Trail · San Bernardino National Forest
Pineknot Trail to Grand View Point review
Pineknot Trail climbs gradually from Aspen Glen Picnic Area through mixed-conifer forest to Grand View Point above Big Bear Lake. It suits hikers seeking a longer outing without scrambling or highly technical terrain.
- Best for: Forest walk with a panorama
- 7.5 mi round trip
- Our score 6.8/10
At a glance
- Moderate 7.5-mile round trip
- Aspen Glen Picnic Area trailhead
- Adventure Pass required
- Shared with mountain bikes and horses
- Best for: a long forest walk with a panoramic finish
Our score
6.8 /10
The gradual forest route and wide final panorama carry it; regular bicycle, horse and hiking traffic make solitude less likely.
- Views and payoff 8
- Trail quality 6
- Access and parking 7
- Crowds 5
What it is known for
The Forest Service places Grand View Point about one-quarter mile beyond the Forest Road 2N10 junction, at an elevation of 7,784 feet.
Reviewers praise the broad panorama and manageable grade while noting that hikers share the trail with mountain bikes and horses.
Strengths and limits
Pros
- Wide panorama at Grand View Point
- Mostly gradual forest climbing
- Established picnic-area trailhead
Cons
- Shared with bicycles and horses
- Longer than the area's short viewpoint hikes
- Adventure Pass required
Before you go
Is a parking pass required?
Yes. An Adventure Pass is required at Aspen Glen Picnic Area, per the Forest Service.
Are bicycles and horses allowed?
Yes. The Forest Service manages Pineknot as a multi-use trail for hikers, mountain bikes and equestrians.
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