All Hiking Trails in Big Bear
Taking time to enjoy a getaway to scenic Big Bear is always the right choice for travelers from near and far. It’s a place where you’re invited to relax and unwind at your own pace or get out and enjoy the thrilling experiences in nature you’ve been looking forward to as well! Either way, you won’t want to miss out on enjoying some of the very best and most beautiful hiking trails in Big Bear and around town. When it’s time to lace up your boots and enjoy a customized trek, the options are refreshingly vast and varied in Big Bear.
Be Sure You Have the Documentation You Need Before You Head Out
Before you set foot on the trails in Big Bear, it’s important to know that for many of the routes, you’ll be required to obtain an Adventure Pass. It’s particularly important at U.S. Forest Service trailheads but an America the Beautiful National Park pass can be used in its place if you’re already a pass holder. If you don’t have a National Park pass, head over to the Big Bear Visitors Center to grab your Adventure Pass instead. Simply place it on your dashboard before you hit the trails and enjoy trekking worry-free for the rest of the day.
Start Slow and Savor the View on the Alpine Pedal Path
If you’re traveling to Big Bear with little ones in tow, or you’re just looking to start things slow and really relish the view, the Alpine Pedal Path is definitely the place to start. This 2.5-mile route is fully paved and popular with hikers, bikers, and those with strollers alike. It makes its way around the north shore of Big Bear Lake and offers up great vantage points over the ski resorts. Along the way, those who choose to hike the Alpine Pedal Path can enjoy admiring alpine meadows, wildflowers, and pine forests. There are picnic areas available when you want to infuse a savory moment into your trek as well. Accessing the path is simple by heading to the Stanfield Cutoff and beginning the hike around the Solar Observatory.
Explore the Stanfield Marsh Boardwalk
Yet another leisurely hiking option in Big Bear is the Stanfield Marsh Boardwalk. This scenic route works its way through the Stanfield Marsh Wildlife and Waterfowl Preserve making it a great option for those who are excited to pair hiking with bird watching as well. The views are stunning along the way and it’s as educational as it is gorgeous thanks to the helpful signage and informational boards showcasing local wildlife and habitat info that could be useful. Park at the intersection of Stanfield Cutoff and Big Bear Boulevard to access the trail with ease. If you want to make sure to get great parking and avoid crowds, showing up early is always highly recommended.
Check Out Castle Rock Trail
Those hikers who are looking for a bit more of a challenge without sacrificing anything in the way of inspiring scenery will find their solution on Castle Rock Trail. This round-trip path covers 2.4 miles of terrain and is a fan favorite for its boulder outcroppings, seasonal waterfall, and gorgeous forested landscapes. Castle Rock is a trail that can be tackled year-round, but if you happen to be heading to Big Bear in the springtime to hike, you’ll find it’s bursting with color in the form of wildflowers. Fall on this trail is just as tantalizing thanks to the foliage changing colors in a perfectly seasonal style.
Pack Your Hiking Gear and Hit Pine Knot Trail
Advanced hikers hoping to enjoy time on an intermediate-level route can set their sights on Pine Knot Trail while they’re in town. 6 miles total, this route begins at Aspen Glen Picnic Area on Mill Creek Road and requires about 3 hours to complete. Hikers will enjoy the scenery that includes manzanita, oaks, white fir, and Jeffrey pine along the way. The trail winds its way past the Deer Group Camp and adventurers always have options to link up with Grandview Point trail to extend their journey. If you choose the extended route, you’ll find yourself enjoying sensational views over Mt. San Gorgonio. Pine Knot Trail is also open for mountain bikers so there are certainly options to pair your trek with single track fun if that’s what sounds ideal.
Book Your Big Bear Adventure Today
There’s never been a better time to turn Big Bear travel plans into a reality. Of course, having amazing accommodations such as our houses for rent in Big Bear Lake to top off your stay in style can elevate the fun even further, which is where Big Bear Cabins comes in. Reach out today to learn more about our exciting and inviting mountain cabins with hot tubs in Big Bear and how we can help you get settled into the ideal home-away-from-home for your stay. We look forward to hearing from you and welcoming you to California soon!
