Alpine Pedal Path – Cougar Crest Trailhead loop from Big Bear Solar Observatory
Alpine Pedal Path – Cougar Crest Trailhead loop from Big Bear Solar Observatory
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Alpine Pedal Path – Cougar Crest Trailhead loop from Big Bear Solar Observatory
01:50
22.8km
280m
Cycling
Hard bike ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: May 21, 2026
Tips
Temporary access restrictions
Includes segments with temporary access restrictions.
After 17.3 km for 98 m
Closed: • January-May • December (otherwise open)
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
680 m
Alpine Pedal Path
Highlight (Segment) • Monument
Tip by
6.53 km
Butler Peak Trailhead
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
8.52 km
Hanna Flat Campground
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
10.7 km
Old Snow Slide Road
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
12.7 km
Gray's Peak Group Campground
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
16.1 km
Yellow Post #1
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
17.2 km
Grays Peak Trailhead
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
22.6 km
Cougar Crest Trailhead
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
22.8 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
7.56 km
7.19 km
3.24 km
3.19 km
1.39 km
221 m
Surfaces
11.8 km
10.5 km
468 m
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Elevation
Highest point (2,230 m)
Lowest point (2,060 m)
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Weather
Powered by Foreca
Monday 6 July
28°C
9°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 4.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a touring cycling route that delivers a dramatic shift in terrain and challenge, the Alpine Pedal Path – Cougar Crest Trailhead loop from Big Bear Solar Observatory is certainly worth a look. This 14.1-mile (22.8 km) route is rated difficult, with 934 feet (285 metres) of climbing over roughly 1 hour and 49 minutes, making it a unique Big Bear cycling route that combines leisurely lakeside cruising with a rugged mountain ascent. It's best suited for touring cyclists who are prepared for a significant off-road challenge on the Cougar Crest section, or those who plan to enjoy the paved path and perhaps walk the more technical parts.
What to expect on Alpine Pedal Path – Cougar Crest Trailhead loop from Big Bear Solar Observatory
This loop offers a tale of two trails. You'll start with the serene Alpine Pedal Path, a paved multi-use trail winding along the north shore of Big Bear Lake. Here, you'll enjoy beautiful views of the lake and surrounding mountains, passing through mature trees and meadows, with opportunities for birdwatching. This section is mostly flat and accessible for all skill levels. However, the route then transitions to the Cougar Crest Trail, which is a stark contrast. This singletrack trail features embedded rocks, roots, and tight switchbacks, climbing steadily to offer panoramic views of Big Bear Lake, the city, and the San Bernardino Mountains. Expect a significant effort on this part, as it's primarily designed for mountain biking and hiking, making it quite technical for touring cyclists.
Planning your visit
The loop conveniently connects the Alpine Pedal Path to the Cougar Crest Trailhead parking lot via an underpass beneath Highway 38, near the Big Bear Discovery Center. Parking is available at the Big Bear Solar Observatory or the Cougar Crest Trailhead. For birdwatching, particularly bald eagles, the Alpine Pedal Path is excellent from November to April. If you're tackling the Cougar Crest Trail, summer brings wildflowers and vibrant greenery. Always be prepared for changing conditions, especially on the more exposed mountain sections.
Trail details
- Distance: 14.1 miles (22.8 km)
- Elevation gain: 934 feet (285 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 1 hours and 49 minutes
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