30 Things to Do in Big Bear Lake, CA
Discover 30 things to do in Big Bear Lake, CA, from boating and hiking to skiing, family attractions, village shopping and seasonal events.
Discover the Best of Big Bear Lake, CA
Looking for the best things to do in Big Bear Lake, CA? Nestled in Southern California's San Bernardino Mountains, this beautiful alpine destination offers year-round adventures, from boating and hiking in summer to skiing, snowboarding and cozy mountain experiences in winter.
Whether you're planning a family getaway, romantic cabin retreat or group vacation, discover 30 things to do in Big Bear Lake, including scenic attractions, outdoor activities, local experiences and seasonal highlights.
Make your stay on Big Bear Lake extra memorable, with a stay in one of our beautiful Big Bear Lake cabins, featuring ambient living rooms with fireplaces, family-friendly kitchen diners, scenic layouts and private outdoor space ideal for year-round relaxation and entertaining. Placing you close to the water's edge as well as the buzz and ameities at The Village, the captivating hiking trails and renowned ski and snowboarding slopes of Big Bear Ski Resort, enjoy a fun and varied vacation with your friends and family.
1. Explore Big Bear Lake by pontoon boat
Location / Neighborhood: Big Bear Lake / Pine Knot Marina and other local marinas.
Best For: Families, couples, groups, sightseeing.
Estimated Time Needed: 2–4 hours.
Cost / Entry: $; boat rentals charged by duration.
Discover Big Bear Lake from the water by hiring a pontoon boat and cruising around its seven-mile stretch of beautiful mountain scenery. Surrounded by pine forests, waterfront cabins and rugged peaks, the lake is ideal for a relaxed afternoon of sightseeing, photography and enjoying the fresh alpine air. Local marinas, including Pine Knot Marina and Holloway's Marina, offer boat rentals suitable for families and groups.
A pontoon rental is particularly appealing if you want to explore at your own pace, with plenty of space to relax together and admire the shoreline.
Insider tip: Book ahead during summer weekends and holiday periods, and check lake conditions before departure. Rental operators provide safety instructions and information about boating restrictions.
2. Go kayaking or paddleboarding
Location / Neighborhood: Big Bear Lake / North Shore Landing and local marinas.
Best For: Couples, families, water sports, active travelers.
Estimated Time Needed: 1–3 hours.
Cost / Entry: –$; equipment rental applies.
Enjoy a peaceful morning exploring Big Bear Lake by kayak or stand-up paddleboard, gliding across the water with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. Paddle sports offer a quieter alternative to motorized boating, allowing you to discover sheltered shoreline areas while enjoying the lake's natural beauty.
Beginners can rent equipment from local operators, while more experienced paddlers can enjoy longer trips along permitted areas of the shoreline. It's an excellent summer activity for couples, families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Insider tip: Head out early when the lake is often calmer, and wear a properly fitted life jacket. Afternoon winds can make paddleboarding more challenging.
3. Take a scenic Big Bear Lake cruise
Location / Neighborhood: Pine Knot Marina / Big Bear Lake.
Best For: Families, couples, sightseeing, history lovers.
Estimated Time Needed: 1.5–2 hours.
Cost / Entry: $$; sightseeing tickets required.
Discover the history and beauty of Big Bear Lake aboard a narrated sightseeing cruise. Popular experiences include the Miss Liberty Paddlewheel and Big Bear Queen, which offer scenic journeys past waterfront landmarks, mountain landscapes and notable properties along the shoreline.
Along the way, learn about the area's fascinating history, from its early settlement and gold-mining heritage to its development as one of Southern California's favorite mountain vacation destinations. It's an excellent choice for visitors who want to enjoy the lake without hiring their own boat.
Insider tip: Choose a late-afternoon departure for beautiful mountain light and book ahead during the main boating season. Cruise schedules depend on weather and seasonal operations.
4. Go fishing for trout on Big Bear Lake
Location / Neighborhood: Big Bear Lake / marinas and designated fishing areas.
Best For: Anglers, families, outdoor enthusiasts.
Estimated Time Needed: Half day to full day.
Cost / Entry: –$$; fishing license, equipment or charter fees may apply.
Cast a line into one of Southern California's most popular freshwater fishing destinations, where rainbow trout, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass and catfish attract anglers throughout the year. Big Bear Lake offers both shoreline fishing and boat-based excursions, with local guides available for beginners and experienced fishing enthusiasts.
Spring and fall are particularly popular for trout fishing, while summer brings opportunities to target bass and catfish. A guided fishing charter can make the experience easier for families who don't have their own equipment.
Insider tip: Anglers aged 16 and over generally need a valid California fishing license. Check current fishing regulations, catch limits and lake conditions before heading out.
5. Try jet skiing or wakeboarding
Location / Neighborhood: Big Bear Lake / participating marinas.
Best For: Adventure seekers, couples, groups, older families.
Estimated Time Needed: 1–3 hours.
Cost / Entry: $; rentals and lessons extra.
Add excitement to your Big Bear Lake vacation with a high-energy watersports experience. Rent a jet ski to explore permitted areas of the lake or book a wakeboarding or waterskiing session with a local operator. With mountain scenery surrounding the water, these activities offer a memorable alternative to traditional beach vacations.
Selected marinas provide equipment, instructions and guided experiences, making it possible for beginners to try something new while more confident riders enjoy the lake's open-water recreation areas.
Insider tip: Reserve watersports in advance during peak summer and check age restrictions, safety requirements and permitted operating areas. Wind and lake conditions can affect availability.
6. Relax at Boulder Bay Park
Location / Neighborhood: Boulder Bay / western Big Bear Lake.
Best For: Families, couples, picnics, photography, relaxation.
Estimated Time Needed: 1–2 hours.
Cost / Entry: Free.
Spend a relaxing afternoon at Boulder Bay Park, one of Big Bear Lake's most picturesque waterfront locations. Large granite boulders, pine-covered hills and peaceful lake views create a beautiful setting for picnics, photography and leisurely walks. The park features open green spaces, picnic tables and a gazebo overlooking the water.
It's an excellent stop for families looking for a gentle outdoor activity or couples wanting to enjoy the scenery without embarking on a longer hike. The surrounding landscape is especially attractive during autumn when seasonal colors brighten the mountainsides.
Insider tip: Visit around sunset for beautiful photographs of the lake and surrounding boulders, and bring a picnic to enjoy beside the water.
Best Hiking Trails & Nature Walks in Big Bear Lake
7. Hike the Castle Rock Trail
Location / Neighborhood: Southwest shore of Big Bear Lake.
Best For: Hikers, couples, photography, panoramic views.
Estimated Time Needed: 1.5–3 hours.
Cost / Entry: Free to hike; designated parking may require a fee or pass.
Follow one of Big Bear Lake's most scenic hiking trails through pine forest and rocky mountain terrain to the impressive Castle Rock viewpoint. This approximately 2.4-mile round-trip hike rewards visitors with dramatic views across Big Bear Lake and its surrounding mountains.
Although relatively short, the route includes steep sections and uneven surfaces, making it best suited to hikers with a reasonable level of fitness. The combination of striking rock formations, forest scenery and elevated lake views makes it particularly rewarding for photographers.
Insider tip: Use the designated Castle Rock Trailhead parking area near Big Bear Boulevard and Talbot Drive. Arrive early, carry water and wear sturdy hiking shoes.
8. Walk or cycle the Alpine Pedal Path
Location / Neighborhood: North shore of Big Bear Lake.
Best For: Families, couples, cycling, easy walking, lake views.
Estimated Time Needed: 1–2 hours.
Cost / Entry: Free; bicycle rentals extra.
Enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride along the Alpine Pedal Path, a paved, approximately 2.5-mile one-way trail following Big Bear Lake's scenic north shore. The route passes peaceful meadows, pine trees and beautiful waterfront viewpoints, making it one of the area's most accessible outdoor activities.
Its relatively level surface is well suited to families with younger children, casual cyclists and visitors looking for an easy alternative to more demanding mountain hikes. Wildlife, seasonal wildflowers and views towards Snow Summit add plenty of interest along the way.
Insider tip: Begin near Stanfield Cutoff and plan your return journey before setting off. Visit during the morning for pleasant temperatures and quieter paths.
9. Discover the Cougar Crest Trail
Location / Neighborhood: North shore / near Big Bear Discovery Center.
Best For: Hikers, wildlife lovers, couples, outdoor adventures.
Estimated Time Needed: 2–4 hours.
Cost / Entry: Free to hike; Adventure Pass or accepted parking pass may be required.
Explore Big Bear's beautiful mountain environment along Cougar Crest Trail, a rewarding forest hike featuring pine trees, rocky slopes and sweeping views of the lake and surrounding valley. The trail climbs towards a junction with the famous Pacific Crest Trail, providing opportunities to extend your adventure into higher mountain terrain.
Along the way, look for native birds, seasonal wildflowers and changing landscapes, from shaded woodland to more open mountain viewpoints. This is an excellent option for hikers who want a more challenging experience than the shorter lakeside walks.
Insider tip: Start early during summer and bring plenty of water, as sections of the trail are exposed to the sun. Check trail conditions and choose a turnaround point that matches your fitness level.
10. Explore the Woodland Interpretive Trail
Location / Neighborhood: North Shore Drive / Fawnskin area.
Best For: Families, nature lovers, easy hiking, educational experiences.
Estimated Time Needed: 1–1.5 hours.
Cost / Entry: Free to hike; Adventure Pass or accepted parking pass may be required.
Discover Big Bear's fascinating natural environment on the Woodland Interpretive Trail, an easy 1.5-mile loop through beautiful forest scenery. Sixteen numbered stops highlight the area's geology, plants and wildlife, offering an engaging introduction to the San Bernardino National Forest.
This relaxed walking route is particularly popular with families and visitors interested in nature, with opportunities to learn about the mountain ecosystem while enjoying the fresh forest air. It's a wonderful choice for anyone seeking a quieter outdoor activity away from the busier lakeside attractions.
Insider tip: Collect an interpretive trail brochure from the Big Bear Visitor Center before visiting, and allow extra time to explore the educational stops.
11. Hike Pine Knot Trail to Grand View Point
Location / Neighborhood: Aspen Glen Picnic Area / south shore of Big Bear Lake.
Best For: Hikers, couples, photography, mountain scenery.
Estimated Time Needed: 3–5 hours.
Cost / Entry: Free to hike; Adventure Pass or accepted parking pass may be required.
Escape into the San Bernardino National Forest along Pine Knot Trail, a scenic woodland route climbing from Aspen Glen Picnic Area towards the mountains above Big Bear Lake. The approximately six-mile round-trip hike leads through fragrant pine forests and peaceful mountain landscapes, with the option to continue towards Grand View Point.
At the viewpoint, hikers can admire spectacular scenery across the surrounding mountains, including distant views towards San Gorgonio. This rewarding adventure is ideal for visitors who enjoy spending several hours exploring the great outdoors.
Insider tip: Pack snacks, water and comfortable hiking footwear, and check the weather before setting out. Start early enough to complete the return journey during daylight.
12. Go birdwatching at Stanfield Marsh
Location / Neighborhood: Stanfield Cutoff / eastern Big Bear Lake.
Best For: Families, birdwatchers, nature lovers, photography.
Estimated Time Needed: 30 minutes–1 hour.
Cost / Entry: Free.
Discover a quieter side of Big Bear Lake at Stanfield Marsh Wildlife and Waterfowl Preserve, where a scenic boardwalk provides opportunities to observe birds and the surrounding wetland habitat. This peaceful area is particularly appealing for nature photography and short walks, with waterfowl and seasonal birdlife visiting the marsh throughout the year.
The boardwalk connects with the Alpine Pedal Path, making it easy to combine both experiences during a leisurely morning exploring the north shore. Families can also enjoy learning about the importance of protecting local wildlife habitats.
Insider tip: Bring binoculars and visit early in the morning when birds may be more active. Stay on designated paths to avoid disturbing the wetland environment.
Best Mountain Adventures & Outdoor Sports in Big Bear
13. Ride Snow Summit's Scenic Sky Chair
Location / Neighborhood: Snow Summit, Big Bear Lake.
Best For: Families, couples, sightseeing, mountain views.
Estimated Time Needed: 1–2 hours.
Cost / Entry: $$; scenic lift ticket required.
Experience Big Bear's beautiful mountain scenery from above aboard Snow Summit's Scenic Sky Chair. The chairlift travels up the mountainside to an elevation of approximately 8,200 feet, offering spectacular views across Big Bear Lake, pine forests and the surrounding San Bernardino Mountains.
At the summit, visitors can enjoy scenic viewpoints, mountain-top dining when available and access to hiking trails. It's a wonderful choice for families and couples who want to experience the mountain landscape without making the entire ascent on foot.
Insider tip: Check the operating calendar before visiting, as scenic lift rides are seasonal and weather-dependent. Bring an extra layer because temperatures can be cooler at the summit.
14. Go mountain biking at Snow Summit
Location / Neighborhood: Snow Summit Bike Park, Big Bear Lake.
Best For: Mountain bikers, teenagers, adventure seekers, active families.
Estimated Time Needed: Half day to full day.
Cost / Entry: $; lift tickets, rentals and lessons extra.
When the snow melts, Snow Summit transforms into one of Southern California's most exciting mountain biking destinations. Riders can explore downhill trails, flowing forest routes and challenging technical terrain, with chairlift access making it easier to reach the mountain's higher elevations.
The bike park caters to a range of abilities, with lessons and equipment rentals available for riders looking to develop their skills. Away from the downhill routes, the surrounding Big Bear trail network provides additional opportunities for scenic cross-country adventures.
Insider tip: Beginners should consider a lesson before tackling the downhill trails. Check current trail ratings, lift access and bike park operating dates before arriving.
15. Take a guided off-road Jeep adventure
Location / Neighborhood: Big Bear Valley / Holcomb Valley and surrounding mountain trails.
Best For: Couples, groups, adventure enthusiasts, families with older children.
Estimated Time Needed: 2–4 hours.
Cost / Entry: $$$; guided tour fees apply.
Explore Big Bear's rugged backcountry on a guided off-road adventure through forest tracks, rocky trails and historic mountain landscapes. Operators such as Big Bear Off-Road Experience offer guided Jeep tours, including opportunities for eligible drivers to navigate challenging terrain with professional guidance.
Travel through Holcomb Valley, discover locations connected to the region's gold-mining heritage and enjoy mountain scenery rarely seen from the main roads. Tours range from relatively gentle sightseeing routes to more technical off-road experiences for adventurous visitors.
Insider tip: Choose a route that suits your group's experience and comfort level. A guided tour is particularly useful if you're unfamiliar with mountain driving or local trail restrictions.
16. Go ziplining through the mountains
Location / Neighborhood: Action Zipline Tours / Big Bear Lake.
Best For: Adventure seekers, couples, teenagers, groups.
Estimated Time Needed: 2–3 hours.
Cost / Entry: $$$; guided tour booking required.
Soar above Big Bear's rugged mountain landscape on a thrilling zipline adventure through the San Bernardino National Forest. Action Zipline Tours offers a course featuring nine ziplines and a suspension bridge, combining exhilarating rides with spectacular views of the surrounding wilderness.
The experience provides a memorable way to appreciate Big Bear's natural scenery from a completely different perspective, with guides leading guests through the activity and explaining safety procedures. It's particularly popular with adventurous families, couples and groups.
Insider tip: Reserve your tour ahead of busy weekends and check age, height and weight restrictions before booking. Wear closed-toe shoes and comfortable outdoor clothing.
17. Go horseback riding at Baldwin Lake Stables
Location / Neighborhood: Baldwin Lake / eastern Big Bear Valley.
Best For: Families, couples, nature lovers, outdoor adventures.
Estimated Time Needed: 1–3 hours.
Cost / Entry: $; guided rides priced by duration.
Discover Big Bear's scenic mountain countryside on horseback with a guided trail ride at Baldwin Lake Stables. Located east of Big Bear Lake, this established equestrian center offers rides through peaceful valleys and forest landscapes, providing an enjoyable alternative to hiking or mountain biking.
Experiences cater to different riding abilities, making horseback riding a memorable activity for couples, families and groups seeking a slower-paced outdoor adventure. The stables also have a small petting zoo, offering another attraction for younger visitors.
Insider tip: Book ahead and explain your riding experience when reserving. Wear long pants and closed-toe shoes, and check seasonal weather conditions before your visit.
18. Play golf at Bear Mountain Golf Course
Location / Neighborhood: Bear Mountain / Moonridge.
Best For: Golfers, couples, groups, scenic outdoor recreation.
Estimated Time Needed: 2–3 hours.
Cost / Entry: $; green fees and equipment rentals vary.
Enjoy a memorable round of golf surrounded by beautiful alpine scenery at Bear Mountain Golf Course. This scenic nine-hole, par-35 course sits at the base of Bear Mountain, offering forest views, mountain backdrops and a refreshing alternative to Southern California's lower-elevation golf destinations.
The course welcomes golfers of different abilities and features a driving range, practice facilities and a clubhouse. Its combination of challenging fairways and peaceful mountain surroundings makes it an enjoyable addition to a summer or fall Big Bear Lake vacation.
Insider tip: Reserve tee times ahead during summer weekends and bring an extra layer for cooler morning starts. The golf course operates seasonally, depending on weather.
Best Family-Friendly Things to Do in Big Bear Lake
19. Visit Big Bear Alpine Zoo
Location / Neighborhood: Moonridge / Big Bear Lake.
Best For: Families, children, wildlife lovers, educational experiences.
Estimated Time Needed: 1.5–2.5 hours.
Cost / Entry: $$; admission required.
Meet fascinating mountain wildlife at Big Bear Alpine Zoo, a rehabilitation-focused animal sanctuary dedicated to caring for injured, orphaned and non-releasable animals. The zoo provides opportunities to see native species such as bears, mountain lions, bald eagles and other animals while learning about wildlife conservation.
Unlike a traditional zoo, the facility specializes in rehabilitation and education, making it a rewarding experience for families interested in the natural environment. Its accessible location in Moonridge also makes it easy to combine with other nearby attractions.
Insider tip: Check the daily program for educational talks and animal presentations, and visit earlier in the day when temperatures are cooler.
20. Explore the Big Bear Discovery Center
Location / Neighborhood: Fawnskin / north shore of Big Bear Lake.
Best For: Families, children, nature lovers, educational activities.
Estimated Time Needed: 1–2 hours.
Cost / Entry: Generally free to visit; selected programs and tours may cost extra.
Learn about the fascinating wildlife, forests and natural history of the San Bernardino Mountains at Big Bear Discovery Center. This visitor and environmental education center offers information about local ecosystems, nature trails and outdoor recreation, alongside family-friendly activities and interpretive programs.
Children can discover more about the animals and plants that make the Big Bear Valley unique, while adults can gather useful advice about nearby hiking routes and forest attractions. Guided nature experiences and seasonal events provide additional opportunities to explore.
Insider tip: Make this an early stop during your vacation to collect trail information and discover upcoming activities. Check current opening days and program schedules before visiting.
21. Ride the Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain
Location / Neighborhood: Magic Mountain / western Big Bear Lake.
Best For: Families, children, teenagers, adventure seekers.
Estimated Time Needed: 2–4 hours.
Cost / Entry: –$; activities priced individually.
Experience classic mountain amusement park fun at the Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain, a popular family attraction featuring an exciting downhill bobsled-style ride. Visitors travel up the hillside before controlling their descent along a winding track, enjoying mountain scenery and thrilling turns.
The attraction also features the Mineshaft Coaster, miniature golf and other seasonal activities, creating plenty of entertainment for families with children of different ages. Its convenient location makes it easy to include during a wider Big Bear sightseeing day.
Insider tip: Arrive early during school holidays and summer weekends to avoid the busiest periods. Check individual ride requirements and operating schedules, as some activities are seasonal or weather-dependent.
22. Challenge yourself at Big Bear Ropes Course
Location / Neighborhood: Big Bear Snow Play / Big Bear Boulevard.
Best For: Families, teenagers, adventure seekers, groups.
Estimated Time Needed: 1–2 hours.
Cost / Entry: $$; activity admission applies.
Take family adventure to new heights at Big Bear Ropes Course, an aerial obstacle attraction featuring suspended bridges, climbing challenges and rope-based obstacles. Participants navigate the elevated course while secured in safety harnesses, testing their balance, confidence and coordination high above the ground. Plus, the 80-ft Sky Rail zipline is a not-to-miss experience!
With multiple challenges and different difficulty levels, the experience is particularly appealing to older children, teenagers and groups looking for active entertainment away from the lake. It's also a great opportunity for families to encourage one another while tackling new challenges.
Insider tip: Check the minimum height and participation requirements before visiting. Closed-toe shoes are essential, and activities may be suspended during unsuitable weather.
23. Discover Big Bear's Gold Rush history
Location / Neighborhood: Bear Valley Historical Museum, Big Bear City.
Best For: Families, history lovers, cultural sightseeing.
Estimated Time Needed: 1–2 hours.
Cost / Entry: Free or low-cost admission; check current arrangements.
Step back into Big Bear's fascinating past at the Bear Valley Historical Museum, where exhibits and historic artifacts reveal how the region developed from Indigenous settlement and gold-mining country into a popular mountain vacation destination.
Learn about the California Gold Rush, early settlers, mountain communities and the area's transformation over the centuries. Historic buildings, displays and educational exhibits make this a rewarding experience for families who want to discover more about Big Bear beyond its outdoor attractions.
Insider tip: The museum generally operates during the warmer months, around Memorial Day through Labor Day. Check opening dates and hours before planning your visit.
Shopping, Dining & Unique Experiences in Big Bear Lake
24. Shop and dine in Big Bear Village
Location / Neighborhood: The Village / downtown Big Bear Lake.
Best For: Families, couples, shopping, restaurants, nightlife.
Estimated Time Needed: 2–4 hours.
Cost / Entry: Free to explore; shopping and dining extra.
Discover the charming heart of Big Bear Lake in The Village, a pedestrian-friendly downtown district filled with independent boutiques, gift shops, cafés and welcoming mountain restaurants. Stroll along its attractive streets, browse local souvenirs and outdoor clothing stores, or enjoy a leisurely lunch surrounded by alpine scenery.
The Village is particularly atmospheric during fall and winter, when colorful foliage, festive decorations and seasonal events create a cozy mountain-town setting. Restaurants range from relaxed American dining to international cuisine, making this one of the best places to spend an evening.
Insider tip: Visit during the late afternoon to combine shopping with dinner. Check the local events calendar for live music, holiday celebrations and seasonal entertainment.
25. Go stargazing beneath Big Bear's night skies
Location / Neighborhood: Big Bear Valley / designated dark-sky viewing areas.
Best For: Couples, families, photography, astronomy enthusiasts.
Estimated Time Needed: 1–2 hours.
Cost / Entry: Free independently; guided experiences may cost extra.
Experience the magic of Big Bear after dark, when the high-altitude mountain setting and distance from major city lights create excellent opportunities for stargazing. On clear nights, visitors can admire constellations, planets and seasonal meteor showers, with particularly impressive views during darker moon phases.
Big Bear also hosts astronomy activities and telescope-viewing events, giving families and couples the opportunity to learn more about the night sky from local experts. It's a peaceful and memorable way to end a day of mountain adventures.
Insider tip: Choose a clear night close to a new moon for darker skies, and dress warmly even during summer. Respect private property and avoid stopping on roads or in unsafe areas.
Best Winter Things to Do in Big Bear Lake
26. Go skiing at Snow Summit
Location / Neighborhood: Snow Summit, Big Bear Lake.
Best For: Families, beginners, intermediate skiers, winter sports.
Estimated Time Needed: Half day to full day.
Cost / Entry: $$$; lift tickets, rentals and lessons extra.
Hit the slopes at Snow Summit, one of Southern California's most popular ski resorts, featuring groomed runs, chairlifts and beautiful views across the San Bernardino Mountains. The resort offers skiing and snowboarding terrain for a range of abilities, with dedicated learning areas and professional lessons for those trying winter sports for the first time.
On-mountain dining and scenic viewpoints make Snow Summit enjoyable for visitors spending a full day in the snow. Selected evening sessions provide opportunities to extend the adventure after sunset when scheduled.
Insider tip: Reserve lift tickets and equipment rentals ahead of busy winter weekends, and check current snow conditions, lift operations and road requirements before setting out.
27. Enjoy snow tubing at Big Bear Snow Play
Location / Neighborhood: Big Bear Snow Play / Big Bear Boulevard.
Best For: Families, children, groups, winter fun.
Estimated Time Needed: 2–3 hours.
Cost / Entry: $$; tubing admission required.
Enjoy a fun-filled day of snow tubing at Big Bear Snow Play, where dedicated tubing lanes offer an exciting winter experience without needing skiing or snowboarding skills. Ride a comfortable inflatable tube downhill before using the convenient Magic Carpet lift to return to the top for another run.
The attraction is particularly popular with families and groups seeking a relaxed snow activity, while selected evening sessions feature colorful illuminated slopes for Glow Tubing. It's an excellent choice for visitors who want to experience Big Bear's winter atmosphere without spending the day at a ski resort.
Insider tip: Arrive early on winter weekends and check age or height requirements before booking. Wear waterproof clothing, gloves and suitable winter footwear.
28. Go snowboarding at Bear Mountain
Location / Neighborhood: Bear Mountain Resort / Moonridge.
Best For: Snowboarders, teenagers, freestyle riders, winter adventures.
Estimated Time Needed: Full day.
Cost / Entry: $$$; lift tickets, rentals and lessons extra.
Experience Big Bear's famous snowboarding scene at Bear Mountain, a popular winter resort celebrated for its terrain parks, freestyle features and varied downhill runs. With opportunities for beginners and experienced riders alike, the resort attracts snowboarders looking to improve their skills or enjoy a challenging day in the mountains.
Bear Mountain is particularly well known for its jumps, rails and halfpipes when conditions allow, while professional lessons provide an introduction to snowboarding for first-time visitors. The lively mountain atmosphere adds to its appeal for groups and active families.
Insider tip: Check which terrain parks and features are open before visiting, as availability changes with snow conditions. Beginners should book lessons rather than heading straight onto advanced terrain.
29. Explore snowy forests on a snowshoe tour
Location / Neighborhood: San Bernardino National Forest / Big Bear Valley.
Best For: Couples, families, nature lovers, winter hiking.
Estimated Time Needed: 2–3 hours.
Cost / Entry: –$; guided tours and equipment rentals extra.
Discover Big Bear's peaceful winter wilderness on a snowshoeing adventure through snow-covered pine forests and beautiful mountain landscapes. Unlike skiing or snowboarding, snowshoeing allows visitors to explore snowy trails at a gentler pace, making it an appealing activity for couples and families who enjoy hiking.
Guided snowshoe tours offer opportunities to learn about the local environment while enjoying scenic viewpoints and tranquil forest surroundings. Equipment rentals are available from selected outdoor recreation providers when sufficient snow is present.
Insider tip: Choose a guided tour if you're unfamiliar with winter mountain navigation, and check snow depth, weather forecasts and trail conditions before setting out.
Seasonal Events & Festivals in Big Bear Lake
30. Celebrate Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest
Location / Neighborhood: Big Bear Convention Center / Big Bear Lake.
Best For: Couples, families, groups, live entertainment, fall vacations.
Estimated Time Needed: Half day to evening.
Cost / Entry: –$; festival tickets required.
Experience one of Southern California's favorite fall celebrations at Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest, an annual festival bringing Bavarian traditions, lively music and delicious German food to the mountains. Enjoy traditional entertainment, authentic dishes such as bratwurst and pretzels, and a festive atmosphere inspired by Munich's famous Oktoberfest celebrations.
The event typically takes place across weekends from September into November, coinciding with Big Bear's beautiful fall foliage. Family-friendly activities and entertainment make selected daytime sessions appealing to visitors of different ages, while evening celebrations offer a livelier atmosphere.
Insider tip: Book tickets ahead for popular weekend sessions and check the current festival schedule for family events, entertainment and admission options.
Plan Your Big Bear Lake Trip
Where to stay on Big Bear Lake
