Our Top 4 Spots to View Spectacular Fall Colors

Ahh, fall. The season of pumpkin flavored drinks, sweaters, and leaf peeping. Most people don’t consider Southern California a place to see fall foliage, but you just need to know where to look! The good news is that from your Get Lost Inn cabin, you’ll be right around the corner from the best places to visit in autumn.

We’re going to take you through our top 4 spots to view spectacular fall colors in the San Bernardino mountains. By the time you’re done with your trip, you’ll have a whole new perspective on Southern California!

Lake Arrowhead

During the fall months, the trees throughout Lake Arrowhead explode in color. It might not be on the same level as New England, but you’ll be surprised by the bright reds, yellows, and oranges that pop out at this time of year.

Don’t just take our word for it. Check out what Cabana Life had to say about Lake Arrowed in the fall: “You don’t have to work too hard to find fall colors popping up in this area. The scenic drive and the foliage surrounding the lake will take your breath away.”

For the full autumn experience, grab a table at the annual Lake Arrowhead Oktoberfest that takes place every weekend from mid-September to the end of October!

Big Bear Lake

Before the snow rolls in, Big Bear Lake is a wonderful spot to immerse yourself in California’s fall colors. The trees here turn a magnificent yellow and gold hue. You can even find non-native maple trees that become flaming red in the autumn season.

Castle Rock Trail is one of the most popular fall hikes in the area. You’ll walk through gorgeous cottonwoods, aspens, and oaks that will put you in an autumn wonderland. The last push of the hike is steep, but you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Big Bear Lake. In fact, Castle Rock is one of our top 15 Most Instagrammable spots as outlined HERE.

Lake Gregory

Just west of Lake Arrowhead, you’ll find a fantastic location for leaf peeping: Lake Gregory. The area’s elevation is a bit lower than Big Bear’s and Lake Arrowhead’s, and it has its own unique foliage to explore and appreciate.

We highly recommend you hop on the Rim of The World Scenic Drive for an unforgettable road trip. You can take it from Lake Gregory to Big Bear, and it’s one of the best ways to see all the fall colors of the region! Or stay at the Four Bears Cabin just one mile from Lake Gregory.

Green Valley Lake

Green Valley Lake is the hidden gem of the San Bernardino Mountains, and its reputation holds true during autumn. The area is full of great hikes and viewpoints to gaze out at the stunning fall colors.

Here’s what Only In Your State had to say about the area: “The road to Green Valley Lake has oaks scattering the road with fall colors galore. As you walk around the lake, you will find the shore dotted with turning leaves of maple trees. Definitely a sight to see in the fall!”

In autumn, it’s the perfect place to rent a cozy cabin and indulge in the fall colors. Here’s a good outline of the trails in Green Valley Lake HERE.