Highland, CA

• About the city
• Geography
• Climate and weather
• Landmarks
• Transport
• Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
• Museums
• Sport and Sports Legends
• Universities and Academic Institutions
• Medical Facilities and Healthcare

Highland is a city in San Bernardino County, California, nestled at the base of the San Bernardino Mountains. It offers a suburban feel with easy access to outdoor recreation in the nearby national forest.

About the city

Official status and administrative affiliation

• Full official name: City of Highland (often locally referred to as Highland, California).
• Administrative role: Highland is a general law city incorporated on November 24, 1987 . It is not a county seat but is a municipality within the jurisdiction of San Bernardino County .
• Regional context: The city is located in the Inland Empire region of Southern California, approximately 65 miles east of downtown Los Angeles . San Bernardino County is the largest county by area in the contiguous United States and is a major logistics, transportation, and warehouse hub.

Historical names and nicknames

• Historical context: Before its incorporation, the area was known simply as the Highland area or the East Highlands community, referring to its geographic position at the foothills. The original townsite was officially established in 1891 .
• Prora: Highland is often described as a "gateway" or "foothill community" because it serves as the entry point to the San Bernardino National Forest and the San Bernardino Mountains . It doesn't have widely recognized international nicknames like a major metropolis.

Date of foundation and age

• Founding date: The Highland townsite was established in 1891 .
• Incorporation: The city was officially incorporated much later, on November 24, 1987 .
• Age: As of 2026, the townsite is 135 years old, while the city itself is 39 years old.
• Founding context: Its early growth was tied to the success of orange farming and the arrival of the Santa Fe Railway, which allowed local farmers to transport their goods .

Geographical position and coordinates

• Geographic coordinates: 34°07′42″N 117°12′31″W .
• Location context: Highland is situated at the base of the San Bernardino Mountains. It is located just over 60 miles east of Los Angeles and about 50 miles west of Palm Springs .
• Elevation: The city's elevation is approximately 1,309 feet (399 meters) above sea level .
• Settlement type: Highland is primarily a suburban residential city and a foothill community.

City type and economic specialization

• Primary type: Highland functions mainly as a residential community and a bedroom community for the larger urban areas of the Inland Empire and Los Angeles .
• Economic drivers: The local economy is significantly boosted by the Yaamava' Resort & Casino, a major entertainment and hospitality complex that is the only AAA Five-Diamond casino hotel in the US . Other sectors include education (through local school districts and nearby universities), retail, and healthcare.
• Proximity to recreation: Its economy also benefits from tourism related to outdoor recreation in the nearby San Bernardino National Forest .

Population and demography

• Population: According to the 2020 census, the city's population was 56,999 .
• Population class: Based on its population, Highland is classified as a medium-sized city.
• Demographic features: The city is diverse, with a significant Hispanic or Latino population (48.1% in 2010) . It is geographically divided by Boulder Avenue, with the eastern part (East Highlands) featuring newer, more affluent developments, while the western part has older, more established neighborhoods .

"City's business card" (in short)

Highland is a serene foothill city that offers the best of both worlds: it's a peaceful suburban basecamp for outdoor adventures in the San Bernardino National Forest, yet it's just a short drive from the world-class entertainment of the Yaamava' Resort & Casino and the urban hubs of the Inland Empire . It's an overlooked gem for those seeking mountain views and easy access to both nature and city life.

Geography

Mountains and mountain ranges

• San Bernardino Mountains: This mountain range is literally in Highland's "backyard," forming a stunning backdrop to the city. It is a key feature of the local landscape .
• San Bernardino Peak: The highest point of this range, accessible via the challenging San Bernardino Peak Trail, stands at 10,649 feet (3,246 meters) . It is a popular destination for experienced hikers and offers panoramic views of the region, including Mount Baldy and San Gorgonio .
• Mount San Antonio (Mount Baldy): While not in Highland itself, this famous 10,064-foot peak is a visible landmark in the region and a popular destination for hikers and skiers, located in the Angeles National Forest, not far from Highland.

Water bodies (rivers, lakes, waterfalls)

• Santa Ana River: The Santa Ana River winds through the area near Highland. The Santa Ana River Trail, a multi-use path, provides access for hiking and biking along its course .
• Big Falls: Located in the nearby mountain community of Forest Falls, this is a stunning waterfall. The Big Falls Trail is a short, easy 0.7-mile hike that leads to a popular swimming hole at the base of the lower falls .
• Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear Lake: These are major recreational alpine lakes located about 30-60 minutes up the mountain from Highland, offering boating, fishing, and skiing.

Deserts, canyons and unique landscapes

While Highland itself is not in the desert, it serves as a gateway to unique mountain and canyon landscapes. The nearby San Bernardino National Forest is characterized by its rugged terrain, deep canyons, and dense forests, a stark contrast to the semi-arid climate of the city below . The forest features seven wilderness areas with unique geological formations and high-desert ecosystems.

National and nature parks

• San Bernardino National Forest: This is the primary natural attraction for Highland residents and visitors. It encompasses hundreds of thousands of acres, over 300 miles of hiking trails, and more than 40 campgrounds . It is famous for its biodiversity, mountain scenery, and recreational opportunities, including hiking, camping, and off-highway vehicle use .

Climate and weather

Climate type and general characteristics

Highland has a hot-summer Mediterranean climate (Csa) , bordering on a semi-arid climate. It is characterized by very hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters . The city enjoys a significant amount of sunshine throughout the year.

Average monthly temperatures

Data based on various climate sources :

• Hottest months: July and August, with average daily highs around 95-101°F (35-38°C) and lows in the mid-60s°F (around 18°C) .
• Coldest month: December, with average daily highs near 65°F (18°C) and lows around 41-42°F (5-6°C) .
• Annual average: The mean annual temperature is around 64°F (18°C) .

Precipitation and humidity

• Average annual rainfall: Approximately 12.3 inches (312 mm) , with the vast majority falling as rain .
• Wettest month: February, with an average of around 2.1 inches of rain .
• Driest month: June, which is typically very dry with only about 0.1 inches of rain .
• Snowfall: Snow is very rare in the city itself, averaging only a trace to a few inches annually, mostly in December and January . However, heavy snow is common just a short drive up in the nearby mountains .

Sunshine and UV index

• Sunny days: Highland enjoys a high number of sunny days, with clear skies prevailing from late spring through fall. The sky is clear or mostly clear 87-89% of the time from June through September .
• UV Index: During the summer months, the UV index is typically very high (8-10+), necessitating sun protection for outdoor activities.

Seasonality and best time to visit

• Spring (March-May): This is one of the best times to visit. Temperatures are warm and pleasant, ranging from the low 70s to low 80s°F . The hills are often green from the winter rains, and it's an ideal time for hiking in the lower elevations before the summer heat arrives.
• Summer (June-August): Summer is very hot and dry, with frequent triple-digit temperatures in July and August . While it can be too hot for strenuous hiking in exposed areas, it's a great time for water activities in nearby mountain lakes or for enjoying the air-conditioned comfort of the local casino and resorts .
• Fall (September-November): Arguably the best time to visit. September remains warm, but by October and November, temperatures cool down to a very comfortable range of 70-80°F . The air is clear, and it's perfect for all types of outdoor activities.
• Winter (December-February): Winters are mild during the day (60s°F) but can be quite cold at night (40s°F) . This is the wettest time of year . While outdoor activities in the city are still possible, the main draw is the proximity to ski resorts like Big Bear and Snow Summit in the mountains above .

Landmarks

Yaamava' Resort & Casino

This is the premier entertainment destination in Highland. It is a sprawling luxury resort and casino that has earned the prestigious AAA Five-Diamond designation, the only casino hotel in the US to hold this honor .

• Features: It boasts over 7,000 slot machines and 150 table games. Beyond gambling, it features the Serrano Spa, a pool deck, several high-end dining options, and the Yaamava' Theater, which hosts major concerts and live events .
• Significance: Voted the "Best Casino Outside of Las Vegas," it is a major economic driver for the city and a draw for tourists from all over Southern California .

Highland Historic District on Palm Avenue

This area is a window into the city's past. It encompasses the original 1891 townsite and includes surviving examples of the community's early commercial core.

• Features: Visitors can see original packing houses and historic commercial buildings that date back to Highland's early days as a citrus farming hub .

San Bernardino County Museum

Located just 5 miles from Highland's city center in nearby Redlands, this is the region's premier cultural and historical institution .

• Features: The museum is dedicated to the art, history, and natural science of the Inland Empire. It features extensive exhibits on archaeology, cultural history, and the region's diverse wildlife and geology .

Highland Sam J. Racadio Library and Environmental Learning Center

More than just a library, this facility is a landmark in itself.

• Features: It is a gold-rated LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) building, notable for its sustainable design, including a rooftop garden . It houses a large collection of books and media, provides free public computers, and features live animal exhibits, making it a unique community hub for education and environmental awareness .

Santa Ana River Trail

This is a key natural landmark for outdoor enthusiasts. A section of this major regional trail winds through the Highland area .

• Features: It provides a paved path for walking, running, and biking, following the course of the Santa Ana River and offering scenic views of the surrounding foothills and open space.

Transport

Main airports in the city and region

• San Bernardino International Airport (SBD): Located less than 10 minutes from Highland, this is the closest airport . It primarily serves cargo, general aviation, and is seeing a growth in commercial passenger service. Its proximity makes it a convenient option for travelers.
• Ontario International Airport (ONT): Code IATA: ONT. Located about 20-25 minutes west of Highland via the I-10 freeway, this is the primary commercial airport for the region. It is a major, full-service airport with flights to destinations across the US and Mexico . Uber and taxi services are readily available for the trip.
• LA/Ontario International Airport (ONT): Some sources may still use the older name, but it's the same airport.

Main railway stations

Highland itself does not have a major Amtrak station. However, the San Bernardino Depot is located nearby in the city of San Bernardino. This historic station is served by:

• Metrolink: The primary commuter rail line (San Bernardino Line) providing service to Los Angeles Union Station .
• Amtrak: The Southwest Chief route stops here, connecting Los Angeles to Chicago.

Public transport system

Public transportation in Highland is primarily provided by bus services.

• Bus: The region is served by Omnitrans, the public transit agency for the San Bernardino Valley. Bus routes connect Highland to surrounding cities like San Bernardino and Redlands, and to the San Bernardino Depot for train connections.
• Ridesharing: Uber, Lyft, and other ridesharing services are widely available in Highland, offering an alternative to taxis for getting around the city and to nearby destinations .

Major highways and freeways

• State Route 210 (SR-210): This freeway, also known as the Foothill Freeway, is the main artery through the southern part of Highland, connecting it to cities like Pasadena and Los Angeles to the west and Redlands and points east .
• Interstate 10 (I-10): Located just south of the city, this major interstate is a key route for travel across the entire southern United States, linking Highland to Los Angeles, Phoenix, and beyond.
• Interstate 215 (I-215): This freeway is accessible nearby in San Bernardino and provides a direct route to Riverside and Temecula to the south.

Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions

While Highland itself offers a variety of dining options ranging from local favorites like The Classic Cafe for American comfort food to Thai Time for authentic Thai dishes , the broader culinary identity of the area is deeply rooted in the rich Mexican-American culture of the Inland Empire. For truly iconic regional specialties that draw visitors from across Southern California, one need only look to the neighboring city of San Bernardino, located just a few miles from Highland.

La Fuente Mexican Bakery (San Bernardino)

This unassuming bakery and restaurant, located at an unspecified address in San Bernardino, is a true destination for authentic Mexican food . People drive from all over California to experience its legendary offerings, which have been a cornerstone of the community for decades .

• Tamales: The crown jewel of La Fuente. These are not the mass-produced variety; they are tamales in their highest form, made with corn masa (corn dough) that achieves a perfect balance of being light, fluffy, and substantial. The masa is wrapped around fillings perfected through generations, including tender, slow-cooked pork with complex spices; moist and flavorful chicken; and a creamy cheese and jalapeño version where the cheese melts against the bright heat of the peppers .
• Menudo and Pozole: La Fuente is also famed for its savory soups. The menudo, a traditional soup made with tripe and hominy, is considered legendary, especially on weekend mornings when it's a cherished remedy. The rich, aromatic broth is served with traditional accompaniments like chopped onions, cilantro, and lime. The pozole, another traditional soup featuring hominy and pork in a chile-infused broth, offers a depth of flavor that comes from patient, slow cooking and generations of culinary heritage .
• Pan Dulce (Mexican Sweet Breads): The display cases at La Fuente are filled with row upon row of beautiful pan dulce. This includes conchas with their signature seashell-patterned tops in various colors, flaky and buttery orejas (elephant ears), and empanadas filled with pumpkin, pineapple, or sweet cream . For a complete experience, these sweet breads are best enjoyed with traditional Mexican drinks like horchata (a sweet rice-based cinnamon drink) or jamaica (hibiscus iced tea) .

The food at La Fuente is described as honest, flavorful, and connected to traditions that stretch back centuries, making it a true cultural touchstone for the region .

Local Favorites in Highland

For those looking for classic California flavors and quick-service meals, Highland has a solid lineup of popular spots :

• In-N-Out Burger: A must-try for any visitor to California, this iconic chain is known for its fresh, delicious burgers, fries, and shakes .
• Chronic Tacos: A Southern California favorite, this spot serves up fresh, customizable Mexican food, from tacos and burritos to quesadillas .
• Taqueria la Guadalupana: For a taste of local authenticity, this spot is considered a hidden gem, serving some of the best tacos and burritos in town .

Museums

Highland itself is home to IBC's Clem Field, a museum dedicated to the history and culture of the Inland Empire, featuring local artifacts and interactive displays . For larger, more specialized collections, the nearby city of San Bernardino offers significant cultural institutions.

Robert and Frances Fullerton Museum of Art (RAFFMA)

Located on the campus of California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB) at 5500 University Parkway, San Bernardino, CA, RAFFMA is a must-visit for art and history enthusiasts . The museum is renowned for its impressive collection of nearly 1,200 objects, with its largest and most significant component being approximately 500 pieces that span over 4,000 years of Egyptian history . This collection includes ancient art, ceramics, and artifacts, offering a deep dive into one of the world's oldest civilizations. In addition to its permanent Egyptian collection, RAFFMA features a dynamic schedule of visiting exhibitions and displays of contemporary art within its 7,500 square feet of gallery space .

Sport and Sports Legends

While Highland has community sports programs through organizations like the Highland Family YMCA , the professional and historical sports legacy is centered in the adjacent city of San Bernardino.

San Bernardino's Baseball Heritage

San Bernardino has a rich baseball history dating back to the early 20th century . The city served as a spring training site for Major League Baseball teams, hosting the Pittsburgh Pirates and St. Louis Browns at various times between 1935 and 1953 . Today, this legacy continues with the Inland Empire 66ers, a Minor League Baseball team that plays in the California League. The team, which has been known by various names since its founding in 1987 (including the San Bernardino Spirit and Stampede), is a key part of the local sports scene .

Notable Athletes from the Area

The San Bernardino area has produced a remarkable number of professional baseball players who have gone on to have significant careers in Major League Baseball (MLB) . This impressive list includes Hall of Fame pitcher and manager Bob Lemon, as well as other notable MLB players like Shawn Estes, Rich Dauer, Chuck Carr, Darnell Coles, and Glenn Braggs . Their connection to the region underscores the area's importance as a cradle of baseball talent.

Community Sports in Highland

For residents, the Highland Family YMCA at 7793 Central Ave is a hub for local sports and recreation . It offers a wide variety of youth sports programs, including basketball, soccer, baseball, and volleyball. The YMCA also provides an aquatic program with swimming lessons and water sports, as well as health and fitness classes for all ages .

Universities and Academic Institutions

While Highland is a residential city, it is surrounded by a wealth of higher education opportunities. There are 58 colleges and universities within a 50-mile radius . The closest is the University of Redlands, just 3.3 miles away .

California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB)

Located just a few miles from Highland in the city of San Bernardino, CSUSB is the region's premier public university. Established in 1965, it is a leading center of intellectual and cultural activity in Inland Southern California, situated on a 430-acre campus at the foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains .

• Academics: CSUSB offers over 70 undergraduate and graduate degree programs. It is known for its strong community partnerships and commitment to student success. Its academic offerings are continually expanding to meet workforce needs and now include its first doctoral program in Educational Leadership (Ed.D.), a College of Engineering with programs in computer science and engineering, and creative degrees such as the Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.) in Creative Writing and Studio Art/Design .
• Cultural Impact: The university is also home to the Robert and Frances Fullerton Museum of Art (RAFFMA), making it a key cultural destination for the region .

Other Nearby Institutions

Within a short drive from Highland, residents and students have access to a diverse range of higher education options :

• University of Redlands: A private university located 3.3 miles from Highland .
• Crafton Hills College: A community college in Yucaiba, located 6.2 miles away, offering affordable two-year programs .
• California State University, Fullerton: The largest college in the area by enrollment, with over 41,900 students, located about 30 miles away .
• Claremont McKenna College: Ranked among the top colleges in the nation, located in Claremont .

Medical Facilities and Healthcare

Highland is part of a broader healthcare network serving the Inland Empire, with major hospital facilities located in the neighboring city of San Bernardino.

Community Hospital of San Bernardino

Located at 1805 Medical Center Drive, San Bernardino, CA, this general acute care hospital is a key healthcare provider for the region, explicitly listing Highland among the communities it serves . The hospital is deeply integrated into the local community, conducting regular Community Health Needs Assessments (CHNA) to identify and address the health priorities of the area, which include Highland, Colton, Fontana, Loma Linda, and others . It provides a range of services, including substantial charity care and programs aimed at improving community health .

Highland Hospital (Oakland, CA - Note of Caution)

A search for "Highland Hospital" returns a state-funded facility located in Oakland, California . This is a completely different city in the San Francisco Bay Area, approximately 400 miles from the city of Highland in San Bernardino County. It is important to distinguish between the two, as this hospital is not accessible to or associated with the Highland community in Southern California.

Given Highland's proximity to a major metropolitan area, its residents have access to the extensive medical infrastructure of the Inland Empire. For specialized care, world-renowned medical centers in Los Angeles are also within driving distance.

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