Known for its diverse ecosystems, California is a one-stop shop for multiple adventures. From the snowy midlands to the arid south, each city is unique in its way. Big Bear is a nature lovers paradise complete with lakes, rivers, and scenic grounds. Here are the five top areas to consider for Big Bear nature walks.
Woodland Trail
Top on the list of nature walks to consider in the city is Woodland Trail. It is primarily a 1.5-mile loop with everything for you to see. The trail is easy to follow thanks to the numbered posts along the path. Woodland Trail is suitable for the family setting for different reasons. First, it is a fairly easy route which is largely flat. The ups and downs are short and easy to maneuver.
It takes an hour or less to clear the trail. 45 minutes is enough for you to explore what this nature walk has in store for you. The panorama of the lake you enjoy from the trail is everything to live for in the city. With parking, picnic tables, and toilets on site, everything has been set right for your wild adventures in California’s Big Bear.
Castle Rock Trail
Three miles off the Big Bear Lake Village is the iconic Castle Rock Trail. It is a 1-mile trailhead suitable for vacationers willing to challenge their physique and endurance. Featuring an elevation of 500 feet, this trail is a steep climb that will leave you gasping for air. However, it is a manageable trail with no obvious danger.
Apart from the initial half-mile steep climb, the remaining section is relatively flat. The journey back is easier since you will be descending most of the time. This trailhead is punctuated by multiple indigenous trees including cedars, pines, and white fir. Though not common, you might also encounter some wildlife in the nearby bushes.
Once at the peak of the initial half-mile elevation, great views of the Big Bear Lake await. It is the place to be to make your photography and art dreams a reality.
Alpine Pedal Path Trail
The scene of the city gets better with each adventure. This time around, it is the Alpine Pedal Path Trail working the magic for you. Unlike other trails that are largely a mountain affair, Alpine is an asphalt road wandering along the north of Big Bear Lake. In short, you have the lake right next to you.
Alpine Pedal Path is an all-inclusive trail giving everyone an equal chance to explore the city. Whether you came as a hiker, jogger, biker, or stroller, this path is suitable for all. Better still, it is wheelchair accessible. Senior citizens and other disadvantaged members of the society have a chance to relax on the north shore of the lake.
It is also the place to be for your birding adventures. With the large population of bald eagles in the area, you can expect quite a fascinating scene.
Exploration Trail
The journey that the Exploration Trail has undergone to be what it is today is inspiring. Its early roots can be traced back to a collaboration between children and professionals from the U.S. Forest Service. This collaboration created a 4.5-mile trail perfect for multiple adventures.
First, it is a family-friendly setting with no steep ascents and descents to bother your kids. The 4.5-mile length is enough to keep your kids’ physical fitness in check at least once a year. Also, it is an all-season route that can be used for multiple adventures. Snowshoeing and skiing are perfect activities to explore in winter.
All the wonders of the city’s wild exist in this trailhead. Some of the tallest pine trees in the world exist in this area. You will also witness the iconic Manzanita, a fire-adapted shrub that requires intense heat for propagation and regeneration.
Cougar Crest Trail
The Cougar Crest Trail is an adventure of the lake’s north shore. It is among the most fascinating sites in the city with multiple adventures to explore. The trailhead is punctuated by dense shrubs and tall pine trees on either side.
The Cougar Crest Trail comes armed with a variety of natural environments for you to see. The walkable section of the trail entails a gentle climb that later flattens to accommodate more activities. This trail is also suitable for bikers. The short distance between the lake and trail means you can head out for splash before embarking on your hiking trip in the city.
Where to Stay in Big Bear, CA
Nature walks are a single component of your adventures in California. The more time you spend around, the higher the number of activities available to explore. While at it, a lovely cabin rental is a must-have. We offer a large collection of cabins, all designed to suit your vacation needs. Call us today to book your Big Bear cabin today!
