Big Bear is known for its natural beauty, which is why it is a popular tourist destination in the San Bernardino Range. Miles of great Big Bear hiking trails, many with stunning views of Big Bear Lake and the San Bernardino Mountains, can be found in Big Bear. Whether you’re an experienced traveler or a new visitor, don’t worry. Below we have mentioned the Top 5 Big Bear Hiking Trails You Should Explore to have the best of adventures in Big Bear.
Woodland Interpretive Trail
This one-of-a-kind Big Bear hiking trail is ideal for the whole family. The Woodland Interpretive Trail is a 1.5-mile loop with a total elevation gain of only 300 feet. The hike is also educational in addition to being a great short workout. To learn more about the local flora, fauna, and geology, pick up a pamphlet at the entrance and take the self-guided tour.
How to Get There-
To get to the trail, drive around the lake to the north side until you reach Highway 38. About a quarter-mile west of the Stanfield Cutoff is the trail’s entrance. To park in the lot, you’ll need an Adventure Pass, which you can get at the Big Bear Visitor Center.
Castle Rock Trail
Castle Rock Trail, a local favorite, is a 2.4-mile round-trip hike that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the valley. The first half-mile is steep, but once you reach the granite rock at the top, it flattens out. Children are welcome to join in the fun, and they will enjoy the seasonal stream that runs through the majority of the hike.
Although the 500-foot elevation gain may appear difficult on the way up, it makes the relaxing hike down all the more enjoyable. Take some time to look for bugs, examine the cedar and fir trees, and toss rocks into the nearby waterfall.
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How to Get There-
This Big Bear hiking trail is situated a mile east of Big Bear Dam, just near Highway 18. Parking in the area of this popular hike can be scarce, but it’s one you won’t want to miss. Hike on a weekday or early in the morning to avoid the crowds.
Pine Knot Trail
Parking in the area of this popular Big Bear hiking trail can be scarce, but it’s one you won’t want to miss. Hike on a weekday or early in the morning to avoid the crowds.
Pine Knot Trail, a moderate to difficult hike, allows you to pick wildflowers while meandering through oak and pine trees. Continue climbing 1,400 feet through the forest switchbacks to Grand View Point, where you can see San Gorgonio Mountain and Catalina Island off in the distance. This 6-mile round-trip hike should take three to four hours to complete.
How to Get There-
On the west side of the lake, take Highway 18 to Big Bear Dam. Continue east on the highway until you reach Mill Creek Road, then turn right. At the Aspen Glen Picnic Area, take a right and you’ll find the trailhead parking lot. To park in this lot, you will need an Adventure Pass.
Cougar Crest Trail
Cougar Crest Trail is a moderate-to-difficult hike with a 750-foot elevation gain. This Big Bear hiking trail is for you if you want a heart-pumping workout with an incredible reward at the end! Bring plenty of water and snacks, as this 5.5-mile trail will take you about half a day to complete. Also, remember to bring a picnic lunch to enjoy at Bertha Peak’s summit.
The Cougar Crest Trail ends where it meets the famous Pacific Crest Trail, but you can reach Bertha Peak by continuing down the dirt maintenance road.
How to Get There –
It’s easy to get to this Big Bear hiki3ng trail because it’s close to the Big Bear Discovery Center parking lot, which is just off Highway 38. You can park for free until 5 p.m. if you walk the extra half-mile from the Discovery Center to the trailhead.
Gray’s Peak Trail
This long but serene Big Bear hiking trail in Fawnskin is open seasonally from April to October and is one you won’t want to miss. As you climb the first section of switchbacks, you’ll pass through patches of sun and shade.
The terrain flattens out for the remainder of the 3.5-mile trail after you conquer the first steep section (7 miles round-trip). Gray’s Peak Trail is not for inexperienced hikers and can be difficult for younger hikers due to its 1,000-foot elevation gain. Take the time to try out this challenging trail if you’re up for a long trek through the woods!
How to Get There-
Because of its location in the middle of Fawnskin’s bald eagle wintering habitat, Gray’s Peak path is only open seasonally (on the north side of Big Bear Lake). Take Highway 38 about half a mile west of Fawnskin to the Grout Bay Picnic Area, which is marked with signs. You are welcome to park anywhere in the picnic area lot, but please keep in mind that you will require an Adventure Pass.
So pack your trekking boots, fill up your bag, and enjoy the Big Bear hiking trails as you wander through dense Douglas fir forests. Finally, if you want to save money on your hiking trips, you should find discount codes on Couponxoo.com which have lots of great deals you can find.
