Hiking Trails in Big Bear Lake

Explore Big Bear Lake’s best hiking trails, from paved lakeside paths and shaded forest walks to scenic mountain overlooks and alpine terrain.

Explore Big Bear Hiking Trails

Trail Directory

Use the filters below to explore hiking trails and walking paths around Big Bear Lake, from paved lakeside routes to forest loops and mountain trails.

North Shore

Alpine Pedal Path

3.2 miles

A paved, 3.2-mile lakeside trail perfect for biking, strollers, and easy walks. Get local intel on the 1E50.1 spur tunnel, eagle sightings, and the best parking at Stanfield Cutoff.

Stanfield Cutoff

Stanfield Marsh Boardwalk

Short Walk

The Stanfield Marsh Boardwalk is an easy, scenic walk on the east end of Big Bear Lake, offering peaceful wetland views and some of the best birdwatching in the area.

North Shore

Discovery Center Nature Trail

0.5 mile Loop

The Discovery Center Nature Trail is one of the  most family-friendly walks in Big Bear Lake, offering a short, shaded loop through the forest with stations for kids to interact.

North Shore

Woodland Interpretive Trail

1.5 miles

The Woodland Interpretive Trail is one of the best short hikes in Big Bear if you want a mix of forest walking, interpretive signs, and elevated lake views without committing to a long or difficult trail.

North Shore

Cougar Crest Trail

4 miles round trip to PCT junction

A classic north-shore hike climbing above Big Bear Lake to the Pacific Crest Trail, with increasingly expansive lake and mountain views.

South Shore Backcountry

Champion Lodgepole Pine Trail

0.6 mile round trip

A short forest walk to one of California's largest known lodgepole pines, with a meadow and optional extension to Bluff Mesa.

South Shore / Knickerbocker

Towne Trail

3 miles round trip

A quieter 3-mile forest hike near town with minimal climbing, shaded trees and intermittent stream crossings.

South Shore

Skyline Trail

14.9 miles one way

A long multi-use south-shore trail through pine forest and mountain terrain, popular with hikers and mountain bikers and connected to the broader trail system.

Popular Trail Types

Best Hikes in Big Bear Lake

Best Hikes

Not sure where to start? See our favorite Big Bear trails for lake views, families, forest scenery and more.

Find Best Hikes

Dog-Friendly Hikes

Compare trails based on difficulty, terrain and what works best when hiking with your dog.

Dog-Friendly Hikes

Easy Hikes

Shorter trails and easy walks for families, casual hikers and first-day adventures.

Find Easy Hikes

Local Trail Advice

Advice From Local Hikers

To help you navigate the trails like a local, we’ve pulled together the essential advice that most visitors overlook—from altitude and weather to wildlife awareness and trail etiquette.

Altitude & Hydration

Big Bear sits above 7,000 feet, and the dry mountain air can affect visitors faster than expected. Bring more water than you think you need, even on shorter hikes.

Mountain Weather

Mountain temperatures can change quickly throughout the day, especially in shaded forest areas. Bring an extra layer and check the forecast before heading onto the trails.

Wildlife Awareness

Big Bear’s trails pass through active wildlife habitat, including coyotes and black bears. Keep dogs leashed, pack out all trash, and give wildlife plenty of space.

Faqs

Common Questions

  • What are the best hiking trails in Big Bear Lake?

    Big Bear Lake offers a mix of easy lakeside walks, shaded forest loops, and more challenging mountain trails. Popular hikes include the Alpine Pedal Path, Stanfield Marsh Boardwalk, and the Woodland Interpretive Trail. The best trail depends on whether you are looking for lake views, family-friendly terrain, dog-friendly access, or scenic overlooks.

  • Do you need an Adventure Pass to hike in Big Bear?

    Many trailheads in the San Bernardino National Forest require a valid Adventure Pass for parking. Some locations, including certain town-accessible trails and public areas, offer free parking. Always check posted signs at the trailhead before leaving your vehicle.

  • Are Big Bear hiking trails dog-friendly?

    Most hiking trails around Big Bear Lake allow dogs as long as they remain on a leash. Popular dog-friendly options include the Alpine Pedal Path and Stanfield Marsh Boardwalk. Visitors should always pack water for pets and avoid leaving dogs unattended near wildlife.

  • What should visitors know before hiking in Big Bear Lake?

    Big Bear sits above 7,000 feet, so visitors should prepare for altitude, dry air, and changing mountain weather. Carry extra water, bring layers, stay on marked trails, and check local conditions before hiking. Parking areas and popular trails can also become crowded on weekends and holidays.

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