Snow Summit
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Snow Summit

4.5
·3k reviews·Big Bear Lake, United States

Snow Summit offers thrilling winter sports, including night riding and terrain parks, plus year-round mountain biking and scenic chairlift rides with ...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Winter evenings

Night riding fun!

CrowdMedium
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Snow Summit

Snow Summit

Best Time

Winter evenings

Night riding fun!

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Snow Summit offers thrilling winter sports, including night riding and terrain parks, plus year-round mountain biking and scenic chairlift rides with stunning views.

4.5
(3k reviews)

"A great place for all seasons with unlimited activities, from skiing to mountain biking."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Winter Driving Prep

Carry tire chains for winter trips to Big Bear. Learn to install them beforehand!

🎟️ Book Lift Tickets Online

Save money and secure your spot by purchasing lift tickets in advance online.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Night Riding

Night Riding

Various runs

Experience the thrill of skiing or snowboarding under the stars on illuminated slopes. A unique way to extend your mountain fun!

Terrain Parks

Terrain Parks

Designated areas

Challenge yourself with jumps, rails, and other features designed for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels.

Scenic Sky Chair

Scenic Sky Chair

Chairlift to the summit

Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and Big Bear Lake. Perfect for a relaxing ride and photo ops.

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Planning Your Visit

Winter Driving & Tire Chains

Heading to Snow Summit in winter? Be prepared for snowy roads. Many visitors recommend carrying tire chains, even if you have 4WD. Learn how to put them on before you go, as you might need them to enter Big Bear. Check road conditions before you leave SoCal.

Book Tickets & Rentals in Advance

Lift tickets and rentals can add up, especially for families. While Snow Summit offers year-round activities, booking winter lift tickets and any necessary gear rentals online in advance can often save you money and guarantee availability. Some reviews mention deactivating ride cards, so double-check your purchase.

Best Times

When
Winter evenings
Why
Night riding fun!
Crowd
Medium
When
Spring/Fall mornings
Why
Great for biking & hiking
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more runs
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Snowboarding girl 🏂 Thank you @ashleydav111s for the great video ⚠️ All rights® are reserved & belong to the video owner Please send us your IG in DM if you aren't tagged ✌️ #snowboardingseason #snowboardingfamily #snowboardinglove #snowboardingrules #snowboardingfails #snowboardingiseverything #snowboardingallday #snowsummit #snowcovered #snowlife #board_world
snowboarderskick
54.6K likes • 1.3M views

🚗 Winter Driving Prep

Carry tire chains for winter trips to Big Bear. Learn to install them beforehand! Reddit

🎟️ Book Lift Tickets Online

Save money and secure your spot by purchasing lift tickets in advance online. TikTok

Bro… 😩 🤳🏼 @thesweetmartini #jerrysofbearmtn #bigbear #bearmtn #snowsummit #snowvalley
jerrysofbearmtn
83.1K likes • 2.4M views
Snowww ❄️❄️❄️ • Today’s snowfall has kicked things off for 2025 • We plan on making more snow the next few nights as we prepare to open more terrain across 🔵#SnowValley 🟢#SnowSummit and 🔴#BearMountain • Stay tuned for more updates • 📷: @leestock
bigbearmountainresort
6.1K likes • 127.5K views

🚴‍♀️ Bike Rentals Caution

Some visitors reported issues with rental bikes. Inspect thoroughly before riding. Reddit

📸 Summit Views

Take the scenic chairlift for stunning mountain vistas, especially nice with a picnic. Instagram

A fresh layer of snow has fallen in Big Bear! Snow Summit’s new powder is looking good, and the resort may open as early as this Saturday.⁠ #Snow #BigBear #storm
nbcla
17.7K likes • 309.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Winter Driving Prep

Carry tire chains for winter trips to Big Bear. Learn to install them beforehand! Reddit

🎟️ Book Lift Tickets Online

Save money and secure your spot by purchasing lift tickets in advance online. TikTok

🚴‍♀️ Bike Rentals Caution

Some visitors reported issues with rental bikes. Inspect thoroughly before riding. Reddit

📸 Summit Views

Take the scenic chairlift for stunning mountain vistas, especially nice with a picnic. Instagram

⏰ Check Opening Times

Dining and activity hours can vary by season, so check ahead. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors generally praise Snow Summit for its well-maintained trails and year-round activities, from skiing to mountain biking. The scenic chairlift offers beautiful views, and the resort is considered family-friendly. However, some guests have expressed concerns about the cost of lift tickets and reported negative experiences with rental bike quality.

"Everything was a great experience! Parking guides got us in a space quickly. Getting our tickets and bikes on the lift was a breeze. Awesome variety of trails to ride on well marked trails. The good is reasonably priced for being at a resort and better than most places I've experienced. I'm already looking forward to my next trip here"

James Moreno

"Ever since the park was upgraded it definitely became better. It also costs a lot more than it used to for a lift ticket but the amenities are better as well. I've been snowboarding here for decades at this point and recently started mountain biking. Overall the park is great. The staff are also good, maybe a little grouchy or standoffish at times but not enough to write home about. Overall a great place for all seasons and will be back."

Brandon Gildark

"We always come here whenever we visit Big Bear. The resort offers year-round outdoor activities. The things you do here are unlimited, from skiing and snowboarding in the winter, to mountain biking and hiking the rest of the year. There are several different dining options from fast-food to more upscale bars and restaurants (opening times vary with the seasons). One of the activities we like to do in the spring and fall is taking the chairlift to the summit and enjoying the view while eating lunch. There is plenty of parking along with a multitude of stores, ski/snowboard rentals, a child amusement center and plenty of trails for biking and hiking."

Thomas B

What People Like

Great variety of trails
Year-round activities
Scenic summit views

What People Dislike

Expensive lift tickets
Rental bike issues

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Driving to Snow Summit during winter requires caution. Many visitors from Southern California recommend carrying tire chains, even if your vehicle is 4WD, as they may be required for entry into Big Bear. It's crucial to learn how to install them before your trip. Always check road conditions and chain requirements before departing. Reddit

Parking at Snow Summit is generally well-managed, with parking guides helping visitors find spaces quickly. Arriving early, especially on busy weekends or holidays, is always a good strategy to secure a convenient spot. Reddit

While direct public transport to Snow Summit is limited, there are shuttle services available within the Big Bear area that can connect you to the resort. Check local Big Bear transit schedules for the most up-to-date information. Instagram

Road conditions to Big Bear can change rapidly during winter. Caltrans and local Big Bear resources provide real-time updates on road closures, chain requirements, and traffic. It's essential to check these before you travel. Instagram

Direct shuttle services from Los Angeles to Snow Summit are not common. Most visitors drive themselves or arrange private transportation. Consider ride-sharing services once you are in the Big Bear area. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

You can purchase Snow Summit lift tickets online through their official website, which is often recommended for potential savings and to guarantee availability. Tickets can also be purchased at the resort's ticket windows. TikTok

Lift ticket prices for Snow Summit vary depending on the day, season, and whether you purchase in advance. It's best to check the official Snow Summit website for the most current pricing information. Some reviews mention the cost has increased with park upgrades. Reddit

Discounts for Snow Summit lift tickets can sometimes be found through partnerships, Costco, or by purchasing multi-day passes. Keep an eye on their promotions page or local deal sites. TikTok

Snow Summit's operating hours vary by season. During winter, lifts typically run from morning until late afternoon or early evening, with options for night riding. Summer hours for activities like scenic chairlifts and mountain biking are also available. Always check their official website for the most accurate daily hours. Instagram

Yes, Snow Summit offers ski and snowboard rentals on-site. It's advisable to book rentals in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability and potentially save time. Reddit

🎫 ⛷️ Onsite Experience

Snow Summit offers a variety of runs for all skill levels, including beginner, intermediate, and advanced slopes. They also feature terrain parks with jumps and rails for freestyle enthusiasts. TikTok

Yes, Snow Summit is generally considered a good option for beginners, with dedicated learning areas and ski/snowboard school programs available to help new riders get started. TikTok

Beyond skiing and snowboarding, Snow Summit offers year-round activities. In winter, there's night riding and terrain parks. During warmer months, you can enjoy mountain biking, hiking, and scenic chairlift rides to the summit. Reddit

Absolutely! Snow Summit is a popular destination for mountain biking, especially during the spring, summer, and fall. They have a dedicated bike park with various trails. Reddit

The Scenic Sky Chair is a chairlift ride that takes you to the summit of Snow Summit, offering spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and Big Bear Lake. It's a popular activity for non-skiers and offers great photo opportunities. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Snow Summit offers a range of dining options, from quick-service cafes and fast-food spots to more upscale bars and restaurants. Dining availability and hours can vary with the seasons. Reddit

Food prices at Snow Summit are generally considered reasonable for a resort setting, though they can be higher than off-mountain options. Some visitors find the quality to be good for resort dining. Reddit

While there are dining facilities, bringing your own snacks and drinks is often a good way to save money, especially for families. Check resort policies regarding outside food and beverages. Reddit

Dining options can vary, but most resorts aim to offer a selection of choices. It's recommended to check the menus of specific restaurants at Snow Summit or inquire upon arrival for vegetarian or vegan offerings. Reddit

Yes, there is a restaurant at the summit accessible via the Scenic Sky Chair, offering food and drinks with a view. Alternatively, many visitors choose to bring a picnic to enjoy the scenery. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The summit accessible by the Scenic Sky Chair offers incredible panoramic views, making it a prime spot for photos. The slopes themselves, especially during sunrise or sunset, also provide beautiful backdrops. Reddit

Many visitors capture action shots while skiing or snowboarding. Using a GoPro or similar action camera mounted on your helmet or chest is popular. Be sure to prioritize safety and not let photography interfere with your riding. TikTok

Night riding at Snow Summit offers a unique photographic opportunity with the illuminated slopes. Capturing the lights against the dark sky can result in dramatic and memorable images. TikTok

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most flattering light for photography. However, the clear mountain air and expansive views make Snow Summit a great spot for photos throughout the day. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted at ski resorts for safety and privacy reasons. It's best to check Snow Summit's official policy regarding drone operation before bringing one. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Snow Summit is a fantastic family destination, offering a mix of winter fun and year-round activities. For families with young children, the beginner slopes and ski/snowboard school provide a safe and encouraging environment to learn. The resort also has a child amusement center, adding another layer of entertainment. TikTok

Beyond winter sports, the Scenic Sky Chair is a hit with kids, offering stunning views without the need for athletic prowess. Bringing a picnic to enjoy at the summit is a budget-friendly and memorable experience. During warmer months, the mountain biking trails offer adventure for older kids and teens. Remember to book tickets and rentals in advance to streamline your visit and manage costs. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Visiting Snow Summit on a budget requires some strategic planning. Book lift tickets and rentals online in advance, as this often comes with discounts compared to on-site purchases. Consider visiting on weekdays when prices may be lower and crowds are thinner. TikTok

To save on food costs, pack your own snacks and drinks, and consider bringing a picnic to enjoy at the summit or designated areas. Look for potential deals through sources like Costco for lift tickets. While the experience can be pricey, focusing on essential activities and smart planning can make it more affordable. Reddit

🚵‍♀️ Mountain Bikers

Snow Summit is a premier destination for mountain biking, especially from spring through fall. The resort boasts a well-developed bike park with a variety of trails catering to all levels, from beginner-friendly flow trails to challenging downhill runs. The chairlift access for bikes makes it easy to get to the top of the mountain for exhilarating descents. Reddit

When renting bikes, be sure to inspect your equipment thoroughly before hitting the trails, as some past visitors have reported issues with rental gear. Many riders recommend purchasing a lift ticket specifically for bike access to maximize your time on the mountain. The park is known for its well-maintained features and scenic routes. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Year-Round Adventure at Snow Summit

Snow Summit is more than just a winter destination; it's a year-round adventure hub. While it's renowned for its skiing and snowboarding in the colder months, the resort transforms into a prime spot for mountain biking and hiking as the snow melts. The extensive trail system caters to various skill levels, making it a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts looking for an active getaway.

During the summer and fall, the Scenic Sky Chair operates, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding San Bernardino Mountains and Big Bear Lake. This chairlift ride is a fantastic activity for families and those who want to enjoy the scenery without strenuous activity. Visitors can enjoy a picnic at the summit or explore the limited hiking trails available at the top. The resort also hosts events throughout the year, adding to its appeal as a versatile destination. Reddit

Key takeaway: Don't overlook Snow Summit outside of ski season! Its mountain biking park and scenic chairlift rides offer unique experiences for all visitors. The resort's commitment to providing diverse activities ensures there's always something to do, regardless of the season. Instagram

Navigating Winter Conditions and Driving

Visiting Snow Summit during the winter season requires careful preparation, especially concerning driving conditions. Many visitors from the Los Angeles basin emphasize the importance of tire chains. Even if you have a 4WD or AWD vehicle, carrying chains is often a requirement for entering the Big Bear area during snowy weather. It's highly recommended to practice putting them on before your trip, as you may need to install them at designated points on the mountain roads. Reddit

Road condition updates are critical. Websites like Caltrans and local Big Bear tourism sites provide real-time information on closures, chain requirements, and traffic. Being aware of these updates can save you from being turned away or getting stuck. Arriving early in the day, particularly on weekends and holidays, can help you avoid the worst traffic and secure parking more easily. Instagram

Pro-tip: Check the weather forecast and road conditions the day before and the morning of your trip. Having a full tank of gas and some basic emergency supplies in your car is also a wise precaution for mountain travel in winter. Instagram

Rental Gear: A Word of Caution

While Snow Summit offers rental equipment for both skiing/snowboarding and mountain biking, some visitor experiences suggest a need for caution. A few reviews highlighted issues with the condition of rental bikes, including worn brakes, loose spokes, and chains coming off shortly after use. This led to significant frustration and unexpected costs for repairs. Reddit

If you plan to rent gear, it's advisable to thoroughly inspect your equipment before heading out on the slopes or trails. Check brakes, tires, chains, and bindings to ensure they are in good working order. If anything seems amiss, don't hesitate to speak with the rental staff immediately to get it resolved or swapped out. Reddit

For those considering rentals, especially for mountain biking, researching reputable third-party rental shops in the Big Bear area might also be an option. However, for convenience, renting directly from the resort is often preferred. Just be prepared to do a quick but thorough check of your gear. Reddit

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