Glory Ridge Trail Big Bear review and closure details

The Forest Service says the trail drops approximately 1,100 feet in one mile and does not recommend it for casual hikers.

The few available reviews mention pools and waterfalls at Bear Creek, followed by a severe return climb on loose terrain.

Trail description when open

Glory Ridge Trail is a route that begins from a turnout approximately 2 miles west of Big Bear Lake Dam on State Highway 18. The approach follows rutted Forest Road 2N15, and a high-clearance vehicle is recommended for this segment. The trail itself is about 2 miles round trip, with an elevation gain of approximately 1,100 feet. The Forest Service describes the route as very difficult and advises against it for casual hikers.

When open, the trail features a 1,100-foot descent within the first mile. The Forest Service characterizes this descent as treacherous, and the subsequent return climb is noted as exhausting. This is a steep, little-used path.

Current status

Glory Ridge Trail is currently closed under the Forest Service’s Line Fire roads and trails closure order. This closure has been in effect since February 11, 2026. The order is scheduled to remain active through September 30, 2026. Visitors planning to hike this trail should confirm its status after this date, as conditions and closures can change.

The trailhead for Glory Ridge Trail is located at a turnout on State Highway 18, just after the highway narrows to one lane. Access requires an Adventure Pass for parking. Due to its challenging nature and current closure, it is not accessible for recreation at this time.

Trails for a different outing

Since Glory Ridge Trail is currently closed, consider the Cougar Crest Trail to Bertha Peak. This route is in the San Bernardino National Forest and covers about 7.3 miles round trip. It is rated as moderate to difficult and offers a substantial climb with summit views.

Another option is the Alpine Pedal Path, also located in the San Bernardino National Forest. This trail is about 5.3 miles round trip and is rated as easy. Its paved surface makes it suitable for strollers and wheelchairs.

For those seeking lake vistas, Grays Peak Trail is a possibility. This trail in the San Bernardino National Forest is about 6.9 miles round trip, with a moderate to difficult rating. It is best for lake views from April to October.

The Pineknot Trail to Grand View Point provides a different experience. This San Bernardino National Forest trail is approximately 7.5 miles round trip and is considered moderate. It is recommended for a walk through the forest that culminates in a panorama.

Accessing the trail

When open, the Glory Ridge Trail is accessed from a turnout along State Highway 18, situated about 2 miles west of the Big Bear Dam. The route to the trailhead begins on Forest Road 2N15, which can be rutted. This access road passes a fork; drivers should take the right branch to continue toward the trailhead. The Forest Service marks the trailhead with a sign that reads "Fishermen."

Trail characteristics

The Glory Ridge Trail is designated as Forest Service Trail 1W02. The Forest Service lists this route as a 2-mile round-trip journey. It has a stated elevation gain of 1,500 feet. The route description from the Forest Service places the parking knoll at the end of the access road. This trail is noted for solitude and is considered very difficult, with the Forest Service advising against it for casual hikers.

The trail's difficulty means it is best suited for experienced hikers. The Forest Service does not recommend this route for those seeking a relaxed outing. The trail is currently closed after the Line Fire.

The Glory Ridge Trail is listed by the Forest Service as a 2-mile round-trip route. The trail's listed elevation gain is 1,500 feet. The Forest Service's route description places the parking knoll at the end of the access road. The trailhead access is marked by a sign reading "Fishermen."

The access route for the Glory Ridge Trail passes a fork on Forest Road 2N15. The access directions call for taking the right branch at this dirt-road fork. The trailhead itself is a turnout on State Highway 18, just after the highway narrows to one lane, about 2 miles west of the Big Bear Dam.

The Glory Ridge Trail is designated as Forest Service Trail 1W02. The Forest Service lists the route as a 2-mile round-trip. It has a listed elevation gain of 1,500 feet. The route description places the parking knoll at the end of the access road. The trailhead access is marked by a sign reading "Fishermen."

The access route passes a fork on Forest Road 2N15. The directions call for taking the right branch at the dirt-road fork. The trailhead is a turnout on State Highway 18, about 2 miles west of the Big Bear Dam, just after the highway narrows to one lane, then onto rutted Forest Road 2N15.