Trail · San Bernardino National Forest
Grays Peak Trail review
Grays Peak Trail is a steady, exposed climb from the North Shore near Fawnskin to a rocky summit above Big Bear Lake. It suits hikers comfortable with a longer ascent and a short finishing scramble.
- Best for: Lake views, April to October
- 6.9 mi round trip
- Season: April to October
- Our score 7/10
At a glance
- Moderate-to-difficult 6.9-mile round trip
- Trailhead across from Grout Bay Picnic Area
- Open season is April 1 through October 31
- Adventure Pass required
- Best for: lake views outside the winter closure
Our score
7 /10
The steady trail and lake views work well, but exposure and the six-month wildlife closure reduce its year-round usefulness.
- Views and payoff 8
- Trail quality 7
- Access and parking 6
- Crowds 6
What it is known for
The Forest Service closes the trail from November 1 through April 1 each year to protect bald eagles in critical winter habitat.
Reviewers describe a well-graded climb with little shade and a short boulder scramble near the summit, often naming it among their preferred Big Bear hikes.
Strengths and limits
Pros
- Broad lake and valley views
- Steady, well-graded climb
- Less traffic than the busiest North Shore trails
Cons
- Closed for half the year
- Limited shade
- Short boulder scramble near the summit
Before you go
When is Grays Peak Trail closed?
The Forest Service closes it annually from November 1 through April 1 to protect wintering bald eagles.
Is a parking pass required?
Yes. An Adventure Pass is required at the trailhead, per the Forest Service.
Does the route require scrambling?
Yes. The Forest Service and AllTrails route descriptions note a short boulder scramble at the summit.
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