Drive Around the Lake

The Scenic Loop & Must-See Stops

Kick off your journey in the heart of Big Bear Lake. This charming downtown area is packed with restaurants, shops, and cozy cafes, making it the perfect place to fuel up before hitting the road.

Stanfield Marsh & Wildlife Preserve

📍 Located at Stanfield Cutoff

Follow Big Bear Boulevard (Highway 18) east and turn left onto Stanfield Cutoff. On the right hand side you will see a new parking lot with restrooms. If the lot is full, you can also park along the bridge. From the parking lot, you can walk the wooden boardwalk, where you can spot birds like great blue herons and egrets. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best wildlife sightings.

Alpine Pedal Path

📍 Parking available at Stanfield Cutoff & North Shore Drive

Continue on Stanfield Cutoff, where you will have excellent views of the lake and marsh. Then take a left onto North Shore Drive (Highway 38). At the corner you will find parking along the road and a trailhead sign.  Explore this 3.2 mile paved path running alongside the road, offering stunning lake views. It’s perfect for a quick walk or a leisurely bike ride. Plus, you can find access point to the sand and lake!

Woodland Interpretive Trail

📍 North Shore Drive (Hwy 38)

As you continue on the North Shore, on your left, you will see a trailhead for the Woodland Interpretive Trail. This is a short, family-friendly nature walk featuring interpretive signs that teach you about Big Bear’s unique plants and wildlife. A great stop for those looking to connect with nature without a long hike.

Big Bear Discovery Center

📍 North Shore Drive

The best place to learn about the area! A short drive on, you will find the Big Bear DIscovery Center parking lot. Stop in for local history, maps, and tips on hikes and wildlife viewing. The center is also a great starting point for many of the nearby trails. There is also a short nature walk you can take.

Fawnskin: A Hidden Town

📍 North Shore Drive

Take a break in Fawnskin, a quiet village with a small marina, and a scenic picnic area. Be sure to bring a sandwhich or lunch with you because there are limited food options in Fawnskin.

Picnic Areas Along North Shore

📍 Juniper Point & Grout Bay Picnic Areas

Along the way you will find plenty of places to stop. If you enjoy shaded tables, restrooms, and stunning lakefront scenery be sure to check out the picnic areas. If the season is right, you may even be able to take a dip in the lake!

Big Bear Dam: Panoramic Lake Views

📍 West end of Big Bear Lake

Follow North Shore Drive all the way to the Big Bear Dam for jaw-dropping views of the dam and the lake stretching eastward. This is a prime spot for a photo-op, especially at sunset.

Boulder Bay Park: A Geological Wonder

📍 South Shore of the Lake

At the Dam, be sure to turn left at the light and head back east on 18. Once back on the south side, make a quick detour to Boulder Bay Park, famous for its massive rock formations emerging from the water. Take a stroll, enjoy a picnic, or snap a few Instagram-worthy photos.

Return to Big Bear Village

Continue on Big Bear Boulevard, then turn right back into the Village to complete your loop.

Bonus Tip: Keep an Eye Out for Wildlife!

Big Bear is home to bald eagles, osprey, deer, and even the occasional black bear! The best wildlife spotting happens early in the morning or around sunset, especially near Stanfield Marsh and the Discovery Center.