Trail · San Bernardino National Forest
Alpine Pedal Path review
Alpine Pedal Path is a paved, mostly level route along Big Bear Lake's North Shore, about 1.8 miles from Snow Summit's main address. It suits walkers, cyclists, wheelchair users and families with strollers.
- Best for: Strollers and wheelchairs
- 1.8 mi from Snow Summit
- 5.3 mi round trip
- Our score 7.2/10
At a glance
- Paved lakeside multi-use path
- Multiple access points along North Shore Drive
- No parking pass required for the path itself
- Dogs must be restrained on a leash no longer than 6 feet
- Best for: an easy, flat lakeside walk
Our score
7.2 /10
The accessible surface and flexible entry points lift it; shared traffic and the lack of a summit-style payoff limit the hiking experience.
- Views and payoff 6
- Trail quality 9
- Access and parking 9
- Crowds 6
What it is known for
The Forest Service describes a 3.5-mile linear paved path between Stanfield Cutoff and a point west of the Solar Observatory, with connections near Cougar Crest and the Big Bear Discovery Center.
Reviewers mention continuous lake views and the option to walk short sections, but they also describe it as a busy shared corridor rather than a quiet nature trail.
Strengths and limits
Pros
- Accessible paved surface
- Several convenient access points
- Continuous lake and mountain views
Cons
- Shared with bicycles and other users
- Exposed sections have limited shade
- More of a lakeside path than a conventional hike
Before you go
Is a parking pass required?
No pass is required to use the path itself, per the Forest Service. Adjacent Juniper Point and Meadows Edge facilities have their own pass rules.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes. Dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet or otherwise under physical restrictive control, per the Forest Service.
Is the path suitable for strollers and wheelchairs?
Yes. The Forest Service describes it as paved and accessible, and the official tourism site recommends it for strollers and wheelchairs.
Where it is
Nearby alternatives
Who reviewed this
Jenna Whitcomb
Local guide editor
Jenna Whitcomb edits Near Big Bear. Every trail on this page was checked against the US Forest Service and OpenStreetMap on the date below.
- Updated
- September 22, 2026