Are you thinking that Big Bear is nothing more than a snowy slope to visit a few times each winter to get in a few snowboard sessions? If so, you’re missing out on all the other things to do in Big Bear! This mountain paradise offers countless opportunities to commune with nature throughout the year.
If you’re interested in outdoor activities and extreme sports, Big Bear is hard to beat. But I’d say it’s just as great for shopping, dining, and general relaxation. It’s truly a 4-season destination with amazing mountain scenery for hiking, great fishing opportunities, waterskiing on the lake, and skiing is a given.
For anyone looking to discover somewhere new in California, or pack their road trip itinerary full of all the best destinations, Big Bear should absolutely be on the list.
Looking for more info on Big Bear? Check out our travel guide to Big Bear, or learn about the top hiking in Big Bear and the top 12 things to do in Big Bear.
Where is Big Bear?
Big Bear is located about 2 hours east of Los Angeles in the San Bernardino National Forest, and it’s the perfect escape from the city, with fresh air, mountains, and forests surrounding you, and over 300 days of sunshine every year.
Because of the alpine freshness and sunshine, Big Bear Lake is a year-round vacation destination that can be enjoyed in all seasons.
You can reach Big Bear from Los Angeles on CA-201, onto CA-330 and CA-18. It’s about 97 miles and takes 2 hours (in good traffic). From San Diego, it’s a 3-hour drive along I-15 and I-215, up to CA-330 and CA-18.
» You might like these 10 Interesting Big Bear Lake Facts.
Our Recommended Big Bear Hotel
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Elmwood Place – Vacation Rental
✔️ Great location near the lake
✔️ Great for groups
✔️ Game room, hot tub, firepit, etc
What’s There To Do in Big Bear?
#1 Hiking
Big Bear is home to hundreds of miles of beautiful hiking trails, including over 30 miles of the world-famous Pacific Crest Trail that stretches from Mexico to Canada. There are many options, from easy to expert-level hikes, and most local trailheads are easy to access and provide plenty of parking.
Some popular local intermediate trails include Castle Rock Trail and Pine Knot Trail, both providing scenic views of the lake from above. Consider spending some time camping around the area. there are campgrounds that offer a range of experiences.
For a full list of the hikes we recommend in Big Bear, read this article.
» Find the perfect hiking clothes. I love these weather resistant, breathable shorts by Arcteryx (for women | for men) paired with a light performance shirt (for women | for men).
#2 Water Skiing or Wakeboarding
When the snow melts and the weather begins to warm, Big Bear Lake opens up to a multitude of new activities for visitors to enjoy throughout the Spring and Summer months. Boat rentals start to pick up, and so do rentals for water sports.
While the lake can be crowded on holidays or particularly warm weekends, there are also many days throughout the warmer seasons when it’s not, so beginners and experts can try their hand at wakeboarding and water skiing.
If you’ve never done it before, learn how on a private charter with Big Bear Water Sports. Another place that’s great for renting equipment is North Shore Landing, with 2 marinas on Big Bear Lake.
#3 Visit Local Breweries
If there is one thing that most outdoor enthusiasts share, it’s a love for craft beer. Big Bear is home to some fantastic local breweries that offer friendly environments for visitors to enjoy some food and drinks after a long day on the slopes or the lake.
Some of the most popular breweries in Big Bear are Big Bear Lake Brewing Company – a fun spot with an extensive menu – and Big Bear Mountain Brewery which has a full menu with burgers and wings.
#4 Skiing
There is a reason Big Bear is famous for offering some of the best skiing and snowboarding in California. Bear Mountain and Snow Summit are the two ski resorts to choose from. Between them are 26 lifts and 55 runs throughout 400 acres.
Bear Mountain resort has been around since 1943 and is good for all level of skiers. There’s almost an equal amount of beginner, intermediate and advanced slopes. Plus there is a large learning area where you can take lessons and hone your skills.
Snow Summit has the most consistent snow conditions in Southern California and they have snowmaking equipment, so it’s open more often. You can also participate in other activities like tubing.
#5 Mountain Biking
Big Bear is a mecca of mountain biking and cycling for those of all experience and skill levels. Over 100 miles of bikeable trails expand throughout the town of Big Bear, including some top-rated trails like Skyline Ridge and Miracle Mile Trail.
Skyline Ridge is Big Bear’s more popular biking trail. It goes through Snow Summit resort and has great scenic views of San Gorgonio and Big Bear Lake. The Grand View Loop is another favorite, as is Plantation Trail, which you can access from the Scenic Sky Chair.
Snow Summit Bike Park hosts many national downhill races throughout the year.
#6 Enjoy Local Eateries
Although Big Bear is a relatively small town, it has plenty to offer in terms of local cuisine.
One of our favorites is Village Pizza, which you won’t be able to ignore once you catch a whiff from the parking lot. The pizza is good and it’s always bumping in there.
If you’re looking for a hardy American breakfast in a cozy atmosphere, Grizzly Manor Cafe is known for its comforting menu and large portions.
Oakside Restaurant and Bar is an excellent fit for those who enjoy live music and a large outdoor patio. This eatery is known for being family-friendly and for its extensive menu.
If you’re looking for a more upscale experience, Peppercorn Grille is where to go for steaks, seafood, and Italian dishes.
#7 Rock Climbing
Big Bear’s unique geography and many interesting rock formations make it a popular meet-up spot for rock climbing enthusiasts. Because Joshua Tree, a rock climbing mecca, is relatively nearby, Big Bear is a great complementary destination.
If you are new to rock climbing, be sure to start out in a gym or accompany seasoned climbers to learn the ropes (no pun intended). If you have quite a bit of rock climbing experience and are looking for a moderately challenging spot, the Holcomb Valley Pinnacles are just north of Big Bear.
Castle Rock has many beginner to intermediate bolted sport climbs and North Shore Boulders has easy to moderate bouldering, along with a few bolted climbs.
#8 Big Bear Alpine Zoo
From its early roots in 1959 as the “Moonridge Animal Park,” the Big Bear Alpine Zoo has always been about the rescue and rehabilitation of injured, orphaned, and imprinted wild animals. In fact, 80 percent of the zoo’s residents are still returned to the wild. The zoo initially opened after a devastating local wildfire that left many animals in need of help.
Today, the zoo homes around 160 animals and constantly offers special events for the local community and visitors. Next time you’re in town, keep in mind that visiting the Big Bear Alpine Zoo is also supporting a truly worthy cause.
#9 Kayaking
Kayaking Big Bear Lake is a beautiful way to spend a spring or summer day and is very convenient, with there being many kayak rental locations throughout the town. Big Bear Lake Marina and Boulder Bay Park are two accessible spots to both rent and launch kayaks and canoes.
The lake is full of beautiful rock piles and wildlife, and kayaking offers the perfect way to get up close and personal. Be sure to pack sunscreen and a hat, as the sun can be intense on the water.
#10 Picnic at Boulder Bay Park
Boulder Bay Park is a lakefront park known for its famous rock formations scattered on land and throughout the water. The park also has a multitude of activities to take part in, from renting kayaks to fishing off its docks to getting in a nice jog. My personal favorite way to utilize the park’s grassy lawns is to lay out blankets and my favorite snacks and enjoy a scenic picnic with views of the lake.
The park is an excellent option for families with children as there are vast expanses and lots of grass for playing games and keeping an eye on kids while they explore.
#11 Walk in Stanfield Marsh and Wildlife Preserve
The Stanfield Marsh Wildlife and Waterfowl Preserve, located near the Stanfield Cutoff just east of town, is a sanctuary for birds and bird lovers alike. The 1.6-mile out-and-back boardwalk has impressive views of the wetlands and the many species that call them home.
Sunrise and sunset are recommended times to enjoy the walk and information boards along the path. It’ll take about 28 minutes to complete. It’s underwent repairs in fall 2022, so it should be in top condition.
#12 Zip Lining
We love going ziplining whenever it’s available. This is such an adrenaline rush, whooshing through the trees and catching views from so high up. Action Tours offers several high-speed zip-lining experiences through the Big Bear forest after taking adventurers off-roading through two miles of dirt roads to reach their destination.
Nine different zip lines that reach speeds of up to 35MPH and a large suspension bridge are part of the three-hour basic package. Action Tours also offers packages that include videography of your adventure or a beer-tasting session at Barrel 33 after your tour.
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Laura is a travel fanatic who loves seeing and doing new things. She lives in Ventura, CA, and spends a lot of time exploring California’s cities, beaches, and national parks.