Big Bear Lake, California is a year-round destination located in the San Bernardino Mountains. With its beautiful scenery and outdoor recreational opportunities, it’s no wonder why it’s a popular spot for both tourists and locals alike. Whether you’re looking to hit the slopes in the winter, take a hike in the summer, or simply relax and take in the beauty of the area, there’s something for everyone in Big Bear Lake. In this article, we will explore 51 of the best things to do in Big Bear Lake, California, providing detailed information and helpful tips to make the most of your visit.
Things To Do In Big Bear Lake, California
Skiing and Snowboarding: Big Bear Mountain Resort offers some of the best skiing and snowboarding in Southern California. With over 300 inches of snowfall each year, the area is known for its long ski season and a wide variety of runs for all skill levels.
Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing: If you’re looking for a winter activity that is a bit more low-key, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are great options. The area offers several trails that are perfect for these activities, including the Greenway Trail and the Goldmine Trail.
Snow Tubing: Snow tubing is a fun and exciting activity that is perfect for families or groups of friends. Big Bear Mountain Resort offers several tubing lanes that are sure to provide hours of entertainment.
Hiking: The San Bernardino Mountains offer some of the most beautiful hiking trails in California. From easy nature trails to strenuous summit hikes, there’s a trail for every skill level.
Biking: Big Bear Lake is a popular spot for both road and mountain biking. The area offers several scenic bike trails, including the Alpine Pedal Path, which offers stunning views of the lake.
Fishing: Big Bear Lake is stocked with rainbow trout, bass, catfish, and more, making it a great spot for fishing. You can fish from the shore or rent a boat to explore the lake.
Boating: Big Bear Lake is the perfect spot for boating, with its clear waters and stunning mountain views. You can rent a variety of boats, including pontoon boats, speedboats, and kayaks.
The Big Bear Alpine Zoo: The Big Bear Alpine Zoo is home to a wide variety of animals, including bears, mountain lions, and eagles. Visitors can learn about the animals and their habitats through educational programs and tours.
The Big Bear Discovery Center: The Big Bear Discovery Center is a great place to learn about the local ecosystem and the history of the area. The center offers interactive exhibits, nature walks, and educational programs.
The Big Bear Valley Historical Society Museum: The Big Bear Valley Historical Society Museum offers visitors the chance to learn about the history of the area and how it has changed over time.
Big Bear Frontier: Big Bear Frontier is a great place to stay in Big Bear Lake. The resort offers cabins and cottages, as well as a variety of activities, such as swimming and mini-golf.
Gold Rush Mining Adventures: Gold Rush Mining Adventures offers visitors the chance to pan for gold and learn about the history of gold mining in the area.
Big Bear Marina: Big Bear Marina offers a variety of water activities, including boat rentals, jet ski rentals, and parasailing.
Big Bear Funplex: Big Bear Funplex is a family-friendly entertainment center that offers go-karts, laser tag, and an arcade.
The Village at Big Bear Lake: The Village at Big Bear Lake is a charming shopping and dining destination that offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes. Visitors can enjoy a stroll through the village while browsing the unique boutiques and specialty shops.
Big Bear Solar Observatory: The Big Bear Solar Observatory is a research facility that offers visitors the chance to learn about the sun and its effects on the earth. Guided tours are available, giving visitors a glimpse into the work being done at the observatory.
Big Bear Snow Play: Big Bear Snow Play offers visitors the chance to play in the snow all year round, with snow tubing and sledding available in the winter and a summer snow play area available in the summer.
Big Bear Parasail: Big Bear Parasail offers visitors the chance to experience the beauty of Big Bear Lake from a bird’s eye view. Visitors can take a parasail ride over the lake and enjoy the stunning views.
Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest: Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest is a popular annual event that celebrates German culture and heritage. Visitors can enjoy traditional German food, music, and beer, as well as a variety of activities and games.
Big Bear Lake Rodeo: The Big Bear Lake Rodeo is a family-friendly event that features a variety of rodeo events, including bull riding, bronco riding, and more.
Big Bear Lake International Film Festival: The Big Bear Lake International Film Festival is a celebration of independent films, offering visitors the chance to see films from around the world and to meet the filmmakers behind them.
Big Bear Lake Brewfest: Big Bear Lake Brewfest is an annual event that celebrates craft beer and local breweries. Visitors can sample a variety of beers, meet local brewers, and enjoy live music.
Big Bear Valley Nature Center: The Big Bear Valley Nature Center is a great place to learn about the local ecosystem and the animals that live there. The center offers educational programs, nature walks, and hands-on activities.
Big Bear Valley Historical Society Museum: The Big Bear Valley Historical Society Museum offers visitors the chance to learn about the history of the area and how it has changed over time.
Big Bear Aerial Tramway: The Big Bear Aerial Tramway offers visitors a scenic ride to the top of the mountain, where they can enjoy panoramic views of the valley and the surrounding mountains.
Big Bear Valley Equestrian Center: The Big Bear Valley Equestrian Center offers visitors the chance to explore the area on horseback, with guided trail rides available for all skill levels.
Big Bear Lake Fishing: Big Bear Lake is a great spot for fishing, with rainbow trout, bass, catfish, and more. Visitors can fish from the shore or rent a boat to explore the lake.
Big Bear Lake Nature Center: The Big Bear Lake Nature Center is a great place to learn about the local ecosystem and the animals that live there. The center offers educational programs, nature walks, and hands-on activities.
Big Bear Lake Marina: Big Bear Lake Marina offers a variety of water activities, including boat rentals, jet ski rentals, and parasailing.
Big Bear Valley Adventure Company: Big Bear Valley Adventure Company offers a variety of outdoor activities, including rock climbing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding.
Big Bear Valley Scenic Drive: The Big Bear Valley Scenic Drive offers visitors the chance to explore the beautiful scenery of the area by car. The drive takes visitors through the San Bernardino Mountains and offers stunning views of the valley and the surrounding mountains.
Big Bear Lake Ice Skating Rink: The Big Bear Lake Ice Skating Rink is a popular winter activity for visitors. Located in the heart of the village, the rink offers a great way to enjoy the winter weather while getting some exercise.
Snow Summit Ski Resort: Snow Summit Ski Resort is one of the most popular winter destinations in Big Bear. With over 240 skiable acres, the resort offers a variety of terrain for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels.
Bear Mountain Ski Resort: Bear Mountain Ski Resort is another popular winter destination in Big Bear. Known for its challenging terrain and excellent snow conditions, the resort offers a variety of runs for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels.
Big Bear Discovery Center: The Big Bear Discovery Center is a great place to learn about the history and ecology of the area. The center offers a variety of educational programs, nature walks, and hands-on activities.
Big Bear Lake Village Walk: The Big Bear Lake Village Walk is a popular walking path that winds through the village, offering visitors the chance to explore the shops and restaurants while taking in the beautiful scenery.
Big Bear Valley Golf Course: The Big Bear Valley Golf Course offers visitors the chance to play a round of golf in the beautiful mountain setting. The course is open year-round, weather permitting.
Big Bear Valley Nature Center: The Big Bear Valley Nature Center is a great place to learn about the local ecosystem and the animals that live there. The center offers educational programs, nature walks, and hands-on activities.
Big Bear Valley Historical Society Museum: The Big Bear Valley Historical Society Museum offers visitors the chance to learn about the history of the area and how it has changed over time.
Big Bear Frontier: Big Bear Frontier is a popular family-friendly destination, offering a variety of activities and amenities, including a water park, mini-golf course, and more.
Big Bear Valley Stables: Big Bear Valley Stables offers visitors the chance to explore the area on horseback, with guided trail rides available for all skill levels.
Big Bear Lake Zipline: Big Bear Lake Zipline offers visitors the chance to soar through the trees and take in the stunning views of the valley and the surrounding mountains.
Big Bear Valley Botanical Garden: The Big Bear Valley Botanical Garden offers visitors the chance to explore a variety of plants and flowers that are native to the area.
Big Bear Valley Museum: The Big Bear Valley Museum offers visitors the chance to learn about the history of the area and the people who have lived there.
Big Bear Valley Nature Center: The Big Bear Valley Nature Center is a great place to learn about the local ecosystem and the animals that live there. The center offers educational programs, nature walks, and hands-on activities.
Big Bear Valley Yoga: Big Bear Valley Yoga offers visitors the chance to find inner peace and relaxation in the beautiful mountain setting.
Big Bear Valley Bird Watching: Big Bear Valley is home to a variety of bird species, making it a great spot for bird watching. Visitors can explore the area on their own or join a guided bird-watching tour.
Big Bear Valley Photography: Big Bear Valley is a photographer’s paradise, offering a variety of stunning landscapes and natural scenes. Visitors can explore the area on their own or join a guided photography tour.
Big Bear Valley Scenic Drive: The Big Bear Valley Scenic Drive offers visitors the chance to explore the beautiful scenery of the area by car. The drive takes visitors through the San Bernardino Mountains and past stunning views of the valley and surrounding mountains.
Big Bear Valley Hiking: Big Bear Valley offers a variety of hiking trails for visitors to explore, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging mountain hikes. Some popular trails include the Cougar Crest Trail and the Castle Rock Trail.
Big Bear Valley Fishing: Big Bear Lake is a popular spot for fishing, offering visitors the chance to catch a variety of fish, including trout, bass, and catfish. Visitors can fish from the shore or rent a boat to explore the lake.
In conclusion, Big Bear, California offers a wide variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. From winter sports like skiing and snowboarding to outdoor activities like hiking and fishing, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The area also offers a rich history and culture, with museums and educational centers to explore. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Big Bear has something for you. So pack your bags and get ready for a trip to one of California’s most beautiful destinations.
