Looking for mountain air, lake views, and four-season fun? Head to Big Bear Lake! Tucked into the San Bernardino Mountains just a couple hours from Los Angeles, Big Bear Lake is a year-round destination offering boating, skiing, hiking, and cozy alpine charm. Whether you're exploring trails or sipping cocoa by the fire, Big Bear is SoCal’s alpine escape.
Big Bear Lake, CA Highlights:
- For Winter Sports Fans: Ski or snowboard at Snow Summit or Bear Mountain – Two top-tier resorts with trails for all skill levels and terrain parks.
- For Summer Lovers: Boat or paddle on Big Bear Lake – Rent a kayak, pontoon, or jet ski for warm-weather fun on the water.
- For Hikers: Trek Castle Rock Trail – A short but rewarding hike with panoramic lake and mountain views.
- For Families: Visit Big Bear Alpine Zoo – A rehabilitation zoo home to rescued wildlife like black bears and bald eagles.
- For Shoppers: Explore The Village – A quaint downtown area with boutiques, cafes, and festive seasonal events.
Best Time to Visit Big Bear Lake, CA
Big Bear Lake is a year-round destination. Visit in winter (December–March) for snow sports, or in summer (June–August) for boating, hiking, and lakeside events. Fall brings colorful foliage and fewer crowds, while spring is great for wildflowers and peaceful getaways.
How to Get to Big Bear Lake, CA
- By Car: About 2–2.5 hours from Los Angeles, San Diego, or Palm Springs via Highway 330 or Highway 38.
- By Bus: Mountain Transit offers limited service; most visitors arrive by personal vehicle.
- By Air: The nearest major airport is Ontario International Airport (ONT), about 1.5–2 hours away by car.
Where to Stay in Big Bear Lake, CA
- Recommended for Couples: The Club at Big Bear Village – Upscale mountain resort with fireplaces, hot tubs, and walkable location.
- For Families: Big Bear Frontier – Lakefront cabins with rustic charm, pet-friendly options, and close to The Village.
- For Budget Travelers: Ith Big Bear Lake Hostel – Affordable, social lodging with dorms and private rooms near the lake.
Best Things to Do in Big Bear Lake, CA
1. Climb to Views That Wow on Castle Rock Trail
A short, rewarding hike to panoramic lake vistas—perfect for sunrise treks and picnics with a view.
For a beautiful view of Big Bear Lake you can hike the Castle Rock Trail which takes you along a short but steep trail to a rocky crag overlooking the lake. Although the trail is only about 1.3 miles long it is quite challenging due to the rocky terrain and relatively rapid increase in elevation. You can try the trail by mountain bike or on horseback, but hiking is generally considered to be the best way to explore this single-track trail. You have the choice of starting from either the north trailhead off Hwy 18 or the south trailhead which is accessed off Forest Service Rd 2N10. Castle Rock Trail Video
2. Meet Mountain Wildlife at Big Bear Alpine Zoo
A unique rescue zoo where you can see eagles, bears, and wolves up close—family-friendly and conservation-focused.
Established in 1959 to rehabilitate animals which were injured during a devastation forest fire, the Big Bear Alpine Zoo at Moonridge is dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating and re-introducing injured and vulnerable wildlife back into their natural environments. In some instances certain animals cannot be returned to the wild and will find a permanent safe-house in the Zoo. Currently you can expect to see a wide variety of birds and animals (over 85 species) including an arctic fox, black bears, bob cats, coyotes, wolves, owls and many more. The best way to learn all about the fascinating animals is to join a docent-led tour of the zoo.
747 Club View Dr, Big Bear Lake, CA 92314, Phone: 909-584-1299
3. Relax by the Water at Boulder Bay Park
Quiet, scenic, and ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, or lakeside lounging with a good book.
Located about two miles from Big Bear Dam, Boulder Bay Park is an outdoor recreational facility offering year-round activities. Many people simply come to have a picnic surrounded by natural beauty, while others come to enjoy hiking around the lake, canoeing and kayaking in summer and a good variety of snow-sports in winter. In spring and autumn you can take some wonderful photos of the park decked out in seasonal colors. If you would like to spend a few days in the area you can choose from a large variety of vacation rental homes, cabins and apartments located within easy access of all the action.
Boulder Bay Park, 39148 CA-18, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315, Phone: 909-866-9700
4. Pedal or Stroll the Alpine Pedal Path
A flat, paved path with views of the lake, wildflowers, and plenty of fresh mountain air—great for all ages.
Big Bear Lake’s beautiful Alpine Pedal Path is a must-do activity when you are visiting Big Bear Lake. The paved path is suitable for walkers and cyclists of all fitness levels and you will often find entire families enjoying a stroll or cycle. The Pedal Path stretches for 3.2 miles from the Serrano Campground to the Stanfield Cutoff and there are benches along the way where you can stop to rest, do some bird watching (look out for bald eagles) and admire the beautiful vistas. At Juniper point there are BBQ’s and picnic tables – you can easily bring along a picnic and make a day of it. The path is also suitable for skaters and wheelchairs.
Alpine Pedal Path, 740 Stanfield Cutoff, Big Bear, CA 92314, Phone: 909-382-2790
What to do if you are traveling with kids:
5. Hike Into the Pines on Cougar Crest Trail
Moderately challenging with big payoffs—connects to the Pacific Crest Trail and delivers jaw-dropping scenery.
Located in the San Bernardino National Forest, overlooking Big Bear Lake, the Cougar Crest Trail is a moderately challenging 2.4-mile (5.2 miles out and back) hiking or mountain-biking trail which leads up to the junction of the famous Pacific Crest Trail (no bikes allowed on the PCT). The trail passes through a variety of beautiful natural environments including lots of wild flowers and can be accessed via a paved path from the Big Bear Discovery Center or from the Cougar Crest Trailhead on North Shore Drive about half a mile west of the Discovery Center. This trail is best used from March to November.
Cougar Crest Trail, Big Bear, CA 92314
6. Summit Seclusion at Butler Peak
For experienced hikers, this fire lookout trail offers one of the most stunning 360° views in the San Bernardino Mountains.
The San Bernardino National Forest has seven historic high-altitude fire lookout posts which you can visit for amazing views of the surrounding forests and Big Bear Lake. Butler Peak Fire Lookout is located at an elevation of 8,535ft which makes this one pretty difficult to access as there is often still deep snow as late as July. You will need a high-clearance vehicle to navigate the dirt road that leads you to the Peak. Your perseverance will be rewarded by magnificent views and a deep respect for those who used to man these extremely remote and critically important fire lookouts.
Butler Peak Fire Lookout, Forest Road 2N13C, San Bernardino National Forest, Big Bear, CA 92314
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
7. Trek the Classic Pine Knot Trail
A local favorite leading to Grand View Point—ideal for a half-day adventure among towering pines.
Pine Knot Trail is a popular and well-maintained Big Bear trail which is considered easy to moderate and would suit most hikers. You can enjoy the 6.2mile out-and-back trail on foot or by mountain bike or horseback, enjoying excellent views of Big Bear Lake. This is a very scenic forest trail which leads you from the Aspen Glen Picnic area to the Grandview Point where your efforts will be rewarded by great views out over the Santa Ana River Valley and San Gorgonio. After admiring the beautiful views you head back along the same route, part of which meanders alongside the creek. You can park at Aspen Glen Picnic Area.
Pine Knot Trail, Mill Creek Rd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
8. Birdwatch and Unwind at Stanfield Marsh Wildlife Preserve
A peaceful boardwalk stroll where herons, ducks, and scenic reflections set the mood.
Nature lovers and birding enthusiasts will enjoy taking the time to visit the Stanfield Marsh Wildlife and Waterfowl Preserve, located on the corner of Stanfield Cutoff and Big Bear Boulevard. You can park near the wooden gazebo and take a little time to have a look at the informative wildlife posters. There are wooden boardwalks built out over the water and the marshes from which you have splendid views of all the wildlife which frequent the Preserve. The best time to visit is early evening (around sunset) during the wet season, when there are many different species to be seen and photographed.
Stanfield Marsh Wildlife and Waterfowl Preserve, Stanfield Cutoff and Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear lake, CA 92314
9. Zip Through the Treetops with Action Zip Line Tours
Adrenaline meets alpine with thrilling canopy rides and sky-high fun in the forest.
Action Zip Line Tours offers all thrill-seekers the chance to get your adrenalin pumping as take on the challenge of flying along no less than nine high-speed zip lines. You need to have a good head for heights on this one – you will be racing through the tree tops at elevations of up to 85ft and speeds which can reach 45mph. In total there are nine separate zip lines which range from 140 to 860 feet long. The first few are quite tame, but they get progressively faster and longer as you go along. Did we mention the suspension bridge? It’s just another little thrill to add to your ride.
Action Zip Line Tours, 40957 Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear Lake, Ca 92315, Phone: 909-866-0390
10. Find Serenity at Bluff Lake Reserve
An off-the-beaten-path gem with wildflower meadows, rustic trails, and tranquil waters perfect for reflection and photography.
Located at an elevation of 7,600 feet and surrounded by towering pines, flower meadows and quartz outcrops, the Bluff Lake Reserve protects and showcases a variety of rare and endangered plants, amphibians and insects as well as the birds which are attracted to them. This ecological reserve offers visitors the chance to observe nature in a serene environment far removed from the busy tourist areas of Big Bear Lake. You are welcome to bring along a picnic to enjoy and your four-legged friends are also welcome provided they are leashed and you pick up after them. There are designated hiking trails around the lake and many opportunities for photography and bird watching.
Bluff Lake Reserve, Mill Creek Rd, Angelus Oaks, CA 92305, Phone: 909-790-3698
Where to Eat in Big Bear Lake, CA
- Recommended for Families: Teddy Bear Restaurant – Hearty breakfasts, burgers, and homemade pies in a cozy diner setting.
- For a Romantic Meal: Peppercorn Grille – Elegant dining with steaks, seafood, and a wine list in The Village.
- For Casual Bites: Big Bear Lake Brewing Company – Craft brews, flatbreads, and burgers with indoor and outdoor seating.
If you are interested in local events:
- For Winter Fun: Torchlight Parade at Snow Summit (New Year’s Eve) – Skiers light up the slopes in a festive nighttime display.
- For Summer Music: Big Bear Lake Music Festival (July) – Live performances by local and regional artists lakeside.
- For Fall Color: Oktoberfest (Sept–Nov) – One of California’s best, with music, German food, and stein-holding contests.
Day Trip Itineraries Within 30–90 Minutes of Big Bear Lake:
- For Desert Views: Joshua Tree National Park (90 min) – Visit iconic rock formations, hiking trails, and desert landscapes.
- For Apple Picking: Oak Glen (60–75 min) – Enjoy cider tastings, orchards, and scenic mountain farms.
- For Waterfalls: Forest Falls (45 min) – Hike to Big Falls Trail, one of Southern California’s tallest year-round waterfalls.
- For Vintage Charm: Lake Arrowhead Village (45–60 min) – Shop, dine, and explore a charming alpine-style lakeside community.
- For Hot Springs: Deep Creek Hot Springs (90 min, plus hike) – Natural mineral pools accessed by a rugged but rewarding trail.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Question: What outdoor activities does Big Bear Lake offer?
- Answer: Big Bear Lake offers an abundance of outdoor activities in all seasons.
- Question: What can visitors do during the summer at Big Bear Lake?
- Answer: Summer visitors have numerous scenic hiking and mountain biking trails to explore, as well as access to boating, wind surfing, canoeing, and kayaking.
- Question: What activities are available for winter visitors at Big Bear Lake?
- Answer: Winter visitors come to enjoy great skiing and other snow sports at several family-friendly facilities.
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