Big Bear California: Your Ultimate Guide to Mountain Paradise
I’ve always loved escaping to the mountains, and Big Bear California, is my go-to destination. Located in the San Bernardino Mountains, Big Bear offers beautiful views of the lake and surrounding nature.
Whether I’m skiing in winter or hiking in summer, there’s always something fun to do. The charming town feels cozy and welcoming, with plenty of shops and restaurants to explore. I love how peaceful it is, especially when the crowds are smaller.
Big Bear is the perfect spot for anyone looking to enjoy nature, relax, and make lasting memories with family or friends.
Where is Big Bear?
Big Bear sits in the San Bernardino Mountains of Southern California. It’s about 93 miles northeast of Los Angeles at an elevation of 6,752 feet. The area is famous for Big Bear Lake, a seven-mile-long reservoir created in 1884.
How to Get to Big Bear
You can drive to Big Bear from nearby cities:
- From Los Angeles: About 2 hours and 10 minutes (93 miles)
- Take Highway 330 through Highland
- Or Highway 38 through Redlands
- Or Highway 18 through Lucerne Valley
- From San Diego: About 2 hours and 36 minutes (146 miles)
- From Las Vegas: About 3 hours and 40 minutes (215 miles)
- Follow Interstate 15 South
In winter, always check road conditions before driving up. You might need snow chains.
Background and History of Big Bear California
Big Bear’s story begins in 1859 at a place called Starvation Flats, now the corner of Stanfield Cutoff and Big Bear Boulevard. A small group of hungry prospectors searched these hills for gold with little luck.
Among them was Bill Holcomb, who followed a grizzly bear’s tracks over a ridge and found gold in what is now Holcomb Valley. This discovery started Southern California’s largest gold rush. The area got its name from the many bears early settlers saw roaming the forest.
In 1884, they built a dam to create Big Bear Lake for water storage. By the early 1900s, visitors came to enjoy fishing and fresh mountain air. The first ski resort opened in 1949, turning Big Bear into the popular year-round vacation spot we know today.
Attractions & Places to Visit at Big Bear
Big Bear offers visitors a variety of beautiful natural settings and charming locations. From stunning lake views to educational wildlife experiences, there’s something for everyone in this mountain paradise.
Big Bear Lake
A seven-mile mountain lake perfect for photos and relaxation. Drive around the shoreline road to see beautiful views of water and mountains. The clear blue water reflects pine trees and sky, creating a peaceful scene.
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The Village
Big Bear’s charming downtown with mountain-style buildings. Shop for souvenirs, grab coffee, or enjoy a meal at local restaurants. Street musicians often play on weekends, adding to the fun, small-town atmosphere.
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Big Bear Alpine Zoo
Home to rescued animals that can’t survive in the wild. See bears, wolves, snow leopards, and eagles up close. Learn how these animals get help and why some can’t return to nature. Great for kids and animal lovers.
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Boulder Bay Park
A pretty lakeside park with unusual rock formations. Take photos of the large boulders that seem to float in the water. Perfect spot for picnics, fishing, or watching the sunset over the lake.
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Discovery Center
Learn about local plants and animals through fun displays. Rangers often give talks about forest life and conservation. The short nature trail behind the building shows different mountain trees and plants.
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Adventures & Things to Do at Big Bear
From winter snow sports to summer lake activities, Big Bear offers year-round adventures for all ages. These outdoor experiences showcase the natural beauty of the mountains while providing fun and excitement.
Skiing and Snowboarding
Hit the slopes at Snow Summit or Bear Mountain in winter. Both resorts offer lessons for beginners and challenging runs for experts. Rental equipment is available if you don’t bring your own gear.
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Water Sports
Rent a kayak, jet ski, or boat to explore Big Bear Lake. The calm morning water is best for paddleboarding and fishing. Swimming areas near the shore are perfect for families with small children.
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Mountain Biking
Ride over 100 miles of trails through beautiful forests. Easy paths follow old fire roads while steep downhill tracks challenge experts. Several shops rent bikes and helmets if you don’t bring your own.
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Hiking
Walk through pine forests on trails for all skill levels. Castle Rock Trail offers amazing views after a short climb. The Alpine Pedal Path is flat and easy for families with young children.
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Zipline Tours
Fly between tall pine trees on steel cables high above the ground. Guides share fun facts about the forest during your adventure. The two-hour tour includes several exciting rides of different lengths.
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Scenic Sky Chair
Ride the chairlift up Snow Summit for incredible valley views. At the top, enjoy lunch at the mountaintop restaurant or hike nature trails. The ride up and down offers great photo opportunities.
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Fun Things To Do For Everyone at Big Bear
Whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or as a couple, Big Bear has activities that create lasting memories. These fun experiences appeal to all ages and can be enjoyed regardless of athletic ability.
Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain
Race down a quarter-mile track on a bobsled-like sled you control. Feel the rush as you zoom through banked turns and straightaways. The scenic chairlift ride up offers beautiful views before your exciting descent.
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Bowling at The Bowling Barn
Enjoy classic bowling fun in a rustic mountain setting. This retro bowling alley offers cosmic bowling on weekend nights with glowing lanes. Perfect activity for rainy days or evening entertainment.
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Helicopter Tours
See Big Bear from above in an exciting helicopter flight. The pilot points out landmarks and shares interesting facts about the area. Tours range from short 8-minute flights to 30-minute adventures.
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Gold Mining
Try panning for gold at Gold Rush Mining Adventures. Learn how prospectors searched for treasure during California’s gold rush. Keep whatever gold flakes you find as a unique souvenir of your trip.
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Best Food to Try at Big Bear
Mountain dining in Big Bear combines hearty portions with fresh ingredients and stunning views. Local restaurants showcase comfort food with a mountain twist, featuring everything from breakfast classics to craft beverages.
Mountain Breakfast
Try enormous pancakes at Grizzly Manor Café or cinnamon roll French toast at Teddy Bear Restaurant. These hearty breakfasts give energy for a day of outdoor activities. Expect big portions that might be enough to share.
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BBQ
Visit Big Bear Mountain Brewery for slow-cooked ribs and brisket. Their homemade BBQ sauce uses local honey for a sweet touch. Outdoor seating lets you enjoy your meal in the fresh mountain air.
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Local Pies
Stop at Big Bear Frontier for fresh-baked berry pies made with seasonal fruit. The flaky crust and sweet filling make a perfect dessert. Take a whole pie back to your cabin to enjoy later.
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Mexican Food
Try Hacienda Grill for tasty tacos and enchiladas with mountain views. Their homemade salsa has a perfect spicy kick. The large outdoor patio is great for relaxing after a busy day.
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Craft Beer
Sample locally-brewed beers at Big Bear Lake Brewing Company. Their pine-infused ale uses local ingredients for unique flavor. The rustic bar area offers a cozy spot to relax and meet other visitors.
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When to Visit Big Bear: The Best Times of Year
Looking for the perfect time to visit Big Bear? Here’s a simple guide to help you choose when to go based on what you love to do:
Spring (April-May)
Spring offers comfortable temperatures in the 60s-70s during the day, dropping to the 40s at night. This season is perfect for hiking and biking without crowds. It’s a great escape from coastal and desert heat, allowing you to enjoy the peaceful mountain atmosphere while trails begin to open up.
Summer (June-August)
Summer brings fun water activities on Big Bear Lake where you can swim, boat, or try paddleboarding. You might enjoy zip-lining 85 feet above the forest floor or exploring over 100 miles of biking trails. The warm weather makes this season perfect for family adventures, though it can be busier than other times of year.
Fall (October)
Fall treats visitors to beautiful colors with red, orange and yellow leaves throughout the area. You’ll experience warm days for hiking with far fewer tourists than summer. The peaceful atmosphere creates perfect conditions for relaxation, and the cooler evenings mean cozy nights by the fireplace in your cabin or rental.
Winter (December-April)
Winter transforms Big Bear into a snow-covered landscape perfect for winter sports enthusiasts. You can enjoy skiing and snowboarding at Snow Summit and Bear Mountain, or try sledding and snow play activities if you’re not into downhill sports. The holiday season from November through December offers festive events and decorations throughout town.
Crowd Tips
The fewest crowds can be found during spring and fall weekdays. Summer weekends and winter holidays attract the most visitors, especially around Christmas and New Year’s. For the best value, consider visiting on weekdays during any season when accommodations often offer better rates.
No matter when you visit Big Bear, you’ll find plenty to do year-round. The best time really depends on what activities you enjoy most and whether you prefer snowy adventures or warm-weather explorations.
Conclusion
Big Bear is a beautiful mountain getaway, offering something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, this charming town has it all. From skiing in the winter to hiking and water sports in the summer, there’s no shortage of things to do.
The peaceful atmosphere, stunning views, and fun activities make Big Bear a perfect year-round destination. I’m sure you’ll love it as much as I do. So, pack your bags and head to Big Bear for an unforgettable experience in the mountains!
Chanin
Chanin is a seasoned traveler and digital nomad who has lived in various states across America, immersing herself in diverse cultures and experiences. Her passion for exploration and storytelling makes her an expert in uncovering the unique charm of every destination. As a writer for Wavy Destinations, Chanin shares her firsthand knowledge and insights on the best places to visit, hidden gems, and tips for making the most out of every journey.
Her writing not only inspires wanderlust but also offers practical advice for travelers seeking authentic and memorable experiences.
