CURVE AROUND THE RIM OF THE WORLD
The route: Rim of the World Scenic Byway crisscrosses the spine of the San Bernardino Mountains from the Cajon Pass to San Gorgonio Pass, encompassing parts of California 138, 18 and 38. The route, which tops out at about 7,000 feet, offers jaw-dropping views. Miles: About 110 miles on mostly two-lane, curving mountain roads. Best time: Late spring and summer for cool temperatures, clear skies and wildflowers such as purple lupine. Visit in fall for autumn colors and in winter for snow-covered forest views. Why: The route links some of Southern California's best-known mountain communities, including Crestline, Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear Lake. The roadway follows trails and rutted wagon routes used by explorers, horse thieves, miners, loggers and more.
Highlights: The Scenic Byway begins at Mormon Rocks in the Cajon Pass, just west of Interstate 15 on California 138. The sandstone formations here, named for Mormon pioneers, were used as a backdrop for many TV shows. Drive through desert scrub as you ascend to Silverwood Lake (www.lat.ms/
silverwoodlake), a state reservoir and recreation area. At Crestline, turn onto California 18 and watch for awesome rim-of-the-world views of the San Bernardino Valley. More spectacular views await as you travel Rim Highway from Snow Valley to Big Bear Lake. At the dam, turn onto California 38, stopping at the Big Bear Lake Discovery Center (www.lat.ms/discov
erycenter) for hiking ideas. Memorable stay: Best Western Big Bear Chateau (www.lat.ms/big
bearchateau) is pet-friendly and nicely landscaped.Doubles from less than $100 a night. Memorable meal: Awesome views of the valley await at Hortencia’s
Mexican Grill (www.hortencias.us) in Crestline. This new family-run Mexican restaurant serves traditional favorites. Tourist trap or treat: Treat. Buy a U.S. Forest Adventure Pass ($5 a day or $30 a year)at businesses, ranger stations and online at
www.lat.ms/adventurepass. The passes are required in local national forests.
Don’t miss: The National Children’s Forest, about half a mile east of Running Springs.The forest, replanted by kids after the devastating Bear Fire of 1970, has an accessible nature trail. Plan to spend: The better part of a day to allow caution on the curves and maximum enjoyment of the views.