Cougar Crest Trail to Bertha Peak Hike Guide
In This Guide |
|
Total Distance (?) | 8 miles (12.9 km) |
Other Options | 4.5 miles roundtrip to viewpoint benches |
Hike Time | 3-4 Hours (Total) |
Difficulty (?) | Moderate |
Total Ascent (?) | 1,450 feet (442m) |
Highest Elevation | 8,201 feet (2500m) |
Fees & Permits | Parking Permit |
Dogs Allowed | Leashed |
Alerts & Closures (?) | San Bernardino National Forest |
Park Phone | 909-382-2682 |
Weather & Forecast | Latest Conditions |
Stay Safe | Copy this webpage link to the clipobard and share with a friend before you hike. Let them know when to expect you back. |
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The Cougar Crest Trail, one of the most popular in Big Bear, CA, offers excellent views and beautiful wilderness for a moderate, but not crazy, effort. On the hike, you’ll experience a lush Alpine forest, views of Big Bear Lake, stone sculptures, a stretch on the iconic Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), and then the panoramic Bertha Peak, one of the high points around the lake.
Where Is the Cougar Crest Trail in Big Bear?
The Cougar Crest Trail is located on the north shore of Big Bear Lake. Use this trailhead address:
Cougar Crest Trailhead, Big Bear, CA 92314

You need a National Parks Pass or Adventure Pass to park in this lot.
If the parking lot is full, you can try parking at the nearby Big Bear Discovery Center and walk down the paved path to join the hike slightly after the start.
Gear For the Hike

The Cougar Crest Trail up to Bertha Peak is a very straightforward hike, with a good trail. Some folks think it’s rocky, and compared to paved paths around the lake, it is, but compared to normal mountain trails, this trail is normal. If you have trekking poles, they’ll come in handy, but I wouldn’t buy new ones, especially for this hike. The summit at Bertha Peak can be windy and cool; bring an extra layer or shell. In the winter, there can be snow and ice, and micros-spikes help on slippery slopes. 2L of water will keep you hydrated for the length of this hike.
Cougar Crest Trail Maps
Explore Map on CalTopoView a Printable PDF Hike MapDownload the Hike GPX File
Elevation Profile

3d Map

Cougar Crest Trail to Bertha Peak Directions
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Video Directions
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Turn by Turn Directions


















If you just want to hike Cougar Crest Trail, and not Bertha Peak, enjoy the benches, and then turn around. Otherwise keep going to continue to Bertha Peak.















This guide last updated on April 21, 2022. Did something change on this hike? If so, please contact me and let me know. I'll update the guide.