Best Fall Color Hikes

Southern California boasts few places to truly experience a real autumn season. But in Big Bear Lake, Mother Nature transforms our valley into a sea of gold, crimson, amber and yellow from mid October to early November.

Hiking trails take on a magical feel with their changing aspens, maples, and oaks. The Village is a postcard come to life with fall foliage, wooden animal carvings, and twinkling lights in the evening. Touring businesses even offer special viewing excursions during this unique season. See some of the best ways to View Fall Colors these fall season in Big Bear Lake.

1. Towne Trail

For an easygoing hike, check out Towne Trail. Ideal for leisurely strolls, dog walks and mountain biking, Town Trail is tucked between The Village and Snow Summit off of 2N08 at Knickerbocker Road. During autumn months, you'll see shades of gold, amber and orange among the richly colored evergreens.

Easy | 3 Miles Round trip

2. Castle Rock Trail

The autumn leaves make Castle Rock Trail a favorite fall hike for locals and visitors. You’ll wind your way through dense forests of pine and oak, and scramble up boulder outcroppings for panoramic views of Big Bear Lake.

Please bare in mind - Castle Rock Trail users will be required to park in the new Castle Rock Trailhead Parking Lot
located on the intersection on Big Bear Blvd & Talbot Dr. Parking is free, and there are many new amenities available, including restrooms, trash receptacles and a bike rack. There is a fine of $100 for parking on the Big Bear Blvd (SR-18)

Intermediate | 2 Miles Round trip

3. Bobsled Trail

From the summit to the peak, get up close and personal with Snow Summit’s forestry by immersing yourself in the fall foliage among the grand sights of the surrounding mountains.

Easy | 2 Miles Round trip

4. Gray's Peak Trail

Gray's Peak Trail is often recalled as the location of the Eagle's Nest - but one might not know is that Gray's Peak is also one of the best places to view the vibrant autumn leaves. Even better still, Gray's Peak offers some of the most breathtaking views of Big Bear's Lake and the valley below.

Note: This trailhead parking lot requires an Adventure Pass

Moderate to Difficult | 7 Miles Round trip

5. Mountain Top Loop

Whether you hike to the top via the Bobsled Trail or purchase a ride on the Scenic Sky Chair, this one-mile loop will give your eyes an panoramic forest view of the color changing tree lines with the beauty of Big Bear Lake.

Easy | 1 Mile Loop

6. Pineknot Trail

Beginning at Aspen Glen Picnic Area, Pineknot Trail invites you in with more subtle autumn colors of the oak trees. Red-barked manzanita is covered in berries that attract local deer early in the morning and at sundown. There are a lot of elevation changes on this trail, with beautiful forest views.

Note: This trailhead parking lot requires an Adventure Pass

Intermediate/Difficult | 6 Miles Round trip

7. Woodland Trail

If you have little ones or prefer more tame walks, then the Woodland Trail is the perfect choice for a relaxing and enjoyable hike! And, since the Woodland Trail is an interpretive trail, there is points along the way where you can stop, take a breather, and admire the rich history and natural phenomena of Big Bear.

Note: This trailhead parking lot requires an Adventure Pass

Easy | 1.5 Miles Loop

8. Bristlecone Trail

Whether you're going for a relaxing hike or a peaceful stroll on your bike, the Bristlecone Trail is a definite must-go! With it's beautiful woodland scenery and semi-rocky path - you can be immersed in wondrous mountain vibes without pushing yourself to the limits.

Easy | 1.2 Miles Round trip

ADA friendly trails

9. Alpine Pedal Path

Entirely paved, flat, and sporting helpful benches - the Alpine Pedal Path is one of the best options for a relaxing yet beautifully scenic hike. With the path starting and ending right on the North-shore of Big Bear Lake - you'll not only be able to enjoy the vibrant autumn colors, but the serene lake waters as well!

Easy | 7 Miles Round trip - flat & fully paved with benches

10. Happy Hills Trail

Happily situated on the Southern shore close to the Performing Arts Center, the Happy Hills Trailhead is one of the best places to view fall colors all from the comfort of a fully paved trail! Best part is, it's numerous deciduous trees planted along the trail make for an autumn experience like no other.

Easy | 1 Mile Round trip