Cougar Crest Trail
Hike the Cougar Crest Trail for breathtaking panoramic views of Big Bear Lake and access to the Pacific Crest Trail.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Cougar Crest Trail
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike the Cougar Crest Trail for breathtaking panoramic views of Big Bear Lake and access to the Pacific Crest Trail.
"Amazing views, beautiful place but I do not recommend it for dogs because it has very rocky areas that can hurt them!"
👟 Sturdy Hiking Boots Needed
The trail is rocky; wear good shoes to protect your feet and for better grip.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Especially for the climb to Bertha Peak, stay hydrated on this moderate to challenging hike.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Big Bear Lake Views
Along the trail and at Bertha Peak
Breathtaking, expansive views of Big Bear Lake and the surrounding San Bernardino National Forest.
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Bertha Peak Summit
End of the Cougar Crest Trail
Reach the 8,201 ft summit for the most rewarding, panoramic vistas. A true accomplishment!
Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) Access
Trail junction
Connect to the famous PCT for a taste of thru-hiking adventure.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Views
Trail Conditions & Footwear
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Hiking Boots Needed
The trail is rocky; wear good shoes to protect your feet and for better grip.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Especially for the climb to Bertha Peak, stay hydrated on this moderate to challenging hike.
🐶 Not Ideal for Dogs
Rocky terrain can be tough on paws. Consider leaving your furry friends at home.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic lake views are spectacular, especially from Bertha Peak.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Hiking Boots Needed
The trail is rocky; wear good shoes to protect your feet and for better grip.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Especially for the climb to Bertha Peak, stay hydrated on this moderate to challenging hike.
🐶 Not Ideal for Dogs
Rocky terrain can be tough on paws. Consider leaving your furry friends at home.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic lake views are spectacular, especially from Bertha Peak.
📍 Trailhead Parking
Parking is available at the Cougar Crest Trailhead.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the spectacular, expansive views of Big Bear Lake and the rewarding climb to Bertha Peak. The trail is generally well-maintained and offers access to the PCT. However, some find the rocky terrain challenging and advise against bringing dogs.
"We really enjoy this trail !!! Amazing views, beautiful place but I do not recommend it for dogs because it has very rocky areas that can hurt them!"
Jaqueline Barreto
"Great trail up to the PCT. Nice views of the lake, not too steep and well maintained trail."
Sascha Calkins
"Very Nice Trail, Easy to Hike and it leads to the PCT just below Bertha Peak Elevation 8200 ft. Parked at Cougar Crest Trailhead, Elevation 6200 ft, and started the hike up the mountain. Moderate Fairly Easy hike with lots of views of the Lake, many interesting Juniper and Pine trees, wild flowers and several benches to stop and rest along the way. Overall the trail was well maintained, well marked and easy to follow. We met several through hikers on the PCT as well as local hikers out for a day in Nature. So if you're thinking about hiking this trail give it a try it's not as difficult as described in the Trail Guide."
Donald Hairston
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Cougar Crest Trailhead is located in the San Bernardino National Forest, a short drive from Big Bear Lake. It's easily accessible by car, and parking is available on-site.
From Big Bear Lake, you'll typically drive a few minutes to reach the trailhead. Many visitors find it convenient to access after staying in nearby cabins.
Public transportation options directly to the trailhead are limited. Driving is the most common and convenient way to access the Cougar Crest Trail.
Specific driving directions can be found using GPS or mapping apps, but it's generally accessed via roads leading into the San Bernardino National Forest from Big Bear City.
Yes, the trailhead is generally well-marked and a popular starting point for hikes in the area, making it relatively easy to locate.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Typically, no specific permit is required for day hiking on the Cougar Crest Trail itself. However, always check current regulations for the San Bernardino National Forest.
There is generally no entrance fee for accessing the Cougar Crest Trail. Parking at the trailhead is usually free.
The trail is open year-round during daylight hours. It's an outdoor natural area, so there are no set operating hours.
No, tickets are not required for Cougar Crest Trail as it's a public hiking trail. You can simply show up and start your hike.
The main restriction is related to pet policies, as the rocky terrain is not ideal for dogs. Always be mindful of Leave No Trace principles.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The Cougar Crest Trail is approximately 5.6 miles out and back, with an additional 2 miles if you continue to Bertha Peak, making it around 7.6 miles roundtrip.
The trail has about 1,400 feet of elevation gain, especially if you ascend to Bertha Peak, making it a moderate to challenging hike.
The initial part of the trail is fairly easy, but the ascent to Bertha Peak is more challenging. Beginners might find the full hike strenuous.
You'll experience stunning panoramic views of Big Bear Lake, the surrounding mountains, and the San Bernardino National Forest.
Restroom facilities at the trailhead can be limited or non-existent. It's advisable to use facilities before arriving or be prepared for backcountry conditions.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic photo opportunities are the panoramic views of Big Bear Lake from various points along the trail and especially from the summit of Bertha Peak.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with golden hour providing beautiful, soft illumination and fewer harsh shadows.
Drone usage is often restricted in national forests. Always check the latest regulations from the U.S. Forest Service before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes, and a telephoto lens can be useful for details in the distance. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light shots.
Look for interesting juniper and pine trees, wildflowers in season, and the unique textures of the rocky terrain, in addition to the grand vistas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and water, and be prepared for the rocky sections. It's also important to note that the trail is generally not recommended for dogs due to the rough ground.
🚶♀️ Solo Hikers & Day-Trippers
Mid-week hikes are ideal for solo adventurers seeking fewer crowds and a more peaceful experience. The drive from Big Bear Lake is short, making it a perfect half-day or full-day excursion. Remember to inform someone of your hiking plans and carry essentials like water, snacks, and a map.
🏞️ Nature Enthusiasts & Photographers
The summit of Bertha Peak is a photographer's dream, providing unobstructed vistas that are particularly stunning during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset.
+1 Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive scenery and a telephoto lens for details. The trail's connection to the PCT also adds an element of interest for those fascinated by long-distance hiking culture. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ascent to Bertha Peak
Hikers describe the climb as strenuous but absolutely worth it. The panoramic views from the 8,201 ft summit are unparalleled, offering a breathtaking 360-degree perspective of Big Bear Lake, the surrounding San Bernardino Mountains, and the vast expanse of the national forest. It's a prime spot for photos and a true sense of accomplishment.
+1When planning your hike to Bertha Peak, remember to pack extra water, snacks, and wear appropriate footwear. The trail is well-maintained but can be rocky, so sturdy hiking boots are highly recommended.
Connecting with the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT)
Meeting thru-hikers on the PCT can be an inspiring part of the experience, offering a glimpse into the dedication and adventure of long-distance trekking. Even if you're not planning a long hike, reaching this junction provides a sense of connection to a much larger network of trails.
While the Cougar Crest Trail itself is a moderate hike, the PCT offers endless possibilities for exploration. If you're curious about the PCT, this trail provides an accessible introduction. Remember that the PCT is a wilderness trail, and hikers should be prepared for varying conditions and self-sufficiency.
Navigating the Rocky Terrain
Sturdy hiking boots are essential for navigating the trail safely and comfortably. The rocks can be uneven, and good ankle support can prevent twists and sprains. This is also why the trail is not recommended for dogs, as the rough surfaces can be hard on their paws.
Beyond footwear, hikers should be mindful of their steps, especially on descents. The rocky sections can make the trail feel more challenging than its mileage might suggest. However, the unique geological features add to the trail's character and the overall hiking experience.
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