Hitting Big Bear trails? There's a free ride for that

BIG BEAR LAKE, Calif. (KABC) -- Parking headaches and long walks to the trailhead are a thing of the past in Big Bear.

Mountain Area Regional Transit Authority has launched a new seasonal route called Trolley to Trails, giving visitors and locals free rides to some of the area's most popular hiking destinations.

Whether you're planning a morning hike, afternoon bike ride, or simply want to take in Big Bear's scenic mountain views, the new service offers a way to get around without relying on a car.

"There were several reasons we thought this made sense, and in the first month we had over 400 riders, which is a good start for a new route," said Mountain Transit General Manager Sandy Benson.

According to Mountain Transit, the route was created after hearing several requests from the community.

Many residents and visitors wanted easier access to hiking trails while reducing traffic and illegal roadside parking.

Others were looking for a transportation option connecting Big Bear Lake's North Shore to the Village and local stores. Still, some simply wanted a scenic ride around the lake.

The trolley delivers all three.

The route loops around Big Bear Lake with stops at the Village and Vons, before continuing to trailheads including:

• Towne Trail at Snow Summit
• Woodland Trail
• Nature Discovery Trail
• Cougar Crest Trail
• Grays Peak Trail
• Castle Rock Trail
• Pine Knot Trail

Hikers and Cyclists can bring their gear along for the ride, and the trolley is equipped with a bike rack that can hold two bicycles.

The seasonal route operates every Saturdays, Sundays, and Friday holidays through October, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:25 p.m.

Visit Mountain Transit's website for route maps and schedules.