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Hiking trails & Routes

San Bernardino County

Big Bear Lake

Pine Knot and Skyline Trail Loop

Routes

Hiking trails & Routes

San Bernardino County

Big Bear Lake

Pine Knot and Skyline Trail Loop

Moderate

4.7

(6)

hikers

Pine Knot and Skyline Trail Loop

Q: How difficult is the Pine Knot and Skyline Trail Loop?

This loop is generally rated as moderate . The total distance is about 15 km (9.3 miles) with an elevation gain of approximately 384 meters (1,260 feet). The climb is gradual, spread out over several miles, making it suitable for hikers with some experience, but not overly steep.

Q: Where can I park for the Pine Knot and Skyline Trail Loop?

The most convenient trailhead is located at the Aspen Glen Picnic Area . Parking is available there, but an Adventure Pass is required.

Q: Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee to hike this trail?

Yes, to park at the trailhead within the San Bernardino National Forest, you will need a $5 Adventure Pass or a qualifying federal recreation pass. These can often be purchased at local visitor centers or ranger stations.

Q: Is the Pine Knot and Skyline Trail Loop dog-friendly?

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, always ensure your dog is on a leash and that you pack out any waste. Be mindful of other trail users, especially mountain bikers.

Q: What is the best time of year to hike this loop?

Late spring and fall are ideal for hiking this loop. During late spring, you might catch wildflowers in bloom. Summer can be warm, so an early start is recommended. Winter conditions can bring snow, requiring appropriate gear and caution.

Q: What kind of scenery and viewpoints can I expect?

You'll hike through serene forest paths with Jeffrey pines, white fir, oaks, and manzanita. A major highlight is Grand Viewpoint, San Bernardino National Forest , which offers phenomenal panoramic vistas of the San Bernardino high peaks, including Mount San Gorgonio, and on clear days, even Catalina Island.

Q: What is the terrain like on the trail?

The terrain is varied, featuring undulating forest paths and some sections that run alongside fire roads. The initial parts of the Pine Knot Trail involve numerous switchbacks. Overall, it's well-maintained, but be aware of mountain bikers as it's a multi-use trail.

Q: Does the trail connect to other paths?

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Skyline Trail, Lakeview Loop, Pineknot Trail 1E01, Cabin 89 Trail 1E24, Knickerbocker Road 2N08, and Trick or Treat. The Skyline Ridge Trail , in particular, connects with numerous other trails within the South Shore Trail System, allowing for various route options.

Q: Are there any specific tips for hiking this loop?

Since this is a multi-use trail popular with mountain bikers, stay alert and be prepared to yield. Arriving early, especially on weekends, can help secure parking at the Aspen Glen Picnic Area and avoid the busiest times.

Q: Is the trail suitable for families with children?

While rated moderate, the gradual climb and well-maintained paths make it manageable for active families. The length (nearly 15 km) might be a challenge for very young children, but older kids who are used to hiking should enjoy the diverse scenery and viewpoints.

04:19

15.0km

380m

Hiking

The Pine Knot and Skyline Trail Loop offers a fantastic journey through varied terrain, from secluded woodlands to open ridges, culminating in spectacular views. You'll wind through shaded paths and fire roads, with glimpses of Big Bear Lake through the trees, before reaching the Grand Viewpoint. From this vantage point, you're treated to phenomenal panoramic vistas of the San Bernardino high peaks, including Mount San Gorgonio, making the 9.3 miles (15.0 km) and 1261 feet (384 metres) of elevation gain well worth the effort.

This moderate hike, which typically takes around 4 hours and 18 minutes, starts at the Aspen Glen Picnic Area. Be aware that a $5 daily Adventure Pass is required for parking in the national forest. The trail is well-marked and largely shaded, making it a pleasant experience, though conditions can vary seasonally; expect potential snowpack in winter. It's a popular route, so an early start is advisable, especially on busy days.

What makes this trail particularly notable is its accessibility and the diverse high desert scenery of the San Bernardino National Forest. Beyond hiking, it's also suitable for mountain biking and horseback riding, and it's a dog-friendly option. The route provides a rewarding escape into nature, showcasing towering oak and pine trees and offering opportunities to observe local wildlife.

Last updated: June 9, 2026

Tips

Your route passes through a protected area

Please check local regulations for:

San Bernardino National Forest

Waypoints

Start point

Get Directions

44 m

Aspen Glen Picnic Area

Highlight • Rest Area

The picnic area is a popular trailhead for hiking up to Skyline Ridge and Grand View Point. You can get to the Cabin 89 Trail and Pine Knot Trails from here. There are bathrooms and picnic tables at the parking lot. You may need to pick up a $5 pass to park in the national forest.

Tip by

505 m

Cabin 89 Trail (northern segment)

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

You will find a cabin at the big bend in the trail near the junction with the Pine Knot Trail. You can easily connect to the Aspen Glen Picnic Area, the Metcalf Trail, and Mill Creek Road.

Tip by

6.40 km

Skyline Ridge Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

The Skyline Trail parallels Skyline Drive along the ridge to Great View Point. You get fantastic views of the Sand Bernardino Mountains. The trail also loops west from here and circles north to the Mill Creek Road Trailhead.

Tip by

9.40 km

Grand Viewpoint, San Bernardino National Forest

Highlight • Viewpoint

From here you get fantastic views south to the 10,000-footers of San Bernardino National Forest. A helpful map kiosk provides information on the view.

Tip by

11.5 km

Pine Knot Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

The Pine Knot Trail winds up the ridge to Great View Point. The trail is mostly forested and shaded, but you get plenty of epic views toward Big Bear Lake and the mountains beyond.

Tip by

15.0 km

End point

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

12.6 km

1.28 km

813 m

238 m

Surfaces

13.2 km

886 m

857 m

< 100 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Today

Tuesday 14 July

24°C

11°C

21 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 15.0 km/h

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Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is the Pine Knot and Skyline Trail Loop?

This loop is generally rated as moderate. The total distance is about 15 km (9.3 miles) with an elevation gain of approximately 384 meters (1,260 feet). The climb is gradual, spread out over several miles, making it suitable for hikers with some experience, but not overly steep.

Where can I park for the Pine Knot and Skyline Trail Loop?

The most convenient trailhead is located at the Aspen Glen Picnic Area. Parking is available there, but an Adventure Pass is required.

Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee to hike this trail?

Yes, to park at the trailhead within the San Bernardino National Forest, you will need a $5 Adventure Pass or a qualifying federal recreation pass. These can often be purchased at local visitor centers or ranger stations.

Is the Pine Knot and Skyline Trail Loop dog-friendly?

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, always ensure your dog is on a leash and that you pack out any waste. Be mindful of other trail users, especially mountain bikers.

What is the best time of year to hike this loop?

Late spring and fall are ideal for hiking this loop. During late spring, you might catch wildflowers in bloom. Summer can be warm, so an early start is recommended. Winter conditions can bring snow, requiring appropriate gear and caution.

What kind of scenery and viewpoints can I expect?

You'll hike through serene forest paths with Jeffrey pines, white fir, oaks, and manzanita. A major highlight is Grand Viewpoint, San Bernardino National Forest, which offers phenomenal panoramic vistas of the San Bernardino high peaks, including Mount San Gorgonio, and on clear days, even Catalina Island.

What is the terrain like on the trail?

The terrain is varied, featuring undulating forest paths and some sections that run alongside fire roads. The initial parts of the Pine Knot Trail involve numerous switchbacks. Overall, it's well-maintained, but be aware of mountain bikers as it's a multi-use trail.

Does the trail connect to other paths?

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Skyline Trail, Lakeview Loop, Pineknot Trail 1E01, Cabin 89 Trail 1E24, Knickerbocker Road 2N08, and Trick or Treat. The Skyline Ridge Trail, in particular, connects with numerous other trails within the South Shore Trail System, allowing for various route options.

Are there any specific tips for hiking this loop?

Since this is a multi-use trail popular with mountain bikers, stay alert and be prepared to yield. Arriving early, especially on weekends, can help secure parking at the Aspen Glen Picnic Area and avoid the busiest times.

Is the trail suitable for families with children?

While rated moderate, the gradual climb and well-maintained paths make it manageable for active families. The length (nearly 15 km) might be a challenge for very young children, but older kids who are used to hiking should enjoy the diverse scenery and viewpoints.

What kind of wildlife or plants might I see?

You'll be hiking through a diverse forest of Jeffrey pines, white fir, oaks, and manzanita. Depending on the season, you might spot various wildflowers. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, though direct encounters are not guaranteed.