
Cucamonga Wilderness
Escape to the natural beauty of Cucamonga Wilderness and Lytle Creek, offering stunning waterfalls, scenic hikes, and refreshing creek access.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat

Cucamonga Wilderness
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Escape to the natural beauty of Cucamonga Wilderness and Lytle Creek, offering stunning waterfalls, scenic hikes, and refreshing creek access.
"So much beauty so close to home, a favorite hike for many. "

🚗 Secure Parking Early
Arrive before 8 AM on weekends/holidays for parking. An Adventure Pass is required. 🚗
♻️ Leave No Trace
Pack out all trash and avoid littering to preserve the natural beauty. ♻️

Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
5 · 5 reviews
Type
National Park
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Bonita Falls
Lytle Creek
A stunning waterfall hike in the San Bernardino National Forest, offering a refreshing escape.

Lytle Creek
San Bernardino National Forest
A popular spot for swimming and enjoying nature, just a short drive from urban areas.

Cucamonga Peak Trail
Cucamonga Wilderness
Challenging hike with rewarding panoramic views of the surrounding Southern California landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Adventure Pass & Parking
Respect Nature: Pack It In, Pack It Out
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Secure Parking Early
Arrive before 8 AM on weekends/holidays for parking. An Adventure Pass is required. 🚗
♻️ Leave No Trace
Pack out all trash and avoid littering to preserve the natural beauty. ♻️
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Essential for navigating trails, especially to Bonita Falls and Cucamonga Peak. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially on longer hikes like Cucamonga Peak. :droplet:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Secure Parking Early
Arrive before 8 AM on weekends/holidays for parking. An Adventure Pass is required. 🚗
♻️ Leave No Trace
Pack out all trash and avoid littering to preserve the natural beauty. ♻️
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Essential for navigating trails, especially to Bonita Falls and Cucamonga Peak. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially on longer hikes like Cucamonga Peak. :droplet:
🐻 Wildlife Awareness
Be aware of local wildlife. Keep a safe distance and do not feed animals. 🐻
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Cucamonga Wilderness and Lytle Creek for their stunning natural beauty and proximity to urban areas, offering a peaceful escape. The waterfalls and scenic trails are highlights, though some note the increasing issues with litter and graffiti, urging for greater respect for the environment.
"I tried to hike all the time. This is one of my favorite hikes to go on. It’s low-key so be careful hiking there and make sure there are people around. You would definitely see some animals walking around. It is quiet and pleasant and you can enjoy nature the way you want to."
Jeremiah W (IG: jwardhooper22)
"So much beauty so close to home"
Elizabeth Liu
""
Conlan Barrett
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lytle Creek is located north of Rancho Cucamonga and Fontana in the San Bernardino National Forest. Access is typically via Lytle Creek Road. For Cucamonga Peak, trailheads are often accessed from the Angeles National Forest side or via Lytle Creek.
Public transportation options are very limited for reaching Lytle Creek and the Cucamonga Wilderness. Driving is the most common and practical method.
Arrive very early, especially on weekends and holidays, as parking lots fill up quickly. Consider weekdays for a less crowded experience.
Yes, a permit is often required for Cucamonga Peak, especially for overnight stays or specific trailheads. Check with the San Bernardino National Forest or Angeles National Forest Service for current regulations and application procedures.
Road conditions can change due to weather or maintenance. It's advisable to check the official San Bernardino National Forest website or contact a ranger station for the latest updates before your visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a $5 Adventure Pass is generally required for parking in designated areas within the San Bernardino National Forest, including popular spots like Lytle Creek.
Adventure Passes can be purchased at outdoor recreation stores like Big 5 Sporting Goods, as well as some ranger stations and online.
While there isn't a direct entrance fee for Lytle Creek or Bonita Falls, the Adventure Pass is required for parking, which serves as a day-use fee.
The Cucamonga Wilderness is generally open year-round during daylight hours. However, specific trailheads or facilities might have restricted access or hours. Always check with the forest service.
For Cucamonga Peak, permits might be self-issued at some trailheads or require advance application through the forest service website, especially for specific dates or overnight trips.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular trails include the hike to Bonita Falls for its waterfall views and the more challenging Cucamonga Peak Trail for panoramic vistas. Many enjoy exploring Lytle Creek itself.
Yes, Lytle Creek is a popular spot for swimming and cooling off during warmer months. Be mindful of currents and submerged rocks.
Visitors have reported seeing various animals, including deer. It's important to maintain a safe distance and never feed wildlife.
While Lytle Creek offers more accessible areas, hikes like Cucamonga Peak are strenuous and best suited for experienced hikers. Choose trails based on your fitness level.
Please help keep the wilderness clean by packing out all your trash and reporting any significant issues like graffiti or illegal dumping to the forest service.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities within the Cucamonga Wilderness or Lytle Creek area itself. It's recommended to bring your own food and snacks for your visit.
Many find the areas along Lytle Creek suitable for picnics. Remember to pack out all your food waste and leave the area clean.
Campfire regulations vary by season and location. Always check current fire restrictions with the San Bernardino National Forest before planning a campfire.
📸 📸 Photography
Bonita Falls offers stunning waterfall shots, while Cucamonga Peak provides breathtaking panoramic views. The natural beauty of Lytle Creek also presents many photo opportunities.
Morning light can be beautiful at Bonita Falls, but be aware of potential crowds. Midday can be harsh, but the waterfall's spray can create interesting effects.
Drone usage is often restricted in national forests and wilderness areas to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Check with the forest service for specific regulations.









Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit