King of the Castle Rock

If you have only a short time to enjoy a snowy Big Bear hike, conquer the steep slopes of the Castle Rock Trail. After parking in the small pull-out lot, cross the highway (carefully!) and find the trailhead to this easygoing 2.5-mile out-and-back trek. The path begins along a peaceful, babbling stream. Head uphill through the forested gully and admire the Jeffrey pines and white firs, following the scattered signs through granite formations constantly overlooking Big Bear Lake. If you start to hesitate directionally, simply look for the footprints of hikers past that will inevitably lead you to the grand finale. (In fact, there are multiple routes to the top that cover the 700-foot elevation gain.) You will near Castle Rock when the trail starts to descend and is adjacent to another gurgling stream to your left. The giant monolith towers above, directly to your right. Since climbing Castle Rock is dangerous during the winter, maneuver around its perimeter to the east side of the stone to reward yourself with the most royal of panoramic views.

To get to the parking lot, take CA-18 west for three miles if heading from Big Bear Lake Village. The lot, also 1 mile east of Big Bear Dam, hugs the highway and is marked by a “sharp curves, narrow road” sign. Dog-friendly!