This post is sponsored by Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa. All opinions are my own. 

If there is one thing I miss because of COVID, besides seeing my family, it is traveling. I had many trips planned for this past spring and summer that I canceled. Although travel is allowed, I’m trying to limit my travel because I think it is the best decision for public health and my family’s health. I have done a few local/regional trips around Southern California, however. Earlier this summer, I brought my kids down to Coronado Island. Then, last weekend, we finally checked out Lake Arrowhead California for the first time. 

Just about 2 hours from LA, Lake Arrowhead is a perfect summer or wintertime destination for a weekend away from LA. This was my first time vising the area, so I did a bit of research ahead of time. I knew I wanted to check out some of the local hiking. I also wanted to find a way to get out on the water. Luckily, I was able to do both.

Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa

When I first arrived at the Resort, I was glad to see there was a lot of signage about COVID, and masks are required throughout the hotel. The hotel is doing a lot of things to ensure the safety of their guests. I felt very safe the entire time I was there.  When I first checked in, the staff checked my room one extra time to ensure it had been properly cleaned and sanitized. Everything about the check-in experience put my mind at ease. 

The hotel restaurant was open for outdoor dining as well as for takeout. There was ample social distancing at the restaurant, which had an amazing view of the lake. I enjoyed dinner and breakfast at the restaurant and also got lunch takeout one day. All of the meals were super delicious and quick. 

My room had two queen beds, which were quite comfortable. My room also had a balcony that overlooked the lake. It was a really relaxing option for me to sit out on my patio each morning with a cup of coffee. While I was there, the hotel offered free coffee to guests since the coffeemakers had been removed from the rooms. 

Hiking Options

The resort had a regional map with many different hiking options. I chose the Heart Rock trail because it sounded right up my alley. I love nature, so the thought of getting to see a heart-shaped rock and a waterfall sold me. Interestingly, this trail was marked as easy. I would personally call this hike moderate. There were several steep areas where you had to walk up large rock-like steps.

I don’t think this would have been a very doable hike with my kids, even though we did see many young families slowly trudging along. Honestly, I wouldn’t feel comfortable taking my kids at their current age, but maybe when they are a bit older.

The hike was not overly strenuous and the length was perfect. It was just about two miles there and back to the car. It took us just about an hour and felt like the perfect hike with a great final reward. The heart-shaped rock and the waterfall were really pretty. The only negative thing about this hike was that it was pretty busy – so make sure to bring your mask for the many times you’re passing people. 

Lake Arrowhead Swimming

It is safe to swim in Lake Arrowhead. You can check out this link for information on swimming. One of many things I loved about the Resort and Spa is that you can swim in the lake or in the pool. There is a cute little private beach just for the hotel. They also have a heated pool, so we rotated between both swimming options. 

Boating & Kayaking at the Resort

Beyond the swimming options, the hotel also has boating options. You can rent a boat or you can take part in a kayaking tour. I chose to try kayaking, as I thought it would be a fun way to get out on the water and also get some exercise. My friend and I did a double kayak, which was $55 for an hour rental, plus a tour guide. We had a ton of fun paddling around the lake. It was pretty choppy that day, which made it even a bit more fun to be out on the water. The temperature was perfect – high 70s – so we thoroughly enjoyed our kayaking trip. This link has all of the fun outdoor summer entertainment and activities options. 

Overall, I had a great time in Lake Arrowhead California. If you have the chance to visit in the summer, I’d highly encourage it.