SKYFEST BIG BEAR 2026 NIGHT HIKES
Guided Hikes During SkyFest in Big Bear Lake
In conjunction with Care For Big Bear’s SkyFest Big Bear
We are so proud to be part of this important event with Care For Big Bear this year. Like last year, our Big Bear Lake night hike will encompass the special theme of preservation and night sky awareness during SkyFest Big Bear. We invite you to bring your friends and family, get outside, breathe the mountain air, and help protect our shared environment.
Snapshot
The Experience
Take a scenic ride on the Sky Chair to the top of Snow Summit.
You’ll meet your guide there for a unique hike and stargazing under the Big Bear sky.
Trail Rating: Easy (suitable for most fitness levels). | Ages 7 and up. | All participants must sign a Release and Waiver of Liability before joining the hike. | All bookings are non-refundable. | Hikes take place rain or shine, unless conditions are deemed unsafe by the guide. | Participation is at your own risk. Big Bear Hiking Adventures and its guides are not responsible for loss, injury, or damage to personal property.
THE SKY IS THE ULTIMATE ART GALLERY JUST ABOVE US.
Ralph Waldo Emerson
What is SkyFest Big Bear and Why It Matters
SkyFest Big Bear is a special initiative led by Care For Big Bear that brings attention to the importance of preserving the night sky, reducing light pollution, and fostering a deeper connection to our natural surroundings in the Big Bear Valley.
On August 14-16, 2026, there will be events, stories, hikes, stargazing sessions and educational content designed to remind us that our night sky is not simply aesthetic, it plays a vital role in ecosystem health, wildlife behavior, and even human well-being.
By joining our guided hikes during SkyFest Big Bear, guests will do more than walk a trail, they are showing up for Big Bear’s forest environment, for the nocturnal creatures, for the clarity of our dark skies, and for the future of our shared outdoor playground.
The mission of Care For Big Bear is rooted in four guiding principles: care for community, appreciate the natural environment, respect our neighbors, and enjoy the valley together. Their participation helped realize these goals.
Why Choose This Night Hike?
- Scenic and meaningful: The trail we selected offers not only beautiful views and fresh mountain air, but also a chance to reflect on our relationship with nature and the night sky.
- Guided with purpose: Our guide shares insights about how forest health links to dark-sky protection, how wildlife adapts to light, and how individual actions matter.
- Community focused: This isn’t just a hike, it’s part of a larger movement led by Care For Big Bear and SkyFest Big Bear to engage locals and visitors alike in stewardship of Big Bear’s natural wonders.
- Accessible and fun: Hikers can expect a meaningful outdoor experience. We designed this hike so that you will feel comfortable knowing there are no steep climbs or rocky terrain.
Details & Tips
- Wear sturdy shoes and bring layers. The mountain air can cool quickly at night.
- Bring a water bottle, light snack, headlamp or flashlight, and a sense of wonder.
- Please park responsibly, stay on designated trails, pack out any trash. In line with Care For Big Bear’s values, we ask everyone to leave the forest better than they found it.
- Book early! Spaces are limited, and these hikes coincide with SkyFest Big Bear events, which draw attention from beyond the valley.
- Let us know if you have any special needs or questions ahead of time.
We can’t wait to welcome you to Big Bear Lake for the trail, the stars, and the shared commitment to protecting our wild spaces. See you on the trail!
