Enjoyable Year-Round Activities Abound at Coveted California Lake Nestled in Lush Mountain Ranges
Exploring Big Bear: A Year-Round Outdoor Playground
Nestled in the San Bernardino Mountains of California, Big Bear is a versatile destination that caters to outdoor enthusiasts all year round. Just a 2-hour drive from Los Angeles, this picturesque lakeside town offers a diverse range of activities, making it an appealing destination for families, groups, and solo travellers alike.
Spring
As the weather warms, Big Bear Lake comes alive with activities such as rainbow trout fishing, parasailing, kayaking, and boating. The mild climate and fewer crowds make it an ideal time to explore the lake. Spring also offers the opportunity for skiing in some areas, and the Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain provides thrilling rides for adrenaline seekers. Visit the Big Bear Discovery Center and Holcomb Valley for nature and local history experiences.
Summer
Summer in Big Bear is a time for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and water sports on the lake. The Chirp Nature Center is a must-visit for those interested in learning about local wildlife. Snow Summit transforms into a mountain biking park, offering scenic sky chair lift rides and trails for all skill levels. The Alpine Slide, Big Bear Snow Play, and Grizzly Ridge Tube Park offer tubing and bobsledding activities year-round. On Tuesdays, don't miss the Big Bear Farmer’s Market for a taste of the local community.
Autumn
In autumn, the hillsides of Big Bear turn into a tapestry of colours, making hiking and nature walks particularly scenic. Family-friendly nature hikes around Big Bear Valley are a popular choice during this season. Historical sites and escape rooms, such as the Bear Valley Search & Rescue escape room, also offer unique experiences.
Winter
By winter, snow covers the village rooftops and forested slopes, transforming Big Bear into a winter wonderland. Big Bear is famous for winter sports, with Snow Summit and Bear Mountain offering skiing and snowboarding on numerous runs, including night skiing options. Glow tubing and other snow activities provide unique fun for families. The Big Bear Alpine Zoo offers wildlife viewing, including special twilight tours focused on nocturnal animals.
Throughout the year, Big Bear offers a variety of group and family activities, including bowling at the Bowling Barn, alpine slides, nature centers, and various guided tours.
Accommodation and Access
Big Bear offers a variety of accommodations, from cabins and lodges to bed and breakfasts, motels, cottages, and hostels. Big Bear does not have an airport, but the drive offers forested mountain views, and chains may be required after snowfall. Big Bear Lake is located approximately 100 miles northeast of Los Angeles, and a car is required to access the area.
Whether you're seeking a laid-back lakeside energy in summer or a festive coziness in winter, Big Bear's natural beauty and diverse range of activities make it a compelling destination year-round. Its fame as one of the most filmed lakes in the world, having been used in movies like "Gone with the Wind," only adds to its allure. So pack your bags and head to Big Bear for an unforgettable outdoor adventure!
[1] Big Bear Visitors Bureau [2] Visit California [3] Discover Big Bear [4] Big Bear Mountain Resort [5] Big Bear Lake Convention and Visitors Bureau
- Travel guides may recommend visiting Big Bear's travel and lifestyle sections for insights on local fashion-and-beauty trends, food-and-drink options, and home-and-garden décor, in addition to outdoor activities.
- For those planning a trip to Big Bear, travel guides highlighting the region's diverse activities, accommodation options, and knowledge about local history and nature would be beneficial resources.
- In addition to outdoorsy travel guides, fashion enthusiasts may find lifestyle guides offering valuable recommendations on Big Bear's best boutiques and trendy restaurants for their fashion and food-and-drink needs.
