Last updated: December 20, 2024
Thing to Do
Bear Hill Winter Trail
The trail follows the old Bear Hill Road and travels under the shade of giant sequoias and mixed conifers. In the early 1920s, Bear Hill was a regular evening attraction. Before appropriate natural resource management was established, visitors at one time could sit on bleachers to admire black bears that foraged through piles of laid out food. This activity was, understandably, demolished soon after. Bear Hill Road is wide and easy to follow with a moderate grade.
Trail Information
Trail Information
- Trailhead: Giant Forest Museum
- Distance: 1 mile (1.6 km) one way, Moro Rock Road to the Alta Trail
- Difficulty: Easy
- Elevation Gain/Loss: 277 ft / 132 ft
- Approximate Round Trip: 1 – 2 hours
Details
Duration
1-2 Hours
The duration will vary depending on fitness level, snow conditions, and length of time spent at trail features.
Activity
Cross-Country Skiing
This trail is designated as a cross-country ski trail, but can also be used for snowshoeing. Due to the snowy and icy conditions on the trail, hiking without traction devices is not recommended.
Pets Allowed
No
Activity Fee
No
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Location
Giant Forest Museum
Trailhead begins at Giant Forest Museum.
Reservations
No
Accessibility Information
General parking is available across the street from the Giant Forest Museum. Accessible parking is available next to the Giant Forest Museum and at the Big Trees Trailhead. Accessible restrooms are available at the Giant Forest Museum.
Route Marker Information
Trails that are buried under snow are very difficult to follow, so it is best to stick to trails marked for winter travel. Ski trails - open to skiing, snowshoe, and hiking - are marked by different symbols nailed to trees along their routes.
The route marker for the Bear Hill winter trail is a triangle with a symbol of a bear within it.
Caution
Please do not snowshoe or walk directly on ski tracks. The tread of snowshoes (or boots) can create divots and ruin carefully laid ski tracks, creating hazards for skiers. Skiers/snowshoers going uphill yield to those going downhill. Fill in depressions in the snow after falling to reduce hazards to others. Visit our Skiing and Snowshoeing page for safety tips, guidance, and snowshoe ranger program information.
More on Winter Trails in the Parks
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Skiing and SnowshoeingSki and snowshoe trails offer a way to travel through Giant Forest and Grant Grove in winter.
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Winter ActivitiesLearn about other winter activities in the parks.
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Grant Grove Winter TrailsLearn what winter trails are available in the Grant Grove area.