Bluff Lake Reserve Loop

Trail Description

Bluff Lake Reserve Loop offers a unique hiking experience through one of Southern California's finest intact mountain marsh and meadow complexes, carefully protected and managed by The Wildlands Conservancy as a living ecological preserve. This gentle 2.5-mile loop trail winds through a pristine 2,400-acre ecological reserve at 7,600 feet elevation, featuring towering old-growth Jeffrey pines (some over 400 years old), a beautiful 20-acre mountain lake, lush wildflower meadows, and dramatic outcrops of quartz monzonite rock. The Wildlands Conservancy acquired this land in 2000 specifically to preserve it from development, creating a rare window into what the entire Big Bear Valley looked like before human settlement - this is conservation in action. The trail is relatively flat and well-maintained, making it accessible to most fitness levels, though reaching the trailhead requires navigating rough Forest Service roads that absolutely demand high-clearance vehicles (SUVs strongly recommended, sedans will struggle). The spring and early summer months (May through July) are absolutely spectacular, when the meadows explode with colorful wildflowers including lupines, Indian paintbrush, scarlet gilia, and rare species found nowhere else in the San Bernardino Mountains. The lake itself provides critical habitat for waterfowl, wading birds, and amphibians, while the surrounding forest shelters mule deer, black bears, mountain lions, and countless smaller creatures. Interpretive signs along the trail explain the reserve's unique ecology and conservation importance. CRITICAL RULES: Dogs are STRICTLY PROHIBITED anywhere in Bluff Lake Reserve to protect sensitive wildlife habitat and nesting birds - this rule is enforced for the ecological health of the reserve, please respect it and leave pets at home. The reserve is open seasonally only, typically May through November (check The Wildlands Conservancy website for current status), and closes during high fire danger or heavy snow. The Wildlands Conservancy occasionally offers free guided nature walks led by trained naturalists - check www.wildlandsconservancy.org for schedules. Access requires driving on rough Forest Service Road 2N10 for 4.5 miles, then turning onto 2N11 for another mile - high-clearance 4WD vehicles are strongly recommended, and the road becomes impassable during wet conditions, snow, or after storms. This trail offers a peaceful, contemplative experience in one of Big Bear's most ecologically significant and carefully protected areas.

Essential Trail Information

• Water: Bring at least 1 liter per 2 hours of hiking - Big Bear's high altitude (6,750+ ft) increases dehydration risk
• Sun Protection: Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses are essential - less ozone protection at this elevation
• Weather: Mountain weather can change rapidly - bring layers even on sunny days
• Wildlife: Black bears are active in the area - store food properly and make noise while hiking
• Emergency: Download offline trail maps - cell service can be spotty on trails
• Leave No Trace: Pack out all trash and stay on marked trails

What to Bring

• Plenty of water (1 liter per 2 hours minimum)
• Sunscreen and sun protection
• Layered clothing (weather changes quickly)
• Snacks and energy food
• First aid kit
• Charged phone and portable charger
• Map or GPS device

Plan Your Trip