Sand Canyon Road Viewpoint
Length: 4.6 Miles Difficulty: Moderate
The Sand Canyon Road Viewpoint Trail offers a moderate out-and-back route just outside Big Bear City. The trail follows a quiet forest service road that steadily climbs through open terrain, leading to a scenic ridgeline with wide views of Baldwin Lake and the San Bernardino Mountains. It’s ideal for hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders looking for a peaceful outdoor experience.
Shade is limited along the way, so carrying sun protection and plenty of water is essential. Dogs are welcome on a leash, and the unmarked viewpoint at the top provides a quiet spot to rest and enjoy the surrounding landscape. This trail is perfect for those who prefer quieter, less-traveled paths in the Big Bear area.
Moderate 4.6 Miles Out & Back (1,007 feet elevation gain)
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.
The Sand Canyon Road Viewpoint trail is considered Moderate. The initial part of the trail is relatively easy, but the final miles become more challenging with steeper inclines and some rocky sections.
Yes, leashed dogs are welcome at the viewpoint. It’s a short and scenic outing that pets can enjoy—just be sure to bring water and pick up after your dog.
The Sand Canyon Viewpoint trail near Big Bear, also known as Sand Canyon Road Viewpoint, is typically an out-and-back hike of 4.6 miles that takes about 2.5 to 3 hours to complete.
To park for the Sand Canyon Viewpoint Trail in Big Bear, you’ll park at the fork where the road splits into 1N05 and 1N02, after passing Heart Bar Campground and several equestrian camps along the road leading from Highway 38. This area is marked by a large brown sign on the west side of Highway 38, between Angelus Oaks and Big Bear.
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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July 11, 2025 Updated 7:31 AM
