Initially inhabited by the Serrano Indians the region around Big Bear is home to mountains, thousands of trees and most importantly, mother nature. Big Bear Lake is small city located near San Bernardino, California and may not be your typical place when you think of a typical California adventure. There are plenty of Airbnb vacation rentals and hotels in Big Bear Lake that offer amazing accommodations. Surrounded by the lush green canopies of the trees and sparkling water of Big Bear Lake, there is no shortage of activities to do all year round. No matter what season it is, Big Bear has you covered for a great time and here are some of the best things to do in Big Bear Lake, California.
1. Ski the slopes during winter
Big Bear is home to some of the best skiing in southern California and just looking at those mountains, it should come as no surprise. Luckily Big Bear has you covered if it’s your first time on skis or if you’re an experienced shredder! Big Bear’s two biggest ski and snowboarding hotspots are Bear Mountain and Snow Summit. Don’t have your own board? No problem! Equipment is available for rental at each location. Big Bear’s mountains cover a wide space packed with jumps, rails and beautiful sights while you’re heading down that mountain.
Skiing in Big Bear
Address: P.O. Box 77, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
Website: Reserve a ski lesson
2. Cross country ski and snowshoe
Just because it’s the winter and there is snow on the ground, doesn’t mean you can’t have a good time. If down hill skiing isn’t for you, enjoy the trails around Big Bear Lake with some cross country skiing or snowshoeing. Marvelous snow capped vistas and landscapes are just waiting for you to put your footprint in the snow. If you don’t have your own, Goldsmith’s Sports has you covered for rentals.
Cross Country Ski
Address: 42071 Big Bear Boulevard, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
Website: Goldsmith’s Sports
3. Enjoy the great outdoors in spring!
Spring is the perfect time to head outdoors! As the trees start getting their leaves and flowers start to bloom, that’s the best time to admire the beautiful surroundings! Going for a hike is a popular activity for people who want to spend some time around Big Bear because not only will you be able to see all the beauty nature has to offer, but hiking is also something suitable for all ages, so bring the family! If hiking isn’t your thing, Big Bear also offers alternative ways to sight see, like horseback riding.
Horseback riding
Address: 1601 E Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear City, CA 92314
Website: Bear Valley Farms
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4. Hike in spring
Big Bear and its environs are known for its lush mountains and beautiful landscape. So if hiking is your thing, lace up those hiking boots and hit the trails, you won’t regret the view! Of course if you’re feeling a little on the “I’d rather relax” side, ride the sky chair at snow summit. It has all the benefits of the panoramic views without the leg pain the next morning.
Scenic Sky Chair
Address: 880 Summit Blvd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
Website: Scenic Sky Chair
5. Treat yourself during fall!
Fall is a beautiful time of year to breathe in the fresh, crisp mountain air, but to also to see the leaves change colors and go for a walk along the scenic Big Bear Lake. And after those long walks, why not treat yourself to a little “me time”? Altitudes Massage and Mountain Mobile Massage and Spa might be the places for you. In fact, Mountain Mobile Massage and Spa was ranked the number 1 massage service in Big Bear, so go ahead and give yourself something nice.
Altitudes Massage
Address: 42184 Moonridge Rd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
Website: Altitudes Massage
Mountain Mobile Massage and Spa
Address: 42718 Moonridge Road, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
Website: Mountain Mobile Massage and Spa
6. Arcade fun during fall
It’s the fall, maybe it’s getting a little chilly outside and you’re looking for something to do indoors that’s fun for everyone. Why not try the Arcade! The Big Bear Funplex is great for the whole family and not only features awesome arcade games but an indoor skiing rink, as well as lazer-tag! A perfect time if the weather isn’t cooperating.
Big Bear Funplex
Address: 40679 Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
Website: Big Bear Funplex
7. Hit the lake in the summer months
It’s the summer in California so that means there is going to be nothing but beautiful warm days ahead. Big Bear Lake has you covered for cooling off or even just enjoying some time by the lake. Holloway Marina has you covered if you want to park your RV by the lake and also has available amenities for renting boats, fishing equipment and much more. Big Bear Lake also has some great fishing and charters are available to help you reel ‘em in!
Holloway's Marina & RV Park
Address: 398 Edgemoor Road, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
Website: Holloway’s Marina & RV Park
Big Bear Watersports School
Address: 439 Pine Knot Ave., Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
Website: Big Bear Watersports School
8. Go-karting in the summer
Feel the wind hit your face as you speed down the track in your go-kart! This one’s for the thrill seeking speed demons among your family or friends. The Big Bear Speedway is great for an afternoon of racing against the clock to try and break your record. 25 USD gets you a valid membership for a year.
Go-karting
Address: 42825 Big Bear Blvd., Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
Website: Big Bear Speedway
9. Go golfing
Pack your golf bag and get your caddy ready because Big Bear Mountain golf course is a perfect way to spend a summer afternoon. Big Bear Mountain golf course is an ideally manicured 9 hole course with the San Bernardino mountain range as a brilliant backdrop.
Bear Mountain Golf Course
Address: 43101 Goldmine Dr., Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
Website: Bear Mountain Golf Course
10. Take a helicopter ride
With all this talk about beautiful scenery and seeing the gorgeous sights around Big Bear Lake, why not consider the ultimate bird’s eye view from a helicopter! Perfect for a special occasion like birthdays or anniversaries, a helicopter ride around the lake is sure to be a fun time.
Helicopter Big Bear
Address: 501 Valley Blvd., Big Bear City, CA 92314
Website: Helicopter Big Bear
A hidden getaway in California
When people think of California they probably think of the glitz and glamour of L.A. but fail to recognize that the “golden state” has many more treasures to offer like Big Bear Lake! It has tons to offer all year around and makes for a perfect family getaway.