Big Bear Lake Hiking

Big Bear Trails for EASY Big Bear Lake Hiking

HEAPS PEAK ARBORETUM

Length: 1.1 KM     Difficulty: Easy Hike
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

Length: 8.4 KM     Difficulty: Easy Hike
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. It’s also one of the biking trails that’s perfect for families and casual riders.

WOODLAND INTERPRETIVE TRAIL

Length: 1.9 KM   Difficulty: Easy Hike
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. It’s also a great spot for trail users looking for something relaxing.

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 trail system. Ideal for casual outdoor activities, it’s one of Big Bear Lake’s more versatile trails.

KELLER PEAK LOOKOUT VIA EXPLORATION TRAIL

Length: 19.8KM   Difficulty: Moderate Hike
If you’re looking for a difficult trail 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.

JOHN BULL TRAIL

Length: 12.6KM   Difficulty: Moderate Hike 
Another tough trail accessible via Van Dusen Canyon, Big Bear Lake’s John Bull is among the more challenging trails with steep climbs and adventurous terrain. Please keep in mind that this trail is also used by motorized vehicles and be aware of other trail users.

CASTLE ROCK TRAIL

Length: 2.4 miles   Difficulty: Moderate Hike
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 first mile of 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 Pine Trail.
Note: No bikes are allowed on this trail.

GRANDVIEW POINT TRAIL

Length: 2.9KM   Difficulty: Moderate Hike 
Located on the south side of Big Bear Lake, this trail has it all. You guessed it, grand views! The climb might be demanding, but it’s totally worth the effort. On clear days, you can even see San Gorgonio from the top.

HARD Hiking Trails in Big Bear

SUGARLOAF NATIONAL RECREATION TRAIL 2E18

Length: 19KM   Difficulty: Hard Hike 
Head out on this 19.0-km out-and-back trail near Big Bear City, California. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 6 h 46 min to complete. This is a very popular area for hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.

PIONEEER TO PINACLES

Length: 15KM  Difficulty: Hard Hike 
Another back road with access to trailheads that allows you to access less-traveled trails. You will pass through beautiful forest roads and may connect to Sugarloaf Mountain for more wilderness adventure.

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 – respect wildlife and observe from a distance
• Stay on designated trails to protect local habitats.
• Bring an Adventure Pass. An Adventure Pass required for parking at trailheads.
• Clean up after your pets – dispose of pet waste properly.
• Use trash cans where available, and never leave trash behind.
• Do not trespass on private property – stay on marked paths.
• 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. Big Bear Lake offers a wealth of hiking and biking trails for outdoor activities. Whether you are biking along mountain bike trails, walk along relaxing forest edge trails, or taking a hike to Grandview Point, the options for trails in Big Bear are endless and there’s something for everyone. You can find easy trails for new adventurers or take on a more challenging trail. You’ll find fresh air, beauty of the forest, and great views no matter where you go. Many trails open year-round, offering adventure no matter the season.

See More: Big Bear Hiking & Biking Trails

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 for exploring biking trails and other trails throughout the area.

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