Hiking Trails

Cougar Crest Trail

A steady north-shore climb to the Pacific Crest Trail with some of Big Bear's best elevated lake views.

Trail Quick Facts

Distance

4 miles round trip to PCT junction

Difficulty

Moderate

Elevation Gain

~750 ft

Dogs Allowed

Yes

At A Glance

Cougar Crest is one of Big Bear's best moderate hikes for elevated lake views. The trail climbs about 2 miles from Highway 38 to the Pacific Crest Trail, gaining roughly 750 feet along the way.

About the Trail

Cougar Crest Trail is a strong next step for visitors who want something more substantial than Big Bear's easy nature walks without committing to an all-day hike. The route begins on the north shore and climbs through pinyon, juniper and Jeffrey pine toward the Pacific Crest Trail. The first portion is relatively gentle, but the climb becomes more noticeable as you gain elevation. Views improve as you ascend, opening toward Big Bear Lake and the surrounding valley. The standard destination is the PCT junction about 2 miles from the trailhead, making the usual hike roughly 4 miles round trip. Hikers wanting a longer outing can continue beyond the junction, but that changes the distance and difficulty considerably.

Local Insight

If your goal is the view rather than simply logging miles, don't turn around too early. The trail becomes more rewarding as you climb, and the higher sections provide a much better perspective over Big Bear Lake than the lower approach.

Trailhead Directions & Parking

The Cougar Crest Trailhead is on Highway 38/North Shore Drive, east of Fawnskin and near the Big Bear Discovery Center. The Forest Service lists the trailhead as a recreation fee site, so an Adventure Pass or qualifying interagency pass is required when parking at the trailhead. Another practical option is parking at the Big Bear Discovery Center during its operating hours and walking roughly 0.6 mile to the trailhead. Do not rely on roadside parking where it is not specifically permitted, and check current Forest Service conditions before leaving for the trail.
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Looking for another trail to explore together? See our complete Dog-Friendly Hikes in Big Bear Lake guide.

Important Trail Information

Cougar Crest climbs from an already high-elevation starting point, so visitors arriving from lower elevations may feel the effort more than expected. Bring plenty of water and sun protection. Snow and ice can remain on the trail outside the main hiking season, and conditions can change quickly after storms. The trail ends at the Pacific Crest Trail; bicycles are not allowed on the PCT. Dogs should remain leashed and owners should carry extra water because exposed and rocky sections can be harder on pets.

Dog Friendly Trail Reminder

Many Big Bear trails allow dogs, but mountain conditions can be more challenging than they appear. High elevation, warm summer temperatures, rocky terrain, wildlife, and limited water sources can all affect your dog's comfort and safety. Bring plenty of water, keep dogs leashed, and choose a trail that matches your pet's age, fitness level, and experience.

Terrain

Natural dirt mountain trail with rocky sections, a steady uphill grade, forested stretches and increasingly exposed viewpoints as you gain elevation. Not stroller-friendly.

Distance & Elevation

The standard Cougar Crest hike is about 2 miles one way to the Pacific Crest Trail junction, or roughly 4 miles round trip. The Forest Service lists approximately 750 feet of elevation gain to the PCT junction. Continuing toward Bertha Peak adds distance and substantially more climbing.

Gallery

Connecting & Nearby Trails

Cougar Crest ends at the Pacific Crest Trail, creating options for experienced hikers who want to extend the outing. From the junction, hikers can continue east on the PCT toward the access road for Bertha Peak. Extending to Bertha Peak adds mileage and additional climbing, so it should be treated as a longer hike rather than part of the standard Cougar Crest outing.

Safety Note:

Trail Information Disclaimer: Trail conditions, access, parking, fees, closures and regulations can change due to weather, wildfire, seasonal restrictions, maintenance and other conditions. Information provided by Discover Big Bear Lake is for general planning purposes only. Always check current conditions and official Forest Service or managing-agency information before heading out, and use your own judgment regarding your abilities and conditions on the trail.

Need A Trail Map?

Visit the Big Bear Discovery Center on the North Shore to speak to a ranger, learn about trail conditions and access trail maps.

Need AN Adventure Pass?

Learn more about when an Adventure Pass is required to be displayed and where you can purchase one.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is Cougar Crest Trail in Big Bear?

Cougar Crest Trail is about 2 miles one way from the trailhead to the Pacific Crest Trail junction, making the standard hike roughly 4 miles round trip. Continuing toward Bertha Peak makes the outing longer.

How difficult is Cougar Crest Trail?

Cougar Crest is a moderate mountain hike. The first mile climbs gradually, while the second mile becomes noticeably steeper. The route gains about 750 feet before reaching the Pacific Crest Trail.

Where do you park for Cougar Crest Trail?

Parking is available at the Cougar Crest Trailhead on Highway 38/North Shore Drive. It is a Forest Service recreation fee site, so an Adventure Pass or qualifying interagency pass is required. During operating hours, the Big Bear Discovery Center is another option about 0.6 mile away.

Are dogs allowed on Cougar Crest Trail?

Yes. Dogs are allowed on Cougar Crest Trail. Keep them leashed, carry extra water, and watch their paws on rocky or hot sections of trail.

Plan Ahead

Before you Hit the Trail

Best Time to Go

Late spring through fall offers the most reliable trail conditions. Morning hikes are usually cooler and less crowded during summer.

Bring Plenty of Water

Big Bear sits above 6,700 feet elevation, and the dry mountain air can dehydrate hikers faster than expected.

Wear Proper Footwear

Many trails include rocky terrain, loose dirt, roots, and uneven sections that can become slippery after rain or snow.

Check Conditions Before You Go

Weather, closures, snow, and trail conditions can change quickly in the mountains, especially during winter and spring.

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Not sure which trail is right for you? Compare our best hikes in Big Bear Lake for different abilities and experiences.

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