Cucamonga Wilderness

The Cucamonga Wilderness spans over 12,500 acres within the San Gabriel Mountains of Southern California. This challenging terrain is dominated by steep ridges, deep canyons, and peaks that rise to over 8,000 feet, such as Cucamonga Peak. The wilderness offers a unique blend of high desert and montane habitats, home to diverse wildlife including black bears, mountain lions, and bighorn sheep. Established in 1964 as part of the original Wilderness Act, Cucamonga offers visitors opportunities for solitude and reflection amidst its dramatic vistas. Key recreational activities include hiking along a rugged network of trails with highlights like the Icehouse Canyon Trail and the tough ascent to the summit of Cucamonga Peak, which rewards hikers with panoramic views of the Inland Empire and beyond. The area is also popular for backpacking, bird watching, and photography. The wilderness attracts those looking for challenging outdoor experiences away from the more crowded spots of the Angeles National Forest.