Big Bear Lake
California
Big Bear Lake, an alpine destination in Southern California, sits at 6,759 feet (2,060 meters). It has been a mountain bike destination for many decades, but also has some great road and gravel riding, outdoor activities, and is known to be a training area for retired pro tour cyclist Phil Gaimon. Below are some of Phil’s recommended routes in the area. Be sure and check out his cabin when looking for a place to stay.
For a full description of all of Phil’s routes visit
Phil's Big Bear Ride Guide
Routes
Easy Rides
Loop around the lake
Stop for breakfast or lunch at North Shore Café in Fawnskin
Medium Rides
Jenks Lake loop (nowhere to stop for coffee or water on this one, so be ready. There is a campground on the 38, but it’s not open year-round)
Jenks Lake
Green Valley Lake, Keller Peak
Drive to Arrowbear, ride Green Valley Lake, Keller Peak (one of the best views in California), and Fredalba Road:. Lunch and Rocky’s Roadhouse. For extra credit, try Old City Creek road on the other side of the 330. For a long ride, skip the drive and ride there! Water stop between the two buildings in the Snow Valley Recreation Area parking lot, or the water fountain next to Green Valley Lake
Places to stay
The Wilderness Haven