Hiking Trails in Big Bear Lake

Hiking trails in Big Bear Lake range from easy lakefront walks to forested paths and mountain routes with scenic views. With trails spread throughout the valley, Big Bear Lake offers hiking options for a wide range of activity levels and interests throughout the year.

popular Trails

Popular Hiking Trails in Big Bear Lake

If you’re looking for a great place to start, these popular trails showcase the variety of hiking experiences available around Big Bear Lake. These routes are well-known, accessible, and loved by both visitors and locals.

Cougar Crest Trail

Cougar Crest Trail

Explore Big Bear Lake's beauty on the moderate 4.8-mile Cougar Crest Trail. Enjoy panoramic lake views, a PCT junction, and optional Bertha Peak summit.
Castle Rock Trail

Castle Rock Trail

Hike to panoramic Big Bear Lake views on the moderate 2.7-mile Castle Rock Trail. Enjoy a forested ascent and a final rock scramble. Limited parking!
Woodland Interpretive Trail

Woodland Interpretive Trail

Woodland Interpretive Trail in Big Bear: Easy 1.5-mile loop with nature stops on North Shore Drive. Adventure Pass needed.
Big Bear Discovery Center Nature Trail

Big Bear Discovery Center Nature Trail

Explore Big Bear's nature on the easy 0.5-mile Discovery Center Trail. Learn about wildlife, plants, and geology. Family-friendly!

Important info

What to Know Before Hiking in Big Bear Lake

Hiking in Big Bear Lake comes with a few important considerations that visitors often overlook. Depending on where you plan to hike, you may need a forest adventure pass, and weather conditions can change quickly due to elevation. Some trailheads have limited parking, and seasonal factors like snow, ice, or afternoon storms can affect trail conditions.

adventure pass in front of trees in Big Bear Lake

Do You Need an Adventure Pass to Hike in Big Bear?

By Discover Big Bear Lake • April 1, 2025
Many trails and picnic areas in Big Bear Lake require you to have an Adventure Pass. Find out which ones and where to buy a pass.
A person with a backpack is walking through a forest.

The Pacific Crest Trail: A Hiking Adventure in Big Bear

By Discover Big Bear Lake • June 28, 2023
Experience a day hike on the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) from Big Bear Lake. Find out how to access the PCT from Big Bear and what to expect.

Important info

Hiking in Big Bear Lake Year-Round

Many people assume hiking in Big Bear Lake is only a summer activity, but most trails are accessible throughout the year. In spring and summer, trails are lined with wildflowers and shaded forest paths. Fall brings cooler temperatures and changing colors, while winter hiking offers a quieter experience with snowy landscapes on lower-elevation and well-maintained trails.

Conditions vary by season, so hikers should always check weather and trail conditions before heading out, especially in winter when snow and ice may require traction or waterproof footwear.

Location Guide

Where to Go Hiking in Big Bear Lake by Area

Different parts of Big Bear Lake offer different hiking experiences, making it easy to choose a trail based on where you’re staying or the type of scenery you want to explore.

The Village and Lakeside Areas

Trails near the Village and lake tend to be flatter and more accessible, making them ideal for casual walks, families, and visitors looking for scenic views without a strenuous climb.

Moonridge and the Forested Slopes

Moonridge is close to several forested trails that offer more elevation change and a true mountain feel. This area is popular for wildlife sightings and access to trailheads leading into the San Bernardino National Forest.

North Shore and Fawnskin

The north shore and Fawnskin areas are quieter and less developed, offering a more peaceful hiking experience. Trails here often feel more remote and are perfect for those looking to escape crowds and enjoy wide-open lake and forest views.