San Bernardino National Forest / Mountains
Around Big Bear | Around Lake Arrowhead
Campgrounds
Serrano Campground
Pineknot Campground
Trails Covered
Cougar Crest to Bertha Peak ~7.5 Miles
Castle Rock Trail ~2 Miles
Pine Knot Trail to Grand View Point ~7 Miles
Around Big Bear
Around Lake Arrowhead
Serrano Campground
Pineknot Campground
Cougar Crest to Bertha Peak
Bertha Peak Trail is a moderate to difficult hike located in the San Bernardino National Forest (near Big Bear) and has very rewarding views along the trail and at the peak. The trail starts on Cougar Crest and eventually splits into a three-way fork - at this location, you want to take Bertha Peak all the way to the top. In my opinion, the views on this trail make this the BEST hike in Big Bear.
~7.5 miles | ~1,400 feet elevation gain | Out and Back Trail
Recommendation: The end gets really difficult on the incline - bring a good snack and plenty of water
Castle Rock Trail
Castle Rock Trail is easily Big Bear's most popular trail. Hiking up the castle rock is on the easy to moderate (difficulty) level, but the hike is short - making it worth the day hike. Once you get to Castle Rock, you’ll have amazing views of Big Bear Lake and the mountains around the area.
~2 miles | ~800 feet elevation gain | Out and Back Trail
Recommendation: Great trail for the whole family
Pine Knot Trail to Grand View Point
Grand View Point was worth every step I took in the snow to hike up here. As I mention in the trail guide video, trail markers (especially early in the hike) are sparse and it is very easy to wander off-trail here. Overall, the total distance, mileage, and amazing views make this a must-hike trail if you are near Big Bear. I cover additional tips in the video along with a deviation you should take.
~7 miles | ~1,200 feet elevation gain | Out and Back Trail
Recommendation: I recommend you loop this trail (details in video)
