
Big Bear Mountain Resort
Southern California's premier mountain destination for skiing, snowboarding, and winter fun, offering stunning views and diverse activities.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fresh powder, fewer crowds

Big Bear Mountain Resort
Best Time
Fresh powder, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Southern California's premier mountain destination for skiing, snowboarding, and winter fun, offering stunning views and diverse activities.
"Beautiful place with great slopes, perfect for beginners and experienced riders alike."

Book Lessons Early
Beginners rave about private lessons for a great start! Book in advance to secure your spot and instructor. :admission_tickets:
Pack Layers
Mountain weather changes fast! Dress in layers for comfort on and off the slopes. :cloud:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Skiing and Snowboarding
Main slopes
Experience thrilling descents on diverse runs, from beginner-friendly slopes to challenging terrain. Perfect for all skill levels.

Snow Tubing
Big Bear Snow Play
Enjoy exhilarating rides down snowy hills, a fun-filled activity for families and groups seeking winter thrills.

Mineshaft Coaster
Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain
Ride this unique mountain coaster through scenic twists and turns for an adrenaline-pumping adventure.

Scenic Sky Chair
Snow Summit
Take a leisurely ride up the mountain for breathtaking panoramic views of Big Bear Lake and the surrounding San Bernardino Mountains.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Peak Season
Check Road Conditions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Lessons Early
Beginners rave about private lessons for a great start! Book in advance to secure your spot and instructor. :admission_tickets:
Pack Layers
Mountain weather changes fast! Dress in layers for comfort on and off the slopes. :cloud:
Utilize Shuttles
Parking can be busy. Consider using the shuttle services to easily access the resort and avoid parking hassles. :bus:
Explore The Village
Beyond the slopes, The Village offers charming shops, diverse dining, and a lively atmosphere. :shopping_bags:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Lessons Early
Beginners rave about private lessons for a great start! Book in advance to secure your spot and instructor. :admission_tickets:
Pack Layers
Mountain weather changes fast! Dress in layers for comfort on and off the slopes. :cloud:
Utilize Shuttles
Parking can be busy. Consider using the shuttle services to easily access the resort and avoid parking hassles. :bus:
Explore The Village
Beyond the slopes, The Village offers charming shops, diverse dining, and a lively atmosphere. :shopping_bags:
Rentals on Site
Convenient ski and snowboard rentals are available at the resort, saving you time and hassle. :snowboarder:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Big Bear Mountain Resort for its accessibility from Southern California, diverse terrain suitable for all skill levels, and beautiful mountain scenery. The availability of activities like snow tubing and the charming Big Bear Village add to its appeal. However, some find the prices to be on the higher side, and during peak snow events, the resort can become very crowded, leading to long wait times.
"I had a fun skiing experience here. The slopes weren't too steep, making them suitable for beginners. The facilities and equipment were complete, and there were also great instructors. Unfortunately, the price was really a bit expensive."
Paul T.
"Big parking lot, also plenty of parking lots further down with shuttles, easy walk if you’re up for it. Lots of runs, tons of park stuff, jumps, rails, half pipes, also easy runs for beginners too. Beautiful views. Highly recommend. Super easy drive from anywhere in So Cal. Also close to snow summit and mountain high."
Kimberly H
"Beautiful place. It's green, it's all the colors in the fall, it's white with all the snow in the winter. It's a big small town with the cutest shops. Lots of different bars. A huge variety of food . There are a lot of different cabins to rent out. People are super friendly. There's things for the kids to do as well as different family places to check out. Definitely a must go place to visit. If you're not on the bike trails in the summer you are able to go skiing or snowboarding or even tubing in the winter. The lake is also a sight to see."
Soly Portillo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Big Bear Mountain Resort is a popular day trip from Los Angeles and San Diego. The most common route is via Highway 330 or Highway 18. Always check road conditions and chain requirements, especially during winter months, as they can change rapidly. Many visitors opt for driving their own vehicle, but ride-sharing services and shuttle buses are also options once you're in the Big Bear Lake area.
Yes, Big Bear Mountain Resort offers parking, including a large main lot and additional lots further down with shuttle services. Arriving early is recommended, especially on weekends and holidays, to secure a spot.
While direct public transport from major cities is limited, once in the Big Bear Lake area, local shuttles can help you navigate between the resort, The Village, and other attractions. Some accommodations also offer shuttle services.
Winter road conditions in Big Bear can be challenging due to snow and ice. Chain controls are frequently implemented, requiring vehicles to use chains or have snow-tires. It's crucial to check Caltrans for real-time updates before your trip.
While RVs can access Big Bear, parking at the resort itself may be limited, especially during peak season. It's advisable to check with the resort directly for specific RV parking policies and availability. Some campgrounds in the Big Bear Lake area cater to RVs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Lift tickets can be purchased online in advance through the official Big Bear Mountain Resort website, which is often recommended for potential savings and to guarantee availability. Tickets are also available at the resort's ticket windows.
Discounts can sometimes be found through third-party vendors like Costco, or by purchasing multi-day passes. Keep an eye on the resort's promotions and consider visiting during off-peak times for potentially lower prices.
For beginners, it's highly recommended to purchase a package that includes lift tickets and a lesson. Private lessons are particularly praised for their effectiveness in helping first-timers enjoy the slopes. Booking these in advance is key.
During peak season and busy periods, it's advisable to check the resort's policy on reservations for lift tickets or specific activities, as they may implement reservation systems to manage capacity. Booking online in advance is generally the safest bet.
Operating hours vary by season and day. Typically, the resort opens in the morning and closes in the late afternoon or early evening. It's best to check the official Big Bear Mountain Resort website for the most current operating hours for skiing, tubing, and other activities.
🎫 ⛷️ Onsite Experience
Families will love snow tubing at Big Bear Snow Play, the Scenic Sky Chair at Snow Summit for amazing views, and exploring the charming shops and restaurants in The Village. The Big Bear Alpine Zoo is also a great option for animal lovers.
Yes, Big Bear Mountain Resort is highly recommended for beginners. It offers gentle slopes, excellent ski schools with highly-rated instructors, and an intuitive layout that guides new visitors.
Experienced skiers and snowboarders will find a variety of runs, including challenging slopes, terrain parks with jumps and rails, and half-pipes. The resort offers diverse options to test your skills.
Absolutely! Big Bear Mountain Resort offers convenient on-site rentals for skis, snowboards, boots, and helmets, making it easy to gear up for your day on the mountain.
The views are spectacular! From the slopes and the Scenic Sky Chair, you'll enjoy panoramic vistas of Big Bear Lake and the surrounding San Bernardino Mountains, especially beautiful when covered in snow.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The resort offers various on-mountain dining options, from casual cafes and snack bars to restaurants with more substantial meals. You can also find a wide array of restaurants, bars, and cafes in the nearby Big Bear Village.
Big Bear Village boasts a diverse culinary scene, with options ranging from casual eateries and pizza joints to more upscale dining experiences. It's a great place to explore for a meal after a day on the slopes.
While outside food and drinks are generally allowed in designated areas or for picnics, it's always a good idea to check the resort's specific policy. Many visitors enjoy packing snacks and lunches to save money.
Warm up with hot cocoa or enjoy hearty mountain fare. Many visitors enjoy the cozy atmosphere of local cafes and restaurants, especially after a day in the snow.
Dining options at the resort and in Big Bear Village are increasingly accommodating. It's recommended to check menus online or inquire directly with restaurants about their vegetarian and vegan offerings.
📸 📸 Photography
The Scenic Sky Chair at Snow Summit offers incredible panoramic views perfect for photos. The mountain slopes with snow-covered trees and the lake in the background also provide stunning backdrops. Don't miss the charming architecture in The Village.
Many visitors use action cameras like GoPros mounted on helmets or chests for dynamic ski and snowboard footage. Be mindful of your surroundings and other people while capturing your runs.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for landscape and portrait photography. Midday can be bright, but the snow reflects light well.
The summit reached by the Scenic Sky Chair provides an excellent vantage point. Also, look for clearings on the slopes that offer unobstructed views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Protect your camera from the cold and moisture. Bring extra batteries as cold drains them faster. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance the blue skies and reduce glare from the snow.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families new to snow sports, private lessons at the resort are highly recommended for a positive and effective introduction to skiing or snowboarding. The resort's beginner-friendly slopes ensure a safe and enjoyable learning environment. Consider booking accommodations with amenities like fireplaces and game rooms for extra family fun.
💰 Budget Travelers
Cabin rentals can sometimes be more economical for groups than individual hotel rooms. Explore free activities like hiking in the surrounding national forest or simply enjoying the scenic beauty of Big Bear Lake.
💑 Couples & Romantic Getaways
During winter, couples can enjoy snowshoeing on quieter trails or simply relax and enjoy the snowy ambiance. In warmer months, a boat tour on Big Bear Lake or a leisurely bike ride along the shoreline can be a perfect romantic outing.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Winter Sports at Big Bear Mountain Resort
For those looking to experience the snow without the skis, snow tubing is a fantastic option. Big Bear Snow Play offers a dedicated area for sledding down snowy hills, providing hours of laughter for all ages. The Mineshaft Coaster at Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain offers a unique thrill, allowing riders to control their speed as they descend a mountain track.
Beyond the snow, the Scenic Sky Chair at Snow Summit provides breathtaking panoramic views of Big Bear Lake and the surrounding San Bernardino National Forest, making it a popular attraction even for non-skiers. This leisurely ride offers a different perspective of the winter wonderland.
Beyond the Slopes: Big Bear Lake Activities
The Village at Big Bear Lake is a charming hub with a variety of boutique shops, art galleries, and diverse dining options. It's a perfect place to stroll, grab a bite to eat, or find unique souvenirs. For a touch of nature and wildlife, the Big Bear Alpine Zoo is a must-visit. It's the only mountain zoo in California and focuses on rescuing and rehabilitating native wildlife.
For adventure seekers, mountain biking trails abound in the warmer seasons, and the Mineshaft Coaster provides an adrenaline rush. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure or a relaxed mountain town experience, Big Bear Lake has something to offer every visitor.
Accommodation Options in Big Bear
Popular areas to stay include near The Village for easy access to shops and restaurants, or closer to the ski resorts for convenience during winter. Hotels like the Holiday Inn Resort The Lodge at Big Bear Lake are noted for their cozy mountain vibes and prime locations.
When booking, consider proximity to the activities you plan to enjoy, whether it's the ski slopes, hiking trails, or the lake. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons like winter holidays and summer weekends, to secure the best options.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit