Bertha Peak
Group Hike: Saturday, June 11 (8am) at Cougar Crest Trailhead
Cougar Crest Trail up to Bertha Peak is a classic Big Bear hike offering stunning views in all directions of the lake, town and even Holcomb Valley. The trail is steep, ascending almost 1,500 feet in about 3 miles, with the most grueling slopes as you approach the summit. The steepness is taxing on the lungs and the legs, but it will be worth it!
Quick Facts
Length: ~ 7 miles round trip
Elevation: Start at 6804′, peak at 8201′
Difficulty: Moderate
Directions to the Trailhead
From the town of Big Bear, you’ll need to find Stanfield Cutoff and go across it to the North until you’re at the intersection of Stanfield and North Shore Drive / Hwy 38. Go west about 1.6 miles. A few hundred feet after you pass the Discovery Center, you’ll see the sign for Cougar Crest and the entrance to the parking area on the right.
Trail Directions
Start up paved path, which soon changes to dirt (do not take the bridge to the right when the path changes to dirt). There is a sort of 4-way intersection in a half mile or so. Go left, uphill to the north. You will be hiking on the south side of the ridge slowly rising in elevation and getting great views of the lake and ski resorts. You will cross over a saddle and to the other side of the ridge where you will enjoy views of Holcomb Valley as you cruise along. At 2.2 miles you will meet up with the PCT and you will need to bear right staying on the south side (so you see the lake) of the ridge. You will be on the PCT for less than ½ mile. Then you will come upon a dirt road on which you will turn right, east, and go steeply uphill. Follow this steep access road ¾ mile to the peak. Watching the radio towers which mark the top get closer as you climb is encouraging, but you may want to take a moment to catch your breath on the steep road! Radio equipment marks the top; make sure to climb that last little scramble up to the very top for awesome 360 degree views.
Questions & Comments
Post questions, trail info, or your hike story in the “Leave a Comment” section below (might as well read other people’s discussion before posting a new question!).
Hi Ted,
What are the “punches” that are mentioned in earlier posts?
Thanks!
I will be climbing Bertha on June 2, 2012 – 8 am at the Cougar Crest parking lot, after the summit, will be going south on the PCT for a couple miles and then heading back to the parking lot – see you there!