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Snowshoe to Grand View Point

Big Bear Lake, California

Details

Distance

6.1 miles

Elevation Gain

1200 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Spencer Williams

Grand View Point is a must do adventure, living up to its name with one of the best views in Big Bear. Complete with 180 degree panoramic views of both the Big Bear Lake and Mt. San Gorgonio, in the winter this trail transforms into a breath taking snowshoe adventure, leading you though a secluded forest reminiscent of British Colombia.

Grand View Point is accessed via Pine Knot Trail, a 6.5 mile out and back hiking trail located at the Aspen Glen Picnic Area, 1 mile from Big Bear Village. With its close proximity to town, Pine Knot Trail is popular in the summer with mountain bikers and the trailhead is often crowded in the winter with young families paying and sledding in the snow. But not to worry once on the trail you will have the place all to yourself. 

From the parking lot walk southwest through the picnic area until you see the large yellow trailhead sign. Follow the trail .5 miles to the first junction, Pine Knot Trail continues left while a single track mountain bike trail goes to the right. Around 2 miles in you will intersect with dirt road 2N08, cross the road and continue on into Deer Group Camp Ground. Look for a sign leading south out of the campground for Grand View Point. At this point Pine Knot Trail parallels 2N08 for roughly .75 miles leading to a 5 way junction with Skyline Road (2N10). At this junction you have the option to link Pine Knot with Skyline Trail (East to West) or follow Seven Oaks Trail which travels below Grand View Point to the southeast. For this adventure continue straight at the 5 way junction and head south, Grand View Point is only 1/4 mile away. As you approach the view point the tree line will open to a 180 degree view of Big Bear Lake to the north and Mt. San Gorgonio to the south. Grand View Point is a perfect place to heat up hot drinks, soup, and sandwiches so to enjoy a lunch immersed in a winter wonderland. Now when it is time to head back just follow your snowshoe tracks back the way you came.

Keep in mind that National Forest Adventure Passes are required to park in the area. ($5 day pass, $30 year pass). 

During the winter the trail will be covered in snow, it is recommended that you use proper equipment including snowshoes. Many Ski and Snowboard shops in the area rent snowshoes, try Goldsmith's located less than a mile from the trailhead. 

I recommend bringing a camp stove (JetBoil) for heating up soups/hot drinks (nothing better when its cold out). 

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Features

Chillin
Photography
Snowshoeing
Hiking
Bathrooms
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Forest
Picnic Area

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Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Mountain Bike Pine Knot Trail in Big Bear

Castle Rock Trail at Big Bear Lake

Hike the Cougar Crest Trail

Grays Peak Trail

Alpine Pedal Path

Camp at Holcomb Valley Campground