Pedal Into the Pines at Big Bear Lake

Ride miles of trails and paved paths through pines and along lakefront.

Want a great place to cruise on your bike? Hop in your car and head for the hills. Roughly a 2-hour drive northeast of Los Angeles, Big Bear Lake makes the perfect escape from the metropolitan crush, especially in summer when valley temperatures soar. Instead, climb into the pine-covered mountains, part of San Bernardino National Forest , and discover over 100 miles of great mountain-biking trails for riders of all abilities. The 9-mile Grandview Loop is a good a place to start. First ride the gondola to the top of Snow Summit, then bike down on an easy fire road. The 13-mile Grout Bay Trail offers great single-track for those wanting more of a challenge. Experienced riders often head out to Delamar Mountain, Holcomb Valley, and Van Dusen Canyon. From Van Dusen Canyon Road, you can access the John Bull Trail, technical terrain for advanced riders.

But  it's not all about dirt at Big Bear. There's plenty of paved routes to follow too. Families might consider the paved Alpine Pedal Path. From Big Bear Discovery Center on the north side of Big Bear Lake and winds through meadow and wood beside the lake. The folks at Bear Valley Bikes can advise you on trails, rent you a bike, or take you on a guided tour.

Tip: Big Bear is no secret to weekend warriors; come midweek and you’ll find emptier trails.