Two distinct themes come together in Colton: the history of the railroad era and the Santa Ana River Trail. Historical traces lead from the early history of Agua Mansa to the reburial of Morgan Earp; the bike trail offers a different view of the city.

From the History of Agua Mansa to the Railroad Era

The traditional street grid in downtown Colton and the southern neighborhood dates back to the city’s layout during the railroad era of 1875.

The history of Agua Mansa also includes a land grant from 1845: Don Juan Bandini, owner of the Jurupa Rancho, ceded parts of his ranch to a group of colonists from New Mexico. A major flood swept away the adobe village of Agua Mansa in 1862. Agua Mansa Cemetery is one of the few surviving physical connections to the early Agua Mansa settlement in Colton.

Three notable dates mark Hermosa Gardens Cemetery: it was established in 1887; on November 29, 1892, American frontier lawman Morgan Earp was reburied there. In 1993, the cemetery was designated Historical Landmark No. 31.

The Colton Area Museum promotes awareness of the history of the Colton region by displaying historical artifacts and offering outreach programs, according to a 2024 publication by San Bernardino County. The Earp House connects Colton’s development during the railroad era with local and Western American history.

Santa Ana River Trail and Urban Paths

The Santa Ana River Trail runs through the city of Colton for more than six miles. The route lies between the Riverside County line to the west and the city of San Bernardino to the east. The trail is fully paved and designated as a Class 1 bike path for cyclists of all ages.

The Colton Staging Area provides access to the trail at the corner of La Cadena Drive and Tropica Rancho Road, just south of the Santa Ana River.

The options for getting around have different focuses: the Santa Ana River Trail is a paved Class 1 bike path stretching more than six miles; the Downtown Colton Paseo serves as a pedestrian connection and gathering place and is intended to encourage walking, cycling, and the use of public transit.

Colton’s Parks Division maintains twelve city parks totaling 49.56 acres.

Special event applications for events at the Downtown Colton Paseo are available at the Gonzales Community Center. Since application requirements may change, check the information before making plans.

Practical Information

The city lists the gates at Hermosa Gardens Cemetery as open daily from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.; they are locked when closed for security reasons. Check the published hours before your visit.

Discover more destinations: Big Bear Lake, Chino Hills, Barstow, Fort Irwin, Yermo, Rancho Cucamonga, Hesperia, Phelan.

For the main travel overview: San Bernardino.