Snow Summit Scenic Sky Chair - Image 1
1 / 3

Snow Summit Scenic Sky Chair

4.9
·8 reviews·Big Bear Lake, United States

Glide a mile up Snow Summit for breathtaking panoramic views of the San Bernardino National Forest and Big Bear Lake.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, shorter waits

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Snow Summit Scenic Sky Chair - Image 1

Snow Summit Scenic Sky Chair

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, shorter waits

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Glide a mile up Snow Summit for breathtaking panoramic views of the San Bernardino National Forest and Big Bear Lake.

4.9
(8 reviews)

"It was quiet and relaxing! The experience and the view are totally worth it."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Book in Advance

Consider Costco deals for savings! Tickets are valid for a long time, so plan ahead.

⛰️ Summit Bites

Grab a meal or drink at the top. Some areas might be closed, but the views are always open.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.9 · 8 reviews

Type

Tourist Attraction

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Mountain Views

Panoramic Mountain Views

Summit of Snow Summit

Glide a mile up for breathtaking, sweeping vistas of the San Bernardino National Forest and Big Bear Lake.

Summit Activities

Summit Activities

Top of Snow Summit

Enjoy hiking trails, grab a bite at the summit restaurant, or visit the taproom after your scenic ride.

Mountain Biking Access

Mountain Biking Access

Snow Summit Bike Park

Take your mountain bike up the lifts during summer to access downhill trails for an adrenaline rush.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Beat the crowds by visiting on weekdays, especially during off-peak seasons. Weekends and holidays see higher visitor numbers, impacting wait times for the Scenic Sky Chair. Consider booking tickets in advance to save time.

Cost-Saving Tips

Look for deals like the Costco package mentioned, which includes tickets and a meal voucher. While not the cheapest, many find the experience and views well worth the price. Check for seasonal promotions.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, shorter waits
Crowd
Low
When
Late Spring/Early Fall
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Bike park is active
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🚡✨ Don’t miss your chance! The Scenic Sky Chair at @bigbearmountainresort is one activity you don’t want to miss! ⛰️ Glide a mile up to Snow Summit (8,200 ft.) and take in sweeping views of the San Bernardino National Forest. 🌲💙 Hike the trails, grab a bite at the summit, and make the most of the mountain while the season lasts! 🎟️ Scenic rides available until October only — catch it before it’s...
visitbigbear
280 likes • 8.2K views

🎟️ Book in Advance

Consider Costco deals for savings! Tickets are valid for a long time, so plan ahead. Instagram

⛰️ Summit Bites

Grab a meal or drink at the top. Some areas might be closed, but the views are always open. Reddit

Take a ride on the Scenic Sky Chair to enjoy panoramic views of the San Bernardino National Forest on a mile-long ascent before arriving at the top of Snow Valley (elevation 7,841 feet) or Snow Summit (elevation 8,200 feet) . #bigbearcabin #bigbear #scenicskyride #skychair #bigbearvalley #lake #mountains #hiking
bigbearlake_getaway
0 likes • 1.1K views
Looking for an amazing deal on a scenic adventure? Grab this 4-pack of Scenic Sky Chair tickets for Snow Summit, including a meal voucher, for just $114.99 at Costco. This is a fantastic way to experience the breathtaking mountain views of Big Bear Lake. Your tickets are valid until October 2025, so you have plenty of time to plan your perfect day trip. Tag a friend you’d take with you! @yyccostco...
usacostcolovers
10 likes • 1.9K views

🚴 Summer Bike Park

Bring your mountain bike in summer to ride the trails accessed by the chairlift. Instagram+1

🚶 No Riding Down

You generally cannot ride the lift back down if you decide not to ski or hike. Reddit

Here’s your Big Bear Lake must-do list for the ultimate mountain getaway! 🏔️🌲 🚡 Ride the Scenic Sky Chair at Snow Summit for panoramic views 🚶‍♀️ Hike Castle Rock Trail – short, steep, and stunning! 🚴 Bike the Alpine Pedal Path – perfect for all levels 🛶 Kayak or paddleboard on the lake (rentals available lakeside) 🎣 Fish for trout or bass – Big Bear is a top fishing spot! ❄️ Ski or snowboard at ...
exploring_las_vegas_and_beyond
575 likes • 57K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book in Advance

Consider Costco deals for savings! Tickets are valid for a long time, so plan ahead. Instagram

⛰️ Summit Bites

Grab a meal or drink at the top. Some areas might be closed, but the views are always open. Reddit

🚴 Summer Bike Park

Bring your mountain bike in summer to ride the trails accessed by the chairlift. Instagram+1

🚶 No Riding Down

You generally cannot ride the lift back down if you decide not to ski or hike. Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

The mile-long ascent offers stunning photo opportunities of the forest and lake. Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.9
(8 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Snow Summit Scenic Sky Chair for its breathtaking panoramic views and relaxing ride. Many find the experience well worth the cost, especially when taking advantage of package deals. Some note that summit activities can be limited unless utilizing the bike park or dining facilities.

"Fun place to see a scenic aerial view from top of Bear Mtn. You can also take your mountain bike up the lifts and ride down in the summertime. He said the same Mountain that is covered in snow for skiers in the highly recommended"

Diane

"Really nice ride and view of the lake. There are some closed off areas at the top so we didn't see much else to do unless you're using the bike park or going to the tap room/restaurant. Still had a great time though 👍🏻"

Katy

"it was quiet and relaxing!"

Chris & Julie

What People Like

Stunning panoramic views
Relaxing scenic ride
Great photo opportunities

What People Dislike

Can be expensive
Limited summit activities (off-bike park)

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Snow Summit is located in Big Bear Lake, California. Driving is the most common way to access it. Parking is available at the base of the mountain. Instagram

While direct public transport to the chairlift is limited, Big Bear Lake has local shuttle services that may connect to the resort area. Check local transit schedules for options. Instagram

Road conditions can vary, especially in winter. Always check Caltrans for road closures and chain requirements before driving. Instagram

Typically, pets are not allowed on the Scenic Sky Chair or within the resort facilities, except for service animals. Confirm with the resort directly. Instagram

The Scenic Sky Chair itself may have limitations for wheelchairs. It's best to contact Snow Summit directly to inquire about accessibility for the chairlift and summit facilities. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices can vary. Look for deals like the Costco package which includes a meal voucher for around $115 for four people. Instagram Individual tickets are available but can be pricier. Reddit

Tickets can be purchased online through the Big Bear Mountain Resort website, at the ticket window on-site, or through third-party retailers like Costco. Instagram

Yes, look for package deals like the Costco offer. Instagram Seasonal promotions or multi-ride passes might also be available. Check the resort's website for current offers. Instagram

Operating hours vary by season and day. It's crucial to check the official Big Bear Mountain Resort website for the most up-to-date schedule before your visit. Instagram

Scenic Sky Chair rides are typically a separate ticket from skiing or snowboarding lift tickets, though sometimes packages may include both. Confirm when purchasing. Instagram

🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience

At the summit, you can enjoy panoramic views, access hiking trails, and visit the taproom or restaurant. InstagramReddit

While possible, it's not recommended for beginners. The resort generally does not allow guests to ride the lift back down. Reddit

The Scenic Sky Chair typically operates during the warmer months for scenic rides and in winter for skiers and snowboarders. Check the resort's schedule. Instagram

Expect stunning, mile-long views of the San Bernardino National Forest and Big Bear Lake. Instagram+1

Yes, during the summer season, you can take your mountain bike up the chairlift to access the Summit Bike Park trails. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a taproom and restaurant at the summit offering food and drinks with scenic views. InstagramReddit

Outside food and beverages may be restricted in certain areas, especially at the summit facilities. It's best to check the resort's policy. Instagram

Some special packages, like the Costco deal, include a meal voucher. Instagram Otherwise, dining is a separate purchase. Reddit

Expect typical mountain resort fare, including snacks, meals, and beverages. Instagram

Dining options can vary. It's advisable to check the current menu or inquire at the restaurant for specific dietary accommodations. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The entire ride up on the Scenic Sky Chair offers incredible photo opportunities. The summit also provides panoramic vistas. Instagram+1

Yes, winter offers a beautiful snow-covered landscape, but ensure your camera is protected from the cold and moisture. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted at ski resorts and national forest areas for safety and privacy reasons. Check with the resort and local regulations. Instagram

Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) can offer beautiful lighting, but daytime offers clear views of the landscape. Instagram

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits. Instagram

You may also like

1 of 2