this trail, making it a great outing for furry friends. :dog:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Shaded Forest Path
Throughout the trail
Enjoy a cool, filtered walk through a beautiful pine forest, perfect for escaping the heat.
Lake Arrowhead Views
At the top of the trail
Catch glimpses of Lake Arrowhead through the trees, offering a scenic reward for your climb.
Military Memorial
Along the trail
Discover a touching military memorial, adding a layer of reflection to your hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Etiquette & Footwear
Best Times to Avoid Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Hiking Shoes Needed
Loose gravel on steep sections requires good shoes to prevent slips. +1 :athletic_shoe:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Leashed dogs are welcome on this trail, making it a great outing for furry friends. :dog:
📱 Use AllTrails App
Helps understand elevation gain and track your progress on the trail. :iphone:
💧 Water Not Essential
You're never too far from the car, so water is optional for this shorter hike. :droplet:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Hiking Shoes Needed
Loose gravel on steep sections requires good shoes to prevent slips. +1 :athletic_shoe:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Leashed dogs are welcome on this trail, making it a great outing for furry friends. :dog:
📱 Use AllTrails App
Helps understand elevation gain and track your progress on the trail. :iphone:
💧 Water Not Essential
You're never too far from the car, so water is optional for this shorter hike. :droplet:
♻️ Pack Out All Trash
Leave no trace and consider picking up litter left by others. :recycle:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Reviewers consistently praise the Arrowhead Ridge Trail for its beautiful, shaded forest path and manageable length, making it a pleasant workout. While generally easy, some note steep sections with loose gravel requiring good footwear. It's a popular spot for dogs and families, though weekend mornings can get crowded.
"Beautifully built trail! Lots of filtered shady patches, so very pleasant even in the heat of the day. Just the right amount of a workout to feel like you did something good before lunch! Clear signage, with cute lizards, chipmunks, and jays. Good shoes recommended - couple steep spots on the descent. Can't wait to do this one again!"
KT Somero
"This is a moderately easy trail through the forest in the San Bernardino Mountains off Grass Valley Road west of Lake Arrowhead. The parking area is good and the trail is well maintained. The switchback part of the trail is somewhat steep with loose gravel, so I highly recommend good hiking shoes to prevent slipping and falling. At the top of the trail are some good views of Lake Arrowhead through the trees. All in all, a very pleasant two mile hike."
John Pobursky
"Easy light walk, enjoyable and shaded. We did it with our 5 month old- who slept throughout. Links to other trails but so easy to follow. Didn’t bother with water because you’re never far from the car. Lots of car park space on weekdays."
R Maher
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trail is located off Grass Valley Road west of Lake Arrowhead in the San Bernardino Mountains. The trailhead starts from the Arrowhead Ridge Picnic Area.
Yes, there is a good parking area at the trailhead. Weekdays typically have plenty of space, but it can get crowded on weekends. +1
You can use GPS to navigate to the general area of Lake Arrowhead and then follow signs for Grass Valley Road and the Arrowhead Ridge Picnic Area.
Public transport options to this specific trailhead are limited. Driving is the most common and convenient way to access the trail.
There are no explicit mentions of fees for parking or hiking this specific trail in user reviews. It's generally considered a free public access trail. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, tickets are not required for this trail. It is a public hiking trail accessible to everyone. +1
The trail is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no official posted hours, but it's best to hike during safe daylight conditions.
There is no entrance fee mentioned for the Will Abell Memorial Trail. It's a free public access trail. +1
No, time slot bookings are not necessary as it's a public trail. Arrive early on weekends to secure parking. +1
No specific permits are mentioned as being required for this hike. Standard hiking etiquette applies. +1
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The loop is approximately 2 miles and can be completed in under an hour, making it a great option for a quick workout.
It's considered moderately easy. There's some elevation gain with steep, loose gravel sections, but it's doable for beginners with good shoes. +1
Restroom facilities are not explicitly mentioned in reviews, but picnic areas often have them. It's wise to check beforehand or come prepared.
Yes, the trail has clear signage and is easy to follow, even linking to other trails.
You might spot cute lizards, chipmunks, and jays along the trail.
📸 📸 Photography
The viewpoint at the top offers lovely glimpses of Lake Arrowhead through the trees. The shaded forest itself also provides beautiful, atmospheric shots. +1
The trail is mostly wooded, but the twilight hours can offer a magical, 'Twilight era' feel with the pine forest. +1
Bikes are not permitted on this trail, and there's no specific mention of drones. It's best to assume standard park regulations apply and check local rules.
A standard hiking camera or smartphone is sufficient. Consider a wide-angle lens for forest shots and a telephoto for distant lake views.
No specific restrictions on personal photography have been noted. Enjoy capturing the natural beauty!
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there are some steeper sections, they are generally short-lived, and the trail is well-marked, making it easy to navigate. Remember to bring sturdy shoes for everyone, and consider using a carrier for very young children if they might tire easily. The chance to see small wildlife like lizards and chipmunks can also add an extra element of fun for kids.
🐶 Dog Owners
Ensure your dog is on a leash at all times, as is standard practice on most trails. The loose gravel on some descents means you'll want to be mindful of your dog's footing as well. Remember to bring water for both you and your pet, and always clean up after them.
🚶♀️ Casual Hikers & Beginners
The key is to wear appropriate footwear due to the loose gravel on some steeper parts. The clear signage makes navigation simple, and the views of Lake Arrowhead provide a nice payoff. You can easily complete this hike in under an hour, making it perfect for a morning stroll or an afternoon escape.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trail: Elevation and Terrain
For those who like to plan their exertion, using an app like AllTrails can provide a clear understanding of the elevation gains throughout the hike. This allows you to gauge the difficulty and prepare accordingly. Despite the occasional steepness, the trail is generally considered accessible for beginners, especially when equipped with the right footwear.
Bikes are explicitly not permitted on this trail, ensuring a peaceful experience for hikers and a safer environment. The clear signage also makes it easy to follow the loop and connect to other trails if you wish to extend your adventure.
Embracing the Scenery: Views and Atmosphere
While the trail is primarily wooded, hikers are rewarded with scenic views of Lake Arrowhead peeking through the trees, especially as you reach the higher points of the trail. These viewpoints offer a lovely opportunity to pause, take in the surroundings, and capture some memorable photos.
The atmosphere of the trail is often described as peaceful and pleasant. You might encounter local wildlife like lizards, chipmunks, and jays, adding to the natural charm. Some visitors even find a sense of reflection at the military memorial located along the path, adding a unique dimension to the hiking experience.
Community Insights: What Hikers Say
Dog owners frequently highlight this trail as a fantastic option for their pets, noting that their canine companions enjoy the shaded paths and moderate challenge. Families also find it suitable, with some even managing the hike with infants.
A recurring piece of advice is to be mindful of the trail's condition, particularly the loose gravel on steeper sections, and to always practice Leave No Trace principles by packing out all trash.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit