Skiing/Snowboarding
Big Bear Mountain Resort 6 hrs
Hit the slopes at world-class resorts during winter.
Where to stay
Hotels in Big Bear Lake
Book direct on our own Big Bear Lake hotel pages — no booking fee and instant confirmation.
Swipe for more Big Bear Lake hotels
At a glance
Climate
Alpine
Languages
English
Local currency
USD
(USD)
Local time
(GMT-7)
Ideal trip length
2–5 days
Cost level
4 of 5 · our research
Suggested area to stay
Big Bear Lake Village
Tap water
Generally described as safe to drink
Tipping
15-20% for service
What this place is for
History
95 · Outstanding
Culture
90 · Outstanding
Food
90 · Outstanding
Family
90 · Outstanding
Our own 0–100 ratings for this one destination. They describe a city; they are not a league table of cities.
Food to try
Smoked Trout
Craft Beer
Mountain Comfort Food
Burgers
When to visit Big Bear Lake
How good each month is here, on this destination's own scale. It compares months within this city, never one city against another.
Best months: July
Busiest: Dec-Mar, Jun-Aug
-
Jan70
Cold, snowy, ideal skiing
-
Feb75
Cold, snowy, good skiing
-
Mar70
Cool, some snow/rain
-
Apr60
Mild, spring thaw
-
May65
Pleasant, greening up
-
Jun80
Warm, sunny, lake activities
-
Jul85
Hot, sunny, peak summer
-
Aug80
Warm, sunny, busy
-
Sept75
Mild, fall colors begin
-
Oct70
Cool, vibrant fall colors
-
Nov60
Cold, first snow possible
-
Dec80
Cold, snowy, holiday magic
Things to do in Big Bear Lake
7 places worth your time, grouped by when they are at their best.
Showing 7 of 7 places ·
Best in the morning
4 places
Hiking Cougar Crest Trail
North Shore 3 hrs
Experience panoramic views of the lake and surrounding forest.
Kayaking/Paddleboarding
Big Bear Lake 2 hrs
Explore the calm waters of Big Bear Lake up close.
Mountain Biking
Big Bear Mountain Resort 3 hrs
Tackle scenic trails for all skill levels.
Best in the afternoon
2 places
Big Bear Lake Scenic Cruise
Big Bear Lake 1.5 hrs
Enjoy stunning lake views and learn about the area's history.
Visit Big Bear Alpine Zoo
Moonridge 2 hrs
See rescued alpine animals in a unique mountain setting.
Any time of day
1 place
Stroll Big Bear Village
Big Bear Lake Village 2 hrs
Browse unique shops and enjoy dining in the charming village.
Practical ratings
Our own ratings and key insights for this destination.
Near Big Bear Lake
Straight-line distance from the centre of Big Bear Lake.
Swipe for more places near Big Bear Lake