How to Hike Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail

The Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail, often referred to as the Jedediah Smith Trail or simply the Smith Trail, is one of Californias most celebrated riverfront hiking and biking paths. Stretching approximately 32 miles from the city of San Bernardino through the scenic San Bernardino National Forest to the town of Big Bear Lake, this trail offers a rare blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and accessible outdoor recreation. Named after the legendary 19th-century fur trapper and explorer Jedediah Smithwho was among the first Americans to cross the Sierra Nevada and reach California from the eastthe trail honors his pioneering spirit while providing modern adventurers with a safe, well-maintained route through some of Southern Californias most breathtaking landscapes.

Unlike many long-distance trails that require technical skills, specialized gear, or extensive physical conditioning, the Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail is uniquely designed for a broad range of usersfrom families with young children to seasoned hikers seeking a peaceful day on the trail. It follows the course of the Santa Ana River, offering consistent shade from sycamores and cottonwoods, gentle elevation changes, and frequent access points to water, restrooms, and picnic areas. Its popularity has surged in recent years as urban dwellers seek refuge from city life and reconnect with nature through low-impact, immersive outdoor experiences.

For hikers, the trail is more than just a pathits a journey through time and terrain. Youll pass remnants of old railroad beds, historic irrigation channels, and interpretive signs detailing the regions Native American heritage, early settler history, and ecological restoration efforts. Whether youre hiking for exercise, solitude, photography, or simply to witness the seasonal bloom of wildflowers along the riverbank, the Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail delivers a richly layered experience that rewards both casual walkers and dedicated outdoor enthusiasts.

This guide is your comprehensive resource for navigating the trail with confidence. Well walk you through every stepfrom planning your route and preparing your gear to understanding trail etiquette and recognizing wildlife. By the end, youll have everything you need to safely and enjoyably complete your hike, whether you choose to tackle the full 32 miles or a shorter, scenic segment. Lets begin your journey on one of Southern Californias most treasured trails.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Choose Your Starting Point and Segment

The Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail is not a loopits a linear route with multiple access points. Before you set out, determine how much of the trail you wish to cover. Most hikers opt for one of three popular segments:

• San Bernardino to Rialto (8 miles) Ideal for beginners or families. This section is mostly flat, paved, and well-lit, with frequent amenities.
• Rialto to Redlands (12 miles) Offers more natural scenery, including riparian woodlands and river crossings. Moderate difficulty.
• Redlands to Big Bear Lake (12 miles) The most challenging and rewarding segment, featuring gentle climbs, forested areas, and panoramic views of the San Bernardino Mountains.

Use the official trail map from the San Bernardino County Parks Department to identify trailheads. Key access points include:

• San Bernardino Riverfront Park (Trailhead A)
• Rialto Creek Park (Trailhead B)
• Redlands Trailhead at the intersection of Eureka Road and the Santa Ana River
• Big Bear Lake Visitor Center (Trailhead C)

Consider parking logistics. Most trailheads have free, designated parking, but spaces fill quickly on weekends. Arrive early or use public transit options like the Omnitrans bus system, which connects several trailheads.

Step 2: Prepare Your Gear

Proper gear enhances comfort and safety. Even on a short hike, preparation matters.

• Footwear: Wear sturdy, broken-in hiking shoes or trail runners with good grip. The trail is mostly paved or compacted dirt, but loose gravel and occasional mud after rain require traction.
• Clothing: Dress in moisture-wicking layers. Mornings can be cool, especially in spring and fall. Bring a lightweight windbreaker. Avoid cottonit retains moisture and increases risk of chills.
• Hydration: Carry at least 2 liters of water per person. While water fountains are available at major trailheads, they may be turned off seasonally. A collapsible water bottle or hydration bladder is ideal.
• Snacks: Pack energy-rich foods: trail mix, energy bars, fruit, or sandwiches. Avoid heavy meals that may cause fatigue.
• Navigation: Download the trail map offline using apps like AllTrails or Gaia GPS. Cell service is spotty in the forested sections.
• Other Essentials: Sunscreen, sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, insect repellent, a small first-aid kit, and a whistle. A lightweight rain jacket is recommended year-round.

Step 3: Check Conditions and Weather

Weather significantly impacts your experience. The trail lies in a Mediterranean climate zone, meaning hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.

• Summer (JuneSeptember): Temperatures often exceed 95F (35C). Hike early morning (before 8 a.m.) or late afternoon (after 4 p.m.). Avoid midday hikes.
• Winter (DecemberFebruary): Rain is common. Trails may be muddy or flooded. Check for closures due to high water. Bring waterproof gear.
• Spring (MarchMay): Ideal season. Wildflowers bloom along the riverbank. Temperatures range from 6075F (1524C).
• Fall (OctoberNovember): Crisp air and fewer crowds. Perfect for longer hikes.

Before departure, verify trail conditions via the San Bernardino County Parks website or call the visitor center at (909) 387-2455. Flash floods can occur in the river corridor after heavy rainnever attempt to cross flooded sections.

Step 4: Begin Your Hike

Start your hike with a warm-up. Stretch your calves, hamstrings, and shoulders. Walk slowly for the first 1015 minutes to acclimate your body.

As you begin, pay attention to trail markers. The Jedediah Smith Trail is clearly signed with blue diamond-shaped markers and distance indicators every mile. Follow the rivermost of the trail runs parallel to the Santa Ana River, often just steps away.

Be mindful of other trail users. The Jedediah Smith Trail is shared by hikers, cyclists, joggers, and horseback riders. Yield to faster traffic: step to the right to let cyclists pass, and announce your presence with a polite On your left!

Take time to observe your surroundings. Look for signs of wildlife: deer tracks in soft soil, herons along the waters edge, or the flutter of monarch butterflies in spring. Interpretive signs along the trail detail local flora such as California sycamore, willow, and wild grapevine.

Step 5: Navigate Key Landmarks

Several landmarks provide orientation and points of interest:

• San Bernardino Riverfront Park: Start here if youre beginning in the city. The park features restrooms, water fountains, picnic tables, and a visitor kiosk with free maps.
• Mill Creek Confluence: Around mile 10, the trail crosses a wooden footbridge over Mill Creek. This is a popular rest spot with shaded benches and interpretive panels on riparian ecosystems.
• Redlands Historical Marker: Near mile 18, a bronze plaque commemorates the historic 1870s irrigation system that brought water to the citrus groves of Redlands. A short detour leads to the Redlands Conservancy Garden.
• Big Bear Lake Trailhead: The endpoint. The visitor center offers restrooms, cold drinks, and exhibits on the local ecology of the San Bernardino Mountains. A short walk from here leads to the lakes shoreline.

If youre hiking the full trail, plan a midday break at the Redlands area. Many hikers arrange for a shuttle or meet a friend at this midpoint to avoid backtracking.

Step 6: Complete Your Hike and Log Your Experience

When you reach your destination, take a moment to reflect. Many hikers keep a journal or log their hikes. Note the date, weather, wildlife seen, and any memorable moments.

Dispose of all waste properly. The trail follows a sensitive riparian zoneleave no trace. Use trash bins or carry out everything you bring in.

If you completed the full 32 miles, consider registering your achievement with the San Bernardino County Parks Department. They offer a commemorative patch for those who hike the entire trail.

Best Practices

Leave No Trace Principles

The Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail traverses a fragile riparian corridor that supports dozens of native species, including the endangered Southwestern willow flycatcher. To protect this ecosystem, adhere to the seven Leave No Trace principles:

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare: Know the trail length, weather, and regulations. Dont rely on last-minute decisions.
2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: Stay on the designated trail. Avoid cutting switchbacks or walking on vegetation.
3. Dispose of Waste Properly: Pack out all trash, including food wrappers and biodegradable items like fruit peels.
4. Leave What You Find: Do not pick flowers, collect rocks, or carve into trees. Even small actions have cumulative impacts.
5. Minimize Campfire Impacts: Fires are prohibited along the trail. Use a stove if cooking.
6. Respect Wildlife: Observe animals from a distance. Never feed them. Store food securely to avoid attracting coyotes or raccoons.
7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors: Keep noise levels low. Use headphones for music. Yield to others and smileits contagious.

Trail Etiquette

The Jedediah Smith Trail is a shared space. Respectful behavior ensures safety and enjoyment for everyone.

• Yield Hierarchy: Hikers yield to equestrians. Cyclists yield to both hikers and riders. Announce your presence clearly when passing.
• Keep Dogs Leashed: Dogs must be on a leash no longer than six feet. Clean up after them immediately. Some sections near wildlife habitats prohibit dogs entirelycheck signage.
• Quiet Hours: Between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m., the trail is officially closed. Do not linger after dark. Lighting is minimal, and wildlife activity increases.
• Group Size: Keep groups to 10 people or fewer. Large groups disrupt the natural experience and can damage vegetation.
• Photography: If taking photos near water or wildlife, use a telephoto lens. Avoid stepping into the riverbed to get the perfect shot.

Hydration and Heat Safety

Even in cooler months, dehydration is a real risk. The trails low elevation and exposure to sun can cause heat exhaustion faster than expected.

• Drink water every 20 minutes, even if you dont feel thirsty.
• Look for signs of heat illness: dizziness, nausea, headache, confusion, or dark urine.
• If you feel unwell, stop immediately. Find shade, sip water, and rest. Do not continue hiking.
• Wear a hat and apply SPF 30+ sunscreen every two hours.
• Consider bringing an electrolyte tablet or powder to add to your water, especially on long hikes.

Navigation and Communication

While the trail is well-marked, its easy to miss a turn in areas with dense foliage or after heavy rain.

• Always carry a physical map as a backup. Digital maps can fail.
• Share your hiking plan with someone not on the trail. Tell them your start time, endpoint, and expected return time.
• Carry a portable power bank to keep your phone charged.
• Emergency beacons like Garmin inReach or Spot devices are recommended for solo hikers.

Tools and Resources

Official Trail Maps and Apps

Accurate maps are essential. Use these trusted resources:

• San Bernardino County Parks Official Map: Available at sbcounty.gov/parks. Download the PDF version for offline use. Includes elevation profiles and rest stop locations.
• AllTrails: Search Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail. User-submitted photos, recent trail conditions, and GPS tracks are invaluable. The Pro version allows offline map downloads.
• Gaia GPS: Offers topographic layers, satellite imagery, and trail overlays. Ideal for planning longer hikes or checking river levels.
• Google Earth: Use the historical imagery feature to see how the trail has evolved over the past 20 years. Useful for understanding restoration projects.

Trail Guides and Books

For deeper context, consider these publications:

• California Hiking: A Guide to the States Best Trails by John R. Sackman Includes a dedicated chapter on the Jedediah Smith Trail with historical anecdotes.
• The Santa Ana River: A Natural History by Dr. Linda M. Brown Details the ecological significance of the river corridor and its role in regional conservation.
• Exploring Southern Californias Rivers by the Sierra Club Features guided walks, wildlife spotting tips, and seasonal highlights.

Volunteer and Educational Opportunities

Enhance your experience by getting involved:

• Trail Stewardship Program: Join monthly cleanups organized by the San Bernardino County Parks Department. Volunteers receive a free trail patch and training in native plant identification.
• Junior Ranger Program: Children can complete a free activity booklet at the Big Bear Lake Visitor Center to earn a badge.
• Guided Nature Walks: The Redlands Conservancy offers free monthly walks on the trail. Check their calendar at redlandsconservancy.org.

Local Gear Shops and Rental Centers

If you need equipment, these local businesses offer rentals and expert advice:

• Big Bear Outfitters: Located near the Big Bear Lake trailhead. Rent hydration packs, trekking poles, and trail shoes.
• San Bernardino Sports & Outdoors: Offers guided trail tours and GPS rental units.
• Redlands Trail Hub: Provides free trail maps, bottled water, and a community board for ride-sharing to trailheads.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Family Hike San Bernardino to Rialto

Emma, a mother of two, and her 6-year-old and 9-year-old children completed the 8-mile stretch from San Bernardino Riverfront Park to Rialto Creek Park on a Saturday morning in April. They started at 7:30 a.m. to avoid the heat. Emma packed snacks in reusable containers, brought a small first-aid kit, and gave each child a trail scavenger hunt checklist (find a bird, a rock shaped like a heart, a butterfly). They took breaks every mile at shaded picnic tables. The kids loved spotting turtles in the river and reading the interpretive signs about the rivers history. They finished by 11:30 a.m., had lunch at Rialto Park, and returned home by 1 p.m. Emma says, It was the first time my kids asked to go hiking again. The trail is so well-designed for familiesits not just a path, its an adventure.

Example 2: The Solo Hiker Redlands to Big Bear Lake

David, a 58-year-old retired engineer, hiked the 12-mile stretch from Redlands to Big Bear Lake in early October. He began at 6 a.m. with a hydration pack, two liters of water, and a Garmin inReach satellite communicator. He wore moisture-wicking layers and carried a lightweight rain jacket. He documented his journey with a journal and took photos of the changing light as the sun rose over the mountains. At mile 8, he encountered a mule deer grazing near the trail. He paused, took a photo, and let it move on. He reached Big Bear Lake at 1:30 p.m., rested at the visitor center, and took a shuttle back to his car. The solitude, he wrote, was the gift I didnt know I needed. The trail doesnt demand muchjust presence.

Example 3: The Conservation Volunteer Full Trail Cleanup

In May, a group of 15 volunteers from the University of Redlands spent a Saturday cleaning the entire 32-mile trail. They collected over 300 pounds of litter, including plastic bottles, food wrappers, and abandoned bike parts. They also planted 20 native willow saplings near a degraded section of riverbank. The group worked in pairs, with one person mapping litter hotspots and the other removing debris. They used the official trail map to track progress and submitted their data to the countys restoration database. We didnt just clean the trail, said one student. We helped heal it. The county later used their data to prioritize funding for riparian restoration.

FAQs

Is the Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail open year-round?

Yes, the trail is open 365 days a year, from sunrise to sunset. However, sections may close temporarily due to flooding, high winds, or wildfire risk. Always check the official website before heading out.

Can I bring my dog on the trail?

Dogs are allowed on leashes no longer than six feet, except in designated wildlife protection zones near the rivers edge. Always carry waste bags and clean up immediately. Some sections near Big Bear Lake prohibit dogs during nesting season (MarchJuly).

Are there restrooms along the trail?

Restrooms are available at major trailheads: San Bernardino Riverfront Park, Rialto Creek Park, Redlands Trailhead, and Big Bear Lake Visitor Center. There are no portable toilets between these points. Plan accordingly.

Is the trail suitable for strollers or wheelchairs?

Yes, the paved sections from San Bernardino to Redlands are ADA-compliant and suitable for strollers and manual wheelchairs. The final 12 miles to Big Bear Lake have gravel and dirt surfaces with moderate inclines and are not recommended for wheelchairs.

How long does it take to hike the entire trail?

Most hikers take 810 hours to complete the full 32 miles at a moderate pace with breaks. Fast hikers may do it in 67 hours. Plan for a full day and start early.

Can I bike the Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail?

Yes, the trail is shared with cyclists. Mountain bikes and hybrid bikes are recommended. Road bikes are not ideal due to gravel sections and occasional rough pavement. Always yield to pedestrians.

Is there cell service on the trail?

Cell service is spotty. Youll get coverage near trailheads and in Redlands, but lose signal in the forested stretches between Rialto and Big Bear. Carry a map and let someone know your plans.

What should I do if I see injured wildlife?

Do not approach. Note the location and contact the California Department of Fish and Wildlife at (909) 382-5000. They have a 24-hour hotline for wildlife emergencies.

Are there water fountains on the trail?

Water fountains are available at trailheads but are often turned off between November and March. Carry your own water regardless of the season.

Can I camp along the trail?

No. Overnight camping is prohibited on the Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail. Designated campgrounds are available at Big Bear Lake, Lake Arrowhead, and other nearby parks.

Conclusion

The Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail is more than a pathits a living ribbon of history, ecology, and human connection. Whether youre hiking for 30 minutes or 32 miles, youre walking in the footsteps of explorers, conservationists, and generations of Southern Californians who have sought solace and wonder in this remarkable landscape. Its accessibility makes it a rare gem: a trail that welcomes beginners without compromising its depth, that invites solitude without isolation, and that honors nature without demanding perfection.

By following the steps outlined in this guide, youre not just preparing for a hikeyoure becoming a steward of a fragile and vital ecosystem. Every water bottle you carry, every piece of trash you pick up, every moment you pause to watch a bird take flight contributes to the trails enduring legacy.

As you lace up your shoes and step onto the trail, remember: the greatest reward isnt the distance covered, but the awareness gained. The rustle of leaves, the scent of damp earth after rain, the quiet rhythm of your breathall of it reminds us that we are part of something far older and more enduring than our daily routines.

So go ahead. Start where you are. Walk at your own pace. Let the river guide you. And when you reach the endwhether its Rialto or Big Bearknow that youve not only completed a trail, but joined a tradition of care, curiosity, and quiet reverence for the natural world.