Skyline Trail

Trail Description

Skyline Trail is Big Bear's signature long-distance hiking and mountain biking trail, offering 15 miles of scenic singletrack that traverses the mountainous ridge along the South Shore of Big Bear Lake. This moderately challenging trail provides continuously stunning views - to the south you'll catch glimpses of Mt. San Gorgonio (Southern California's highest peak at 11,503 feet), while to the north you'll see beautiful vistas of Big Bear Lake shimmering below. The trail begins at the end of Dogwood Drive and winds through dense stands of Jeffrey pines, manzanita, and buckthorn as it parallels Forest Service Road 2N10 along the ridge. The trail is remarkably flat for a mountain trail, with only 160 feet of elevation change over 8.5 miles, making it accessible to intermediate hikers and mountain bikers. Multiple access points along the route allow you to customize your distance - you can hike short sections or tackle the entire 15-mile journey. The eastern half of the trail offers more mountain views, while the western sections provide better lake views. The trail surface varies from smooth packed dirt to rocky technical sections, keeping the journey interesting throughout. Skyline Trail is a work in progress, with new sections being added regularly as part of a long-term development plan. The trail is popular with the mountain biking community, so hikers should stay alert and yield appropriately. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on leash. Spring wildflowers and fall colors make those seasons particularly beautiful, though summer offers the most reliable weather. An Adventure Pass is required for trailhead parking. The trail's length and exposure mean proper preparation is essential: bring plenty of water (2-3 liters for a full traverse), sun protection, snacks, and a trail map. The trail is typically snow-free from April through November. This is one of Big Bear's best trails for experiencing the scale and beauty of the San Bernardino Mountains.

Essential Trail Information

• Water: Bring at least 1 liter per 2 hours of hiking - Big Bear's high altitude (6,750+ ft) increases dehydration risk
• Sun Protection: Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses are essential - less ozone protection at this elevation
• Weather: Mountain weather can change rapidly - bring layers even on sunny days
• Wildlife: Black bears are active in the area - store food properly and make noise while hiking
• Adventure Pass: Required for parking ($5/day or $30/year) - available at 7-Eleven, Big Bear Visitor Center, or Big Bear Discovery Center
• Emergency: Download offline trail maps - cell service can be spotty on trails
• Leave No Trace: Pack out all trash and stay on marked trails

What to Bring

• Plenty of water (1 liter per 2 hours minimum)
• Sunscreen and sun protection
• Layered clothing (weather changes quickly)
• Snacks and energy food
• First aid kit
• Charged phone and portable charger
• Map or GPS device
• Adventure Pass for parking

Plan Your Trip