Escape the LA basin heat with a day trip to Big Bear Lake in the San Bernardino Mountains at 6,752 feet elevation. In winter, ski or snowboard at Big Bear Mountain Resort. In summer, kayak the lake, hike the trails, and enjoy the cool mountain air of the alpine village.
Big Bear Lake sits at 6,752 feet elevation in the San Bernardino Mountains of Southern California, 110 miles east of Los Angeles via Interstate 10 and State Route 18 — the Rim of the World Highway — a drive of two to two and a half hours under normal conditions. The mountain terrain places Big Bear in a genuinely different climate zone from the basin below: snow is common from November through March, and summer temperatures run 15 to 20 degrees cooler than downtown Los Angeles, making it one of the most accessible alpine escapes in the region. In winter, Big Bear Mountain Resort encompasses two ski areas — Bear Mountain and Snow Summit — with 37 runs, eight chairlifts, and a terrain park drawing beginner through expert skiers and snowboarders. Lift tickets typically range from $60 to $100 per day depending on advance purchase, with ski and board rentals available slope-side and via online booking from Big Bear Mountain Resort. The Village at Big Bear Lake sits along Big Bear Boulevard and concentrates the main commercial strip: restaurants, gear outfitters, an alpine slide, and a lakefront promenade stretching past boat docks and picnic areas. In summer, Big Bear Lake itself becomes the primary draw. Kayak and paddleboard rentals operate from the marina; fishing charters run morning trips for rainbow trout and largemouth bass; and the Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain, a twin-track gravity ride, provides entertainment for families without a full hike. The Stanfield Marsh Wildlife and Waterfowl Preserve on the lake's southern edge offers a short boardwalk loop through bird habitat excellent for waterfowl and migratory songbirds in spring and fall. More committed hikers access trails in the San Gorgonio Wilderness — some routes requiring a free day-use permit from the Big Bear Discovery Center. State Route 18's descent through the San Bernardino National Forest on the return to Los Angeles delivers sweeping valley views. Chain controls apply on SR-18 during winter storms: always check Caltrans road conditions at quickmap.dot.ca.gov before departing.
Highlights
- Big Bear Mountain Resort skiing (winter)
- Big Bear Lake kayaking and paddleboarding (summer)
- Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain amusement area
- Stanfield Marsh Wildlife and Waterfowl Preserve bird watching
- Big Bear Village shops and restaurants
Tips for visiting
- Check Caltrans chain control requirements for SR-18 before any winter trip — carry tire chains November through March regardless of vehicle type.
- Book ski and snowboard rentals online at least one day in advance; slope-side rental shops run out of popular sizes by 9am on busy weekends.
- Leave Los Angeles by 7am on winter weekends to reach the slopes before parking lots fill during peak snow season.
- Summer kayak and paddleboard rentals are available at Big Bear Marina — call ahead to reserve on holiday weekends.
- The Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain suits families with children; lines are shortest on weekday mornings before 11am.
When to visit
December through March for snow sports, with January and February offering the most reliable ski conditions. June through September for warm lake activities with cool mountain air; summer weekends fill early, so an early departure from Los Angeles is advisable.
Accessibility
The Big Bear Village commercial strip is accessible with flat sidewalks and disability parking bays. Big Bear Mountain Resort offers adaptive ski programs — contact the resort directly for equipment and guide availability. The lake promenade near the marina is paved. Most mountain hiking trails are unpaved with uneven terrain.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to ski at Big Bear?
The natural snow season typically runs December through March, with snowmaking extending the season at Bear Mountain and Snow Summit. January and February offer the most reliable conditions. Spring skiing in March can be warm and slushy by afternoon but often comes with discounted lift prices.
Are chains required to drive to Big Bear in winter?
Chain controls are frequently enforced on SR-18 from Running Springs to Big Bear during and after snowstorms. Caltrans publishes real-time conditions at quickmap.dot.ca.gov. All-wheel drive may be exempt under some control categories, but carrying chains is advisable regardless of drivetrain.
Is Big Bear worth visiting in summer for non-hikers?
Yes. The lake is the main summer draw, with kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing requiring no hiking. Big Bear Village restaurants, the Alpine Slide, and the lakefront promenade all offer enjoyable warm-weather activities at a cool altitude compared to the Los Angeles basin.
Are there entry fees for Big Bear Lake or the national forest?
There is no fee to enter Big Bear Valley itself. Ski lift tickets cost $60-100 per day depending on season and advance booking. Some hiking areas in the San Gorgonio Wilderness require a free day-use permit from the Big Bear Discovery Center on North Shore Drive.