Big Falls Trail Hike in Southern California
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Big Falls Trail is an easy out and back trail located in the small town of Forest Falls at the bottom of the mountain from Big Bear, California, off Highway 38. With only 216 feet of elevation gain, this hike is easy-peasy lemon-squeezy…Okay, I’ll stop.
Although this trail is listed as easy, it is important to note that you do have to hike over some rocky terrain along a riverbed.
It’s also super popular—so plan for crowds!
Big Falls Trail is perfect for day trip hike. I like to camp up the mountain at Barton Flats Campground, or even in and around Big Bear Lake, and come down to this spot to swim.
About Big Falls Trail
DISTANCE: 0.7 miles roundtrip
ELEVATION GAIN: 216 feet
DIFFICULTY: Easy
How to Get There
BIG FALLS TRAILHEAD: 41570 Falls Rd, Forest Falls, CA 92339
From Highway 38, you’ll enter the city of Forest Falls, taking Valley of the Falls Drive to the Falls Picnic Area. It’s all very straightforward and easy to get to.
Things to Know
ENTRANCE FEE: Yes.
You’ll need a $5/day (or annual) Adventure Pass or the Interagency Agency Pass (a.k.a National Parks Pass).
There is a booth where you can pay, but the last few times I’ve been the booth was closed. So, be sure to purchase an Adventure Pass (or your Interagency Pass) in advance and have it displayed on your dash or rearview mirror.
Parking Lot
There’s a decent-sized parking lot, with an extended dirt lot, but in the summer months expect this to fill up very quickly since this is a hot spot for locals. Get there early!
During the pandemic, this parking lot was overflowing, and many people parked along the main road, but now there seems to be a lot of ‘No Parking’ signs.
Are There Bathrooms? Yes.
The parking area has vault toilet bathrooms and picnic tables
Leave No Trace Behind
Starting the hike at the parking lot you’ll notice immediately the amount of graffiti, which is heartbreaking to witness. Due to the popularity of the hike, there seems to be an excessive vandalism
This is your reminder to not be a dick, and leave no trace behind so others can enjoy the outdoors
Anyway…
Hiking Big Falls Trail
The hiking trail goes along the riverbed. In previous years this river was much fuller, and it’s sad to see that as of April 2022 it’s a much more of a small stream due to the lack of rainfall in the area.
The walk along the river is rocky, but easy.
You’ll have to cross the river once, maybe get your feet a smidge wet, but just beyond that you’ll see signs for Big Falls.
The lower falls is pretty and is the more popular area for swimming and hanging out
Or you can take the trail to the upper portion of the falls for mountain views and also a lot less people. We took the trail about half way up and found a spot just to enjoy the views. We arrived late in the day, so we didn’t have much time to explore, but I can’t wait to come back when it’s warmer for a swim and see the area fully.
This is a quick one but worth the stop if you can avoid the crowds.
If you’re looking for an easy waterfall hike just outside of Big Bear, California—give this Big Falls Trail a go.
Have you hiked Big Falls Trail?
Do you have any questions? Leave me a comment!
