Peak fall colors are expected to blanket Big Bear’s mountain trails between October 10 and 25, with golden aspens and crimson oaks drawing hikers, photographers and nature lovers to the San Bernardino Mountains.
The Big Bear Visitors Bureau has updated its trail maps and foliage tracking tools for the season, offering expanded access to popular routes such as Castle Rock, Pine Knot and Cougar Crest. A new interactive map available at BigBear.com shows live foliage conditions and recommends trailheads based on elevation, helping visitors align their hikes with peak color zones.
According to the guide, elevation plays a key role in timing: areas above 7,000 feet typically peak earlier, while lower elevations reach full color later in the season. The map divides the region into three elevation bands, each with its own projected peak window.
Trail improvements include enhanced signage and updated elevation markers. The guide encourages weekday visits to avoid weekend congestion and recommends early morning hikes for optimal lighting. Visitors are advised to check trail conditions before heading out, dress in layers and prepare for sudden weather changes.
The Big Bear Discovery Center will host guided foliage walks and interpretive programs throughout October, focusing on native tree species such as black oak, quaking aspen and western sycamore. Photography tips in the guide suggest vantage points along the Skyline Trail and Bluff Lake Reserve, with best lighting conditions between 7:00 a.m. and 9 a.m.
For more information about the fall foliage in Big Bear Lake, various fall activities and events, or to book lodging accommodations, visit bigbear.com.
