Woodland Interpretive Trail

The trailhead is located near the Big Bear Discovery Center, just off North Shore Drive.

Main Parking Area

The Woodland Interpretive Trail has large parking lot at the trailhead. As you are driving along the North Shore between the Discovery Center and the Stanfield Cutoff, you will see signs for the Woodland Interpretive Trail.

Restrooms & Amenities

There is an outhouse restroom located in the parking lot. Your best option is to use the Restrooms that are available at the Discovery Center located just a short drive away. Be sure to grab a free Woodland Interactive Trail map from the Discovery Center before heading out on the trail.

Local Tip:

This lot fills up on weekends and holidays, especially late morning. Arrive early or later in the afternoon for a quieter experience.

From Big Bear Village:

Drive west on Big Bear Blvd (Hwy 18), continue onto North Shore Drive (Hwy 38), and look for the Discovery Center on your right.

From Fawnskin:

Head east on North Shore Drive—the Discovery Center will be on your left.

The trailhead is a short walk from the parking lot and is clearly marked.

The Woodland Interpretive Trail is a short loop that starts near the Big Bear Discovery Center and gradually climbs through the forest before looping back down.

Along the way, you’ll pass 16 interpretive signs that explain the local trees, wildlife, and forest ecosystem. They’re spaced out and easy to skim, so you can either turn this into a quick hike or slow it down and make it more of a learning experience—especially with kids.

The first section is mostly shaded forest and doesn’t feel very scenic, but as you gain a little elevation, the trail opens up to lake views. That mix of easy hiking, light elevation, and a payoff at the top is what makes this one of the better short hikes in the area.

• Distance: ~1.5 mile loop
• Elevation Gain: ~300 feet

This isn’t a long hike, but there is a steady climb early on. It’s manageable for most people, just expect a bit more effort than trails like the Alpine Pedal Path or Discovery Center Nature Trail.

• Dirt trail with some rocky sections
• Gradual incline at the start
• Narrower in parts compared to paved trails
• Mostly shaded, with some exposed viewpoints
• Not stroller-friendly, but fine for kids who are used to walking on trails.

This trail offers a nice balance of forest and views.

• Pine forest sections with shade
• Elevated viewpoints overlooking Big Bear Lake
• Glimpses of Bear Mountain and Snow Summit
• Quiet sections away from the road

One of the biggest advantages of this area is how much you can combine into one outing.

Discovery Center Nature Trail

An easy, kid-friendly loop right next to the parking area.

Alpine Pedal Path

A paved lakeside trail for a longer, more relaxed walk.

Cougar Crest Trail

For a more challenging hike with bigger elevation gain.

• Lake Views