Big Bear Hikes and Bites

Angelenos most visited mountain destination, given it’s only a 2.5 hour drive from LA, Big Bear is the perfect weekend getaway (or day trip) if you’re looking to get some higher elevation into your life. During the winter, it’s a ski destination, but any other time of the year you can find some great hiking, food, and natural beauty. If you find this information helpful, any tips are appreciated for my work :)

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Where to Stay

Getaway

@michaela

Getaway House’s Southern California location - located in Running Springs near Lake Arrowhead, about 2.5 hours from LA. Enjoy a container-style tiny house for 2-4 people with a full kitchen, beautiful views, and more! If you’re staying in Big Bear, you’ll be a bit of a drive from town (about 45 minutes), but if you’re looking for a unique stay, this is a great spot.

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What to do

Hikes

Castle Rock Trail

@michaela

This 2.6 mile trail is one of the most popular trails near Big Bear, but for good reason. It’s not too long, but still supplies a decent workout because it’s mostly uphill. The trail winds through the forest beautifully, and ends with awesome views of Big Bear Lake from above. Those who are more adventurous can climb up to the top of Castle Rock to have some even better views.

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Pineknot Trail

@michaela

This 6.9 mile trail is one of the more spectacular trails in the area. It goes through many different parts of the forest, and offers multiple viewpoints of the San Bernardino Range. It has 1177 ft elevation gain, so it’s definitely a more difficult hike, but if that’s what you’re looking for, this should be your first option.

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Cougar Crest Trailhead

@michaela

This 5.3 mile trail rolls through multiple different types of f forests and along part of the Pacific Crest Trail to give up gorgeous views of Big Bear Lake from the far side.

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Views

Keller Peak

@michaela

This spot is about 45 minutes from Big Bear, but if you’re on your way in or out near sunset, it’s a great spot to stop to get epic views over the greate Los Angeles area. There’s a watchtower at the top that is cool to go up to if it’s open, otherwise you can hang out on the rocks at the bottom of it to watch the sunset.

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Rotary Pine Knot Park

@michaela

This little park is walking distance from the center of town and is a great spot to watch sunset before dinner over Big Bear Lake.

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Where to Eat & Drink

Big Bear Lake Brewing Company

@michaela

Serving up locally brewed beers, delicious food, and a fun atmosphere, Big Bear Lake Brewing Company is a great spot to hit after a day of hiking in Big Bear. Get the cheesy potatoes as a side, you won’t be disappointed.

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Fire Rock Burgers & Brews

@michaela

This spot serves up hearty bar food and has a huge menu. It’s a great spot to grab some food and drinks after a day exploring the area.

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Himalayan Restaurant

@michaela

Big Bear is full of the classic burger-type restaurants that you’d expect in a mountain town, but this spot is a gem when you’re looking for something different. They have delicious northern Indian food, and a small wine list.

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Looking for more?

Maybe you're coming from LA...

Michaela Rabinov

Available for hire

Venice Beach Eats and Drinks

This is an ongoing list of my favorite spots to eat and drink in Venice, CA. I lived in Venice for 2 years, and still return often. This funky area of Los Angeles has some amazing restaurants & a great vibe. Use the map function at the top right corner of this guide to see where each place is located while you're on the go! If you find this information helpful, any tips are appreciated for my work :)

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Michaela Rabinov

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California Guides

I've lived in California for 4 years, and have explored most of the state. Shop my guides, itineraries, and maps below ⬇

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Michaela Rabinov

Available for hire

👋🏼 I like adventures. 📍Oahu, Hawaii Hawaii-based Photographer & Travel Creator specializing in outdoors and boutique travel. My favorite type of trip is the kind where you camp one night and then stay in a cute boutique hotel the next because balance is important. I believe in planning enough to not waste any precious time but leaving space for serendipity. You never know what you might happen upon - no matter how many times I've been to a place, there's something new to explore hiding around the next corner Shop my curated Guides to build your own trip or check out my customized trip-planning services. I'm one of the original Thatch Travel Creators & have been planning trips for clients for over 4 years. I've planned awesome trips to places like Japan, Patagonia, the Southwest US, Hawaii, & more. If you're not sure if I can plan a trip to your destination, shoot me a message & we can chat! Note - if you’re here on your phone & you’re interested in booking my services, please visit my page on the web. You’ll find all the information there. DM me via Instagram (@michaelarabinov) or email me (michrabinov@gmail.com) to learn more or for inspo :)

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