Crafton Hills Preserve: A Guide to Yucaipa’s Scenic Trail System

Located in the foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains, Crafton Hills Preserve is a haven for outdoor lovers. The preserve spans over 3,400 acres of protected open space and offers more than 22 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.
Its varied terrain, from gentle hills to steep ascents, makes it suitable for all skill levels, while the panoramic views and rich biodiversity make every visit memorable. Here’s a guide to exploring one of Southern California’s lesser-known gems.
Trail Overview
Crafton Hills Preserve features several interconnected trails that wind through oak woodlands, rolling hills, and ridgelines. Whether you’re looking for an easy day hike or a challenging trek, there’s something for everyone.

1. Zanja Peak Trail
- Distance: 3 miles one way
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Trailhead: Oak Glen Road Trailhead
- Highlights: This trail offers a rewarding ascent to the highest point in the preserve, Zanja Peak, at 3,543 feet. The climb is steep in parts, but the summit provides stunning 360-degree views of Yucaipa, Redlands, and the surrounding mountains. You can even see Mount San Gorgonio and the San Jacinto range on clear days.
2. Thunderbird Trail
- Distance: 1.3 miles to the fire road, 3 miles total to Zanja Peak
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Trailhead: Thunderbird Trailhead, off Chapman Heights Road
- Highlights: This trail starts with a moderate climb and connects to the fire road, which leads to Zanja Peak. The gradual ascent makes it less strenuous than other routes to the peak, and the views along the way are worth the effort.
3. Regional Park Trail
- Distance: 2 miles one way
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Trailhead: Yucaipa Regional Park
- Highlights: This trail offers a more remote and rugged route to Zanja Peak. Starting from the Yucaipa Regional Park, the trail winds through diverse terrain, including shaded groves and open ridges. Entry to the park requires a small fee, but it’s a great option for those looking to combine hiking with a day of fishing or picnicking at the park’s lakes.
4. Oak Glen Road Trail
- Distance: 0.7 miles one way
- Difficulty: Easy
- Trailhead: Oak Glen Road Trailhead
- Highlights: A perfect option for families or those looking for a leisurely walk, this short trail is ideal for enjoying the preserve’s natural beauty without too much exertion. The trail offers lovely views of the rolling hills and is great for birdwatching.
5. Three Hawks Trail
- Distance: 1 mile to the fire road, 3.1 miles total to Zanja Peak
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Trailhead: Three Hawks Trailhead, off Chapman Heights Road
- Highlights: This trail provides a moderate climb with a mix of shaded and open sections. The trail connects to the main fire road, offering an option for those who want to extend their hike and continue to Zanja Peak.
Biking at Crafton Hills
Crafton Hills Preserve is also popular with mountain bikers. Many trails are multi-use, and the variety of terrain offers challenges for riders of all levels.
Check trail designations and yield to hikers and horseback riders as needed. A bell is recommended for alerting others on narrow trails, especially when biking downhill.
Horseback Riding
Equestrians will enjoy the wide, open trails that offer plenty of space for riding. The trails are shared with hikers and bikers, so be cautious, particularly in narrow sections. Horses should avoid trails after heavy rains to prevent damage to the paths.
Wildlife and Natural Beauty
Crafton Hills Preserve is home to diverse wildlife, including deer, coyotes, and a variety of bird species. You might also encounter rattlesnakes, so be cautious on the trails, especially in warmer months. The preserve’s oak groves, wildflower meadows, and scenic views make it a picturesque spot for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Getting There
Crafton Hills Preserve has several access points, with the Oak Glen Road Trailhead being the most popular and centrally located. It offers free parking and easy access to several trails. Other trailheads, such as the Thunderbird and Three Hawks Trailheads, offer street parking, while the Yucaipa Regional Park Trailhead requires a small admission fee but provides access to additional amenities.
Tips for Visiting
- Best Time to Visit: The preserve is open year-round, but spring and fall are the best times to visit, offering mild weather and vibrant wildflowers in spring or colorful foliage in fall.
- Bring Water: There are no water sources along the trails, so be sure to bring plenty of water, especially in the hotter months.
- Respect the Preserve: The Crafton Hills Open Space Conservancy works hard to protect this natural area. Stay on designated trails, pack out all trash, and respect the local wildlife.
Conclusion
Whether you want to summit Zanja Peak, enjoy a peaceful walk, or explore on horseback, Crafton Hills Preserve is a fantastic outdoor destination in Southern California. With various trails, stunning views, and diverse wildlife, it’s an ideal spot for adventurers and families alike. Lace up your boots, hop on your bike, or saddle up and experience all that Crafton Hills offers.