Big Bear is an exceptional four-season destination in Southern California, especially if you’re a fan of mountain biking. Its combination of diverse trails, scenic surroundings, well-maintained routes, accessibility, year-round riding opportunities, and a supportive biking community make it the perfect destination to explore and enjoy.
With the area’s extensive trail system and varied terrain catering to riders of different skill levels, it can be overwhelming to choose which trails to explore. As avid local mountain bikers, we’ve rounded up the top trails in the area based on skill level, ratings, length, trail features and more. Feel free to give us a call at (909) 878-0109 for real-time insights based on current trail conditions, popular routes, and hidden gems worth exploring.
Big Bear offers a plethora of incredible mountain biking trails to explore. Here are some of the top trails in the area:
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- Snow Summit Bike Park (Novice to Advanced): A renowned mountain biking destination, and arguably the most popular, this park offers a range of trails suitable for all levels, from beginner-friendly to advanced. It features a chairlift that transports riders and their bikes to the top, allowing for exhilarating downhill descents on carefully designed and maintained trails.If you’re new to mountain biking check out Small Wonder (Novice) and the Skill Builder Park (Novice), where you can hone your skills and gain confidence. Advanced riders seeking a challenge should explore Miracle Mile (Advanced) and Party Wave (Advanced), which provide exciting trails and features to push their limits.
- Skyline Trail (Advanced): A must-ride for experienced mountain bikers. Spanning approximately 15 miles, it offers stunning panoramic views of Big Bear Lake and the surrounding mountains. It features a mix of technical sections, fast descents, and challenging climbs, providing an exhilarating and rewarding experience.
- Cougar Crest Trail (Intermediate): A popular choice for riders of various skill levels. This trail provides a mix of flowing sections and technical challenges, taking riders through dense pine forests. It offers fantastic views of Big Bear Lake and is considered one of the best singletrack trails in Southern California.
- Pine Knot Trail (Intermediate): A scenic and popular trail that winds through picturesque forests with picturesque lake views along the way. Starting near the village, Pine Knot is approximately six miles and offers a thrilling singletrack experience.
- Alpine Pedal Path Trail (Novice): This 5.2 mile out-and-back family-friendly trail features a paved surface, making it easily accessible for individuals of various fitness levels. The trail is mostly flat with gentle inclines and offers a smooth and enjoyable ride for cyclists. The trail offers opportunities for various recreational activities, including picnicking, bird-watching, and fishing, for added fun.
Experience the Ultimate Mountain Biking Adventure and Unwind at Sessions Retreat & Hotel
Big Bear is conveniently located within an approximately two-hour scenic drive from major cities such as Los Angeles, San Diego, and Palm Springs, making it the ultimate season-spanning getaway. Sessions Retreat & Hotel provides the perfect reprieve from your daily adventures, with its proximity to trails, access to the complimentary Big Bear Trolley, free parking and bike storage, thoughtful amenities and a relaxing homebase to unwind. Book your next adventure today!