Two hikers on a mountain trail overlooking the ocean, with Big Bear Lake visible in the background.

Castle Rock Trail Big Bear

Length: 1.1 miles east of the dam on Hwy 18  Difficulty: Moderate

Castle Rock Trail is one of the most popular trails in Big Bear Lake with a great view of the lake at the top. Located 1.1 miles east of the dam on Hwy 18. The trail meanders through large boulders and mature trees. A new parking lot at Castle Rock Trail in Big Bear was implemented in 2025.

The newly completed parking log facility includes:

  • 38 parking spaces, two of which are ADA accessible
  • A new restroom building with two unisex stalls open from 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
  • A trash receptacle with a bin for solid waste and a bin for recyclables
  • A bicycle rack with a capacity to hold seven bicycles
  • A safer new entrance to the Castle Rock Trail
A wide view of Big Bear Lake and forested mountains from a hiking trail under a dramatic sky.

Hiking In Big Bear

Castle Rock Trail

yclist rides through a forest trail surrounded by autumn trees at Big Bear.

Alpine Pedal Path

Sunset view along a lakeside walking trail in Big Bear.

Sugarloaf National Recreation Trail

Two Hikers in Big Bear

Skyline Trail

A hiking trail winds through a mountainous landscape with a tree growing from a large boulder in Big Bear.

Siberia Creek Trail

A small wooden bridge along a forest hiking trail in Big Bear.

Sand Canyon Road Viewpoint

A hiking trail winds through a forest of tall pine trees in Big Bear.

Jenks Lake Trail

A trail sign points to "Jenks Lake Trail 1.1 M" on a sunny path in Big Bear.

Lassen Drive and Bow Canyon Loop

Sunlight filters through tall pine trees along a hiking path in Big Bear under a bright blue sky.

Cougar Crest Trail

A trail sign for Cougar Crest Trail sits on a dirt path overlooking Big Bear Lake and mountains.

Bow Canyon to Moon Ridge Loop

A dirt path winds through sunlit pine trees in a Big Bear forest.

Bertha Peak Trail

A panoramic view of Big Bear Lake and surrounding mountains from a hiking vantage point.

Castle Rock Peak

A clear view of Big Bear Lake and distant mountains framed by large rocks and trees.

Wildhorse Creek Trail

A scenic view of mountains and valleys under a cloudy sky in Big Bear.

Hanna flat Trail

cenic view of forested mountains and lake during a hike at Big Bear.

Towne Trail

Forested trail with a view of Big Bear Lake and mountains in the distance.

Big Bear Hiking Trails

Big Bear Lake is an outdoor playground.  There are hiking trails for every skill level. Choose from paved & easy to rocky & advanced or anything in between! Take in the picturesque views from our trails throughout the Big Bear Valley while breathing in the crisp mountain air!

Do I need an adventure Pass?

Most trailheads, recreation areas, and parking lots in the Big Bear Valley require an adventure pass. Follow Link above for more info about requirements before planning your next hiking or biking trip.

Also, Check out Hiking in Big Bear!

Outdoor Activities in Big Bear

December 28, 2025 Updated 1:34 PM

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