Grand View Summit

{NOTE/March 2, 2023: Due to recent storms, many California parks, or roads leading to them, may be temporarily closed. Check the status and do some research before heading out to any parks in the coming weeks, and visit when it's safe to do so.}

The moderately strenuous 6-mile Pine Knot hike in Big Bear is wildly popular in summer. But in winter, this trail is a kingdom of blissful isolation, and just as beautiful! Rent some snowshoes and poles and traverse the snow to explore. Park at the Aspen Glen Picnic Area and begin a gradual ascent directly to the right of the large sign. Follow switchbacks to the first of many glorious views of the lake, cradled by dense patches of ponderosa and Jeffrey pines. Gaining nearly 1,000 feet in elevation, you'll also encounter sugar pines, home to Steller’s jays and mountain chickadees, whose tiny black heads are fun to spot in the snow. Snowshoe prints and dog tracks are your friends as your trail intersects with fire road 2N10. Turn left at the intersection to reach the Grand View Summit, which, true to its name, rewards with panoramic scenery of the southern range of the San Bernardinos. Head down the way you came or, if you brought a topographical map, go a short distance off-trail to meet up with the Cabin Trail and create a loop back to Aspen Glen.

Head west on Big Bear Blvd. from the Village for half a mile, then turn left onto Mill Creek Rd., which runs into Aspen Glen Picnic Area. Display your Forest Adventure Pass in the lot, which can be purchased at a variety of stores around town. The hostel is one block west of the intersection of Village Dr. and Big Bear Blvd. Dog-friendly!