Local Guide

Things to do in Big Bear

From lake days and trailheads to cozy meals and family stops, this guide gathers the experiences that shape a memorable stay in the mountains.

Forest trail and outdoor recreation scene in Big Bear

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Water Sports

Big Bear Lake

A stunning 7-mile alpine lake offering world-class fishing, boating, and swimming in the heart of the San Bernardino Mountains.

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Winter Sports

Snow Summit Ski Resort

Big Bear's premier ski resort featuring 240 acres of skiable terrain, night skiing, and a dedicated tubing area.

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Winter Sports

Bear Mountain Resort

Southern California's top freestyle terrain park destination with world-class jumps, rails, and stunning panoramic views.

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Family Fun

Big Bear Alpine Zoo

A unique wildlife rescue and rehabilitation center home to over 160 animals native to the San Bernardino Mountains.

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Shopping

The Village

Big Bear's charming pedestrian shopping district featuring unique shops, restaurants, live entertainment, and seasonal events.

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Water Sports

Fishing on Big Bear Lake

Cast for trout, bass, and catfish on a 7-mile alpine lake with boat rentals and guided trips available year-round.

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Water Sports

Jet Skiing on Big Bear Lake

Experience the thrill of jet skiing and wakeboarding on Big Bear Lake with rental options for all skill levels.

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Water Sports

Kayaking on Big Bear Lake

Explore Big Bear Lake's tranquil coves and scenic shoreline by kayak or stand-up paddleboard with easy hourly rentals.

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Hiking & Nature

Boulder Bay Park

A beautiful lakeside park offering sandy beaches, picnic areas, a playground, and easy access to Big Bear Lake's clear waters.

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Hiking

Castle Rock Trail

A popular moderate 2.7-mile round-trip hike leading to dramatic rock formations and sweeping panoramic views of Big Bear Lake.

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Hiking

Pine Knot Trail

A scenic 6.4-mile round-trip trail through lush forest to Grand View Point, offering spectacular vistas of Big Bear Lake and beyond.

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Outdoor Adventure

Big Bear Mountain Biking

Ride lift-served downhill trails and cross-country singletrack through the San Bernardino National Forest.

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Outdoor Adventure

Horseback Riding

Guided horseback rides through scenic mountain meadows and forest trails with views of Big Bear Lake.

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Family Fun

Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain

An exciting year-round recreation park featuring a dual-track bobsled-style alpine slide, go-karts, mini golf, and waterslide.

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Family Fun

Scenic Sky Chair Rides

Ride the chairlift to the summit for panoramic views of the lake, valley, and surrounding peaks.

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Family Fun

Bowling Barn

Big Bear's favorite family entertainment center featuring bowling lanes, arcade games, billiards, and a full snack bar.

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Dining & Drinks

Craft Breweries & Wine Tasting

Sample local craft beers and wines at Big Bear's growing collection of mountain breweries and tasting rooms.

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Outdoor Adventure

Stargazing at Big Bear

Experience brilliant night skies at 6,750 feet elevation, far from city light pollution.

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Book Your Big Bear Adventure

Stay in one of our curated mountain retreats, steps from Big Bear's finest trails, slopes, and lakefront.

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