Big Bear Hiking FAQ

Everything You Need to Know Before Your Adventure

Have a question? You’re probably not the first. Here are answers to questions we hear most often. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, feel free to reach out. We’re always happy to help.

Before You Book

Why should I book a guided hike instead of hiking on my own?

You certainly can hike on your own, and many people do. A guided hike simply offers a different kind of experience. Instead of spending your time navigating, watching the clock, or wondering if you’re on the right trail, you can relax and enjoy being outside. Along the way, you’ll discover stories, local history, wildlife, and little details you might otherwise miss.

I’ve never been hiking before. Can I still join?

Absolutely. Many of our guests are first-time hikers. We offer experiences for a variety of ability levels, and your guide, Shauna is there to help you feel comfortable along the way.

How do I choose the right hike?

Each hike includes a trail rating, distance, duration, and recommended age. If you’re not sure which adventure is the best fit, we’re happy to help you choose. Just reach out to Shauna from our Contact Form, or call or text her at 909.855.9395.

Do I need to be in great shape?

Not at all. We offer hikes ranging from easy walks around the lake to more challenging mountain adventures and everything in between. Choose the experience that matches your comfort level.

Can I book a private hike?

Yes. Private guided hikes let you choose your trail, group size, date, time, and hike length. They’re a great option for families, friends, celebrations, or anyone who prefers a more personalized adventure.
See Private Hikes | Book a Private Hike | Contact Us

Booking and Policies

What is your cancellation policy?

If you’re unable to attend, you’re welcome to transfer your reservation to another person.

What is your refund policy?

All reservations are charged in full at the time of booking and are nonrefundable. However, we reserve the right to modify or cancel any tour due to unsafe conditions determined by the guide on the day of the hike. In such cases, Shauna will contact you with your options.

Most weather is not a deterrent when it comes to hiking. We sometimes hike in snowy/icy or rainy/muddy conditions. These real-world conditions offer opportunities to discuss how to travel safely in diverse conditions. With that being said, Big Bear Hiking Adventures, LLC reserves the right to modify or cancel any tour due to any unsafe conditions determined by the guide on the day of the hike. In the event of a guide-related cancellation, I will contact you with your options.

We ask you to contact us at 909.855.9395 as soon as you know you won’t make it to the trailhead at least 5 minutes before your hike start time. If you arrive at the trailhead after the hike has departed or later than 15 minutes after your private hike start time, you will be considered a no-show.

Current Road Conditions

No-shows are nonrefundable.

What happens if the weather changes?

Our hikes operate rain or shine unless your guide determines conditions are unsafe. If severe weather requires us to cancel, we’ll contact you with your available options. Check current Big Bear weather here.

What forms of payment do you accept?

We accept major credit cards through our secure online booking system.

Can I book for a larger group?

Yes! We’d love to help you plan a group adventure. Whether you’re organizing a family gathering, team outing, celebration, or special event, contact us and we’ll help create the right experience for your group.

Do you offer gift certificates?

Yes! A guided hiking adventure makes a memorable gift for birthdays, holidays, anniversaries, or anyone who loves spending time outdoors. Contact us for gift certificate options.

Can children join hikes?

Many of our hikes are family-friendly, while others are better suited for older children or teens because of the distance or difficulty. Each hike includes a difficulty rating to help you choose the right adventure. If you need further guidance, feel free to reach out to Shauna.

What is not permitted?

For safety and environmental reasons, the following are not allowed:

Smoking (sorry, but vape included)
Drugs
Alcohol
Drones
Going off trail
Dogs off-leash
Leaving trash behind

Preparing For Your Hike

What should I bring?

Water, comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a few extra layers are the basics. Some experiences, like night hikes or snowshoe adventures, have additional recommendations. Visit our What to Wear and Bring page for a complete packing guide.

What should I wear?

Dress in comfortable clothing and wear supportive hiking shoes. Layers are always recommended since mountain temperatures can change throughout the day.

Do I need trekking poles?

Trekking poles can be helpful but are completely optional.

Do I need to sign a waiver?

Yes. Every participant must complete a waiver before joining a guided adventure.

Do I need a parking pass?

Yes, a parking pass is required. The parking pass is included in your booking price. For future hiking trips on your own, you can purchase day passes for $5, and annual passes for $30. You can purchase them using zip code 92315 at the U.S. Forest Service.

I’m coming from a lower elevation. Will I notice the altitude?

You might. Big Bear sits at about 6,700–8,000 feet above sea level, and some visitors notice the elevation, especially on their first day. Staying hydrated, taking your time, and listening to your body usually helps you adjust.

Where do we meet?

Your meeting location will be included in your booking confirmation email. Different hikes meet at different trailheads or event locations, so be sure to check your confirmation before heading out.

Are there restrooms at the trailhead?

Some trailheads have restroom facilities, while others do not.

Alpine Pedal Path: Yes, there are porta-potties near the trailhead and facilities available at the Big Bear Discovery Center nearby.

Castle Rock: Yes, there are two ADA-compliant unisex restroom stalls in a building in the trailhead parking lot.

Cougar Crest: Yes, there is a pit toilet in the trailhead parking lot.

Grays Peak: Yes, there are porta-potties available.

Pacific Crest Trail: No

Pine Knot: Yes, pit toilet at trailhead, full restroom facilities at nearby picnic area
.
Woodland: Yes, there is a pit toilet available.

Do you rent gear?

Coming soon! We will offer rentals for snowshoe sets, pre-packed day packs, and trekking poles. Check back later for more details.

Do I need a wilderness permit to hike in Big Bear?

No, a wilderness permit isn’t required for hikers who are being guided by Big Bear Hiking Adventures. We hold a permit from the San Bernardino National Forest. That’s all you need!

During Your Hike

Can I take photos?

Please do! There are plenty of beautiful views and memorable moments along the way. We’ll happily stop for photos whenever it makes sense.

Will we stop along the way?

Yes. Our hikes aren’t races. We’ll take breaks for water, photos, enjoying the scenery, and sharing stories about the area.

Can I leave my orange and banana peels on the trail? They are biodegradable.

No. Learn more about why not.

Can I bring my dog?

Dogs are welcome on almost all of our guided hikes if you sign a waiver for them and they remain on a leash. Some special events don’t allow dogs due to the nature of the experience. Please check the event details before booking.

What if someone in my group hikes slower?

That’s perfectly okay. These are guided experiences, not competitions. We adjust our pace so everyone can enjoy the adventure.

Miscellaneous

Are you hiring?

We are not hiring at this time but we may be hiring soon.

When we’re ready, we’ll be looking for someone who:

Has at least 3 years of outdoor experience
Has or can get personal insurance
Is currently CPR and First Aid certified (or is willing to undergo training provided by BBHA)
Has knowledge of local history (suggestions provided by BBHA)
Has knowledge of local flora and fauna (suggestions provided by BBHA)
Is able to perform job requirements (provided by BBHA)
Will follow current BBHA Guide Procedures (provided by BBHA)

Please contact me with a description of your outdoor experience and other qualifications. We’d also like to know why you want to be a BBHA guide. We’ll be happy to consider your qualifications when the time is right.

Thank you for your interest!

Didn’t see your question here? Contact me! I’m happy to answer it. Maybe we’ll add your question to the Big Bear hiking FAQ!

Hiking in Big Bear: What to Know Before You Go

Planning a guided hike in Big Bear? You’re in the right place. Big Bear Lake offers a wide variety of trails and outdoor experiences, from easy forest walks to more challenging mountain hikes. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or live nearby, choosing the right trail can make all the difference.

big bear lake california sunset over the lake with a short log in the foreground

Big Bear’s mountain environment is beautiful, but it can also be different from what you may be used to at lower elevations. Weather can change quickly, temperatures can vary throughout the day, and elevation can affect how a hike feels. That’s why it’s important to come prepared with plenty of water, comfortable hiking shoes, sun protection, layers, and the essentials you’ll need for your time on the trail.

If you’re not sure which Big Bear hiking trail is right for you, a guided hike can make the planning easier. Shauna can help you choose an experience based on your group’s interests, fitness level, available time, and the type of adventure you’re looking for. BBHA offers private guided hikes, seasonal experiences, special events, and snowshoe adventures throughout the year.

Our FAQ is here to answer common questions about hiking in Big Bear, including what to bring, trail difficulty, weather, ages, dogs, booking, and what to expect on a guided hike. If you don’t find the answer you’re looking for, contact us and we’ll be happy to help you figure out the details before you head into the mountains.

Big Bear Hiking FAQ

Everything You Need to Know Before Your Adventure

Before You Book

Booking and Policies

Preparing For Your Hike

During Your Hike

Miscellaneous

Hiking in Big Bear: What to Know Before You Go

Explore

Info

Mountain Road Conditions

Big Bear Hiking FAQ

Everything You Need to Know Before Your Adventure

Before You Book

Booking and Policies

Preparing For Your Hike

During Your Hike

Miscellaneous

Hiking in Big Bear: What to Know Before You Go

Footer

Explore

Info

Mountain Road Conditions