Tuesday Trails: Gray's Peak

Gray's Peak, Fawnskin, CA

~7 mile out & back
~1200' gain
Approximately 3h 20 minutes (at fairly slow pace)
Moderate difficulty (gain, altitude, length)
Warm season

One of many interesting rock formations.

I did this hike exactly two years ago, on July 1, 2012. That was my first year back to hiking after many years off, so my trip report reflects my relatively beginner state of fitness and hiking savvy:

Steepish climb becomes gentle, then more intense again toward the top. The trail is beautiful, with frequent views of Big Bear Lake. It passes through forest, boulder fields, and burn area for a wide variety of view and terrain. Observing how the forest flora is regenerating after fire is fascinating; our pine forests are becoming chaparral burn by burn.

The slowish pace made this a pretty easy hike. There are beautiful panoramic views from the top of the peak, which is easy to get to from the end of the trail. This is allegedly the easiest of the Seven Summits of Big Bear (an assessment with which I agree).  We couldn't find the register, nor did we find any survey markers.

The view from the top.

I would happily do this trail again. It's easy, a good workout distance, with money shot views all over the place. Plus, I like big rocks, and this hike has plenty! There is little cover in the burn area, however, so it can get hot. Make sure to wear sunblock and take plenty of water.

Beautiful blue skies and wildflowers juxtaposed with a forest burn area.