Rim of the World Highway (SR-18) Climb

Overview

Rim of the World Highway, State Route 18, climbs from San Bernardino into the San Bernardino Mountains, toward Crestline, Lake Arrowhead and Running Springs. As the name suggests, the views from the top are enormous, over the whole Inland Empire basin. It is one of the biggest road climbs in Southern California, and it is serious business: a busy mountain highway with long, steady grades.

Because of the long, steady grade, pacing is key: start conservatively and save energy for the upper miles, where the views improve dramatically and the air gets cooler.

The route in plain words

The SafeStreetsMap climb starts where SR-18 leaves North Waterman Avenue in San Bernardino. The highway climbs steadily up Waterman Canyon in long switchbacks, then continues along the mountain front toward the Crestline turnoff and the ridge beyond. PJAMM documents an alternative using Old Waterman Canyon Road for part of the lower climb. Most riders turn around at Crestline or at the high point of the climb; strong riders continue along the rim toward Lake Arrowhead or Running Springs.

Distance and elevation

SafeStreetsMap measures the climb at 22 miles (34.8 km) with 4,997 ft (1,523 m) of climbing at 4.4%, from 1,339 ft to 6,335 ft, with a steepest half kilometre of 8.5%. PJAMM lists its Highway 18 via Old Waterman Canyon variant at about 12.7 miles and 4,364 ft at 6.4%. Double for the round trip.

Best time to ride

Spring and fall are best. Summer is very hot at the bottom and pleasant at the top. Winter can bring snow and ice up high, chain controls and closures. Weekend mountain traffic is heavy, especially in snow season; ride early on weekdays when possible.

Water and coffee stops

There are no reliable stops in Waterman Canyon. Crestline, just off the highway, has small markets and cafés. Carry plenty of water and food for the climb. San Bernardino at the bottom has everything.

If you continue along the rim, Lake Arrowhead and Running Springs also have markets and cafés, but distances between them are long; carry more food than you think you need.

Safety notes

SR-18 is a high-traffic mountain highway. SafeStreetsMap's crash data records two reported bike crashes on the climb from 2021 to 2026, one fatal. Shoulders vary; trucks and fast traffic are common. Use bright lights front and rear, high-visibility clothing, and ride single file. Weather can change fast; bring layers for the descent. Check Caltrans for closures before you go.

Which bike and setup

A climbing bike with compact gearing and a wide cassette suits the long grades. Excellent brakes are essential for the descent; disc brakes with fresh pads are strongly recommended. Bring a jacket and full-finger gloves for the descent outside of summer.

Before you go

Long mountain descents punish worn brake pads. Veloaded does brake bleeds and full tune-ups in Santa Ana; Inland Empire riders can also ship to us. Call (714) 760-4908.

Quick facts

County: San Bernardino County (Inland Empire)
Start: SR-18 at N. Waterman Ave, San Bernardino
Distance: About 22 miles (34.8 km) from N. Waterman Ave, San Bernardino
Climbing: About 4,997 ft (1,523 m) at 4.4% average, from about 1,339 ft to about 6,335 ft; steepest 500 m about 8.5%
Surface: Paved mountain highway
Difficulty: Very hard

Pair it with

Continue along the rim toward Running Springs and eventually Big Bear Lake, or choose Oak Glen for a shorter Inland Empire climb.

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Rim of the World climb from San Bernardino?

SafeStreetsMap lists 22 miles with about 4,997 ft at 4.4% from North Waterman Avenue.

Is Highway 18 safe for cycling?

It is a busy mountain highway; SafeStreetsMap lists two reported bike crashes on the climb from 2021 to 2026. Ride early, with lights.

Sources

Distances and climbing are from the published sources listed above and are approximate; roads, closures and conditions change. Check current conditions before you ride.

More San Bernardino County ride guides

All guides: Southern California ride guides. Veloaded Cyclery has one location, at 3420 W MacArthur Blvd Suite B, Santa Ana, CA 92704: service menu, bike fitting.