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 Reporter |
Summary: Breathtaking views (and a climb requiring breath to be taken!!) are "de rigeur" along the Cougar Crest Trail, located north of Big Bear Lake. The trail, well-marked and generally in good condition, continues two miles (mostly north) until reaching a junction with the Pacific Crest Trail-the approximately 2638 mile path connecting Canada to Mexico. A four-mile hike along the Cougar Crest Trail to the PCT and back to the parking area is a satisfying and cardiovascular challenge in and of itself, but many hikers like to hike beyond the trail's end, turning east (right) on a dirt road and continuing for about .6 mile to Bertha's Peak, at an elevation 8201 ft. On a clear day, the Mojave Desert can be seen in the distance, and the views of San Gorgonio, Holcomb Valley, and (of course) Big Bear Lake are absolutely awesome. Trailhead: Travel along Highway 18 through the town of Big Bear Lake until reaching the Stanfield Cutoff-turn north, and continue to the north shore of the lake and the junction between the Stanfield Cutoff and Highway 38. Turn left on Hwy 38 and travel 1.3 miles (approximately .6 miles past the Big Bear Ranger Station) to the Cougar Crest Trailhead, situated on the right side of the road. To reach the Cougar Crest Trailhead from the city of Fawnskin, travel approximately 2.4 miles east along Highway 38-the trailhead will be on the left. A Forest Service Adventure Pass is required to park here, and can be obtained at the Discovery Center or at any Ranger Station. (Lat:34.26298 Lon:-116.9065) Trail Guides for Cougar Crest Trail: California Hiking by Stienstra and Brown (Foghorn Press) Best Seasons: Fall, Spring, Summer, User Groups: Hikers, Horses, Ranger Contact: Big Bear Discovery Center (Ranger Station)-(909) 866-3437 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Patricia Barnes, who has posted 23 other hikes on this site Trail Reviews Page 2 of 3 Submit your own review 
Reviewed by David on 6/11/2007 I've hiked this trail but it's not as stunning as some of the others I've hiked. This is a pretty easy jaunt from the parking lot but since then I like to access it via the Pacific Crest Trail and Van Dusen Road - especially if you're not into the crowds. From the Discovery Center, drive the opposite way of Fawnskin, past Division St. Look to your left for Van Dusen Road and turn left. Go up about 2-3 miles on the fireroad and look for the Pacific Crest trail signs to your left and right. Find a turnout nearby and park. Take the PCT trail to your left and follow it for several miles until you intersect with the fireroad that takes you to Bertha's Peak. From there continue straight for a 1/4 mile to the Cougar Crest Peak.
Reviewed by MWN on 5/21/2007 I did the hike with 5 Wolf Cub Scouts (8 years old) in about 3 1/2 hours round trip. We went to the Bertha Pk road and started up, but realized that was a bit too much. The boys did very well and loved the views!
Reviewed by Virginia on 10/2/2006 Hiked in mid- September nice day, lots of people on the trail. Very gradual incline, really nice, not tiring with beautiful views. If you need a great work out do the Bertha Peak part. I thought it was quite stenuous, seems longer than .6 miles, straight uphill at steep incline but nice at the top.
Reviewed by Devona on 5/26/2006 This hike was great! The views were magnificent. I took lots of great shots all throughout the trail. I just recently started hiking every weekend and this trail was challenging but definately acheiveable. It took about 1 1/2 hours up (stopping to take breaks and pictures) and about 1 hour comming back. 
Reviewed by Jim on 10/1/2005 I have lived in Big Bear full time for just over 3 years now. I only tried this trail a few weeks ago, and I've been hiking it quite a bit as it is what I would consider both a perfect workout and it has the bonus of the great view of the lake at the top of the trail. I have not tried the extra Bertha Peak hike but will add that one day when i'm getting in shape and have the time. I am 70 pounds overweight and out of shape, and age 43, but can do this hike no problem, barely breaking a sweat, taking 2 hours round trip, although I did get some blisters on a few toes which is par for the course when you are getting back into shape. If you are out of shape, try this trail anyways it's a perfect workout.
Reviewed by Girl Jo on 9/7/2005 A really nice hike in the Big Bear area. There is shade and some awesome views of Big Bear Lake and other mountains in the distance. Weekends can be busy with large groups, dogs and horses. The extra bit to Bertha Peak is on a steeper dirt road, but the views from the top are worth it. Too bad the peak is covered with radio equipment though.
Reviewed by T. on 6/20/2005 This was a great hike, but I'm not sure the .6 mile dirt road at the top is acurate. I'd guess it's closer to a mile, and it should be mentioned that it's quite steep. I still recommend this hike.
Reviewed by Bill M. on 5/29/2005 Great Hike! All uphill. Bring plenty of water during warmer months. It's a must to continue to Bertha Peak. Only .6 miles farther. That last .6 is a killer but WELL worth it. I will hike again. Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: California Hiking, California Trails, California Hikes, San Bernardino County Hiking, San Bernardino County Trails, San Bernardino County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||