Mid-Summer Trails

Hit Those Trails

1. Alpine Pedal Path

This is excellent biking and hiking path that is entirely flat as well as paved - while it is around 7 miles out and back, there are benches along the way where you can stop and take a break. For those who don't feel like walking it's entirety, you're able to walk back at any point without worry. The Alpine Pedal Path also provides a beautiful overview of Big Bear's lake as well as direct access to the water.

2. Woodland Trail

The Woodland Trail is a perfect starting point for those looking to ease into or warm up for some more walking - the trail itself is a loop of around 1.5 miles and has around 300 feet elevation gain. Along the walking path there are points where you can take a break and admire the sights, as this is an interpretative trail, there are brochures on the various points of interest detailing history and environmental wonders.

3. Cougar Crest

For those seeking a little more challenge, the Cougar Crest Trail will give you just the thing you're looking for - with it's 750 feet elevation gain Cougar Crest is considered a moderate trail with the difficult extension to Bertha's peak being around 1,360 feet in elevation gain. This beautiful trail is sure to impress with it's great views of the valley as well as the lake itself.

4. Nature Discovery trail

Who doesn't like a little bit of natural history - at the Big Bear Discovery Center nature trail, you'll find beautiful views of both Big Bear Lake and Mt. San Gorgonio. The trail itself is around 0.5 mile and has an elevation gain of 100 feet, it also has 3 benches for trail-goers to take a quick rest.

5. Stanfield Marsh Boardwalk

The Stanfield Marsh Boardwalk is perfect for both bird watchers and those seeking a more mild shorter walk - best part is, the nearby bridge, Stanfield cutoff provides free parking to both this trail and the Alpine Pedal Path.

6. Gray's Peak

Located on the North Shore in the Fawnskin area, the Gray's Peak Trailhead is a definitive must see - during points on the trail you can even catch glimpses of the Eagle's nest located on top of a Jeffery Pine. The trail itself is considered a moderate to difficult trail at around 7 miles out and back.

Please bare in mind that the Gray's Peak trail closes for the Eagles around November to December and typically reopens around April to July. When on the trail please be mindful to not disturb the eagles or try to reach their nest.

7. Castle Rock

Rock climbers and sight seers this one's for you - hop on the Castle Rock trail for the thrill of getting 700 feet in elevation gain on this nearly 2.5 mile hike out and back. This trail is often considered a moderate to difficult trail with the star of the show being a gorgeous granite rock out cropping and some great lake views. Best part is, once you've reached the end of the trail and are getting ready to head back, your return trip will be a breeze with the entirely downhill trek.

8. Pineknot Trail

The Pineknot Trail is a wonderful choice for those looking to get their picnic game on - at around 6 miles round trip and an elevation gain of 900 feet, you'll be in for a nice hike amongst Jeffery Pine and White fir trees. Make sure to stop by the Grand View Point and enjoy the magnificent sights which really make the view point live up to it's name!

9. Towne Trail

If you're looking for an easy trail with mostly flat terrain then the Town Trail is a wonderful choice! At roughly 3 miles out and back with 100 feet of elevation gain, you'll come across beautiful natural views like stream crossings, white fir, and incense cedars.

10. Sugarloaf National Recreation Trail

For those in the mood for a more difficult trail, the Sugarloaf Recreation Trail is bound to be your favorite! The trail itself sits at a challenging 10 miles round trip and an elevation gain of 1,200 feet. At the first 2 miles, you'll be in for a rocky road and at specific points following Green Creek. This trail will get you to the highest point in Big Bear Valley at 9,952 feet in total.

Reminder that altitude sickness is dangerous - only attempt this trail if you are acclimated to higher elevation and longer treks.