Big Bear, California, has a way with gorgeous views that’s truly hard to top. Inevitably, that means it’s a place that draws in outdoor recreation enthusiasts in droves each year! Hiking and mountain biking are just a few of the most popular activities visitors heading this way enjoy, and with more than 100 miles of Big Bear hiking trails to explore, there’s no shortage of options whether you’re a novice hiker and cyclist, or experienced and looking for your very next challenge. The following are just a few of the best hiking and mountain biking trails in Big Bear to be sure to add to your itinerary the next time you’re here.
Enjoy a Leisurely Trek on the Alpine Pedal Path
If you find yourself in Big Bear this year looking for a leisurely hike to add to your list that everyone in your traveling group can enjoy together, the Alpine Pedal Path is definitely it. This route is rated very easy in terms of difficulty level and spans 2.5 miles in one single direction. The benefit of choosing this hiking, biking, or jogging route in Big Bear is that it’s fully paved and offers up some of the best north shoreline views of the lake around. There are seasonal wildflowers that grow abundantly along the Alpine Pedal Path, and you’ll be treated to scenery made up of pine forests and meadows in every season of the year. If you’re looking to pair your hike or biking experience with a delicious picnic lunch, the route runs right up to the Meadows Edge and Juniper Point picnic areas alike. For those who are looking to extend their trek further, the Alpine Pedal Path is a popular choice for its convenient linkup point to the Stanfield Marsh Boardwalk in Big Bear as well.
Count on More of a Challenge on the Pine Knot Trail
For those who would consider themselves intermediate level hikers, the Pine Knot Trail is one you’ll definitely want to include on your lineup during your Big Bear adventures. You can easily access this 6-mile round-trip trail at the Aspen Glen Picnic Area, which is located right on Mill Creek Road. You’ll need an adventure pass in hand to make the most of the fun out and about on this route, but once you have that in place, you’ll find yourself winding through lush forests and past the Deer Group Camp along the way. Extending your hiking adventures on the Pine Knot Trail is a breeze as long as you make plans to link up with the Grandview Point Trail which adds about .25 miles to your experience and great views of Mt. San Gorgonio too.
Capture the Beauty of Big Bear from the Castle Rock Trail
Hiking enthusiasts from near and far might not entirely consider their journey to Big Bear complete until they’ve spent quality time on the Castle Rock Trail. This is an extremely popular trail with good reason, spanning 2.4 miles of round-trip fun and rated as ideal for those seeking an intermediate to difficult hiking experience. Your trek on the Castle Rock Trail begins a mile east of Big Bear Dam on Highway 18 and takes you through densely forested surroundings complete with breathtaking boulder outcroppings. There’s even a seasonal waterfall to admire along the way, but the ultimate goal of a hike on this trail is the granite outcropping known as Castle Rock that the route is named for. From this vantage point, you’ll be treated to stunning views out and over Big Bear Lake, and if you linger long enough, there’s a good chance you’ll see some thrill seekers climbing the steep side of the outcropping too. While biking isn’t permitted on this particular trail, it’s certainly one you’ll want to enjoy on foot in Big Bear.
Make the Most of Mountain Biking Thrills
While backcountry mountain biking trails certainly abound in Big Bear, both Snow Valley and Snow Summit Bike Parks are great stops to add to your adventure-focused itinerary when you want to explore routes, jumps, and switchbacks that are ideally maintained. You can access these bike park trails throughout the summer season in Big Bear, and you’ll find routes fit for cyclists of all skill levels. Lessons and guided outings can also be booked at the bike park when you’re looking to hone your skills further.
Book Your Big Bear Getaway in Style
Whether you find yourself in Big Bear this year for the hiking, the biking, the relaxation, the views, or the best of it all, the team at Big Bear Vacations has the ideal home-away-from-home you need to make more of every single moment. Reach out today to learn more about our exciting collection of local Big Bear Lake cabin rentals that showcase stunning vistas, keep you close to places you’re excited to explore, and come with world-class amenities in place as well. We look forward to helping you make it a trip to remember and can’t wait to welcome you to Big Bear soon.
