Explore the Pacific Crest Trail in Big Bear

Stretching over 2,650 miles from Mexico to Canada, the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) is one of America’s most iconic long-distance hiking routes, and Big Bear Lake sits at one of its most scenic sections. At elevations around 7,000 feet, hikers experience breathtaking alpine views, fragrant pine forests, and a sense of wilderness that feels miles away from city life.

The PCT winds through the San Bernardino Mountains, offering panoramic vistas of the desert below and opportunities to spot wildlife like hawks, mule deer, and gray squirrels. For many hikers, this stretch near Big Bear is a favorite, offering a perfect balance of challenge, beauty, and accessibility.

Few people know this trail better than Shauna, your Big Bear Hiking Adventures guide. With more than 2,000 miles of Pacific Crest Trail experience, she’s walked these same ridges, camped beneath their stars, and learned every twist of terrain. Her deep familiarity with the PCT’s history, conditions, and hidden gems brings the trail to life for every guest she leads.

Shauna sometimes shares insights from her own thru-hiking journey, such as tips on gear, pacing, and trail safety that can make your day hike both educational and inspiring. Whether you’re curious about what it takes to hike the full PCT or simply want to sample a piece of it on a guided Big Bear hike, you’ll gain a new appreciation for this legendary route.

Join Big Bear Hiking Adventures to explore a local section of the Pacific Crest Trail safely and confidently, guided by someone who’s lived its rhythm, respected its challenges, and still finds wonder in its every mile.