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Rim of the World Scenic Byway
🚗 Scenic Drive
7,000 ft elev.

Rim of the World Scenic Byway

Crestline / Lake Arrowhead / Big Bear
❄️ Snow Play
Mountain Views
🏞️ Lake Views
📸 Scenic

Iconic mountain highway threading the San Bernardino Mountains from Crestline to Big Bear — lake overlooks, pine forests, and ridgeline views.

The Rim of the World Scenic Byway runs along Highway 18 and 38 through the San Bernardino Mountains, linking Crestline, Lake Arrowhead, Running Springs, and Big Bear. The drive climbs to more than 7,000 feet with pullouts overlooking the IE basin, Silverwood Lake, and the high desert. It's the IE's most legendary scenic drive.

🌟 Why Locals Love It

You can leave the IE valley floor and be at 7,000 feet of pines in under an hour.

What to Expect

Switchback turns, mountain weather, snow chains in winter, jaw-dropping overlooks.

💡 Good to Know Before You Go

Snow chains may be required Nov–April. Watch for cyclists in summer.

📍 Local Tip

Park at the Crest Forest Vista pullout for the best free IE-basin photo.

Best Time to Visit

Year-round; spectacular in fall and winter.

Notable Features

7,000+ ft elevation pullouts
Connects Crestline, Arrowhead & Big Bear
Multiple overlooks

Practical Info

CA-18, San Bernardino Mountains

Amenities

Parking
Benches
Verified Official Source
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Everything IE is your premium guide to the Inland Empire — Riverside County and San Bernardino County. Events, restaurants, parks, schools, mountains, lakes, sports, and more — sourced from official departments and trusted institutions, curated for the people who call the IE home. Part of the Everything California network.