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Writer's pictureTheodore Trentman

Hike's In Big Bear Area



1. Castle Rock Trail Castle Rock Trail is a scenic hiking trail located in Big Bear, California. It is a 3.2-mile out-and-back trail that is rated as moderate and is great for all skill levels. The trail offers a variety of stunning views of Big Bear Lake and the San Bernardino Mountains. Castle Rock Trail is great for a day hike, where hikers can enjoy the beauty of the surrounding nature, as well as the wildlife that can be seen along the way. The trailhead is located at the Big Bear Discovery Center and the trail follows a meandering creek before reaching its summit at Castle Rock. There are several benches along the trail, as well as a picnic area with a view of the lake.

2. Alpine Pedal Path Alpine Pedal Path is a scenic, 10-mile bike route in Big Bear, California. It's a great way to explore the area and take in the sights of the San Bernardino National Forest. The trail is mostly flat and easy to navigate, making it great for cyclists of all skill levels. Along the route, you'll be able to take in majestic views of Big Bear Lake and the surrounding mountains. You'll also be able to stop at some of the many shops and restaurants located along the way. If you're looking for a fun and easy way to explore Big Bear, Alpine Pedal Path is the perfect choice.

3. Gold Mountain Trail Gold Mountain Trail is a 4.2 mile out-and-back trail located in Big Bear, California. This moderate trail offers breathtaking views of the San Bernardino Mountains and the surrounding area. The trail is a great way to experience the beauty of the region, with its lush pine forests, deep canyons and dramatic cliffs. Along the way, hikers can observe a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and birds. There are also plenty of opportunities for photography and picnicking. Gold Mountain Trail is a great way to explore the beauty of Big Bear and its surrounding areas.

4. Grout Bay Trail Grout Bay Trail is a popular hiking destination in Big Bear, California. This 4.4-mile out-and-back trail offers breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding area, as well as the chance to spot local wildlife. The trail is mostly level, with a few moderate inclines. The path is well maintained, wide enough to allow for two-way traffic, and is suitable for all skill levels. Along the way, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the lake, as well as the opportunity to spot birds, deer, and other wildlife. Grout Bay Trail is a great experience for anyone looking to explore the beauty of Big Bear.

5. Cougar Crest Trail Cougar Crest Trail is a scenic hiking trail located in Big Bear, California. This beautiful trail is roughly 8 miles long and winds through the San Bernardino National Forest. It offers unparalleled views of the surrounding mountains and forests, as well as a chance to spot some of the local wildlife, such as bears, deer, and coyotes. The trail is a moderate difficulty and can be done in a day, although most visitors prefer to take their time and enjoy the stunning scenery. Cougar Crest Trail is a popular destination for hikers, nature lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts, and is the perfect spot for a peaceful getaway.

6. John Bull Trail John Bull Trail is a popular hiking trail located in Big Bear, California. This scenic path winds through the San Bernardino Mountains and offers stunning panoramic views of the area. The trail is approximately two miles in length and takes approximately two hours to complete. Along the way you'll find lush pine forests, meadows, and an array of wildflowers. The trail is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, squirrels, and birds. The elevation gain is moderate and the terrain is mostly flat. The trailhead starts at the Big Bear Discovery Center and follows the John Bull Trail to the peak of the San Bernardino Mountains. The trail is a great way to explore Big Bear’s stunning natural beauty and get a glimpse of the area’s wildlife.

7. Pacific Crest Trail The Pacific Crest Trail (or PCT) is a long-distance hiking and equestrian trail that stretches from Mexico to Canada through the Sierra and Cascade mountain ranges in California. Big Bear, California is a destination for outdoor recreation enthusiasts and the PCT is no exception. Located in the San Bernardino National Forest, Big Bear offers some of the most scenic and remote sections of the PCT, with dramatic views of the San Gorgonio Wilderness and the San Bernardino Mountains. The trail passes through meadows, forests, alpine lakes, and other breathtaking landscapes. Hikers can camp along the trail and take advantage of the area's plentiful wildlife, including black bears and mule deer. There are also plenty of opportunities for day hikes, backpacking trips, and long-distance treks. Whether you're looking for a short adventure or a long-distance journey, the PCT in Big Bear is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.

8. Champion Lodgepole Pine Trail Champion Lodgepole Pine Trail is a beautiful and scenic trail located in Big Bear California. It is a moderate to difficult 4.5 mile loop trail that follows a winding path through the San Bernardino National Forest. The trail features a variety of landscapes and terrains, including rolling hills, dense forests, and open meadows. Along the way, hikers will be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lakes. The trail also passes by several small streams, providing a great opportunity to spot wildlife such as bald eagles, deer, and wild turkeys. The trailhead is located at the Champion Lodgepole Pine Picnic Area, which also offers plenty of parking and picnic facilities. For those looking for a challenging but rewarding hike, the Champion Lodgepole Pine Trail is a great option.

9. Knickerbocker Canyon Trail Knickerbocker Canyon Trail is an 8-mile loop trail in Big Bear, California. It is located in the San Bernardino National Forest, just a few miles from Big Bear Lake. The trail winds through a pine forest and along a creek with multiple small waterfalls, making it a popular destination for hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders. The trail is rated as moderate in difficulty, with an elevation gain of around 800 feet. Along the way, hikers can take in breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Wildflowers, deer and other wildlife can also be seen in the area. Knickerbocker Canyon Trail is a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and get some fresh air and exercise.

10. Cougar Crest Lookout Trail Cougar Crest Lookout Trail is a beautiful hiking trail located in Big Bear, California. This popular trail is 4.9 miles long and is of moderate difficulty. It offers spectacular views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The trailhead is located at the Cougar Crest Lookout, which provides a great spot for bird watching and taking in the stunning views. Along the trail, hikers will find a variety of different plants and wildlife, including pine, fir, and oak trees. The trail also features a few short but steep switchbacks, providing an extra challenge for experienced hikers. With its stunning views and challenging terrain, Cougar Crest Lookout Trail is the perfect place for a day of outdoor adventure.

11. Skyline Trail Skyline Trail is a moderate to difficult hike in Big Bear California located just a few miles from Big Bear Lake. The trail is 4.5 miles long and has an elevation gain of 1,100 feet. Along the way, hikers will traverse through meadows, oak and pine forests, and chaparral. The trail is a great way to experience the beauty of the San Bernardino Mountains and offers spectacular views of Big Bear Lake and the surrounding areas. The trail can be accessed by the East Big Bear Discovery Center, located at the intersection of North Shore Drive and Big Bear Boulevard. Hikers should be prepared for the steep ascent and should bring plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen.

12. Bluff Lake Trail Bluff Lake Trail is a beautiful and scenic hiking trail located in Big Bear, California. This trail offers a wide variety of terrain and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lake. Along the way, hikers can expect to see a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and other small animals. The trail is about 5 miles long and offers several options for different difficulty levels, from beginner to advanced. It is a great way to spend a day or two outdoors, enjoying nature and the fresh mountain air. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, Bluff Lake Trail is sure to provide hours of fun and adventure.

13. Metcalfe Trail Metcalfe Trail is a popular hiking trail in Big Bear, California. The trail is located in the San Bernardino National Forest and is approximately 5.5 miles in length. The trail provides breathtaking views of Big Bear Lake and the surrounding mountains. The trail ascends to a peak of 8,200 feet, providing hikers with a challenging climb as well as scenic views. Along the way, you can find lookout points and rest stops. The trail is open year-round and is especially popular in the summer months. Metcalfe Trail is a great way for hikers to explore the beauty of Big Bear, California.

14. Grandview Point Trail Grandview Point Trail is a 4.2 mile out and back trail located in Big Bear California. This breathtaking trail offers stunning views of the San Bernardino Mountains and the surrounding area. Grandview Point Trail is an easy to moderate hike, with a gradual incline and a few rocky sections. Along the trail you will find views of the lake, meadows, and forested areas. Wildlife is abundant and wildflowers bloom in the summer months. This trail is perfect for a day of hiking, and offers a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

15. North Shore Trail The North Shore Trail in Big Bear California is a popular hiking and mountain biking trail that stretches for 11 miles along the north shore of Big Bear Lake. The trail winds its way through a beautiful pine forest, offering breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding San Bernardino Mountains. The trail is mostly flat and easy to navigate, making it a great option for both novice and experienced hikers and mountain bikers. Along the trail, there are several spots to stop and take in the scenery, including scenic overlooks, beach access points, and picnic areas. The North Shore Trail is a great way to explore the beauty of Big Bear and enjoy some fresh air and exercise.

16. Snow Summit Trail

Snow Summit Trail in Big Bear California is a scenic and challenging trail for hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders. The trail is located in the San Bernardino National Forest and is just over 3.5 miles long. The trail follows the ridge line of Snow Summit, an 8,200 foot mountain, and offers spectacular views of the surrounding area. Along the way, you will pass through a variety of terrain, from dense forest to open meadows and rocky outcrops. The trail is well-marked and relatively easy to follow, but there are some steep sections where you will need to use your hands and feet to climb. At the top of the summit, you can take in stunning views of Big Bear Lake, the mountains, and beyond. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, Snow Summit Trail is the perfect place to explore.


17. Castle Rock Loop Trail

The Castle Rock Loop Trail in Big Bear California is a 6.4-mile hiking trail that offers breathtaking views of the San Bernardino Mountains. This trail is perfect for hikers of all levels, as it is not overly difficult, but still offers a great workout. The trail has a few steep climbs and descents, but the majority of the trail is relatively flat. Along the trail, you will find beautiful wildflowers, as well as stunning views of the Big Bear Lake. At the end of the trail, you will come to the summit of Castle Rock, which is the perfect spot for a picnic and some incredible views.


18. Snow Summit Lookout Trail

Snow Summit Lookout Trail is a scenic hiking trail located in Big Bear, California. This trail is approximately 1.5 miles long and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forest. The trail winds up to a viewpoint where visitors can take in the breathtaking panoramic views of the region. The trail is also a great spot for wildlife viewing as it winds through a variety of habitats. The trail is accessible year-round, but is best explored during the summer months when the air is clear and the scenery is at its best. This is a great way to get away from it all and experience the beauty of nature.


19. Grey’s Peak Trail

Grey's Peak Trail is a popular destination for hikers in the Big Bear area of California. Located in the San Bernardino National Forest, the trail offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valley below. Starting at the Grey's Summit Trailhead, the trail winds through the surrounding pines and cedars, offering alternating views of the surrounding forest and open meadows. Along the way, hikers will find a variety of wildflowers, trees, and shrubs. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow with its gradual elevation gain, making it an ideal hike for beginner and experienced hikers alike. At the top, hikers are rewarded with stunning views of Big Bear Lake and the surrounding mountains. The trail is popular year-round and can be completed in a few hours, making it an ideal day trip for those looking for a peaceful outdoor adventure.


20. Pine Knot Trail

Pine Knot Trail is a 6.2-mile trail located in Big Bear, California. The trail winds its way through the San Bernardino National Forest, providing views of the beautiful alpine scenery and a variety of wildlife. The trail is primarily used for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, and is accessible year-round. With an elevation gain of 1,398 feet, the trail offers a moderate challenge, with long, gradual ascents and descents. Along the way, hikers can explore numerous points of interest, including a variety of plants, wildflowers, and the often-photographed Pine Knot Cabin. Pine Knot Trail is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the stunning beauty of Big Bear.

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