Bear Mountain
A premier ski resort known for challenging terrain, world-class terrain parks, and stunning mountain views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best snow conditions
Bear Mountain
Best Time
Best snow conditions
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A premier ski resort known for challenging terrain, world-class terrain parks, and stunning mountain views.
"The Canyons on a fresh pow day is 2nd to none. Definitely highly recommended. "
🚗 Pre-paid Parking is Key
Parking is prepaid only. Be prepared to potentially put chains on your vehicle to access parking. :car:
🎿 Lift Tickets Sell Out
Book lift tickets online in advance, as they often sell out, especially on peak days. :ticket:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Canyons
Bear Mountain
Legendary terrain for advanced riders and skiers, especially on fresh powder days.
Bear Mountain Loop Trail
Bear Mountain State Park, NY
A moderate 3.8-mile hike offering scenic views and a manageable 2-3 hour adventure.
Park Features
Bear Mountain
Renowned for its well-maintained terrain parks, catering to snowboarders and skiers of all skill levels.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Lift Tickets in Advance
Check Snow Conditions & Weather
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Pre-paid Parking is Key
Parking is prepaid only. Be prepared to potentially put chains on your vehicle to access parking. :car:
🎿 Lift Tickets Sell Out
Book lift tickets online in advance, as they often sell out, especially on peak days. :ticket:
🏂 Gear Adjustment
Snowboard adjustments might require returning to rental staff. Plan accordingly. :snowboarder:
❄️ Snow Conditions Vary
While resorts work hard with snow machines, natural snowfall can be light. Check reports! :cloudwithsnow:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Pre-paid Parking is Key
Parking is prepaid only. Be prepared to potentially put chains on your vehicle to access parking. :car:
🎿 Lift Tickets Sell Out
Book lift tickets online in advance, as they often sell out, especially on peak days. :ticket:
🏂 Gear Adjustment
Snowboard adjustments might require returning to rental staff. Plan accordingly. :snowboarder:
❄️ Snow Conditions Vary
While resorts work hard with snow machines, natural snowfall can be light. Check reports! :cloudwithsnow:
🐻 Bear Exhibit Status
Note that the bear exhibit at Bear Mountain Zoo has been closed due to the passing of its last residents.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors love Bear Mountain for its challenging terrain and excellent park features, making it a top choice for experienced skiers and snowboarders. The friendly atmosphere and dedicated staff are frequently highlighted, with one guest sharing a story of a staff member finding a lost wedding ring. However, some find the prepaid parking mandatory and the need to book tickets in advance inconvenient, and natural snowfall can sometimes be lighter than desired.
"I Love learning how to slide down the mountain & in Joy being in nature! Not a gym person... don't like being stuck indoors and sometimes struggle with social anxiety...
Being outdoors and feeling the expansive natural environment of nature herself feels so good!
I started doing this for my mental and physical and emotional health. 🎿🏔️👍💌
Good luck to everyone here on Earth-ship!"
SangHee Cha
"The team here is 2nd to none. Not only is the mountain at snow summit and bear beautiful and fully decked out with park. I have been coming here since 2007 and it's even better than I remember. This past weekend I lost my wedding ring on the mountain and told a staff member Tim D. And a few hours later he miraculously found my ring. The dedication clearly showed and I will be forever grateful. For skiing, the canyons on a fresh pow day is 2nd to none. Definitely highly reccomended."
James Weinstock
"Pre paid parking only so be prepared! We struggled to find a spot, needed to put chains to park. Nice people playing out in the snow, made several friends. Fast and Friendly service to buy your lift tickets and pay for your equipment rentals if you do not bring your own, had to go back in line after purchasing my lift ticket, as I was not told. Snowboard can be adjusted a bit but you need to come back to the rental guys to do so. Margaritas are very good, $15. Brought my own picnic so, unable to rate the food. But everyone around was really friendly and happy. Definitely coming back up to continue enjoying snow sports and a happy atmosphere with well behaved humans and dogs 😍"
Angeles Jones
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bear Mountain is accessible by car. During winter, be prepared for potential snow and ice, and check if tire chains are required. Parking is prepaid and can sell out. For those coming from San Diego, it's a popular destination for a ski trip.
While direct public transport options can be limited, some shuttle services may operate during peak season. It's best to check local transit authorities or resort-specific information closer to your travel dates.
The drive can be scenic but also subject to winter weather conditions. Expect potential traffic, especially on weekends and holidays.
Yes, parking at Bear Mountain is prepaid and mandatory. It's crucial to book this in advance to secure your spot.
Tire chains may be required depending on weather and road conditions. It's essential to check Caltrans or local advisories before your trip and carry chains if necessary.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Lift tickets should be purchased online in advance, as they frequently sell out, particularly on weekends and holidays. Arriving without a pre-booked ticket could mean no access to the slopes.
Typically, lift tickets grant access to both skiing and snowboarding. However, it's always best to confirm the specifics when purchasing your ticket.
It is highly recommended to buy tickets online in advance. Window sales are not guaranteed and often sell out quickly.
Operating hours vary by season and day. Always check the official Bear Mountain website for the most up-to-date schedule, especially for early season or late season operations.
Yes, parking is prepaid and mandatory. Ensure you factor this cost into your budget and book it along with your lift tickets.
🎫 ⛷️ Onsite Experience
Bear Mountain is renowned for its challenging terrain, particularly its terrain parks and steep slopes like 'The Canyons,' making it a favorite for advanced skiers and snowboarders.
Yes, Bear Mountain offers lessons for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced riders. Booking lessons in advance is recommended.
Absolutely. Bear Mountain provides ski and snowboard rentals on-site. Be aware that snowboard adjustments may require returning to the rental shop.
There are dining facilities available at the resort, offering various options. Some visitors bring their own picnics.
While known for advanced terrain, Bear Mountain does offer areas and lessons suitable for beginners. Snow Summit, its sister resort, is often considered more beginner-friendly.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers panoramic views, and the terrain parks provide dynamic action shots. The scenic Bear Mountain Loop Trail in NY also offers great photo opportunities.
While wildlife sightings are possible, remember to maintain a safe distance and never feed or disturb animals. Note that the bear exhibit at the zoo is currently closed.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national parks and ski resorts for safety and privacy reasons. Check the specific park or resort regulations before flying a drone.
It's ideal for action sports photography, landscape shots from the summit, and capturing the winter mountain atmosphere. It's also becoming a venue for mountain destination weddings.
Always be mindful of other visitors and resort operations. Avoid blocking trails or lifts. Professional photography, like wedding shoots, may require permits.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid the largest crowds. Packing snacks and drinks can also be helpful, though dining options are available on-site.
🏂 Advanced Skiers & Snowboarders
While booking lift tickets and parking in advance is essential for everyone, advanced riders can focus on maximizing their time on the mountain. Consider arriving early on weekdays to experience the best conditions with fewer people. Don't forget to check the snow report before you go to catch those prime powder days!
💍 Couples & Wedding Planners
If you're planning a wedding, consider reaching out early to explore the offerings. For couples visiting for leisure, the scenic beauty of the mountains provides a romantic setting for a getaway, whether you're hitting the slopes or enjoying the crisp mountain air.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Bear Mountain for Skiers & Snowboarders
For those new to the sport, Bear Mountain offers lessons and rentals, though some visitors find its sister resort, Snow Summit, to be slightly more beginner-friendly.
Beyond the slopes, Bear Mountain is also gaining recognition as a unique venue for mountain destination weddings, with plans to offer multiple ceremony sites.
Hiking Bear Mountain State Park
The hike provides scenic views and a chance to immerse yourself in nature. It's a great option for those looking to enjoy the outdoors without the intense demands of advanced skiing. Remember to wear appropriate footwear and bring water, especially during warmer months.
While the ski resort focuses on winter sports, the state park offers year-round natural beauty. It's important to distinguish between the ski resort and the state park, as they are distinct entities with different activities and access requirements.
The Bear Mountain Experience: Beyond the Slopes
This means visitors will no longer see bears at this specific exhibit. However, the spirit of the mountain continues to draw visitors for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The resort is actively developing its offerings, including becoming a venue for mountain destination weddings starting in 2025.
For those seeking a more relaxed experience, enjoying the mountain air, the friendly atmosphere, and perhaps a good margarita can be part of the appeal.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit