Tucked into the pine-covered hills of Skyforest, California, SkyPark at Santa’s Village is one of those places that genuinely defies a single description. Part outdoor adventure park, part nostalgic Christmas destination, part world-class mountain bike venue — it has carved out a reputation as one of the San Bernardino Mountains’ most distinctive attractions, and for good reason.

Whether you’re planning a family day out, chasing singletrack on two wheels, or simply looking for a mountain escape with a little extra magic, SkyPark offers something that most Southern California destinations don’t: a year-round reason to visit, regardless of the season.

For guests staying near Running Springs, SkyPark is practically on the doorstep — a short drive from the quiet forests and cabin accommodations that make this corner of the mountains so appealing. If you’re already planning time in the area, it’s well worth adding to the itinerary.

SkyPark at Santa’s Village

Quick Facts About SkyPark at Santa’s Village

Detail	Information
Location	28950 CA-18, Skyforest, CA 92385
Distance from Wild Olive Cabins	Approximately 5 miles (~7 minutes by car)
Operating Season	Year-round (closed Mondays and Tuesdays)
Typical Opening Hours	Wed–Thu 10:00 AM–6:00 PM / Fri–Sat 10:00 AM–9:00 PM / Sun 10:00 AM–6:00 PM (hours vary seasonally — check the website before visiting)
Best Known For	Mountain biking, family adventure activities, Christmas theming year-round
Average Visit Duration	4–6 hours; many guests stay a full day
Suitable For	All ages

Hours and operating schedules can shift depending on the season and special events, so it’s always worth confirming on the official SkyPark website before you go.

Why Visit SkyPark at Santa’s Village?

There are plenty of outdoor destinations in the San Bernardino Mountains, but few manage to combine the energy of an adventure park with the warmth of a historic Christmas village. SkyPark does exactly that — and it does so across 230 acres of national forest land, meadows, ponds, and an apple orchard.

Families come for the activities. Cyclists come for the trails. Kids come for Santa. And most people leave wondering why they didn’t come sooner. It’s a genuinely versatile destination — equally suited to active outdoor enthusiasts and guests who’d rather take a slower pace through the village, grab a bite, and soak in the mountain atmosphere.

The History of SkyPark at Santa’s Village

The Original Santa’s Village (1955)

Santa’s Village opened on Memorial Day weekend in 1955 — just six weeks before Disneyland made its debut in Anaheim. The concept came from a Saturday Evening Post article about a Christmas-themed park called “North Pole” in New York, which inspired local Crestline resident Glenn Holland to propose a similar attraction in the San Bernardino Mountains.

Built on 15 of the 230 acres leased by the Henck family, the park was constructed using locally felled timber and crafted by artisans from the surrounding mountain community. It opened to immediate enthusiasm. More importantly, Holland went on to open two additional Santa’s Village parks — one in Scotts Valley, California, and one in Dundee, Illinois — making it the first franchised theme park in the United States.

The original park featured log cabin shops, kiddie rides, a bakery, a candy kitchen, a bobsled attraction, horseback riding, and nature trails — a Christmas-themed experience decades before modern theme parks had become the defining entertainment of Southern California.

Closure and Revival

When the Santa’s Village franchise went bankrupt in the late 1970s, the Henck family was able to purchase the park outright, as it sat on their land. The family operated it under the name “Fantasy Forest at Santa’s Village” for a period, but attendance declined over the years as competition from larger neighbouring attractions grew. The park closed permanently on 1 March 1998.

What followed was a long period of quiet deterioration. The land was sold and used as a staging area for logging operations. A wildfire in 2003 swept through the area. The vintage candy cane signpost and the old log cabin buildings stood in various states of disrepair along the Rim of the World Highway — a ghost town with a storied past.

In June 2014, the property was purchased by new owners with a clear vision: restore it, expand it, and reopen it as a year-round destination. After renovating 18 of the original Santa’s Village buildings and undertaking extensive forest restoration work — including planting 900 new trees in partnership with Mountain Wildfire Releaf and Cal Fire — SkyPark at Santa’s Village officially reopened on 2 December 2016.

How SkyPark Blends Adventure with Tradition

The revival preserved the bones of the original park. The historic log cabin structures that once housed the bakery, candy kitchen, and workshops were carefully restored and repurposed into the park’s current dining, retail, and entertainment spaces. The Chapel of the Little Shepherd, one of the original 1955 structures, still stands within the village.

At the same time, the new operators added the outdoor adventure infrastructure that makes the park a year-round destination: mountain bike trails winding through the pine forest, a zipline, a climbing tower, archery, axe throwing, and more. Santa, fittingly, never left — he remains a year-round resident of the park.

Where is SkyPark at Santa’s Village?

Location in Skyforest, California

SkyPark is located at 28950 CA-18 in the Skyforest community — a section of unincorporated San Bernardino County that sits within the broader Lake Arrowhead area, nestled in the San Bernardino National Forest. The park sits at an elevation of approximately 5,910 feet, which means noticeably cooler temperatures than the valley below, especially in summer.

Driving Distance from Wild Olive Cabins

From Wild Olive Cabins in Running Springs, SkyPark is approximately 5 miles away — a drive of around 7 minutes along CA-18. It’s one of the closest major attractions to the cabins, which makes it easy to plan a half-day visit or return for a second day without the fatigue of a long drive.

Nearby Mountain Communities

SkyPark sits in the heart of several well-known San Bernardino Mountain communities, all within easy reach:

• Running Springs — The closest town to SkyPark, approximately 5 miles east along CA-18. Running Springs is the nearest hub for fuel, groceries, and dining, and is where Wild Olive Cabins is based.
• Lake Arrowhead — Located a short drive to the north, Lake Arrowhead Village offers lakeside shopping, dining, and watercraft experiences. It’s a popular complement to a SkyPark visit.
• Blue Jay — A small community just north of the park, tucked alongside CA-189.
• Crestline — Located further down the mountain from the Arrowhead area, Crestline offers a quieter, more local feel with access to Lake Gregory.

Parking Information

Parking is available on-site at SkyPark. Parking costs $15 per vehicle for day visitors. Annual Passholders with the full Annual Pass receive complimentary parking — a nice perk if you’re planning multiple visits to the area. Guests with state-issued disability placards or plates may park in the main or overflow lot; parking fees still apply for day visitors, and a drop-off area is located just to the left of the main entrance. Always check the SkyPark website ahead of your visit for any updates to parking fees or arrangements.

What Makes SkyPark at Santa’s Village Unique?

A Christmas Theme You Can Enjoy Any Time of Year

This is perhaps SkyPark’s most unusual selling point: you don’t need to visit in December to get the Christmas atmosphere. Santa lives in the park year-round and is available to meet guests throughout the seasons. The village itself — built in historic log cabin style — maintains a festive character regardless of the time of year.

For many families, this is genuinely appealing. Getting a photo with Santa in July, without the queues and commercial intensity of the holiday season, is a different kind of experience.

Adventure Park Meets Mountain Resort

SkyPark isn’t trying to be Disneyland. What it offers instead is a more relaxed, nature-immersed version of a theme park — one where the activities are largely self-directed, the setting is a genuine forest, and the pace is yours to set. Nearly 10 miles of mountain bike and hiking trails wind through the property. Ziplines, archery ranges, axe throwing, and a climbing tower are all part of the general admission experience. It’s an active destination, but one that also has spots to sit, eat, and simply enjoy the mountain air.

Beautiful Forest Setting

The park occupies 230 acres of San Bernardino National Forest land — meadows, ponds, an apple orchard, and dense stands of incense cedar, ponderosa pine, and fir trees. The Henck Meadowlands Conservation Trail runs through the property, and the park offers outdoor education programmes for school groups that focus on environmental stewardship.

At elevation, the summers are comfortably cool compared to the valley floor, which makes SkyPark a particularly welcome escape from the heat of the Inland Empire and greater Los Angeles during the warmer months.

Activities Included with General Admission

One of SkyPark’s strengths as a value proposition is that the vast majority of activities are included with the price of a Day Pass. Mountain biking trails, hiking, archery, axe throwing, the climbing tower, Arrow’s Adventure pedal cars, the Northwoods Express train, live entertainment, and more are all accessible without paying separately. Bike and helmet rentals, certain craft activities (such as cookie decorating), and some seasonal offerings do carry additional costs.

Best Things to Do at SkyPark at Santa’s Village

Explore the Mountain Bike Park

SkyPark’s bike park is the attraction that draws cyclists from across Southern California — and for good reason. The trail network winds through a thick canopy of pines and features more than 20 designated mountain bike trails across all skill levels:

• Beginner trails — Green-rated runs like Evergreen offer smooth, approachable terrain ideal for first-timers or younger riders. Flow is gentle, and the features are manageable.
• Intermediate routes — Blue trails such as Sleigh Ride deliver berms, rollers, and a satisfying rhythm through the trees without requiring advanced technical skills.
• Advanced downhill trails — Black diamond and double-black diamond trails like Arrow and Comet offer wood features, steeper terrain, and the kind of challenge that keeps experienced riders coming back.
• Bike rentals — SkyPark’s on-site bike shop carries a solid fleet of rental bikes from brands including Santa Cruz, Specialized, Giant, Yeti, and more. E-bikes and youth bikes are also available. Rental fees are additional to park admission.
• Skills areas — The park includes a skills area and pump tracks for younger or newer riders to develop confidence before heading onto the main trails. Certified instructors offer lessons for beginners and those looking to progress.

Note that unlike a ski resort bike park, SkyPark does not have a chairlift. Riders pedal up a dirt road to access the trails from the top — which adds an endurance element to the experience and is worth factoring into your planning, particularly with younger kids.

You’re welcome to bring your own bike, provided it meets the park’s safety guidelines. Guests may also bring their own e-bikes, but only Class 1 pedal-assist models are permitted on the trails. Class 2 and Class 3 throttle-powered e-bikes are not allowed.

Ride the Adventure Zipline

SkyPark’s Adventure Zipline takes guests on a canopy-level flight through the pine forest — one of the more memorable ways to experience the park’s elevation and natural surroundings. The zipline is reservation-based and tends to fill up quickly, particularly on weekends and during peak season. Booking early in the day (or in advance online) is advisable if this is a priority.

Climb Floki’s Frozen Falls

Floki’s Frozen Falls is the park’s multi-level climbing tower, offering a rock-climbing experience set against the backdrop of the forest. It’s accessible to guests of various ages and skill levels, making it a popular stop for both kids and adults who want a bit of a vertical challenge.

Experience Arrow’s Adventure

Arrow’s Adventure is SkyPark’s pedal car course — the park’s own take on the classic theme park ride. It’s particularly popular with younger children and families, offering a fun, self-powered circuit through a section of the village.

Ride the Northwoods Express

The Northwoods Express is a train ride with roots in the original 1955 Santa’s Village. It remains one of the park’s most charming activities, particularly for younger children and anyone feeling nostalgic for the original incarnation of the park. It’s included with general admission.

Test Your Skills at the Archery Range

SkyPark’s archery range is open to guests of varying experience levels. Instruction and equipment are provided, and it’s one of those activities that tends to appeal to the whole family — surprisingly engaging even for guests who’ve never picked up a bow before.

Try King Celwyn’s Axe Challenge

Axe throwing has become a popular activity at adventure parks, and SkyPark has its own themed version in King Celwyn’s Axe Challenge. Instructors are on hand to guide guests through proper technique. It’s a surprisingly satisfying activity, and one that tends to generate a fair bit of competitive spirit among group visitors.

Visit the Sharpshooter Gallery

The Sharpshooter Gallery is a shooting gallery-style attraction included within the park’s general admission activities — a good option for guests looking for something low-key between more active pursuits.

Enjoy Seasonal Ice or Roller Skating (when available)

SkyPark’s Silver Bells Arena converts between ice skating (in winter) and roller skating (in warmer months), depending on the season. Skate rentals are included with park admission when the rink is operational. It’s worth checking the park’s seasonal schedule ahead of your visit to confirm which format is running during your planned dates.

Explore Forest Walking and Hiking Trails

Beyond the bike trails, SkyPark has walking and hiking paths that move through the property’s meadows, ponds, and forested sections. The Henck Meadowlands Conservation Trail is the most notable, offering a guided route through ecologically significant sections of the park. It’s a quieter counterpoint to the more adrenaline-driven activities, and well-suited to guests who simply want to spend time in the forest.

Visit Santa’s House

Santa’s House is one of the park’s most enduring draws, and perhaps its most distinctive offering. Santa is available for visits year-round — something genuinely unusual for a theme park. During peak seasons (particularly Christmas), visits to Santa’s House are reservation-based and tend to book out quickly. Checking availability and booking ahead during busy periods is strongly recommended.

Meet the Park’s Characters

Beyond Santa, SkyPark maintains a roster of park characters who roam the village and interact with guests throughout the day. These characters are part of what gives the park its distinctive, story-driven personality.

Watch Live Entertainment

Live entertainment is part of the SkyPark daily experience and varies by season:

• Magic shows — The Wacko Show is a family magic show that has been a recurring feature of the park’s entertainment programming.
• Puppet shows — The Magic Tree Theatre hosts puppet performances throughout the day, particularly popular with younger children.
• Seasonal performances — During the Christmas season, Kids Imagine Nation perform live, and the park stages a nightly tree lighting ceremony on Candy Cane Lane. Seasonal events across the year bring additional performances and themed entertainment.

Let Kids Enjoy Interactive Play Areas

SkyPark includes interactive play spaces and discovery areas suited to younger children — including gem mining and seasonal craft activities. Some craft activities (such as cookie decorating) carry a small additional fee. The park is designed with the understanding that not every visitor wants to mountain bike or zipline; there’s enough low-key, child-friendly content to keep younger guests engaged throughout a full day.

Seasonal Events at SkyPark

SkyPark operates on a four-season model, with distinct events and theming applied across the year. Each season brings its own overlay of decorations, food specials, and programming.

Spring Activities

Spring at SkyPark is marked by the return of warmer weather and a more relaxed atmosphere after the Christmas season. The park typically hosts an Easter egg hunt and a Breakfast with the Easter Bunny event. It’s a relatively quieter time of year, which can make it a good choice for guests who prefer to avoid peak crowds.

Summer Adventures

Summer is one of the park’s busiest and most programme-rich seasons:

• Mountain biking — The long summer days are ideal for the bike park. June is historically the most popular month for riding at SkyPark based on trail usage data.
• Outdoor concerts — The Tunes in the Trees summer concert series brings live music to the park on selected weekends, drawing visitors who combine an evening of entertainment with the forest setting.
• Family activities — Saturday Skate Nights (roller skating), increased character activity, and the general energy of the summer season make this one of the more vibrant times to visit.

Fall Celebrations

Autumn brings Pumpkins in the Pines — one of SkyPark’s most popular seasonal events. Running across weekends in October, the event adds:

• A park-wide pumpkin patch
• Trick-or-treating throughout the village
• Pumpkin painting
• Costume contests
• The Legend of Sleepy Hollow puppet show
• Themed seasonal food and beverages

Pumpkins in the Pines access is included with standard park admission.

Christmas at SkyPark

The Christmas season is the park’s signature time of year — the culmination of everything that makes SkyPark distinctive. Activities and features during the Christmas season include:

• Santa experiences — Visits to Santa’s House (reservation-based; book early)
• Holiday decorations — The village is decorated for the season, and the nightly tree lighting ceremony on Candy Cane Lane is a highlight
• Seasonal entertainment — The Wacko Show magic performances, Magic Tree Theatre puppet shows, and Kids Imagine Nation live performances run regularly
• Ice skating — The Silver Bells Arena operates as an ice rink during winter months; skate rentals are included with admission
• Festive treats — The Gingerbread House Bakery and K’s Kandy Shoppe & Creamery are particularly active during the Christmas season

After Christmas, the park transitions into a “Winter Wonderland” phase with snow play (weather permitting) and a scavenger hunt.

The holiday season is the park’s busiest period. Tickets can and do sell out. Booking online well in advance is not just recommended — it’s essentially necessary for weekend and holiday visits. Same-day tickets are not guaranteed.

Mountain Biking at SkyPark

Why Riders Love SkyPark

SkyPark’s bike park has developed a genuine following among Southern California mountain bikers. The trails are groomed daily, the berms and jump features are consistently well-maintained, and the wood features are crafted to a high standard. The fact that it’s a self-contained trail network within a forested adventure park — with a full bike shop, food and drink, and other activities available when you’re done riding — makes it unusually convenient for mixed groups.

The setting itself is a draw. Riding through a thick canopy of Incense Cedars and Ponderosa Pines at over 5,900 feet, with clean mountain air and properly built trails underfoot, is a noticeably different experience from riding in the valley.

Trail Difficulty Levels

SkyPark’s trail network includes green (beginner), blue (intermediate), and black/double-black diamond (advanced) runs. There are 22 designated mountain bike trails on the property according to Trailforks, with the longest trail — Devil’s Hole — stretching 2.6 miles. Skills areas and pump tracks are available for younger or developing riders.

Bike Rentals Available

The SkyPark Bike Shop is a full-service on-site shop carrying brands including Santa Cruz, Juliana, Specialized, Giant, Eminent, Rocky Mountain, Transition, Yeti, and Mondraker. Demo bikes are available to ride all day and go towards a potential purchase. Bike rentals (including youth bikes) can be booked separately from park admission. Personal bikes are welcome. Guests may also bring their own e-bikes, provided they are Class 1 pedal-assist only — Class 2 and Class 3 throttle-powered models are not permitted on the trails.

Skills Clinics and Lessons

SkyPark offers mountain bike lessons taught by certified instructors, suited to beginners who want to build foundational technique, as well as more experienced riders looking to improve specific skills. Lessons are an add-on to park admission and are bookable on the website.

Annual Bike Festivals and Special Events

SkyPark hosts Bike Fest as one of its signature summer events — a celebration of mountain biking that draws riders from across the region for races, skill challenges, and community activities. The event is part of SkyPark’s broader calendar of cycling-focused programming that includes seasonal events throughout the year.

Family-Friendly Attractions

Best Activities for Toddlers

SkyPark is genuinely toddler-friendly. The Arrow’s Adventure pedal car course, Northwoods Express train ride, and gem mining activities at Santa’s Village Mining Co. are all accessible for very young guests. Interactive play areas and character meet-and-greets keep toddlers engaged. Children aged 3 and under are admitted free when accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Fun for Elementary-Aged Kids

The climbing tower, archery range, Sharpshooter Gallery, and skating rink are all well-suited to primary school-aged children. The seasonal craft activities — cookie decorating, gemstone mining, letter-writing to Santa — tend to go over particularly well with this age group.

Activities Teens Will Enjoy

Teens are typically most drawn to the mountain bike trails, zipline, axe throwing, and climbing tower. The Tunes in the Trees concerts during summer are another draw for older kids who want an evening event. The more adrenaline-oriented activities give teenagers a genuine reason to engage with the park, rather than simply being tagged along on a family trip.

Things Adults Love Too

Beyond the bike park and adventure activities, SkyPark has carved out a surprisingly grown-up dining and drinks scene. The Reindeer Room is a hidden speakeasy within the park, offering handcrafted cocktails in a unique alpine setting. St. Nick’s Patio & Grille and the Pedal Pub are full-service dining and bar options. The park’s relaxed pace and natural setting also make it a comfortable destination for adults who simply want a quiet mountain day rather than high-octane activity.

Multi-Generational Family Visits

SkyPark arguably performs at its best for multi-generational groups. Grandparents can enjoy the village atmosphere, live entertainment, and dining while parents and older children tackle the bike trails, zipline, or axe throwing. Toddlers have their own programming. It’s a destination where different members of the same family can genuinely pursue their own interests under the same roof — or more accurately, the same canopy of pines.

Dining at SkyPark

Restaurants Inside the Park

SkyPark’s dining footprint has grown considerably since the 2016 reopening. Current options include St. Nick’s Patio & Grille for sit-down meals, and the Pedal Pub, which offers a casual dining and craft beer experience. The park has approximately six dining establishments in total across its village area.

Coffee Shops and Bakeries

Kringle’s Coffee & Gifts is the park’s main coffee destination. The Gingerbread House Bakery — operating out of the restored structure originally known as the Good Witch’s Bakery — serves fresh-baked goods, cookies, and holiday-themed treats. K’s Kandy Shoppe & Creamery handles the ice cream and sweets end of things.

Seasonal Food Specials

Each of SkyPark’s four seasonal overlays brings its own food programming. Autumn brings harvest-themed treats and pumpkin-flavoured items during Pumpkins in the Pines. Winter layers in hot drinks, gingerbread, and holiday confections during the Christmas season.

Sweet Treats You Shouldn’t Miss

The Gingerbread House Bakery and K’s Kandy Shoppe & Creamery are well worth stopping at regardless of when you visit. During the Christmas season, the cookie decorating experience (available for an additional fee, held in the Enchanted Forest Room near the bakery) is particularly popular with families.

Shopping at SkyPark

Christmas Decorations

Given the park’s year-round Christmas identity, ornaments, decorations, and holiday-themed merchandise are available throughout the year — not just in season. For guests who love Christmas and want to take a piece of it home regardless of when they’re visiting, the village shops deliver.

Outdoor Gear

The Sky Adventure Center functions as an adventure supply shop, stocking gear and accessories suited to campers, cyclists, mountaineers, and general outdoor enthusiasts. The SkyPark Bike Shop carries branded merchandise alongside bike parts and accessories.

Souvenirs

Sky Trading Company and a selection of other retail spaces within the village carry SkyPark-branded merchandise and gifts. The range of souvenir options is broad enough to cover both keepsake hunters and practical shoppers.

Gifts and Local Merchandise

The park’s retail spaces lean into the mountain community identity, with items suited to the San Bernardino Mountains setting. It’s worth allowing a bit of time to browse — the village atmosphere makes it easy to wander between shops.

Tickets and Admission

General Admission

SkyPark uses dynamic pricing that varies across the year. As a reference point, a recent published rate shows:

Category	Price
Adult (ages 18–64)	From $59/person
Child (ages 4–17)	From $49/person
Senior (ages 65–74)	From $49/person
Child (ages 3 and under)	Free with parent/guardian
Senior (ages 75+)	Free
Parking	$15/vehicle

Pricing changes throughout the year to reflect different seasonal experiences and events. Always check the official SkyPark website for accurate pricing on your intended visit date.

Annual Passes

SkyPark offers two tiers of annual pass:

• Annual Pass — Covers park entry and parking across the year.
• Lifestyle Pass — Provides entry to the grounds for shopping, dining, and live entertainment, without the full adventure activity access of the standard annual pass.

Annual passholders enter free with a valid wristband, making the pass a sensible investment for frequent visitors or local families.

What Is Included with Admission?

A standard Day Pass covers the vast majority of the park’s activities: mountain biking trails, hiking, archery, axe throwing, Arrow’s Adventure pedal cars, the Northwoods Express train, Floki’s Frozen Falls climbing tower, the Sharpshooter Gallery, skating (when operational), live entertainment, and general access to the village area. All guests must complete a waiver regardless of which activities they plan to participate in.

Activities That May Cost Extra

• Bike and helmet rentals
• Mountain bike lessons
• Stroller and wheelchair rentals (wheelchairs are also available to rent on-site)
• Cookie decorating and certain seasonal craft activities
• Photo with Santa (during holiday season)

Where to Buy Tickets

Tickets are purchased online at skyparksantasvillage.com. Same-day walk-up availability is not guaranteed, particularly on weekends, public holidays, and during the Christmas season. Booking in advance is the safest approach.

Best Time to Visit SkyPark

Visiting During Summer

Summer is a strong time to visit — the park is fully operational across all activity categories, temperatures at elevation are comfortably cooler than the valley, and the Tunes in the Trees concert series adds an evening entertainment dimension on selected weekends. The trade-off is that it’s also the busiest period, particularly on Saturdays.

Visiting During Fall

The Pumpkins in the Pines event makes autumn one of the more fun times to visit for families. Weekday visits in October can be relatively quieter than weekends, and the changing light and cooling temperatures give the park a particularly atmospheric quality.

Visiting During Winter

The Christmas season is peak SkyPark. If the full Santa’s Village experience is what you’re after — ice skating, tree lighting ceremonies, festive food, live performances, and the holiday decorations — this is the time to come. Plan well ahead, book tickets early, and be prepared for the possibility of cold weather and the slim chance of snow.

Weekdays vs. Weekends

Weekdays are consistently quieter than weekends across all seasons. If your schedule allows flexibility, a midweek visit offers shorter waits for popular activities (including the zipline and Santa’s House), more relaxed dining options, and a more spacious feel throughout the park.

Weather Considerations

SkyPark sits at approximately 5,910 feet above sea level. Even in summer, mornings can be cool and evenings notably cold. Winter visits can bring genuinely wintry conditions — though actual snow is not guaranteed and depends entirely on weather patterns. Checking forecasts before you visit is strongly recommended, and dressing in layers is advisable regardless of season.

Tips for First-Time Visitors

Arrive Early

The park opens at 10:00 AM and some of the most popular activities — particularly the Adventure Zipline and visits to Santa’s House — fill reservation slots quickly. Arriving at opening is the most reliable way to secure your preferred activities.

Dress for Mountain Weather

Even on warm days in the valley, temperatures at SkyPark’s elevation can be noticeably cooler. A light jacket for the morning and evening is sensible across most of the year. In winter, full cold-weather layering is necessary.

Wear Comfortable Walking Shoes

Much of the park involves walking along forest paths and between the various activity areas. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are required for most activities — sandals won’t serve you well here.

Bring Layers

The mountain environment is variable. You may arrive in sunshine and find temperatures drop significantly by mid-afternoon, particularly if you’re there in autumn, winter, or spring. A packable layer takes up minimal space and can make the difference between a comfortable and an uncomfortable afternoon.

Book Activities in Advance

The zipline and Santa’s House visits are reservation-based and limited in capacity. During peak periods (weekends, school holidays, the Christmas season), these can be fully booked before you arrive. Reserve online when purchasing your tickets.

Plan for a Full-Day Visit

Most guests who take in the full range of SkyPark’s activities find a full day goes quickly. If you’re bringing a family with varied interests — mountain bikers, younger kids, grandparents who prefer to browse the village — budget a full day and use the dining options on-site to pace yourselves.

Accessibility Information

Stroller-Friendly Areas

The village and most of SkyPark’s flat activity areas are navigable with a pushchair. Some forested paths are natural terrain and may be uneven. Stroller rentals are available on-site for an additional fee.

Wheelchair Accessibility

SkyPark is certified as an IBCCES Autism Centre and takes accessibility seriously. Wheelchairs are available to rent on-site (limited availability; bringing your own is recommended where possible). The park’s Golden Ticket Programme accommodates guests with disabilities who have difficulty waiting in lines — request access at the park or via the Pre-Travel Survey on the website, which should be completed at least seven days before your visit. Guests with state-issued disability placards may use the main or overflow parking lots.

Accessibility Services

The park offers IBCCES Sensory Guides for guests who may be sensitive to certain stimuli in the park environment. First Aid is available in the Security Office at the main admissions building. Contact 909-744-9933 for Security and First Aid directly.

Pet Policy

Pets are not permitted at SkyPark at Santa’s Village. ADA-compliant service animals (dogs individually trained to perform tasks for a person with a disability) are permitted under ADA guidelines. Emotional support animals, therapy animals, and comfort animals are not considered service animals under the ADA and are therefore not allowed in the park.

Other Attractions Near SkyPark

The Skyforest and Lake Arrowhead area has a number of other destinations worth including in a broader San Bernardino Mountains itinerary.

Lake Arrowhead Village

Located a short drive north from SkyPark, Lake Arrowhead Village sits along the shore of the lake and offers boutique shopping, casual and upscale dining, and access to the Lake Arrowhead Queen — a paddlewheel boat that offers lake tours. It’s a gentler, more leisurely counterpart to SkyPark and works well as a half-day add-on.

Heaps Peak Arboretum

A small, peaceful arboretum located near SkyPark off CA-18, Heaps Peak offers a free self-guided interpretive walk through native mountain plant species. It’s a low-key stop that suits guests looking for a quiet, educational forest experience — particularly appealing for younger children or nature enthusiasts.

Snow Valley Mountain Resort

Located near Running Springs along CA-18, Snow Valley is the area’s most accessible ski resort. During winter months it operates as a snow sports destination for skiers and snowboarders; in other seasons, it’s a green mountain landscape with easy access to hiking. If you’re planning a winter trip to the area, it’s a natural pairing with SkyPark. You can also explore more things to do in Big Bear this summer for broader mountain activity ideas across the region.

Rim Nordic Ski Area

For cross-country skiing enthusiasts, Rim Nordic operates near the SkyPark area during winter months and offers groomed trails for Nordic skiing and snowshoeing. It’s a quieter, more specialist option than Snow Valley but a good fit for guests with specific snow sport interests.

Deep Creek Scenic Area

Part of the San Bernardino National Forest, Deep Creek offers more rugged hiking and access to natural hot springs further into the backcountry. It suits more experienced hikers who want to get off the beaten track. Access conditions vary seasonally.

Staying Near SkyPark

Why Stay in Running Springs?

Running Springs sits approximately 5 miles east of SkyPark along CA-18, making it one of the closest residential communities to the park. For guests who want to spend a full day at SkyPark — or return on consecutive days — staying in Running Springs makes logistical sense. The town has the basics covered for food and supplies, and its quieter character suits guests who are there for the mountains rather than the tourist infrastructure.

Running Springs also sits in a good position relative to other area attractions: Snow Valley Mountain Resort, Lake Arrowhead Village, and the broader San Bernardino National Forest are all accessible within a short drive. If you’re exploring the region, it’s an unpretentious base that puts you close to most of what the mountains have to offer.

Stay Close to Adventure at Wild Olive Cabins

For guests visiting SkyPark, Wild Olive Cabins in Running Springs is a natural fit as a home base. The cabins are around 5 miles from the park — close enough to make an early arrival easy, and far enough to feel genuinely removed from the day-trip energy of the park environment when you return in the evening.

The cabin setting offers the kind of quiet that’s hard to find when you’re staying inside a tourist town. After a full day of cycling, ziplining, or exploring the village, returning to a comfortable mountain cabin with space to unwind is a different kind of ending to the day than a hotel room.

• Short drive to SkyPark — Approximately 5 miles or around 10 minutes along CA-18
• Peaceful mountain setting — Running Springs sits among the pines with a noticeably quieter atmosphere than busier mountain communities
• Comfortable cabin accommodations — Cabin-style lodging suited to families, couples, and groups
• Ideal base for exploring the San Bernardino Mountains — Well-positioned for day trips to Snow Valley, Lake Arrowhead, and the broader national forest
• Easy access to hiking, skiing, mountain biking, and Lake Arrowhead — Most of the area’s main activities are within a 15–30 minute drive

If you’re exploring the broader region, the Big Bear Lake, CA guide is also worth a look for ideas on extending your mountain itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions About SkyPark at Santa’s Village

Is SkyPark open year-round?

Yes. SkyPark operates throughout the year, though it is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Hours vary by season, so it’s worth checking the official calendar before planning your visit. Some activities may not be available across all seasons.

How long should I spend at SkyPark?

Most guests spend between 4 and 6 hours; families with children and guests who intend to mountain bike for much of the day often stay a full day. There’s enough across the park’s activity and dining options to fill a full day comfortably.

Is SkyPark worth visiting if I don’t mountain bike?

Yes. The bike trails are one of SkyPark’s flagship draws, but the park offers a full programme of activities independent of cycling: the zipline, climbing tower, archery, axe throwing, skating, live entertainment, character visits, seasonal events, dining, and shopping. Non-cyclists find plenty to do.

Can you visit Santa year-round?

Yes. This is one of SkyPark’s genuinely unusual offerings. Santa is a year-round resident of the park and is available for visits outside of the holiday season — though the experience is more elaborate during the Christmas season, when visits to Santa’s House are reservation-based and fill quickly.

Is SkyPark good for toddlers?

Yes. Children aged 3 and under are admitted free. The Northwoods Express train ride, Arrow’s Adventure pedal cars, gem mining, and character meet-and-greets are all well-suited to young children. The park has a family-friendly atmosphere throughout.

Are pets allowed?

No. Pets are not permitted in the park. ADA-defined service animals (dogs trained to perform tasks for a person with a disability) are allowed; emotional support and comfort animals are not.

Is parking free?

Not for day visitors — parking is currently $15 per vehicle. However, Annual Passholders with the full Annual Pass receive complimentary parking as part of their membership.

Can you bring your own bike?

Yes — personal bikes that meet SkyPark’s trail requirements are welcome. Guests may also bring their own e-bikes, but only Class 1 pedal-assist models are permitted on the trails; Class 2 and Class 3 throttle-powered e-bikes are not allowed. Check the park’s current bike policy on their website for the complete list of trail rules and restrictions.

Is SkyPark suitable during winter?

Yes, particularly for families drawn to the Christmas theme and ice skating. Mountain biking and other outdoor activities continue to operate through winter (weather permitting). Visitors should dress warmly, check weather forecasts, and be prepared for the possibility of cold temperatures and — on occasion — snow.

Plan Your Mountain Escape: SkyPark and Beyond

A trip to SkyPark is easy to build a multi-day mountain itinerary around. One day at the park covers a lot of ground — but there’s more waiting in the surrounding mountains. Snow Valley for skiing in winter. Lake Arrowhead Village for lakeside wandering. Heaps Peak Arboretum for a quiet forest walk. The trails of the San Bernardino National Forest for more ambitious hikers.

If you’re coming from the greater Los Angeles area or the Inland Empire, the drive up CA-18 or CA-138 into Running Springs puts you close to all of it. A vacation rental in the Running Springs area gives you the flexibility to pick your days — SkyPark on one, a slower forest morning on another — without the pressure of squeezing everything into a single visit.

The mountains reward the guests who stay a little longer. SkyPark is a compelling reason to do exactly that.