A Local’s Favorite Hike in Big Bear with Lake Swimming Experience

If you’re looking to combine a scenic hike with a refreshing swim in Big Bear, this tour might just be exactly what you need. While I haven’t personally gone on this exact adventure, I’ve read plenty of glowing reviews and can see why it’s a favorite among visitors. It offers a blend of light exercise, spectacular views, and a laid-back lake experience that feels both authentic and fun.

What really stands out is the expert guidance—your host, Amber, isn’t just leading a walk; she’s sharing her love for the area, making even a short hike feel special. Plus, the secret swimming dock adds an element of discovery and relaxation that’s hard to beat. On the flip side, it’s a three-hour experience, so if you’re tight on time or not keen on a bit of uphill work, it’s something to keep in mind.

This tour is perfect for those who want a balance of adventure and chill — ideal for anyone who appreciates good views, local insights, and a chance to cool off in a beautiful lake setting. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group, this has enough flexibility and charm to suit many kinds of visitors.

Key Points

• Scenic & manageable hike: About 2 miles of easy to moderate walking through pine forest, with a small elevation gain.
• Hidden swimming spot: A secret dock on Big Bear Lake where you can take a dip, guided by a friendly local.
• Flexible dining options: Bring your own lunch or have your guide pick up a packed meal—great for picnicking on the boat.
• Relaxing boat time: About an hour lounging, swimming, and soaking in the views, with provided life jackets for safety.
• Expert local guide: Amber’s knowledge of the area, plants, and animals shines through, making the experience both educational and personal.
• Small group size: Max of 6 travelers, ensuring a more personalized and relaxed outing.

Exploring the Experience in Detail

The Hike: A Beautiful Introduction to Big Bear’s Nature

This adventure kicks off at the meeting point on Tulip Lane, where you’ll meet Amber, a guide praised for her friendliness and knowledge. The hike itself is an easy-to-moderate trek, covering roughly 2 miles through lush pine forest. The trail might start with a bit of a climb—around 300 feet of elevation gain—so expect to break a sweat, but it’s well worth the effort.

Many reviews highlight how stunning the views are from the top, offering a perfect balance of exercise and scenery. We loved the way Amber structures the hike to be accessible, even for those who aren’t seasoned hikers. She takes her time, shares interesting facts about flora and fauna, and keeps the group at a comfortable pace. This personal touch turns what could be a simple walk into an engaging experience full of natural beauty.

The Secret Dock: Your Gateway to Lake Refreshment

Once at the top, you’ll be guided to a nearby dock—an insider’s spot that most travelers likely never find on their own. This is where the fun begins. You can take a refreshing swim off the dock in Big Bear’s calm waters, a favorite highlight for many visitors. Amber keeps safety in mind, providing life jackets and ensuring everyone feels comfortable in the water, including kids over 13 who must wear life jackets per California law.

The reviews speak volumes about how relaxing and enjoyable this part is. One reviewer mentioned, “Awesome time swimming off the boat on a hot day! The hike was really pretty and we never would have found this hidden hike on our own.” That’s the kind of exclusive experience you get—exploring a secret spot, then cooling off in gorgeous, clear lake waters.

Food and Relaxation: Lounge, Lunch, and Enjoy

After your swim, you’re encouraged to relax on the boat. You can bring your own lunch and drinks, or give Amber some notice, and she’ll grab a packed lunch for you. There’s an ice chest available to keep your refreshments cold, making it easy to enjoy a picnic in the middle of nature.

Spend about an hour soaking up the sun, chatting, or just floating in the water. The boat is equipped with life jackets and offers a comfortable setting for unwinding. Many reviews mention how peaceful and scenic this part of the tour is—a perfect way to cool off and slow down after the hike.

Logistics and Practicalities

This experience is designed for small groups, with a maximum of six people, which makes it feel more intimate and tailored. The tour lasts roughly three hours, from start to finish, including hiking, swimming, and lounging. It’s priced at around $82 per person, which many see as good value considering the personalized guide, scenic views, and unique access to a secret spot.

The meeting point is conveniently located in Big Bear, and the tour runs from May to October, with daily departures between 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM. Confirmations are provided instantly, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours beforehand, giving you some peace of mind.

Why This Tour Gets Rave Reviews

The reviews highlight Amber’s wealth of local knowledge—many mention how she shares fun facts about plants, birds, and the area’s history, which adds depth to the experience. Her easygoing style makes even beginners feel comfortable. One reviewer called her a “perfect guide,” noting her ability to go at a pace suited for everyone, including slower hikers.

The highlight for most is the combination of hiking and lakeside relaxation. People love the idea of escaping crowded trails or touristy spots to find a quiet, beautiful lake—something Amber’s insider knowledge helps facilitate. The swim at the hidden dock is consistently praised as “amazing,” especially on hot days or after a good hike.

Downsides and Considerations

While the experience is highly recommended, it’s worth noting that the hike involves a bit of uphill work—about 300 feet of elevation gain. This could be a challenge for those with mobility issues or very young children. Also, since it’s a small group tour, it tends to book up about 20 days in advance, so planning ahead is advised if you want to secure your spot.

The tour is primarily suited for those who enjoy a moderate outdoor activity, are comfortable with water, and appreciate the idea of a guided, personalized experience. If you’re looking for a quick, purely sightseeing trip without physical activity, this might feel a bit involved.

Final Thoughts

This big Bear hike and lake swim feels like a genuine local experience—intimate, scenic, and relaxed. It combines the best of nature’s calm and beauty with a touch of adventure, thanks to the secret dock and the water. Amber’s guiding skills help make the whole outing feel friendly and informative without overloading you with information.

If you’re after a manageable hike that rewards you with fantastic views and a refreshing swim, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want a more personal experience, away from crowded spots, and don’t mind a little uphill effort for some spectacular payoff.

For families with older children or smaller groups looking for a memorable outdoor outing, this is an excellent choice. It offers a great balance of activity and relaxation, with plenty of opportunities to take photos, enjoy nature, and unwind in a peaceful setting.

FAQs

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts about 3 hours, including hiking, swimming, and relaxing on the boat.

How hard is the hike?
It’s considered easy to moderate, with about 300 feet of elevation gain at the start. It’s manageable for most people with decent mobility.

Can I bring my own lunch?
Yes, you can bring your own lunch and drinks. Alternatively, your guide can pick up a packed lunch if you give notice.

Are life jackets provided?
Yes, life jackets are provided for swimming and boat relaxation, and kids under 13 must wear one when on the dock or swimming.

Is this experience suitable for children?
The tour is suitable for most travelers, but children over 13 will need to wear life jackets. Smaller children might need additional considerations, so check with the guide if unsure.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the start are not refunded.

How many people are in the group?
The maximum group size is 6 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at 949 Tulip Ln, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315.

Can I fish during the tour?
Yes, if you wish, you can bring fishing gear to fish off the dock.

To sum it up, this guided hike and lake swim in Big Bear provides a charming mix of scenic beauty, local insight, and relaxation. It’s ideal for those wanting a manageable outdoor adventure with the bonus of discovering a secret swimming spot. With friendly guidance and a small group setting, it’s a memorable way to experience some of Big Bear’s best features—whether you’re a nature lover, a water enthusiast, or simply in need of a peaceful escape.