Imagine escaping to a mountain paradise just 1.5 hours from Los Angeles, where the air is cooler and the scenery is breathtaking. Big Bear Lake offers a refreshing retreat with its stunning natural beauty and year-round recreational activities.
Nestled within the San Bernardino National Forest, this picturesque destination provides a perfect blend of outdoor adventures, family-friendly fun, and peaceful getaways. Whether you’re looking to enjoy water sports on the crystal-clear lake or explore hiking trails through pine forests, Big Bear Lake has something for everyone.
With temperatures typically 20 degrees cooler than surrounding areas, it’s an ideal escape during the hot summer months. As the snow blankets the mountains, southern California’s highest peaks become a winter wonderland, offering a range of snow sports and activities.
Discovering the Beauty of Big Bear Lake
If you’re looking for a mountain retreat with breathtaking views and exciting activities, Big Bear Lake is the perfect spot. Located approximately 100 miles northeast of Los Angeles, this mountain paradise is accessible via three main routes: Highway 330, Highway 18, and Highway 38.
The Perfect Mountain Getaway
Big Bear Lake offers a perfect mountain escape with its stunning alpine setting and crystal-clear waters nestled in the San Bernardino Mountains. For the perfect mountain getaway experience, consider staying in lakefront accommodations or cozy cabins that provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape and easy access to activities.
| Route | Travel Time | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Highway 330 | 2 hours | Heavy weekend traffic |
| Highway 18 | 2-2.5 hours | Safest during snow |
| Highway 38 | Longer | Less direct, good alternative during heavy traffic |
Best Times to Visit
The Big Bear Lake area transforms dramatically with the seasons. The best times to visit depend on your preferred activities: summer (June-August) for water sports and hiking, fall (September-October) for colorful foliage and fewer crowds, winter (December-February) for snow sports, and spring (April-May) for mild weather and blooming wildflowers.
Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Big Bear has something for everyone. With its unique combination of natural beauty and recreational opportunities, it’s a year-round destination that promises an unforgettable experience.
Water Activities on Big Bear Lake
With its crystal-clear waters, Big Bear Lake is perfect for a range of aquatic pursuits. You can enjoy a relaxing day on the lake or seek adventure with various water activities available.
Pontoon Boat Rentals
Pontoon boat rentals from providers like Holloways Marina give you the freedom to explore Big Bear Lake’s 22-mile shoreline at your own pace. These spacious boats are ideal for families or groups of friends looking to spend a day on the water, and they can also be used for activities like waterskiing and fishing.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding
For a more intimate experience with the lake, try kayaking or paddleboarding. These activities allow you to connect with Big Bear Lake’s crystal-clear waters while enjoying the stunning mountain views and getting a great workout.
Jet Skiing and Wakeboarding
If you’re seeking thrills, rent a jet ski for high-speed excitement or try wakeboarding with lessons available for beginners from several marinas around Big Bear Lake.
Fishing Opportunities
Big Bear Lake is a paradise for fishing enthusiasts, with abundant trout and bass populations. You can charter services like Fish Big Bear for guided experiences or rent equipment to find your own perfect fishing spot.
Most water equipment rentals are available by the hour or for full-day adventures, with prices varying based on the type of equipment and duration of rental. The lake’s marinas typically open in April or May each year, offering comprehensive services including boat rentals, fishing licenses, bait and tackle, and expert local advice on the best spots for various water activities.
Hiking and Mountain Adventures
Surrounded by the San Bernardino National Forest, Big Bear Lake is a hiker’s paradise with numerous trails and breathtaking views. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a leisurely stroll, Big Bear Lake has something for everyone.
Castle Rock Trail
The Castle Rock Trail is a challenging 2.7-mile out-and-back hike with 820 feet of elevation gain. The trail takes you through the San Bernardino National Forest and offers breathtaking panoramic views of Big Bear Lake and the surrounding mountains. Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a great adventure for you and your furry friends.
Alpine Pedal Path
For a more leisurely experience, the Alpine Pedal Path is a 5.2-mile paved trail along the north shore of Big Bear Lake. This relatively easy route is perfect for families and casual walkers, offering scenic views of the lake and surrounding landscape.
Bluff Lake Preserve
The Bluff Lake Preserve is a hidden gem, featuring a 20-acre lake and meadow surrounded by forest. This unique ecosystem is home to endangered wildflowers and offers a serene hiking experience. Note that swimming and picnicking are prohibited in this protected area.
Scenic Sky Chair Experience
For an aerial perspective of the landscape, the Scenic Sky Chair at Snow Summit operates year-round. The chair lift carries visitors to an elevation of nearly 8,000 feet, where spectacular views and hiking trails await. It’s an experience not to be missed, but be aware that it’s not suitable for those afraid of heights.
Big Bear Lake’s hiking and mountain adventure opportunities are diverse and cater to all skill levels. From the challenging Castle Rock Trail to the leisurely Alpine Pedal Path, and from the unique Bluff Lake Preserve to the thrilling Scenic Sky Chair Experience, there’s something for every outdoor enthusiast. Remember to prepare with plenty of water, sun protection, and appropriate footwear, and consider arriving early at popular trailheads to secure parking.
Little Bear Lake, California: Best Things to Do in The Village
Big Bear Lake’s Village is the heart of the area’s commercial activity, offering a unique blend of alpine charm and modern amenities. As you stroll through The Village, you’ll discover a wide range of activities and attractions that cater to all interests.
Shopping and Dining Highlights
The Village at Big Bear Lake is a shopper’s paradise, with unique boutiques, specialty stores, and souvenir shops like A Christmas Store ‘N’ More. You can find everything from mountain-themed gifts to holiday decorations available year-round. When it comes to dining, The Village offers a diverse range of options, from casual cafés like Frusion Juice & Coffee Bar to upscale establishments like Oakside Restaurant & Bar.
Entertainment and Events
Throughout the year, The Village hosts numerous events and festivals that bring the community together. You can enjoy summer concerts, fall harvest celebrations, and holiday spectaculars that transform the area into a winter wonderland. Entertainment venues in The Village provide evening activities, ranging from live music performances to movie theaters showing the latest films.
Family-Friendly Attractions
When visiting Big Bear Lake, you’ll find that it’s a treasure trove of family-friendly attractions that are sure to delight. From thrilling adventures to educational experiences, there’s something for everyone in the family.
Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain
For something you won’t find elsewhere in California, check out the Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain. After taking a scenic chairlift with panoramic lake views, you’ll navigate your own bobsled down one of two quarter-mile cement tracks filled with twists and turns. Magic Mountain also offers a host of other activities, including go-karts, mini golf, and a roller coaster.
Big Bear Alpine Zoo
For a family-friendly activity, hit the Big Bear Alpine Zoo. Grizzly bears, gray wolves, and foxes are just a few of the more than 85 animal and bird species that call the zoo home. The zoo helps animals recover and many are released back into nature when they are ready to go.
Action Zipline Tours
This 3-hour zipline tour takes Big Bear visitors on 9 high-speed zipline runs that get longer, faster, and higher as you go—eventually taking you up to 35 mph! You’ll also cross a mountain suspension bridge and travel in off-road vehicles as part of the tour, so you’ll definitely be able to get the adrenaline pumping.
Big Bear Snow Play
Big Bear Snow Play offers snow tubing in winter and summer tubing during warmer months. It’s a great way to have fun in the snow, regardless of the season.
In addition to these attractions, Big Bear Lake offers many other activities and experiences that are perfect for families. Whether you’re looking for adventure, education, or just some quality time together, Big Bear Lake has something for everyone.
Seasonal Activities and Events
Whether you’re looking for summer fun, fall foliage, or winter sports, Big Bear Lake has something for everyone. The area transforms throughout the year, offering distinct seasonal activities that make it a true year-round destination.
Summer Fun
Summer at Big Bear Lake is perfect for water recreation, with 22 miles of shoreline inviting you to enjoy swimming, fishing, boating, and jet skiing. You can also explore the surrounding hiking trails, which showcase wildflowers and wildlife. Events like outdoor concerts and farmers markets add to the festive atmosphere, making it a great time to visit.
Fall Foliage and Activities
Fall brings the most spectacular autumn colors to Big Bear Lake, with the surrounding forests bursting into brilliant reds, oranges, and golds. Take a scenic drive, go photography, or simply enjoy the crisp mountain air. You can also walk through The Village to marvel at the vibrant foliage.
Winter Sports and Snow Activities
Winter transforms Big Bear Lake into Southern California’s premier snow destination, with two major ski resorts – Snow Summit and Bear Mountain – offering over 400 acres of skiable terrain. Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, and snowshoeing throughout the area. The free intermountain shuttle connects the two resorts, making it easy to experience both mountains on the same day.
Where to Stay in Big Bear Lake
You can find the perfect place to stay in Big Bear Lake, from luxury hotels to cozy cabins. Big Bear Lake offers a diverse range of accommodation options to suit every preference and budget.
The Marina Riviera stands out as a recently renovated lakefront hotel with 42 rooms featuring panoramic lake vistas. It’s conveniently located just 5 minutes away from Big Bear Village. For a more intimate experience, Noble + Proper offers 8 individually named cabins equipped with modern amenities.
Vacation rentals are also plentiful, with hundreds of cabins and homes available through platforms like Airbnb and VRBO. Many feature hot tubs, fireplaces, and lake or mountain views. For outdoor enthusiasts, campgrounds like Serrano, Pine Knot, and Holcomb Valley provide tent camping opportunities.
When choosing your accommodation, consider the proximity to your planned activities. Prices fluctuate significantly by season, so booking in advance is essential, especially during peak periods.
