Hiking with Little Ones!
Posted: 01/29/20 | By Meg Kee
Introducing your youngest family members to the wonders of nature!
Meg Kee (35) a Southern California native, has lived in Big Bear Lake over twelve years. She is a mother, avid hiker, rock climbing guide, trail host volunteer, certified Wilderness First Responder and founder of @mountaingirls outdoor community.
As a child, my fondest memories are from family camping trips, catching fish and hiking to see the views. As a mother now, I realize all of the hard work my parents put forth to get me outdoors to experience the world. “Mother Nature is the best teacher." I say this now frequently as I watch my son run through the fields. His moments of discovery, independence, self-value and sense of confidence blossoms without pressure from the outside world.
Once my son was born, my days of long strenuous hiking had to change. A new pace, one I like to call, “the pace of nature”, transpired. Over time, I have discovered these amazing Big Bear spots and would love to share them with you, so that you and your family can share a space to grow and explore here in the mountains.
Woodland Trail, 1.6 mile loop
When to visit: Spring - Fall
Woodland Trail is an easy wooded hike with sixteen trail markers (Bear Paws) and fun discoveries. The opportunity to learn about wildlife, geology, and local plants pops up around every corner. Grab a trail map at the Visitor Center with the details for each stop. I found this trail helpful in those “are we there yet” moments - with sixteen posts, you can easily judge how far you are from the finish if the kids (or you) are tired.
Champion Lodgepole Pine, 1/2 mile walk
When to visit: Late Spring - Early Fall
The Champion Lodgepole Pine is the largest tree in Big Bear Lake! Park by the Bluff Lake preserve - you'll need an Adventure Pass for parking - and walk past a beautiful hidden lake on top of the mountain. A high-clearance, 4X4 vehicle is highly recommended for this drive, but this trail is an absolute gem and worth the trek.
Trout Alley Beach on the Lake
When to visit: Spring - Fall
I might regret telling you this, but Trout Alley is our favorite spot to hang during the summer months. Also known as Pine Oak Lane - North and South - this sandy beach-like setting is a great spot to fish from the shore (be sure to secure your fishing license), lay out, build sand castles and splash around. My son and I could live here all season. I am trusting you though, this is our secret - don’t tell anyone else about it!
Help us Care For Big Bear
These places are pure magic, but require stewardship form us all! Join me in practicing Leave No Trace ethics. If we all pitch in, we can ensure a beautiful, natural future for our grandchildren to enjoy. One thing I personally do is bring small biodegradable trash bags to the trails to pick up trash - and the kids LOVE it! It’s like a treasure hunt. Instilling these practices in our children at a young age is a true benefit to nature conservation.