Cedar Spring Trail

With grasslands, forests, and rigorous mountains, the San Bernardino National Forest is one of the most diverse to explore in California. There are easy and hard trails alike, but a popular one for all hiking types is the Cedar Springs Trail in Mountain Center. This fine trail showcases all the natural wonders of the area with extra activities to enjoy with your pup.

This trail is so popular among dog-walkers thanks to unique features like plenty of shade, easy terrain, and options to walk with your pup on and off leash. Whichever you decide, Fido will be just as excited to explore the region with you. So to start off your hike with your pup, head to the Cedar Springs Yellow Post Site where the trail begins, a place that offers primitive campsites before the trail begins. No amenities are in this camp area, so be sure to pack plenty of water and clean-up bags for you and your pooch before heading out. You and Fido will have to walk past a closed gate, only there to keep out motorized vehicles and bicyclists. 

Once on the trail, the first half a mile is open and surrounded by California desert. Halfway along the way, you'll find an old water tank with a power station that is fenced-off and abandoned. Going past that, it won't be long before you enter a more shaded area, with lots of shrubs and small trees that curve over the trail.

Among the shrubs, hikers will find dozens of different kinds of wildflowers in the spring and summer, bringing a range of colors to the drab desert background. After coming out of the forested section, you and Fido will find yourself surrounded by amazing views of the surrounding national forest and the Anza-Borrego Desert. Along the ridge, you and Fido will come up a couple of switchbacks that will take you to the intersection of the Pacific Crest Trail, another rural path that explores the desert.

This point is where the trail ends, and if you don't plan on continuing along the Pacific Crest Trail, you and Fido can turn back to get to your car. Continuing on will provide plenty of more views, but heading back will give you a second chance to enjoy the serene and quiet environment that will bring you and Fido back for sure.