Top Attractions and Things to Do in Beautiful Big Bear Lake, California

Discover the Beauty of Big Bear Lake, California

Nestled in the San Bernardino Mountains in Southern California, Big Bear Lake is a stunning year-round destination that offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities for visitors. From boating and fishing in the summer to skiing and snowboarding in the winter, Big Bear Lake has something for everyone. Here are the top attractions and things to do during a visit to Big Bear Lake.

Enjoy Boating, Jet Skiing, & Fishing on the Lake

At over 7 miles long and approximately 2.5 miles wide, Big Bear Lake is one of the largest lakes in Southern California. The picturesque lake is the main attraction in Big Bear, offering visitors a chance to boat, jet ski, and fish in the beautiful alpine setting surrounded by forested mountains. Boats like kayaks, canoes, paddle boats, motor boats, and pontoons can be rented right on the shore. Personal watercraft like jet skis are also available to rent. Fishing is also popular on Big Bear Lake, which is home to trout, bass, and catfish. No fishing license is required.

Hike the Numerous Trails Surrounding the Lake

Big Bear Lake is encircled by the San Bernardino National Forest, which provides nearly endless hiking opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. There are dozens of great trails ranging from easy nature walks to challenging backcountry treks. Some notable hikes include the Castle Rock Trail, Cougar Crest Trail, and the Woodland Trail which is great for wildflower viewing in the spring. For stunning panoramic views, head to Butler Peak Lookout. The hikes allow you to immerse yourself in the pine forests, see wildlife, and get your adrenaline pumping tackling the mountainous terrain.

Ride Scenic Chairlifts & Zipline Above the Forest

For bird's eye views of Big Bear Lake without having to hike, there are a few chairlift rides offering scenic vistas. The Sky Chair at Snow Summit provides views stretching across the lake and surrounding mountains. The Scenic Sky Chair at Bear Mountain lets you rise up through the forest to see the High Desert. For an adrenaline rush, zoom across the treetops on the thrilling Sasquatch zipline tours located throughout the valley. Zoom down slopes or over ravines and take in the fresh alpine scenery.

Ski & Snowboard the Slopes in Winter

When winter hits, Big Bear transforms into a popular ski and snowboard destination in Southern California. Snow Summit and Bear Mountain ski resorts offer over 55 runs ranging from green runs to black diamond trails spanning over 850 acres. The resorts get an average of over 260 inches of natural snowfall each year. With high speed lifts and terrain parks, the resorts attract skiers and snowboarders from across the region. The winter ambiance is idyllic with the slopes blanketed in fresh powder.

Stroll & Shop in the Village

The area’s main hub, Big Bear Village, hosts a variety of shops, restaurants, and lodging options for visitors to enjoy. Stroll along the streets filled with mountain-themed stores and eateries. Pizza places, coffee shops, Mexican restaurants, ice cream shops, and rustic taverns line the sidewalks. Pick up mementos and gifts in the variety of souvenir stores. The village also has a movie theater, miniature golf course, and performing arts center for entertainment.

Drive the Scenic Rim of the World Highway

For awe-inspiring mountain vistas, take a drive along the Rim of the World Scenic Byway. The 110-mile National Scenic Byway loops around the San Bernardino Mountain Range, treating motorists to incredible panoramic views. Look out over mountain ridges, forests, and the Mojave Desert below. The drive provides access to trailheads for day hikes as well as scenic lookout points to stop and admire the sweeping landscapes.

Go Off-Roading on Forest Roads & Trails

The San Bernardino National Forest surrounding Big Bear offers nearly limitless opportunities for off-roading adventures. Miles of dirt roads and trails wind through the pine trees, over rocky terrain, and across meadows blanketed in wildflowers. Kick up some dust on forest roads like Gold Mountain, Holcomb Valley, Van Dusen Canyon, Greyback, and Dishpan Springs. Some notable off-road trails include John Bull, Gold Mountain, and Radford Truck Trail. UTV rentals are available so you can tackle the backcountry.

Tour the Big Bear Discovery Center

To learn all about the cultural history and natural surroundings of the Big Bear Valley, schedule a stop at the Big Bear Discovery Center. Operated by the US Forest Service, the center features educational exhibits on the forest environment, wildlife, Southern California geology, and the lives of early pioneers. Helpful park rangers are there to answer questions. Nature paths behind the center lead through meadows and forest.

Watch Birds at Baldwin Lake Ecological Reserve

Baldwin Lake Ecological Reserve encompasses a restored wetland area and nature preserve that attracts a variety of birds and wildlife. Over 200 bird species have been recorded at the reserve. A walking path loops around the lake, providing excellent bird watching opportunities. Look for species like white pelicans, grebes, northern harriers, osprey, and even bald eagles during winter migrations. Interpretive signs describe the ecology of the wetland habitat.

Planning Your Trip to Big Bear Lake

With its stunning alpine setting in the San Bernardino Mountains, Big Bear Lake is a coveted vacation destination in Southern California. The area offers year-round outdoor recreation from the lake beaches in summer to the ski slopes in winter. To experience all this mountain paradise has to offer, plan your trip using the following tips:

• Visit between May and October for ideal weather and to enjoy the lake. Or visit between December and March for snow sports.
• Rent a lakefront cabin or book a hotel in the village for convenience.
• Pack layers and outdoor apparel as weather can vary.
• Bring your own fishing rods and gear to fish the lake year-round.
• Fill up your gas tank when leaving the mountain as fuel is limited around the lake.
• Print out hiking maps ahead of time as cell service is spotty.
• Make reservations for ski/snowboard rentals and ski lift tickets in advance during peak winter weekends.
• Consider purchasing an Adventure Pass for parking at national forest trailheads.

With its stunning natural beauty and endless variety of activities, Big Bear Lake offers the perfect mountain escape just a few hours from Los Angeles and San Diego. Experience southern California’s beautiful backcountry and enjoy the peaceful serenity of the forest.

FAQs

What is there to do in Big Bear Lake in the summer?

Summer activities in Big Bear Lake include boating, jet skiing, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, ziplining through the forest, and exploring the lake village. The lake is perfect for swimming and water sports in the summer months.

What is there to do in the winter in Big Bear Lake?

In the winter, Big Bear Lake transforms into a winter wonderland. Popular cold weather activities include downhill skiing and snowboarding at Snow Summit and Bear Mountain resorts. Many miles of trails are open for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing as well.

What is the best time of year to visit Big Bear Lake?

The best times to visit Big Bear Lake are spring through fall when daytime temperatures are typically mild and comfortable. Summer offers warm weather for the lake and fall brings beautiful fall foliage. Winter is great for snow sports. Spring has wildflower blooms.

Where should I stay when visiting Big Bear Lake?

The Village in Big Bear Lake offers a variety of lodging options including hotels, motels, cabins, and resorts. Staying in the village allows easy access to restaurants, shops, entertainment, and activities. Lakefront cabins are also popular.

What is the elevation of Big Bear Lake?

Big Bear Lake sits at an elevation of 6,750 feet above sea level, surrounded by peaks of the San Bernardino Mountains. The high elevation provides cool conditions year-round with low humidity. In winter, it produces excellent snowfall.