The dog-friendly Cougar Crest Trailhead in Big Bear Lake is a beautiful walk where you’ll wander among towering pine trees, meander past twisting junipers, marvel at the red bark of manzanitas, and admire the resilience of spiny cacti. Keep your eyes peeled for the shy bobcats or the sun-loving lizards that call this place home. The first mile welcomes you with a gentle uphill walk, setting the stage for the more exhilarating climb that lies ahead.

As you ascend, you’re treated to breathtaking views of serene lakes and cozy benches perfectly placed for a moment of rest with your dog by your side. The variety of terrain and vegetation makes this a genuinely engaging hike—your dog will love the scents and sights along the way. The trail itself is well-maintained and clearly marked, which helps when you’re navigating with a leashed companion.

Reaching the pinnacle of the trail, you’ll find yourself at the crossroads of the legendary Pacific Crest Trail, which stretches over 2,600 miles across some of the most stunning landscapes North America has to offer. For those who seek even more awe-inspiring views, a challenging yet rewarding trek of another 0.75 miles will lead you to the summit of Bertha Peak. Here, the panoramic beauty of Big Bear Valley and the high desert unfolds before you—the reward is absolutely worth the effort, and most dogs handle this final push well.

Your journey begins just 0.6 miles west of the Discovery Center on Highway 38. While an Adventure Pass is required for parking, you can find free parking spots along the highway if you prefer to skip the pass. The trailhead itself isn’t crowded even on weekends, which makes for a peaceful experience with your dog. Bring plenty of water since there’s no reliable water source along the trail, and the high elevation means the sun exposure can be intense even on cooler days.