McDonald Trail>Bird Trail>McDonald Trail>Big Bear Trail>McDonald Trail
Length: Approx. 1.2 miles Elevation Gain: Approx. 250 ft This hike is perfect for a warm day, as it's almost entirely shaded, and fairly easy but has a couple hills for a short workout. Park at Big Bear Staging Area. Take McDonald Trail to the left of the parking lot. We walked past MacDonald Gate Staging Area and took the first right onto Bird Trail. This scenic trail that meanders around moss covered trees and if you take the first left at the trail split, it dips down along the creek via a series of planks and bridges. We looped back, past the MacDonald Parking area and took the trail split to the left, Big Bear Trail, which snakes up along the hillside and leads to a seasonal waterfall (during winter). It ends at the road, and you'll walk a short stretch along a wide shoulder takes you back to where you parked. Please note that sections of MacDonald Trail and Bird Trail are a little overgrown. We did not have a problem with it, but if you're concerned, wear long pants. This hike can easily be extended by continuing through Anthony Chabot (you can go all the way to the lake), or crossing the street where you parked and hiking into Redwood Regional via the Golden Spike Trail. See video below for more details on this hike. |