3 miles
750 feet gain
2/10
Fawnskin ,CA (92333) 77.18 miles from you Weather Map
Drive to the town of Fawnskin and take Holcomb Valley Road up into the mountains. Follow it until you cross the PCT, there is a nice little turn-out for one vehicle. It's a four by four road that is locked at times - check with the ranger.
Follow the PCT east until you meet up with the Cougar Crest Trail, stay on it until you cross the Bertha Peak road, follow the road to the top.
If you do not want to four-by, you can also take the Cougar Crest Trail which is also an easy hike, a few miles longer, but not much more difficult, I've done the Cougar Crest to Bertha Peak in just under an hour before. However, this trail is easily accomplished by beginners.
And, if you want a little more when you return you can extend your hike by going to Delamar in the opposite direction.
This is a quick, easy, and painless hike to a fairly good size mountain 8201'. You get an amazing view of Big Bear Lake, and the San Gorgonio Wilderness. The only downside is the radio towers on top, but then again you can't have everything. The view from the other side is nice, just not as spectacular, you can see all of Holcomb Valley, Delamar Mountain and into the High Desert.
If you've only got a couple of hours to spare in Big Bear, this is the hike for you.
The only difficulty is the last .4 of a mile, the road is steep in spots. But, it shouldn't present a challenge to anyone. You may just need a few little rest stops.
Bikes are allowed on the roads, but not on the PCT.