Towne Trail
A quieter forest walk close to town with shade, stream crossings and very little climbing.
Trail Quick Facts
Distance
3 miles round trip
Difficulty
Easy to Moderate
Elevation Gain
~100 ft
Dogs Allowed
Yes
At A Glance
Towne Trail is a roughly 3-mile round-trip forest hike with only about 100 feet of elevation gain. Its location near The Village and Snow Summit makes it a useful option when you want a real dirt trail without a major climb.
About the Trail
Local Insight
Towne Trail is useful when the more famous trailheads are packed. It gives you a forest experience close to central Big Bear without committing to a steep climb or a long drive to the north shore.
Trailhead Directions & Parking
Loading trail...
Looking for another trail to explore together? See our complete Dog-Friendly Hikes in Big Bear Lake guide.
Important Trail Information
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
Distance & Elevation
Gallery
Connecting & Nearby Trails
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 Towne Trail in Big Bear?
Towne Trail is approximately 3 miles round trip with about 100 feet of elevation gain, making it relatively flat compared with many Big Bear mountain hikes.
How difficult is Towne Trail?
Towne Trail is generally easy to moderate. There is very little climbing, but it is still a natural dirt trail with roots, rocks and possible muddy or wet sections around intermittent stream crossings.
Where do you park for Towne Trail?
Towne Trail is accessed from the Knickerbocker Road and Forest Road 2N08 area near The Village and Snow Summit. If the 2N08 gate is closed, park without blocking the gate and walk toward the trail. Access can change seasonally.
Are dogs allowed on Towne Trail?
Yes. Dogs are allowed on Towne Trail. Keep them leashed, bring water, and expect natural trail conditions that may include rocks, mud or stream crossings depending on the season.
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.
Discover More 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.
Not sure which trail is right for you? Compare our best hikes in Big Bear Lake for different abilities and experiences.
Discover More of Big Bear Lake
There's so much to see and do in every season. Explore hiking trails, wildlife, attractions, and more.