Attractions and Places To See around Banning - Top 11
Best attractions and places to see around Banning, California, are situated in the scenic San Gorgonio Pass, serving as a gateway to both mountain and desert adventures. The area is framed by the majestic San Gorgonio and San Jacinto Mountains, offering a diverse natural landscape. Banning features a blend of historical sites, cultural landmarks, and extensive outdoor recreation opportunities. This region provides a variety of attractions for visitors seeking natural beauty and historical insights.
Best attractions and places to see…
Last updated: April 26, 2026
San Bernardino Peak Divide Trail
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Mount San Gorgonio Summit
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Hwy 243 - Banning Climb
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Onyx Summit
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Hwy 38 - Valley of the Falls Climb
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The Highway 38 climb, branching off on to the Valley of the Falls area is a great road biking option on a well-maintained paved state highway. As you climb into the San Bernardino Mountains, gaining over 3,000 feet towards the Valley of the Falls turnoff and beyond, expect a mostly steady grade averaging around 5-6% on the main highway, though the road specifically into Forest Falls (Valley of the Falls Drive) kicks up steeper. The scenery unfolds as you ascend through forested canyons and along the mountainside, offering views of the surrounding peaks and a transition from the foothills to a more alpine environment.
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Climbing Highway 243 from Banning is a long, scenic ascent taking you from the warmer Banning Pass area high into the cool pine and oak forests of the San Jacinto Mountains, finishing right in the mountain community of Pine Cove. You'll journey upwards for approximately 20 miles, gaining nearly 4,000 ft to reach Pine Cove around 6,200 ft elevation. Prepare for a major endurance effort featuring long, sustained climbing sections – while the overall average is around 4%, with the steepest pitches hitting 8-10%. Enjoy the changing scenery with views north towards San Gorgonio peak as you leave the desert behind.
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This legendary climb takes you to the highest and longest peak in Southern California, ascending through the picturesque San Bernardino Mountains. Starting from the U.S. Forest Service Mill Creek Visitor Center, you'll face varying weather conditions, with hot summers and stormy, chilly winters adding to the challenge. The road leads you all the way to Big Bear Lake, offering stunning vistas of dense forests, rugged mountain terrain, and expansive valleys below, making it a rewarding experience for those willing to brave the elements and enjoy the beauty of the San Bernardino National Forest.
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San Gorgonio Mountain, also called Mount San Gorgonio or Old Greyback, is the highest peak in Southern California, standing at 11,503 feet. The mountain has a pyramid-like shape, with a steep north face and a gentler south face. On clear days, hikers can enjoy expansive 360-degree views of San Gorgonio Wilderness and even the Pacific Ocean.
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The San Bernardino Peak Divide Trail offers stunning views of the San Gorgonio Wilderness, but hikers must obtain a permit for day and overnight use. Although beautiful, the trail shows the effects of past wildfires, and hikers should prepare for a 13+ mile stretch with no water, depending on snowmelt. The trail can be dangerous in snowy conditions, so bring any necessary equipment or wait for the summer months when the snow melts.
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Stunning views over the San Gorgonio Wilderness are guaranteed on your hike along the San Bernardino Peak Divide Trail. You will need to obtain a permit to hike here: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/sbnf/news-events/?cid=FSEPRD779200 NOTE: The San Gorgonio Wilderness might be closed due to the Apple Fire in 2020.
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This is a tough hike, but a nice one to check off your bucket list. Incredible views from this point.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around Banning?
Banning is framed by the majestic San Gorgonio and San Jacinto Mountains, offering diverse natural landscapes. You can explore the Mount San Gorgonio Summit, the highest peak in Southern California, or visit the San Bernardino National Forest for hiking and mountain biking. The San Gorgonio Pass is also home to one of the largest wind farms in the U.S.
Are there challenging hiking trails for experienced trekkers near Banning?
Yes, for experienced trekkers, the San Bernardino Peak Divide Trail offers stunning views of the San Gorgonio Wilderness, though a permit is required. The ascent to Mount San Gorgonio Summit is also a tough hike, rewarding with expansive 360-degree views.
What historical sites can I visit in the Banning area?
You can step back in time at the Gilman Ranch Museum, which showcases exhibits from the local Cahuilla Indian culture and a large collection of historic wagons. Banning's Historic District also preserves buildings from the early 1900s, reflecting its past as a transportation hub.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities in Banning?
Families can enjoy the unique Cabazon Dinosaurs, a famous roadside attraction with enormous steel-and-concrete dinosaur sculptures. Local parks like Richard Sanchez Park and Sylvan Park offer playgrounds and picnic areas. A short drive away, Oak Glen Apple Farms provides seasonal apple picking and family entertainment.
Where can I find unique shopping experiences near Banning?
Hadley Fruit Orchards is a landmark roadside attraction known for its quality dates, dried fruits, nuts, and gifts. For broader shopping, the Cabazon Outlets and Desert Hills Premium Outlets offer a wide array of designer and brand-name stores with discounts.
What are some scenic drives or climbs in the region?
The Hwy 243 - Banning Climb offers a long, scenic ascent into the cool pine and oak forests of the San Jacinto Mountains, with views towards San Gorgonio peak. Another option is the Hwy 38 - Valley of the Falls Climb, which takes you through forested canyons into the San Bernardino Mountains.
What is the best time of year to visit Banning for outdoor activities?
The best time to visit Banning for outdoor activities generally depends on the specific activity. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and exploring. Summers can be hot, especially in the lower elevations, while winters can bring snow to the higher mountain peaks, making some trails challenging or inaccessible.
Are there any cultural centers preserving local heritage in Banning?
Yes, the Dorothy Ramon Learning Center is a cultural site dedicated to preserving and sharing the languages and cultures of Indigenous peoples of Southern California, offering insight into the region's rich heritage.
What are some options for entertainment or relaxation near Banning?
Just outside Banning, the Morongo Casino Resort & Spa offers gaming, dining, live concerts, and spa services for entertainment and relaxation. For local movie entertainment, the Fox Movie Theatre/Cineplex is available.
Are there any unique roadside attractions worth seeing around Banning?
Definitely! The Cabazon Dinosaurs are a must-see roadside attraction featuring enormous steel-and-concrete dinosaur sculptures, offering interactive exhibits and unique photo opportunities.
Where can I experience the local agricultural heritage?
Hadley Fruit Orchards, established in 1931, is a great place to experience local agricultural heritage. It's renowned for its dates, dried fruits, nuts, and gifts, and has a long-standing connection with the Morongo Band of Mission Indians.
Are there any parks suitable for a casual stroll or picnic in Banning?
Banning offers several local parks perfect for a casual stroll or picnic. Richard Sanchez Park and Sylvan Park both feature playgrounds, picnic areas, and green spaces for community enjoyment. Roosevelt Williams Park also provides basketball courts and a children's playground.
What about dog-friendly options for outdoor activities near Banning?
Many trails in the San Bernardino National Forest and surrounding natural areas are dog-friendly, though leash laws and specific park regulations should always be checked beforehand. Local parks in Banning also provide green spaces for walks with your pet.
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