Alpine Pedal Path

The Alpine Pedal Path runs along Big Bear Lake’s North Shore and can be accessed from multiple points. Where you start can completely change your experience — from busy and social to quiet and shaded.

Here are the most popular access points:

Main Entry (Stanfield Cutoff – East End)

This is the most commonly used trailhead and the easiest to find. The downside is parking fills quickly, especially on weekends and holidays.

• Local tip:  If the dirt lot is full, you can usually find legal parallel parking along the bridge.

Mid-Trail Access (Juniper Point & Meadows Edge)

If you’re looking for a quieter start, this is your best option. These access points drop you right into some of the most scenic, shaded sections of the trail.

• Keep in mind:  Parking here requires a Forest Service Adventure Pass (or America the Beautiful Pass).

Discovery Center Access (West End)

You can also connect to the trail from the Big Bear Discovery Center. This is one of the easiest and most reliable places to park, with restrooms and additional amenities nearby.

Restrooms:  Available at Juniper Point, Meadows Edge, and the Discovery Center. If you want the cleanest and most reliable option, use the Discovery Center before heading out.

The Alpine Pedal Path runs parallel to North Shore Drive (Highway 38). Your route will depend on which section of the trail you want to start from.

Eastern Entry (Stanfield Cutoff)

This is the most popular and easiest-to-access starting point.

• Directions: From Big Bear Blvd (Hwy 18), turn north onto Stanfield Cutoff. Drive over the bridge — the trailhead is immediately on your left at the intersection with North Shore Dr (Hwy 38).
• Parking: Small dirt lot + street parking along the bridge.

Western Entry (Discovery Center / Cougar Crest Area)

A great option if you want amenities, restrooms, or plan to combine multiple trails.

• Directions: Drive along Hwy 38 to the Big Bear Discovery Center (40971 North Shore Dr).
• Trail Access: From the parking lot, follow the paved path toward the pedestrian tunnel. This connects via the 1E50.1 Spur Trail and safely takes you under the highway, dropping you directly onto the Alpine Pedal Path.

Mid-Trail Access (Juniper Point & Meadows Edge)

Best for avoiding crowds and jumping straight into scenic sections.

• Directions: Drive along North Shore Dr between Stanfield Cutoff and the Discovery Center. Look for clearly marked signs for Juniper Point or Meadows Edge Picnic Areas.
• Parking: Paved Forest Service lots (Adventure Pass required).

The Alpine Pedal Path is a fully paved, multi-use trail stretching about 3.2 miles one way along the North Shore.

It’s one of the easiest and most accessible outdoor experiences in Big Bear. The path is mostly flat, making it ideal for:

• Families with strollers
• Casual walkers
• Beginner cyclists
• Anyone looking for a relaxed, scenic outing

Unlike many Big Bear trails that involve steep climbs or rocky terrain, this path is designed for low-impact use while still delivering some of the best lake views in the area.

The full trail runs 3.2 miles one way (Stanfield Cutoff to the Serrano Campground / Solar Observatory area). Most visitors treat it as an out-and-back walk or ride, choosing their distance based on time and energy.

There’s minimal elevation gain, so you won’t need to prepare for a strenuous hike.

• Smooth asphalt for nearly the entire route
• A few short wooden boardwalk sections
• Wide enough for two-way traffic (walkers + cyclists)

This is where the trail really stands out.

You’ll get consistent, unobstructed views of:

• Big Bear Lake shoreline
• Bear Mountain
• Snow Summit
• San Gorgonio Mountain range in the distance

The trail alternates between:

• Open shoreline with wide lake views
• Shaded “pine pocket” sections with cooler air and forest feel

One of the biggest advantages of the Alpine Pedal Path is how easily it connects to other areas.

1E50.1 Spur Trail (Pedestrian Tunnel)

This short connector allows you to safely pass under Highway 38, linking the path to nearby trailheads and the Discovery Center without crossing traffic.

Cougar Crest Trail

If you want to turn your easy walk into a more challenging hike, this trail climbs into the mountains above the lake.

Big Bear Discovery Center

A great add-on stop for maps, exhibits, and local trail information.

There’s more to this trail than just walking — plenty of places to stop, explore, and take in the views.

Juniper Point & Meadows Edge

Ideal mid-trail stops with picnic areas, shade, and easy lake access.

Serrano Campground

Marks the eastern end of the trail and connects to additional lakeside areas.

Shoreline Access

Throughout the trail, you’ll find spots where you can step off the path and walk right down to the water — perfect for photos or a quick break.