Woodland Trail 1E23 is a gentle 1.5-mile loop in the San Bernardino National Forest near Fawnskin, on the north shore of Big Bear Lake. The path winds through a mixed conifer forest with numbered stops along the way, each corresponding to a printed interpretive guide you can grab at the trailhead. With only about 230 feet of elevation gain, this is genuinely one of the easiest hikes in the Big Bear area—no scrambling, no steep sections, just a straightforward walk through the trees.
Dogs are welcome and need to stay on a leash no longer than six feet per San Bernardino National Forest regulations. The mostly flat terrain and dense shade make this really comfortable for dogs, especially if you’re hiking during the warmer months when midday heat can be tough at elevation. You’re looking at about 40 to 45 minutes to complete the loop at a relaxed pace, so it’s not a rushed experience.
The trailhead has free parking and a vault toilet. You will need an Adventure Pass for parking—$5 for a day or $30 for a year—which you can grab before heading up. The trail is typically accessible from spring through fall, though snow and weather can change that depending on the year. Conditions vary enough that it’s worth checking before you go.
Pick up the interpretive guide at the Big Bear Discovery Center before your visit if you want to get the most out of those numbered stops. The guide explains what you’re seeing in the forest, which makes the walk more interesting than just trudging through trees. It’s the kind of trail where you could bring kids or an older dog without worrying about difficulty, and the shade keeps things pleasant even when the sun is strong up at elevation.





