Hiking in Big Bear
Hiking in Big Bear and the San Bernardino National Forest is a great outdoor activity. Easily reachable from your cabin in Big Bear, these hiking trails are worth exploring. The aspen glen picnic area is a key starting point for multiple trails, including the Cabin 89 and Pine Knot Trails. Whether you are looking for hiking trails near Big Bear with spectacular views of the lake, or a longer hike with views of the surrounding mountains, you will find the great outdoors close to Los Angeles. Big Bear Valley offers a scenic and diverse mountain ecosystem with rich flora and fauna, panoramic views, and numerous recreational opportunities. Check out these destination hikes in Big Bear recommended by SoCal hiker David and his blog: Nobody Hikes in LA. Be sure to purchase a National Forest Adventure Pass before parking from the Big Bear Discovery Center.
Big Bear Trails for Easy Big Bear Lake Hiking
Heaps Peak Arboretum – Stop by on your way up the mountain to your cabin in Big Bear. Conveniently located off highway 18, the Arboretum features a quick 30 minute pleasant hike that is perfect for stretching your legs and is wheelchair accessible and offers an easy loop with beautiful views.
Alpine Pedal Path – This is a popular trail that runs along the north shore of Big Bear. It’s a beautiful way to leisurely enjoy the views of the lake, mountains and fresh air.
Woodland Interpretive Trail
Located near the Stanfield Cut-Off in Big Bear Lake, this trail is perfect for acclimating to the thin mountain air of the San Bernardino National Forest. The loop takes about an hour and includes beautiful views of Big Bear. Explore the beauty of this wooded trail with a self-guided tour featuring 16 interactive stops. Pick up a brochure at the Big Bear Visitor Center to learn about the valley’s fascinating botany, geology, and wildlife. Along the way, kids can enjoy climbing boulder outcroppings, and scenic vantage points offer stunning views of the lake. Perfect for biking, horseback riding, and introducing little ones to nature’s wonders, this trail is a favorite for families.
Bristlecone Trail
Length: 1.8 miles, Difficulty: Easy Hike
Perfect for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, this gentle trail begins and ends near the Fire Service Road by Snow Summit and Buttercup Campground. It also serves as a gateway to the Skyline Trail and 2N10 Fire Road, making it a great option for exploring more of the area’s scenic routes.
Castle Rock Trail:
2.4 miles total length, Difficulty: Intermediate/Difficult
Castle Rock Trail is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, providing breathtaking views all year long. Boulder outcroppings, a seasonal waterfall, and colorful fall foliage can all be found along this heavily forested trail. The seasonal creek adds a cool charm in the spring. The highlight is Castle Rock, a striking granite formation with panoramic views of Big Bear Lake. You might even catch rock climbers tackling its steeper side.
The trail begins with a challenging half-mile ascent that quickly gets your heart racing before leveling out toward Castle Rock. The trailhead is located 1 mile east of Big Bear Dam on Highway 18, marked by a small brown sign. Parking is available at the turnout along the highway. For those looking to extend their adventure, the trail connects to the Champion Lodgepole Trail.
Note: No bikes are allowed on this trail.
Moderate Hiking in Big Bear
Grays Peak– A favorite of locals and visitors alike, Grays Peak Trail is a pleasant option for both hikers and mountain bikers and easy to get to from your Big Bear cabin rental. The trail is a steady 3 mile climb but the terrain is easily manageable. The trail starts along North Shore Drive, just outside of Fawnskin. Make sure you have an adventure pass for parking and your camera to take a picture of the amazing view of Big Bear at the end!
Strenuous Big Bear Hiking
Cougar Crest Trail to Bertha Peak– Close to Big Bear Lake and Fawnskin with an easy drive from your cabin in Big Bear, this 3 hour hike is popular with visitors and locals, and meets up with the Pacific Crest Trail with great views of Holcomb Valley and Big Bear. Find the trail head right off the 38 near the Big Bear Dam.
Keller Peak Lookout via Exploration Trail– if you are looking for an elevation challenge and a little more time out on the mountain, this 6 hour hike has a little bit of everything. With fantastic views and a historic fire lookout, this trail near Running Springs is a destination worth the time and is easy to get to from your Big Bear cabin rental off the 330 and Keller Peak Road.
For more hikes near Big Bear and the surrounding National Forest, check out David’s Nobody Hikes in LA Guidebook
Safety and Precautions
Before going on a hike in Big Bear Lake, it’s essential to take necessary safety precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable hiking experience. Some of the tips include:
- Always wear hiking boots and bring plenty of water and snacks.
- Check the weather forecast and trail conditions before heading out.
- Bring a map and compass, and know how to use them.
- Let someone know your itinerary and expected return time.
- Be aware of your surroundings and watch for wildlife, including bears, coyotes, and bobcats.
- Bring an Adventure Pass, which is required for parking at trailheads.
- Visit the Big Bear Visitor Center for up-to-date information on trail conditions and recommendations.
Following these safety tips and choosing a trail that suits your skill level, you can have a safe and enjoyable hiking experience in Big Bear Lake. Whether you’re exploring the easy trails in Big Bear or tackling the more strenuous ones, the beauty and diversity of Big Bear’s hiking trails will leave you with unforgettable memories.
To book your Destination Big Bear Cabin Rental, call (909) 752-0234. Destination Big Bear has cabins conveniently located near Bear Mountain Golf Course, Snow Summit, Big Bear Mountain, Big Bear Village, and Big Bear Lake. We have cabins for every budget from cheap cabin rentals to luxury cabin rentals. Ask about pet-friendly cabins and activities to do in Big Bear.
Also, check out Big Bear Bike Rentals Here!