Champion Lodgepole Pine Trail
Length: 1.4 miles round trip Difficulty: Moderate
The Champion Lodgepole Pine Trailhead is located on the south side of Big Bear Lake. From Hwy 18, turn south on Mill Creek Road which turns into Forest Service (FS) Road 2N10 (dirt fire road with possible rocks, ruts, uneven surfaces. Use caution.) Continue on FS Road 2N10 for 4.5 miles, turn right on 2N11 and continue for 1 mile to the trailhead. The Champion Lodgepole Pine Trail is a gentle walk on a path along a small stream and ends in a meadow with one of the largest known Lodgepole pines in California. The Bluff Mesa Trail (no bikes) continues north for an additional 0.4 miles and ends at the Bluff Mesa Group Camp.
Moderate 1.4 miles round trip
Big Bear Lake is an outdoor playground. There are hiking trails for every skill level.
Find more information about Big Bear Hiking Trails, News, Guides, Safety, Dog-Friendly Hiking, and Events all listed here.
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Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs
Most trailheads, recreation areas, and parking lots in the Big Bear Valley require an adventure pass. Find more info HERE about the National Forest requirements before planning your next hiking or biking trip.
Adventure Passes are required for parking at any U.S. Forest trailheads and recreation areas. Daily Passes are available at the Big Bear Visitors Center. You may also use your America the Beautiful (National Park) Pass. Just leave it on your dashboard before you head out on the trail.
This trail is rated as moderate. While the path itself is gentle and relatively flat, reaching the trailhead requires a drive along dirt roads that may have uneven or rocky surfaces. The trail is suitable for most hikers once at the trailhead.
Yes, dogs are allowed and must be kept on a leash. Make sure to bring water for your dog and clean up after them along the trail.
The trail is approximately 1.4 miles round trip. Most hikers complete it in about 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on pace and time spent exploring the meadow or Bluff Mesa extension.
To access the trailhead, turn onto Mill Creek Road from Highway 18, then continue 4.5 miles on FS Road 2N10 (a dirt fire road). Turn right on FS Road 2N11 and drive another mile. Parking is available at the trailhead area. High-clearance vehicles are recommended.
Hiking Trail etiquette is a standard set of guidance for hiking in-general. Proper etiquette is important to maintaining the natural environment around wilderness trails. Please:
- Stay on the designated trails
- Try to avoid stepping on wildflowers, bushes, and other plant life
- Don’t be a litter-bug. Do not leave trash along the trails or in the wilderness
- Avoid wildlife you come across on trails
- Clean-up after your dog
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June 30, 2025 Updated 12:53 PM
