Things to Do in Big Bear Lake (2024)

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Big Bear Lake is Southern California’s #1 four-season outdoor destination. That means you get a different Big Bear experience in every season. Whether you’re coming for a weekend visit and are looking for things to do during an extended getaway there is something for everyone right here in the Valley. From cozy restaurants and live entertainment, to shopping and other recreational fun all year long, you’ll find it here.

Big Bear’swinterslopes and terrain parks atSnow Summit and Bear Mountainare a haven for skiers and snowboarders. But, there’s more to Big Bear than its ski resorts, speed down the snow tubing hills in town or strap on the snowshoes and venture into the snowy forest!

As the winter snow melts away,springtimebrings new growth, gorgeous wildflowers, and a whole new set of adventures to Big Bear – likepremium trout fishingandepic outdoor events. Big Bear’s pine forests offer miles ofhiking & biking trailsthrough changing landscapes. Take in the sweeping views on foot, bike, horseback, and even four wheels when you hit themany off-road trails.

Summer seasonrecreation ranges fromon the water funlike fishing, boating, paddle sports, jet skiing, and wakeboarding, to shoreline relaxation. Twenty-two miles of shoreline invite you to lay out in the sun and enjoy panoramic views.

Thefall seasonbrings the most vibrant foliage you’ll find in Southern California. WalkThe Villageto marvel at crimson red and radiant yellow leaves on maples and oaks lining the streets. Sit for a hot coffee and enjoy the crisp autumn air.

At the heart of Big Bear Lake you’ll find a charming district known as The Village that serves as a hub for shopping, sightseeing, dining and nightlife. It’s also the site of annual city-wide holiday events like Halloween and Christmas in The Village. A beautiful sight in any season, The Village features colorful blooms in the spring, bright green trees in the summer, vibrant crimson, orange, and yellow foliage in the fall, and glittering snow in winter that creates a wonderland with twinkling lights. You’ll want to add this spot to your getaway bucket list.

One-Stop Shop for Info on Big Bear Lake
The Big Bear Visitors Center is located in heart of The Village in Big Bear Lake, CA. Stop by for information on things to do in town. Information is provided by friendly Big Bear locals who know the ins and outs of what’s happening Big Bear.

Learn About the San Bernardino National Forest
The Big Bear Discovery Center is an educational and informational portal to the San Bernardino National Forest, located within the heart of Big Bear Valley. The goal of Big Bear Discovery Center is to create awareness on becoming more responsible caretakers of our national forests while increasing our enjoyment and knowledge of the great outdoors.

Season: Open Year-Round
Highlighted as one of two Alpine zoos in the United States, the Big Bear Alpine Zoo specializes in rehab and release of local Alpine species and also has a permanent collection of animals in their zoo.

Season: April – October
Let the rod and reel do all the work as you sip a cold beverage and wait for fish to nibble on the bait. Learn more about fish that can be found in Big Bear Lake and the best spots to catching them.

Season: April – October
Big Bear Lake offers 22 miles of water activities including paddle boarding, pontoon boating, sailing, wakeboarding, kayaking, and much more. Boats and equipment can be rented at any one of the marinas or boat rental shops in town.

Season: June – October
Come enjoy full summer of family fun at the ultimate mountain playground. Located in the base area at Snow Summit and featuring a 30-foot climbing wall, Euro Bungee, zip line, and Quick Jump, Basecamp has something for outdoor adventurers of all ages

Season: May – October
Make time for nine at Bear Mountain Golf Course and enjoy the benefits of playing at 7,000 feet with the sun-splashed San Bernardino Mountains as your backdrop.

Explore Big Bear Lake
Enjoy a scenic aerial adventure above the mountains from the vantage point of a helicopter cockpit. Witness the beauty of the Big Bear Valley and surrounding San Bernardino Mountains all year round.

Season: June – October
Big Bear Mountain Resort is home to Southern California’s best lift-served bike park with an extensive network of trails and terrain for riders of all disciplines and abilities. Whether you’re new to the mountain bike scene, or a seasoned rider, Snow Summit is the place to be for all things MTB this summer.

Season: April – October
Get your race on with up to 30 MPH at the outdoor Go Kart racing course.

Year Round Family Fun!
Authentic year round bobsled experience, Soaring Eagle zip line, Go-kart track, mini golf, Mineshaft Coaster, and summertime waterslide.

Season: November – March/April
Experience the best skiing and snowboarding that Southern California has to offer. From lessons and rentals to competitions and race, Big Bear Mountain Resort is home to some of the most innovative and influential terrain parks in the industry.

Welcome to Big Bear, it’s time to explore your mountain lake escape!