Stanfield Marsh Boardwalk
Big Bear's best spot for birds, wetlands, and sunset photography.
An easy boardwalk walk through one of Big Bear's most important wetland habitats. Known for birdwatching, wildlife viewing, and some of the best sunset views around the lake.
Trail Quick Facts
Dogs Allowed
Yes
Distance
Short Walk
Difficulty
Easy
Elevation Gain
Minimal
At A Glance
An easy boardwalk walk through one of Big Bear's most important wetland habitats. Known for birdwatching, wildlife viewing, and some of the best sunset views around the lake.
About the Trail
The Stanfield Marsh Boardwalk offers a completely different experience from Big Bear's forest trails and lakeside paths. Instead of hiking through pines or following the shoreline, you'll cross a protected wetland that serves as an important habitat for birds and other wildlife. The boardwalk itself is short, flat, and accessible for nearly everyone, making it one of the easiest outdoor walks in Big Bear.
The marsh changes dramatically throughout the year. During wetter years, large areas fill with water and attract ducks, geese, and migrating birds. During drier periods, parts of the marsh may appear more like grassland than wetland. Either way, the open views and peaceful setting make it a favorite for photographers, birdwatchers, dog walkers, and families. Many visitors come specifically for the sunsets, which can be spectacular from this end of the lake.
Local Insight
Most visitors walk the boardwalk and leave, but locals often continue along Stanfield Cutoff. The views looking west across the lake are some of the best in town, especially during the hour before sunset when the mountains begin to glow.
Trailhead Directions & Parking
The Stanfield Marsh Boardwalk is located on the east end of Big Bear Lake at Stanfield Cutoff, making it one of the easiest nature walks in the valley to access.
The main parking lot sits directly next to the boardwalk entrance and provides the most convenient access to the trail. Restrooms are available at the parking area, although they may be closed seasonally. Because of the easy access and popularity of the marsh, the lot can fill quickly on weekends, holidays, and especially around sunset.
If the main lot is full or closed, there are usually a handful of roadside parking spaces available across Stanfield Cutoff. From there, it's only a short walk to the boardwalk entrance.
One of the nice things about Stanfield Marsh is that the boardwalk itself typically remains accessible year-round. Even when the main parking lot or restrooms are closed during winter or shoulder seasons, visitors can usually still access the trail using the nearby roadside parking.
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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
Water levels are one of the biggest factors affecting the experience at Stanfield Marsh. During dry years, portions of the marsh can look surprisingly sparse. In wetter years, however, the marsh becomes one of the most active wildlife areas around the lake. This year, water levels are high and bird activity has been excellent.
Winter conditions can occasionally create snow or icy spots on the boardwalk, especially during the morning hours. Visitors interested in wildlife should consider bringing binoculars. Bald eagles have been spotted in the area from time to time, and Jackie has occasionally been observed fishing in or near the marsh when conditions are favorable.
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
The Stanfield Marsh Boardwalk is flat, stable, and easy to navigate.
- Surface: Wooden boardwalk with railings
- Additional Walking: Paved roadside path along Stanfield Cutoff if you extend your walk
- Elevation: Completely flat with no incline
It’s suitable for strollers, kids, and anyone looking for a smooth, low-effort walk. In winter, sections can become icy, so use caution.
Distance & Elevation
The Stanfield Marsh Boardwalk is a short, easy walk rather than a long-distance trail.
- Boardwalk Length: Roughly a few hundred yards (out-and-back is about 0.2–0.4 miles total)
- Extended Walk Options: Continue along Stanfield Cutoff or connect to the Alpine Pedal Path for a longer outing
- Elevation Gain: Minimal— Relatively flat
This is one of the most accessible walks in Big Bear, making it ideal if you want scenery without the effort of a hike.
Gallery
Connecting & Nearby Trails
Stanfield Marsh sits at the gateway to Big Bear's north shore recreation area, making it a great starting point for a longer outing.
Many visitors continue walking west along Stanfield Cutoff, where expansive lake views open up and sunset photography becomes a popular activity. Continuing farther brings you to the Alpine Pedal Path, a paved lakeside trail that follows the shoreline and provides access to several beach areas along the lake.
As you head west along North Shore Drive, you'll also find several picnic areas, including Juniper Point and Meadows Edge, which provide additional lake access and places to relax. Just beyond these areas, the Big Bear Discovery Center serves as a hub for maps, exhibits, trail information, and access to additional trails including the Woodland Interpretive Trail and Cougar Crest Trail.
For visitors looking to explore more of Big Bear's north shore, Stanfield Marsh is often the perfect first stop before continuing on to the lake, forest, and mountain trails nearby.
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 the Stanfield Marsh Boardwalk?
The Stanfield Marsh Boardwalk is a very short nature walk rather than a traditional hike. Walking the boardwalk itself takes only a few minutes, but many visitors spend longer enjoying the wetland, watching birds, taking photos, or continuing along Stanfield Cutoff.
What wildlife can you see at Stanfield Marsh?
Stanfield Marsh is one of Big Bear Lake's best areas for birdwatching. Depending on the season and water levels, visitors may see ducks, geese, other waterbirds, and occasionally bald eagles. Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, so binoculars are worth bringing.
Where do you park for Stanfield Marsh Boardwalk?
A parking lot is located directly beside the Stanfield Marsh Boardwalk at the east end of Big Bear Lake near Stanfield Cutoff. The lot can fill during busy weekends and around sunset, and limited roadside parking may also be available where permitted.
Are dogs allowed at Stanfield Marsh Boardwalk?
Yes. Dogs are allowed at Stanfield Marsh Boardwalk. Keep dogs leashed and under control, particularly because the marsh is an important habitat for birds and other wildlife.
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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Stanfield Marsh Boardwalk
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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.
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