We are Trail Advocates

Last year we spent more than 1200 hours working, behind the scenes, on trail related issues. We regularly meet with the US Forest Service, the San Bernardino National Forest Association, the City of Big Bear Lake, local community and business members, and just about anyone that wants to talk productively about trails. We read, digest, and process government regulations, work through challenges, and fill out paperwork. Though not glamorous, and not visible, this behind the scenes work has it’s rewards; it opened the door for the 7 Oaks Trail rehabilitation, allowed us to establish Type 3 bicycle routes throughout the valley, and is rapidly bringing into sight the Skyline Trail.

We are Trail Builders

Advocacy brings opportunity, and this is where the shovel hits the dirt. We organize, sponsor and supervise trail maintenance and building days on our local trails. Last year our volunteers invested more than 300 hours into the Grays Peak Trail, the Pacific Crest Trail and the 7 Oaks Trail. Budget cuts in the Forest Service have forced us to realize that we have a vested responsibility in taking care of our own incredible trails. If you haven’t been out with us to work on a trail, consider it; you’ll be pleasantly surprised at how much fun it is putting sweat equity into our trails surrounded by great people.

We are Trail Teachers

Part of our responsibility in promoting the trails of Big Bear is education. We host a blog that highlights local issues and opinions. It’s a great way to understand what’s relevant in the Big Bear trail related community, and anyone is welcome to contribute. Another big part of education is learning about the different trails in our area of the San Bernardino National Forest. To support this cause, we push the 12 Trails of Big Bear, and provide you with maps, directions, pictures, videos, and reviews of these adventures. Finally, at local outdoor events you’ll find us in person at a booth, ready to share our passion and knowledge of the locat trails and our mission here in Big Bear.

We are Trail Users

There is an instant and irreplaceable affinity and camaraderie between those who love nature and spend their time outside. This  non-motorized outdoor community exists in Big Bear, is strong and vibrant, and is always ready for new faces and new adventures. You can see their faces and personalities in My Trail, a campaign designed to showcase the wonderful people walking amongst us. You can meet other trail users at one of the many events taking place around Big Bear; our Events page will give you something to do outside, any season of the year.  Step outside with us…the trail beckons.

MOU with the San Bernardino National Forest

The Foundation entered into an official Memo of Understanding with the US Forest Service in 2009 to “to plan and implement mutually beneficial programs, projects, and trail opportunities in and around the Big Bear Lake Valley area of the San Bernardino National Forest.”

Accomplishments

• In partnership with the Forest Service, we have opened up a 3 mile multi-use trail called Seven Oaks. This trail runs from just east of Grand View Point down into the Santa Ana River Valley. It has beautiful views and to hike or ride this trail is well worth the effort.
• Two of our members are now Forest Service certified sawyers which means that can legally cut trees and work on trails. The Forest Service has also checked out equipment for them to use.
• We have cut trees and thinned brush on the Belly Ache Springs Trail which makes it a much easier hike or ride.
• In conjunction with Cal Trans, 26 “Share the Road” Signs have been installed around the lake.
• With our support the City of Big Bear Lake was successful in receiving a $280, 000 grant from Cal Trans for the development of master plan of trails throughout the Valley.
• In conjunction with the City and County, we have completed Type 3 bike route signage from Aspen Glen parking lot to the far east end of Big Bear Boulevard. 99% of these routes are off the heavily traveled main highway and sends riders through some of the most scenic neighborhoods in the Valley.
• We have established a very good working relationship with the City of Big Bear Lake and continue to explore ways we can work together to make the City a more pedestrian and bicycle friendly community.
• In conjunction with a number of local groups, we collected and disposed of nearly 40 tons of trash, illegal dumping and debris near the Pebble Plain area between Sugarloaf and Moonridge.
• We have been entered into to Cost share agreement with the USFS that will bring over $100,000 for us to develop and rehab the entire south side of our valley including a new nearly 15 mile single track trail.