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The best hikes in Big Bear
Finally! Most of the snow is gone and hiking season in Big Bear can begin. If the peaks are your goal, hiking the 7 summits around Big Bear is a wonderful way to see the best, highest trails in the area.
7 Summits group hikes
The Seven Summits of Big Bear is a group hike for each of the seven highest peaks. Organized by the Mountain Fitness Center, the hikes are scheduled every few weeks through the spring and summer. Each hike begins at 8:00 am on the scheduled Saturday.
The 2010 schedule includes:
- Bertha Peak on May 29
- Gray's Peak on June 5
- Gold Mountain on June 19
- Delamar Mountain on July 10
- Sugarlump / Bear Peak on July 24
- Sugarloaf Mountain on August 7
- San Gorgonio Mountain on August 28
Generally the hikes increase in difficulty as the summer progresses, with San Gorgonio the highest mountain in Southern California the final climb.
Hiking for fitness and fun
Hiking with a group can help make the trip more fun. You'll meet other hikers and share the excitement of the journey. Completing the Seven Summits of Big Bear challenge doesn't require participation in the group hikes however. A website has been set up with information about each climb. Any of the hikes can be done individually, on another date, in a different order, or randomly. A punchcard is available for download from the web site. A unique punch is located at the top of each peak to show that the summit has been reached.
Whether hiking with the group or with friends, it is important to be prepared for sudden weather changes or other emergencies. Always have a map and compass or GPS, plenty of water, food, sun protection, and protective, sturdy hiking shoes. Parking at each trailhead will require a US Forest Service Adventure Pass.
It is not advisable to hike alone. Even if traveling with a group, each hiker should know the route and be able to be self-sufficient. The Seven Summits of Big Bear are some of the highest peaks in Southern California. They are a worthy challenge. With proper preparation and some pre-hike fitness training, the hikes will be fun and offer a great sense of accomplishment.
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