Happy Hills Trail is an ADA-compliant path that begins at Big Bear Lake City Hall, 2 miles from Chirp Nature Center. This .2 mile fully-paved trail has picnic tables and historical buildings along the route. Beyond Happy Hills Trail is an intermediate hiking trail leading further into the San Bernardino National Forest, along Metcalf Creek. Stroll along while searching for raptors circling the open meadow, hummingbirds sipping nectar from wildflowers, and flycatchers buzzing around the creek. With free public parking at City Hall and both leisurely and intermediate trail options, this birding area is a great introductory trail for new birders and a promising adventure for the more experienced.
Trail Overview:
- Distance to Trailhead: 2 Miles from Chirp and The Big Bear Lake Village
- Accessibility: Public Parking
- Trail: Easy paved path and intermediate dirt trail
- Water source: Metcalf Creek
Bird-Watching At Happy Hills
While birding at Happy Hills Trail, here are just a few of the variety of wild birds you may spot. Click on their names to learn more or check out the City Hall/Happy Hills Ebird Checklist for recent bird sightings at this location.
Directions To Happy Hills Trail
- Starting from Chirp (578 Bonanza Trail, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315)
- Head south on Bonanza Trail toward Village Drive
- Turn right onto Village Drive
- Go straight through the intersection which puts you on Big Bear Blvd.
- Continue straight for 1 mile on Big Bear Blvd.
- Turn left into the second western driveway of Big Bear Lake City Hall (39707 Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315)
- Park near the Happy Hills trailhead next to the small chalet building
- The trail begins at the Happy Hills Trail sign
Get turn-by-turn instructions from Chirp
Take A Virtual Bird Walk At Happy Hills Trail
Don’t wait, visit Happy Hills Trail from the comfort of your couch. Go on a Virtual Bird Walk on Happy Hills Trail to practice birding skills, enjoy breathtaking sights, and experience why Happy Hills Trail is one of Chirp’s favorite birding locations.