Big Bear
Everything BB
EverythingBB
All BB Parks & Trails
Cougar Crest to Bertha Peak
🌲 Forest Trail
6.4 mi
hard

Cougar Crest to Bertha Peak

North Shore
🥾 Hiking
📸 Scenic
🦌 Wildlife
🏔️ Viewpoint

An extension of the Cougar Crest Trail to Bertha Peak — about 6.4 miles round trip — for some of Big Bear's biggest views.

From the top of Cougar Crest Trail at the Pacific Crest Trail junction, hikers can continue east about 0.6 miles to Bertha Peak (8,201 ft) for a true summit experience — 360-degree views of Big Bear Lake, the San Gorgonio Wilderness, and the high desert beyond. Roughly 6.4 miles round trip from the Cougar Crest Trailhead with about 1,300 feet of total elevation gain.

🌟 Why Locals Love It

It's the 'add-on' that turns a great hike into one of the best in Big Bear.

What to Expect

Cougar Crest's forested climb, plus a final ridge push to a true summit.

💡 Good to Know Before You Go

Adventure Pass required at trailhead. Carry enough water — this is a real high-elevation hike.

📍 Local Tip

Go early — afternoon storms can build at altitude in summer.

Best Time to Visit

May through October.

Notable Features

Bertha Peak summit (8,201 ft)
PCT junction
360° views

Practical Info

North Shore Drive, Big Bear Lake, CA 92314
1,300 ft elevation gain

Amenities

Parking
Adventure Pass Required
Trailhead Parking
Trails
Verified Official Source
View Official Page →

Explore Everything BB

Everything BB is your premium guide to California's beloved alpine escape — the lake, the cabins, the Village, the slopes, and the mountain. Curated for the people who live, escape to, and vacation in Big Bear. Part of the Everything California network.