Big Bear Lake is in the San Bernardino Mountains. It turns into a winter wonderland with lots of fun activities for everyone. The area has 440 acres of skiing and snowboarding at Bear Mountain and Snow Summit, known as Big Bear Mountain Resort.
Bear Mountain has 748 acres of skiing, good for all skill levels. Snow Summit has 240 acres with snowboarding and skiing, plus terrain parks. Together, they offer a huge winter playground with 200 acres of terrain park, 63 trails, and 26 lifts. You can access all with one ticket.
Key Takeaways
- Big Bear Lake transforms into a winter wonderland with a variety of activities for all ages.
- The region boasts two renowned ski resorts, Bear Mountain and Snow Summit, offering a combined 440 acres of skiing and snowboarding terrain.
- Bear Mountain features 748 acres of skiing terrain with trails for all skill levels, while Snow Summit offers 240 acres of skiing and snowboarding terrain with diverse terrain parks.
- Both resorts provide a winter playground with 200 acres of terrain park, 63 trails, and 26 lifts accessible with a single lift ticket.
- Big Bear Lake offers a wide range of winter activities beyond just skiing and snowboarding, including snow tubing, sledding, and more.
Discover the Beauty of Big Bear Winter
Big Bear Lake is a winter wonderland in the San Bernardino Mountains. It offers a chance to see breathtaking scenery and enjoy outdoor adventures. The area is full of snow-covered peaks and frozen lakes, making it a beautiful place to visit.
Stunning Scenery and Snow-Covered Peaks
The San Bernardino Mountains are covered in snow in winter. This creates a stunning landscape. Visitors can see snow-covered peaks and enjoy outdoor activities and scenic drives.
The area is also home to wildlife like deer, squirrels, and bald eagles. This adds to the magic of winter here.
Explore the Winter Trails
Big Bear has many winter hiking trails. The Nature Discovery Trail is a 0.5-mile loop with educational plaques. The Woodland Trail is easy and great for families, with benches along the way.
For more adventure, try Big Bear snowshoeing tours or rent snowshoes for self-guided Big Bear winter activities.
The Magic of Big Bear Lake
Big Bear Lake is the region’s highlight in winter. Visitors can drive around the lake and take amazing photos. The lake offers activities like ice fishing and skating, perfect for those staying in Big Bear cabin rentals.
| Winter Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Snowshoeing | Explore the snowy trails and scenery of Big Bear on guided snowshoe tours or with self-guided rentals. |
| Scenic Drives | Take in the breathtaking winter landscapes around Big Bear Lake with a scenic drive. |
| Photography | Capture the stunning snow-covered peaks and frozen lake with your camera. |
Winter Sports That Thrill
Big Bear Lake is a winter wonderland in the San Bernardino National Forest. It offers exciting outdoor activities for all ages and skill levels. Whether you love skiing, snowboarding, or just want to play in the snow, Big Bear has it all.
Skiing and Snowboarding at Bear Mountain
The Big Bear ski resorts, Bear Mountain and Snow Summit, are famous for their top-notch skiing and snowboarding. Bear Mountain is special with its halfpipes, the highest peak, and the biggest beginner area. It has been a favorite for over 75 years, welcoming all skill levels.
Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing
Big Bear also has great snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. The National Forest trails are open all year, perfect for a quiet winter walk. Action Tours offers guided snowshoe tours, teaching about winter ecology and animal tracking.
Snow Tubing Fun for Families
Big Bear’s snow tubing parks are great for families. Places like Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain and Grizzly Ridge Tube Park offer fast tubing down 300-foot lanes. Big Bear Snow Play even has glow tubing nights for a magical experience.
Big Bear Lake is a winter playground with something for everyone. From Bear Mountain’s slopes to the quiet trails and snow tubing, it’s a place for adventure. Whether you’re an expert or just want to make memories with your family, Big Bear is unforgettable.
Cozy Dining and Entertainment Options
After a day of fun in the snow, Big Bear Lake has cozy places to relax. The Big Bear Village is filled with unique shops and restaurants. You can find great souvenirs and gifts to remember your Big Bear winter activities.
The village is perfect for families, with attractions like Gold Rush Mining Adventures. You can pan for gold and enjoy scavenger hunts. As night falls, Big Bear cabin rentals offer a warm place to rest and relax.
Winter Festivals and Events You Can’t Miss
Big Bear Lake is buzzing with winter events. On December 6th, 2024, the Strings & Jingles concert will feature holiday carols and classical music. It’s a great way to get into the holiday spirit.
Don’t miss the Santa Claws celebration at the Big Bear Alpine Zoo on December 14th and 21st, 2024. It’s a fun event where you can meet Santa and learn about the zoo’s animals.
Nature lovers will enjoy the Bald Eagle Count and Celebration. It happens every second Saturday from December to March. You can see and count the bald eagles that live in Big Bear Lake.
The Snow Summit’s 60th Annual New Year’s Eve Party and Torchlight Parade is a highlight. On December 31st, 2024, you’ll see a parade of skiers and snowboarders with torches. Then, there’s live music, fireworks, and more to celebrate the new year.
| Event | Date | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Strings & Jingles Concert | December 6th, 2024 | Local string groups performing holiday carols and classical pieces |
| Santa Claws at Big Bear Alpine Zoo | December 14th and 21st, 2024 | Opportunity to meet Santa and learn about wildlife |
| Bald Eagle Count and Celebration | 2nd Saturday of each month, December – March | Observe and count wintering bald eagles |
| Snow Summit’s 60th Annual New Year’s Eve Party and Torchlight Parade | December 31st, 2024 | Spectacular parade of skiers and snowboarders with fiery torches, followed by live music and fireworks |
Essential Tips for Your Big Bear Winter Trip
Planning a winter trip to Big Bear Lake? Remember a few key tips. Dressing right is key for fun activities like skiing and snowboarding. Also, don’t miss out on snow tubing at Grizzly Ridge Tube Park and Big Bear Snow Play.
What to Pack for a Big Bear Winter Adventure
Stay warm with layers of clothing that wick away moisture. Add waterproof outerwear and insulated boots. Don’t forget to protect your skin from the sun with sunglasses and sunscreen. If you’re into snow sports, bring your gear or rent it to enjoy the slopes more.
Safety Considerations When Enjoying Snow Activities
When you’re out in the snow, safety first. Listen to the resort staff and know your limits. Check the weather and the resort’s rules. Always travel with a buddy and know about vehicle safety in winter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Need help planning your Big Bear trip? Call Water Damage Pros – San Bernardino at 951-903-5429 or visit sanbernardinowaterdamagerestoration.com. They can help with accommodations and answer your questions for a great winter adventure.
FAQ
What are the two renowned ski resorts in Big Bear?
What kind of terrain and facilities do these resorts offer?
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Source Links
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- https://www.bigbearmountainresort.com/plan-a-trip
- https://www.weekendsherpa.com/issues/best-of-big-bears-winter-hikes/
- https://www.bigbear.com/blog/winter-for-the-non-skier-boarder/
- https://www.bigbearguide.com/winter-activities-in-big-bear/
- https://www.destinationbigbear.com/blog/10-ways-enjoy-winter-big-bear/
- https://www.monicagoes.com/blog/big-bear?rq=bear
- https://www.destinationbigbear.com/blog/prepared-big-bear-winter/
- https://www.bigbear.com/blog/its-wintertime-how-to-have-fun-in-big-bear/
- https://vagabond3.com/11-tips-for-planning-winter-in-big-bear/
