San Gorgonio Wilderness -- The climax region of the San Bernardino Mountains, about 25 miles east of San Bernardino. Its 58,969 acres include two small lakes, meadows, streams, 100 miles of trail, and rugged terrain. Elevations range from 4,400 feet to 11,499 feet atop Mt. San Gorgonio, the highest peak in Southern California. Eleven peaks exceed 10,000 feet. sgwa.org
Snow Summit -- Home of the Miracle Mile ski trail in Big Bear Lake. Founded in 1952 by sportsman Tommi Tyndall, this has been a Southern California skiing institution for decades. 880 Summit Boulevard, Big Bear Lake. Tel: 909-866-5766. snowsummit.com
Mountain High Ski Resort -- In 1929, construction began on what was then the largest ski jump in the world. In 1931, Norwegian-born Alf Engen set a world record by jumping 243 feet on wooden plank skis with leather straps. Located in Wrightwood. 24510 State Highway 2. Tel: 888-754-7878. mthigh.com
Snow Valley -- One of the original Southern California mountain resorts, with nearly 70 years of winter recreation. Originally called "Fish Camp" for the pond at the top of Chair 5. 35100 State Highway 18, five miles east of Running Springs. Tel: 909-867-2751. snow-valley.com
Mount Baldy -- The largest and steepest ski resort in Southern California, with 26 runs spanning three mountains covering 800 acres and 2,100 vertical feet. Runs are narrow but plentiful. Tel: 909-981-3344. mtbaldy.com
Silverwood Lake -- A 2,400-acre recreation area at 3,380 feet elevation, 30 miles from San Bernardino. The 980-acre lake has 13 miles of shoreline with fishing for trout, striped bass, catfish, and crappie. Striped bass over 50 pounds have been caught here. Entry fee $8 per vehicle, boat launch $8. parks.ca.gov
Glen Helen Amphitheater -- The nation's largest amphitheater, with capacity for over 65,000 people. Situated within Glen Helen Regional Park, it hosts major concert events from April through October. Located where the 15 and 215 freeways meet in Devore. 2575 Glen Helen Parkway.
Asistencia -- See the Redlands museums listing for this 1830s mission outpost.
California Theatre of the Performing Arts -- Built in 1928 in opulent Spanish-Moorish style, the beautifully preserved downtown theatre is home to the San Bernardino Symphony and touring productions. 562 West 4th Street.
San Bernardino County Museum -- A regional museum in nearby Redlands with natural and cultural history exhibits, live-animal discovery stations, and extensive research collections.