713 Pine Knot. Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
Alpine Pedal Path
An asphalt path that wanders along the north shore of Big Bear Lake. Easily accessible for hikers, bikers, skaters, joggers, strollers and wheelchairs. It starts at Stanfield Cutoff and ends at the Solar Observatory.
Woodland Trail
A unique nature trail with 20 posted stops. Pick up a pamphlet at the entrance and take the self-guided tour where you will learn about botany, geology and the wildlife of this woodland area. You can leave your car in the parking lot if you exhibit an Adventure Pass.
Champion Lodgepole Pine Trail
The Lodgepole Pine Trail is on the south side of the lake and is a gentle walk down a path along a stream, ending up at the Champion Lodgepole Pine, one of the largest known lodgepoles in the world. Begin by drivnig up Mill Creek Road (Forest Road 2N10-dirt road) for 4.5 miles, turn right on 2N11 adn contineu 1 mile to the trailhead.
Castle Rock Trail
Castle Rock Trail is one of Big Bear’s most popular trails. The trail begins 1 mile east of Big Bear Dam on Hwy 18. On the south side of Hwy 18 is a small brown sign that marks the trailhead. Park at the turnout along Hwy 18. The elevation gain is 500′, making it a steep climb for the first .5 miles. The well-marked trail levels out for another .7 miles. At the top is an impressive granite rock outcropping providing 360° panoramic views.
Pine Knot Trail
Hikers begin at the base of Aspen Glen Picnic Area, just south of Mill Creek Road. The trail meanders through stands of white fir and Jeffrey pine. The trail leads to Grand View Point, altitude a7,784′. Avid hikers make the round trip hike in three hours or less. Mountain bikers take the Scenic Sky Chair to 2N10 west to 1E01 for a thrilling single track experience.
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San Bernardino National Forest
Adventure Pass Info (Available at the Big Bear Visitor Center, 630 Bartlett Rd. or the Big Bear Discovery Center, 40971 North Shore Hwy 18)
Hiking Tips:
• Before starting even on a casual hike, take an inventory of your equipment. Have the proper footwear. Blisters and sore legs will greatly distract from your adventure in the great outdoors.
• The Big Bear Valley is in many places high desert, so take plenty of fluids since there is very little access to drinking water on these trails. The only water that is safe to drink at recreation sites is from developed systems. Open water is too easily contaminated to be considered potable. Water from springs. Lakes, ponds and streams should be treated prior to drinking. Even clear water should be boiled at least 15 minutes before drinking.
• At this altitude the air has very little ozone to protect you from the harmful rays of the sun, therefore, a hat is imperative. And, if you are fair-skinned, sun-block is also important.
• Many experienced trekkers carry a small survival kit with them. This often contains a windbreaker, a small first aid kit, a metal mirror, a police whistle, matches, a pocket flashlight, some high-enery snacks and a sheet of plastic or a thermal blanket in case the weather changes or they are forced to spend the night in the woods.
• Always let someone you trust know where you are going and when you expect to be back. Also, it is never wise to hike alone. Find out when the sun sets and allow yourself plenty of time to get back before dark.
