Cozy, rustic and home to about 12,000 people, the mountainside city of Lake Arrowhead is 23 miles from San Bernardino, tucked within the San Bernardino National Forest and centered on its 780-acre namesake lake. “The Village shopping center sits on the lakefront," says Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa employee Marina Elazic, "but the lake's otherwise private for lakefront homeowners, and there’s no swimming allowed." The city is one of the only places in Southern California that experiences snow, so in winter, it attracts visitors from across the region who come largely to ski. Lake Arrowhead’s pine-covered slopes, Swiss-inspired architecture and village feel have earned it the nickname, “The Alps of Southern California,” though its original name comes from an arrowhead-shaped rock formation on the side of the San Bernardino Mountains.
In the late 1800s, this area was known as Little Bear Valley, a hub for logging and mining. Today though, Lake Arrowhead’s economy mostly depends on tourism and hospitality; otherwise, local employers include Mountain Community Hospital, Rim of the World Schools and Southern California Edison. Many residents who live here full-time are retirees, and many owners manage their homes as rental properties. Compared to Big Bear, another mountain-and-lake getaway 25 miles east, Lake Arrowhead has a smaller population, fewer tourists and typically, milder winters.
The Village shopping center sits on the lakefront of Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa.
One of the main local employers of Lake Arrowhead is Mountain Community Hospital.
The Village in Lake Arrowhead is the main draw to the city with its lakeside shopping.
Lake Arrowhead is located in the San Bernardino Mountains surrounded by forest.
1/4
Pet-friendly lakefront dining and a historic speakeasy
The Lake Arrowhead Village, an alpine-inspired shopping and dining district, serves as the community’s commercial hub and provides one of the few points of public access to the lake. Anchored by Stater Bros. Markets, the shopping center's home to Belgian Waffle Works, a local favorite brunch spot that has a pet-friendly patio overlooking the lake. "On a Sunday, you'll likely see all of your neighbors at Belgian Waffle Works," notes Larry Hunt, former resident and Broker with Keller Williams Realty who has 5 years' experience in the area. "It's everyone's favorite breakfast spot in town." Shops like Coach Outlet and Pendleton are also in the Village, set among small storefronts for banks, and novelty treat shops. For a night out, most locals here are familiar with the historic Tudor house, a former Prohibition-era speakeasy; today, it’s a restaurant and bar that residents visit for theater performances, jazz nights and even Sunday brunch. The only year-round farmers' market in the San Bernardino Mountains is held each Thursday in Twin Peaks, 4 miles away.
Find great bargains on designer bags and more at Coach Outlet in Lake Arrowhead.
The Village at Lake Arrowhead brings in many tourists to its beauty, shopping and dining.
Twin Peaks Farmers Market is only 4 miles away and is held every Thursday.
A fun stop for Lake Arrowhead locals is Rocket Fizz, a candy store that has so many treats.
1/4
Local parks and seasonal events on the water
Local homes are often within a short walk from hiking paths like the Northshore Trailhead, which leads through pine forests and up to mountaintops for views of the lake. The Lake Arrowhead Country Club hosts community and charity golf tournaments on its private, 18-hole course, and also maintains a tennis facility with six courts. The city's 2-acre Mackay Park is a favorite among kids for its zip line, rock-climbing wall and playsets on Papoose Lake, and SkyPark at Santa's Village is an adventure-based theme park with year-round ice skating and mountain biking.
In the middle of Lake Arrowhead Village, the outdoor Center Stage hosts an annual summer concert series, featuring tribute bands that cover everything from Prince to the Bee Gees. The Arrowhead Queen Tour Boat embarks from the Village, and its hour-long history tour enables non-members of the Arrowhead Lake Association to venture out on the lake.
Lake Arrowhead residents love the playgrounds at Mackay Recreational Park.
Lake Arrowhead’s economy mostly depends on tourism and hospitality.
SkyPark at Santa's Village at Lake Arrowhead has ice skating, axe throwing and more.
Lake Arrowhead Country Club offers tennis and golf with 9 challenging back holes.
1/4
Sprawling lakeside retreats and cabins in the woods
As of late 2024, Lake Arrowhead’s median home price is $575,000, slightly lower than Big Bear’s roughly $585,000 and significantly lower than California’s roughly $890,000. Homes here tend to stay on the market for about 94 days, far longer than the national average of 44 days.
Most of Lake Arrowhead's homes are single-family, and are generally set along winding, narrow streets that hug heavily wooded hillsides; steep uphill pathways and trails take the place of sidewalks, making walks here feel more like hikes. Rustic cabins and ranch-style houses tend to be the city's least expensive homes. Mountain-style homes and chalets are set in pricier, lakefront neighborhoods; for lake access, Arrowhead Lake Association members pay about $1,110 annually.
Most rows of homes throughout the Lake Arrowhead neighborhood are surrounded by large trees.
Large estate homes on the waterfront have docks for Lake Arrowhead.
Lake Arrowhead lakefront homes are a bit pricier.
Lake Arrowhead is a forest covered mountain resort town 23 miles from San Bernardino.
1/4
Public Education near Lake Arrowhead
The Rim of the World Unified School District earns an overall C from Niche, serving about 2,900 students across six different schools and one virtual academy. Four of the district's schools are within the city: Lake Arrowhead Elementary, Mary Putnam Henck Intermediate, Mountain High and Rim of the World Senior High. The latter earns a C-plus and is widely recognized as one of the first schools in the nation to utilize wind and solar energy to power the campus.
The entrance to Lake Arrowhead Elementary School is fun and welcoming.
A tall blue entrance welcomes you to Mary P. Henck Intermediate School of Lake Arrowhead.
Rim of the World High School of Lake Arrowhead is home to the Scots.
Rim of the World High, Lake Arrowhead offers a sprawling campus when viewed from above.
1/4
Connecting to San Bernardino on the 18
Lake Arrowhead is set at the junction of State Highways 18 and 173. State Highway 18, also known as the “Rim of the World Highway,” connects Lake Arrowhead to San Bernardino, approximately 23 miles away. Lake Arrowhead is heavily car dependent, but Mountain Area Regional Transit Authority (MARTA) provides bus service in Lake Arrowhead and throughout the San Bernardino Mountains region. Mountains Community Hospital serves as the area’s primary medical facility, offering 24-hour emergency care. Ontario International Airport, the nearest major airport, is located about 45 miles away.
High wildfire risk but low crime rates
Lake Arrowhead’s location in the San Bernardino Mountains and National Forest puts it at high risk for wildfires in summer and fall. In September 2024, the nearly 40,000-acre Line Fire spread through the mountains, causing evacuations in both Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear; the latter was more heavily impacted. The San Bernardino National Forest participates in forest health initiatives, aiming to enhance wildfire safety and mitigate risk. Lake Arrowhead maintains four fire stations within city limits.
Lake Arrowhead has a CAP Index crime score of 2 out of 10, lower than the national average of 4. The city is served by San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department's Twin Peaks Station, set 4 miles away, where the staff includes 17 deputies.
Written By
Braxton Chea
Photography Contributed By
Michael Ng
Video By
Daniel Quattro
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
ROBERT WATKINS,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Lake Arrowhead, CA sell after 102 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Lake Arrowhead, CA over the last 12 months is $647,950, down 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Main House + Garage/ ADU/ Gameroom! With coveted lake rights to Lake Arrowhead, this exceptional mountain estate blends refined living with rare recreational spaces across a beautifully wooded nearly 1/2 acre lot. Natural beauty surrounds the property, with dramatic granite boulders and a seasonal stream winding through the grounds, creating a serene mountain setting just moments from Grass
PANORAMIC VIEWS, LAKE RIGHTS & AN AMAZING INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY! Located in the highly sought-after Arrowhead Woods neighborhood, this stunning custom mountain home offers desirable level-entry access, 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and a versatile den. The spacious primary suite is privately located upstairs with a jacuzzi tub, while two additional bedrooms and a cozy fireplace are downstairs.
Nestled in the Historic Arrowhead Villas area of Lake Arrowhead, this 1,789-square-foot, fully furnished and renovated mountain home is a turnkey, revenue-ready investment opportunity. Currently operating as a successful Airbnb, this property can be sold with its established management and cleaning services fully in place and ready for a seamless transition.The home features 4 bedrooms and
!!!Mountain Retreat with Lake Rights in Arrowhead Woods!!!Discover the perfect mountain getaway in the coveted Arrowhead Woods community, complete with exclusive lake rights that provide access to pristine Lake Arrowhead. This thoughtfully updated home offers the ideal blend of rustic charm and modern convenience across three well-designed levels. The main level welcomes you with a warm and
Discover this beautifully remodeled 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom mountain home offering lake rights and breathtaking views from expansive Fiberon decks. The spacious primary suite features a cozy fireplace, spa-like bathroom with a jetted tub, and an oversized two-person shower. Enjoy hardwood flooring throughout the main areas, plush carpeted bedrooms, and a gourmet kitchen with high-end appliances,
Welcome to your mountain escape in the heart of Lake Arrowhead. Nestled among towering pines and surrounded by the natural beauty that makes Lake Arrowhead one of Southern California's most sought-after mountain destinations. Inside, you'll find nearly 3,000 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space featuring multiple gathering areas, generous bedrooms, and an inviting floor plan ideal
Major discount for a Remodeled Mountain Retreat with Lake Rights, Stunning Views & Rare Usable Land Welcome to your beautifully remodeled Lake Arrowhead retreat, where modern elegance meets mountain charm. This stunning home features sophisticated, high-end finishes throughout, creating a warm yet contemporary space perfect for full-time living, a weekend getaway, or a vacation rental investment.
Arrowhead Lake Estates Condo with Lake Rights! Corner End unit with treehouse views from main floor living room and kitchen. Walk in to be greeted by vaulted ceilings and forest views. For outdoor enthusiasts enjoy the deck outside connected to both the kitchen and the living room. Up the stairs are two bedrooms, a bathroom, and the spacious primary suite with a bathroom, closet, and jacuzzi
Beautiful Mountain Retreat in Lake Arrowhead Woods with Full Lake Rights! Experience the perfect blend of comfort, nature, and mountain charm in this stunning Lake Arrowhead Woods home. Ideal as a full-time residence, vacation getaway, or investment property, this home offers everything you need to enjoy the best of mountain and lake living. A level concrete driveway provides year-round access,
Tucked away among towering pines and set on a peaceful mountainside, this charming Lake Arrowhead retreat offers the perfect blend of rustic character and everyday comfort. This inviting home captures the essence of mountain living . Step inside to find a warm and welcoming interior highlighted by rich wood-beamed ceilings, cozy cabin-style finishes, and abundant natural light. The open living
Looking for privacy? Tucked into a peaceful, secluded setting with sweeping forest and ridge-line views, this lake rights home has something for everyone. A private road leads exclusively to this level-entry property, complete with an attached single-car garage and ample easy, level parking. Love to hike? Leave from your front door! Inside, the light-filled main living level features vaulted
Welcome to 26249 Alpine Ln, Twin Peaks, CA 92391 — a unique 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom mountain home that blends rustic charm with modern comfort, perfect for full-time living, a second home, or even a vacation home. Step inside and you’ll immediately notice the warm wood accents, open living spaces, and natural light throughout. The home features a cozy cabin-style design with custom wood finishes, a
Have you yearned to be quiet, breathe deep...commune with your surroundings...sit on your southern-style covered porch and watch the snow fall? Or look down at your own private forest while barbecuing your dinner on your rear deck, watching deer, bobcats, even bears meander through the forest? You can feel the hospitality of the house and neighborhood from the minute you drive up. There's ample
Tucked into the trees of Lake Arrowhead, this beautifully reimagined mountain retreat blends modern sophistication with warm, inviting charm—and includes coveted Lake Rights. Thoughtfully updated from top to bottom in 2022, the home offers a seamless balance of style and comfort, making it ideal as a full-time residence, weekend escape, or a continued high-performing short-term rental. Clean
SUPER UNIQUE PROPERTY LOCATED IN PRIVATE GATED COMMUNITY OF 160 ACRESS OF BLUE BIRD CANYON.THE HOA MAINTAINS ROAD AND TRASH. THE PROPERTY HAS CHARM FROM THE 1930'S TO THE 1990'2 WHEN PRIMARY SUITE WAS ADDED TO INCLUDE TUB AND SHOWER. SLIDER TO LARGE DECK, CLOSETS AND MORE. THERE ARE ALSO 2 LOFTS. KITCHEN HAS WOOD BURNING TOVE, EAT IN KITCHEN, STONE FIREPLACE IN LIVING ROOM, 2 LARGE DECKS TO ENJOY
Unique doesn’t begin to describe this FURNISHED rental in the gorgeous Lake Arrowhead Country Club in Lake Arrowhead. Just imagine: you walk in the entry and are greeted by a life-size maître d, then you’re welcomed by Bob’s Big Boy himself. But keep an eye out for the Secret Agent man in his raincoat and fedora. He carries a gun, but not to worry, it’s not real. It’s the mountains, so of
Escape to a stunning Furnished, short Term luxury rental villa nestled in the heart of Lake Arrowhead, just a stone's throw away from the Village, Resort, Beach Club, restaurants, and shops. This fully renovated cabin boasts unparalleled elegance and comfort, featuring custom handcrafted woodwork throughout. 2 NIGHT MINIMUM This 4-bedroom, 4-bathroom villa/Cabin is the ultimate sanctuary,
Welcome to your dream LAKEFRONT retreat in Lake Arrowhead! This stunning 6-bedroom, 5-bathroom house offers a perfect blend of luxury and comfort, making it an ideal getaway or permanent residence. With a spacious 3,575 square feet, there's plenty of room for everyone to relax and unwind.Step inside to discover a beautifully designed interior featuring:- A gourmet kitchen equipped
Welcome to your serene retreat in the heart of Lake Arrowhead, California! This charming property is the perfect place to experience the tranquility of mountain living while staying close to modern conveniences. Three good size bedrooms each with custom wood beds and 2 full baths. Downstairs has a bonus room for watching TV or playing games.Key property features include comfortable
Discover your perfect retreat in Lake Arrowhead with this spacious single-family home featuring four bedrooms and three bathrooms set in a beautifully elevated lot surrounded by nature with LEVEL ENTRY! Enjoy easy access to nearby restaurants and grocery store, while the serene Will Abell Memorial Trail at Arrowhead Ridge park is just a short walk away, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. This home
Property Id: 1332104 This beautiful fully furnished home is available for a 6 month rental (or possibly longer). Property comes with Lake Rights, for an additional fee. Live among the trees on a quiet cul-de-sac street in this immaculate and charming house nestled in the pines of Lake Arrowhead. This cozy yet spacious and stylish home offers all amenities: central heat and A/C, carpet and
The cutest cabin around! Wonderful in Twin Peaks featuring large decks overlooking trees making this home feel like a private sanctuary. 1 Bedroom on the main floor and 1 upstairs that opens up to a view loft. Cozy fireplace and updated kitchen too. Washer/dryer and large refrigerator in the basement area on the lower level. Rent includes INTERNET, TRASH and WATER so this is an easy choice!
Property Id: 1586678 **Beautifully Remodeled 3-Bedroom Home Near Lake Arrowhead Village - Utilities Included!** Experience mountain living with modern comfort in this beautifully remodeled 3-bedroom, 2-bath home just minutes from the heart of Lake Arrowhead Village. Bright, stylish, and move-in ready, this inviting home offers the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and privacy.
Available for rent in Crestline! This cozy studio apartment offers an efficient and comfortable living space, perfect for those seeking low-maintenance mountain living. The open floor plan provides room for a bed along with a small dining area or couch, making the most of the space. The kitchen includes a sink, stove, and refrigerator, while the 3⁄4 bathroom offers everyday convenience. Enjoy the
Joe MarquezPRIME PROPERTIES
$2,795 per month
Large 3 Bed / 2 & 1/2 Bath Cabin For Rent in Twin Peaks
Welcome to 26319 Jacqueline Road, a spacious 2500 Sq. ft. cabin in Twin Peaks available for long-term lease. This charming three-level retreat offers peace and comfort in the mountains, just minutes from top local attractions.The home features 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, two large decks with incredible views, and a spacious lower-level entertainment area. The main level includes a
Property shares parcel lot with another rental property listing ID IG26048925 Magnificent Craftsman Style Custom Home - Seven Bedroom with Four and A half Baths. Chef's Dream home. Fabulous Gourmet Kitchen! Attractive Craftsman Style Exterior with Carport and Extra Storage. Enter home from a Charming Traditional Porch into the Main Level. Enjoy the large Foyer with Stairway and Chandelier,
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
