The arboretum serves as a demonstration forest to illustrate how native species survive in the unique environmental stressors of the San Bernardino Mountains.
The 0.8-mile trail is specifically designed to be accessible for families and casual hikers.
The site is managed in cooperation with the local community to promote stewardship of the surrounding federal forest lands.
The collection focuses exclusively on plants native to the local altitude, rather than importing exotic or ornamental species.
Heaps Peak Arboretum is a specialized botanical collection situated within the San Bernardino National Forest at an elevation of 6,000 feet. The site features a 0.8-mile interpretive trail designed to showcase the diverse coniferous flora of the San Bernardino Mountains. Visitors can observe native species including Ponderosa pine, White fir, Incense cedar, and Black oak. The arboretum was established through a partnership between the San Bernardino National Forest and the Crestline Sanitation District. It serves as an educational facility focusing on the ecology and preservation of high-altitude forest ecosystems. The grounds include accessible pathways and educational placards identifying specific plant specimens along the route. It functions as a day-use area and provides a curated look at local montane vegetation rather than a sprawling commercial garden.
The elevated viewing area overlooking the dense canopy of the surrounding San Bernardino National Forest.
Bring a light jacket as temperatures at 6,000 feet are significantly cooler than in the valley below.
Use the interpretive placards along the loop trail to identify the various pine and fir species present.
Stay on the marked path to protect the delicate mountain understory and root systems of the older trees.
Do not wander off the designated loop trail, as the terrain is prone to erosion and sensitive habitat disturbance.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes due to uneven forest terrain; pack out all trash to maintain the environment.
