Nestled in the heart of Southern California’s San Bernardino Mountains, Big Bear Mountain Resort stands as a beacon for adventure enthusiasts and families alike, offering a vibrant mix of year-round activities that cater to every taste and skill level. Spanning two distinct areas—Snow Summit and Bear Mountain—the resort covers an expansive 748 acres of varied terrain, making it the region’s premier destination for alpine thrills. Whether you’re seeking the rush of carving through fresh powder, the adrenaline of bombing down mountain bike trails, or the serene beauty of a scenic chairlift ride, Big Bear Mountain Resort delivers an unforgettable experience in every season. This comprehensive guide dives deep into the resort’s offerings, from its world-class skiing and snowboarding to its summer biking paradise and family-friendly basecamp activities, ensuring you can plan the perfect alpine getaway.
Winter Adventures at Big Bear Mountain Resort
Skiing and Snowboarding: A Winter Wonderland
When winter blankets the San Bernardino Mountains, Big Bear Mountain Resort transforms into a snowy playground for skiers and snowboarders of all abilities. With 62 runs spread across Snow Summit and Bear Mountain, the resort offers something for everyone, from gentle beginner slopes to heart-pounding expert terrain. Here’s a closer look at what makes this resort a skier’s paradise:
- Diverse Terrain for All Skill Levels: The resort’s 748 acres include a mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced runs, ensuring that everyone from first-timers to seasoned pros finds their perfect line. Snow Summit is known for its well-groomed cruisers and family-friendly vibe, while Bear Mountain caters to freestyle enthusiasts with its renowned terrain parks and challenging black-diamond runs like Grizzly Bowl. The variety ensures that no two days on the mountain feel the same.
- Grizzly Bowl: A Challenge for Experts: For advanced skiers and snowboarders, Grizzly Bowl at Bear Mountain is a must. This steep, ungroomed bowl offers a thrilling descent through deep powder and natural features, testing your skills and rewarding you with an unmatched sense of accomplishment. The bowl’s high elevation and north-facing aspect help preserve snow quality, even on warmer days.
- Terrain Parks for Freestyle Fun: Bear Mountain is famous for its award-winning terrain parks, which feature jumps, rails, boxes, and halfpipes designed for snowboarders and skiers looking to push their limits. With multiple parks catering to different skill levels, you can progress from small features to pro-level setups, all under the watchful eye of the resort’s experienced park crew.
- Snowmaking and Grooming: Big Bear’s state-of-the-art snowmaking system ensures consistent conditions throughout the season, even during lighter snowfall years. Combined with meticulous grooming, the resort maintains excellent snow quality, particularly on beginner and intermediate runs, making it ideal for learning or refining your technique.
Non-Skiing Winter Activities
For those who prefer to enjoy the snow without strapping on skis or a snowboard, Big Bear Mountain Resort offers plenty of alternative activities to keep the whole family entertained:
- Grizzly Ridge Tube Park: Located at Snow Summit, the Grizzly Ridge Tube Park is a favorite for families and thrill-seekers. Grab an inflatable tube, hop on a moving carpet to the top, and race down specially designed lanes for a high-speed, laughter-filled ride. The park is open to kids and adults alike, with height and age restrictions ensuring safety for all.
- Lift-Assisted Sledding: For a unique twist on winter fun, try lift-assisted sledding, where you can ride a chairlift to the top of a designated slope and sled down a groomed path. This activity combines the excitement of sledding with the convenience of a lift, making it easy to enjoy multiple runs without the long uphill trek.
- Snowshoeing and Winter Hiking: For a quieter winter experience, the resort offers access to snowshoeing trails that wind through the surrounding forest. Rentals are available, and guided tours provide an opportunity to explore the serene beauty of the San Bernardino Mountains while learning about the local ecosystem.
Winter Amenities and Services
Big Bear Mountain Resort is designed to make your winter visit seamless and enjoyable. Key amenities include:
- Ski and Snowboard Rentals: Both Snow Summit and Bear Mountain offer high-quality rental equipment, including skis, snowboards, boots, and helmets, with options for all ages and skill levels. On-site technicians ensure a proper fit for maximum comfort and performance.
- Ski School and Lessons: Whether you’re a beginner looking to master the basics or an intermediate seeking to refine your technique, the resort’s ski school offers lessons for all ages and abilities. Group and private lessons are available, led by certified instructors who provide personalized feedback.
- Dining and Lodging: The resort features a variety of dining options, from quick grab-and-go snacks to sit-down meals with mountain views. Nearby Big Bear Lake offers a range of lodging options, from cozy cabins to luxury resorts, many of which are just minutes from the slopes.
- Night Skiing: On select evenings, Snow Summit lights up its slopes for night skiing and snowboarding, extending the fun well into the evening. The illuminated runs create a magical atmosphere, perfect for those who want to maximize their time on the mountain.
Summer Adventures at Big Bear Mountain Resort
When the snow melts, Big Bear Mountain Resort transforms into a hub for summer adventure, drawing mountain bikers, hikers, and families with its diverse offerings. The resort’s summer season is anchored by its world-class bike park, scenic chairlift rides, and basecamp activities, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Mountain Biking: Southern California’s Premier Bike Park
Big Bear Mountain Resort is home to Southern California’s best lift-served bike park, offering a network of trails that cater to beginners, intermediates, and experts alike. Here’s why the bike park is a must-visit:
- Varied Trails for All Abilities: The bike park features over 60 miles of trails, ranging from flowy singletrack to technical downhill runs. Beginner trails like Turtle Trail offer a gentle introduction to mountain biking, with smooth surfaces and gradual descents. Intermediate riders can tackle trails like 10-Ply, which combine flowy sections with moderate challenges. For experts, trails like Party Wave and Miracle Mile deliver steep descents, jumps, and technical features that demand precision and skill.
- Lift-Served Convenience: The resort’s high-speed chairlifts, including the Scenic Sky Chair, transport riders and their bikes to the top of the mountain, eliminating the need for grueling uphill climbs. This allows you to focus on the thrill of the descent, with the option to ride multiple runs in a single day.
- Bike Rentals and Lessons: Don’t have your own bike? No problem. The resort offers a fleet of high-quality rental bikes, including full-suspension mountain bikes designed for the park’s terrain. Helmets and protective gear are also available. For those new to mountain biking or looking to improve, the resort’s bike school offers lessons with experienced instructors who teach everything from basic bike handling to advanced downhill techniques.
- Events and Competitions: The bike park hosts a variety of events throughout the summer, including downhill races, clinics, and festivals. These events attract riders from across the region, creating a vibrant community of biking enthusiasts.
Scenic Sky Chair: A Gateway to Alpine Beauty
For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, the Scenic Sky Chair offers a mile-long ride to an elevation of 8,200 feet, providing breathtaking views of Big Bear Lake and the surrounding San Bernardino Mountains. Here’s what to expect:
- Panoramic Views: From the top of the chairlift, you’ll enjoy unobstructed views of the lake, forest, and distant peaks. On clear days, you can see as far as the Los Angeles skyline, making this a perfect spot for photography or simply soaking in the scenery.
- Hiking Opportunities: The summit serves as a starting point for a network of hiking trails that range from easy strolls to challenging treks. Trails like the Skyline Trail offer a mix of scenic beauty and moderate exercise, with well-marked paths and interpretive signs that highlight the area’s flora and fauna.
- Picnicking and Relaxation: The summit features picnic areas where you can enjoy a packed lunch while taking in the views. For a more structured experience, the resort offers guided tours that combine the chairlift ride with a guided hike, providing insights into the region’s history and ecology.
Basecamp Activities: Fun for the Whole Family
Big Bear Mountain Resort’s basecamp area is a hub of family-friendly activities, ensuring that even non-bikers and non-hikers have plenty to do. Highlights include:
- 30-Foot Climbing Wall: Test your strength and agility on the resort’s 30-foot climbing wall, which offers routes for all skill levels. Safety harnesses and trained staff ensure a safe and fun experience for kids and adults alike.
- Euro Bungee Trampoline: The Euro Bungee trampoline combines the thrill of bouncing with the safety of a harness, allowing participants to perform flips and jumps while reaching impressive heights. It’s a hit with kids and teens looking for a high-energy activity.
- Zip Lines: For an adrenaline-pumping experience, try the resort’s zip lines, which send you soaring above the forest floor with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Multiple lines offer varying lengths and speeds, catering to both beginners and thrill-seekers.
- Kids’ Activities: The basecamp area also features a range of kid-friendly activities, including a bounce house, face painting, and craft stations during peak summer months. These activities are designed to keep younger visitors entertained while parents relax or explore other attractions.
Sme Summer Amenities and Services
To ensure a seamless summer experience, Big Bear Mountain Resort offers a range of amenities and services:
- Dining Options: From casual eateries to full-service restaurants, the resort provides a variety of dining choices, including outdoor patios with mountain views. Summer menus feature fresh, seasonal ingredients, with options for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets.
- Retail and Rentals: The resort’s retail shops offer everything from biking gear to souvenirs, while rental services provide bikes, helmets, and other equipment. Bike wash and repair stations are also available to keep your gear in top shape.
- Lodging Partnerships: The resort partners with local lodging providers to offer convenient accommodations, from budget-friendly motels to upscale resorts. Many properties offer shuttle services to the resort, making it easy to get to and from the basecamp.
Why Visit Big Bear Mountain Resort?
Big Bear Mountain Resort is more than just a destination—it’s a year-round playground that combines world-class outdoor activities with stunning natural beauty and family-friendly amenities. Here’s why it should be at the top of your adventure list:
- Year-Round Fun: With skiing and snowboarding in the winter, mountain biking and hiking in the summer, and a host of basecamp activities, the resort offers endless entertainment for every season. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a nature lover, there’s something for you.
- Accessibility: Located just minutes from Big Bear Lake and a short drive from major Southern California cities like Los Angeles and San Diego, the resort is easily accessible for a weekend getaway or an extended vacation.
- Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The resort’s wide range of activities, from beginner slopes to kids’ camps, ensures that visitors of all ages can enjoy their time on the mountain. Safety is a top priority, with trained staff and well-maintained facilities.
- Stunning Scenery: Nestled in the San Bernardino Mountains, the resort offers breathtaking views of Big Bear Lake, lush forests, and rugged peaks, providing a picturesque backdrop for every activity.
- Community and Events: Big Bear Mountain Resort hosts a variety of events throughout the year, from ski competitions to music festivals, fostering a sense of community and excitement for visitors.
Planning Your Visit
Getting There
Big Bear Mountain Resort is located in Big Bear Lake, California, approximately two hours from Los Angeles and three hours from San Diego, depending on traffic. The resort is accessible via Highway 18 or Highway 38, with ample parking available at both Snow Summit and Bear Mountain. For those flying in, the nearest major airports are Ontario International Airport (ONT) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), with car rentals and shuttle services available.
Tickets and Passes
The resort offers a variety of ticket and pass options to suit your needs:
- Daily Lift Tickets: Available for skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, and the Scenic Sky Chair, with discounts for multi-day tickets.
- Season Passes: Ideal for frequent visitors, season passes provide unlimited access to the resort’s winter and summer activities, with perks like discounts on rentals and dining.
- Group Rates: Groups of 15 or more can take advantage of discounted rates for lift tickets, rentals, and lessons.
- Kids’ Programs: Special passes and programs are available for children, including ski and bike lessons tailored to young learners.
Tickets can be purchased online in advance to save time and money, with special promotions often available during off-peak periods.
What to Bring
Winter: Warm, waterproof clothing, including jackets, gloves, hats, and goggles. Layering is key to staying comfortable in changing weather conditions. Don’t forget sunscreen and lip balm, as the high altitudeබ
Why Big Bear Mountain Resort is a Year-Round Must-Visit
Big Bear Mountain Resort is a rare gem, offering a seamless blend of adrenaline-pumping activities and breathtaking natural beauty across all four seasons. Located just a two-hour drive from Los Angeles, the resort sits at the heart of Big Bear Lake’s alpine playground, drawing millions of visitors for its accessibility, variety, and consistent conditions. With 748 acres of terrain, 62 runs, 26 lifts, and state-of-the-art snowmaking, the resort ensures top-tier winter sports, while its summer offerings—mountain biking, hiking, and family-friendly basecamp activities—make it a warm-weather haven. Its proximity to Big Bear Lake and The Village adds to its appeal, offering a perfect balance of outdoor thrills and small-town charm.
What sets Big Bear Mountain Resort apart is its ability to cater to everyone. Beginners find welcoming slopes and expert instruction, while seasoned athletes tackle challenging terrain and world-class freestyle parks. Families enjoy tubing, sledding, and kid-focused activities, and sightseers revel in panoramic views from the Scenic Sky Chair. Whether you’re a powder hound, a downhill biker, or simply seeking a scenic escape, the resort delivers unforgettable moments. And with [Property Name]’s lakefront cabin just minutes away, you can retreat to cozy comfort after a day of adventure.
A Legacy of Alpine Excellence
Big Bear Mountain Resort’s roots trace back to the mid-20th century, when Snow Summit opened in 1952, followed by Bear Mountain (then Goldmine Mountain) in 1969. These resorts transformed Big Bear Lake into a hub for winter sports, capitalizing on the region’s high altitude and reliable snowfall. Over the decades, the resort has evolved into a year-round destination, adding summer bike parks, scenic chairlift rides, and basecamp activities while maintaining its reputation for quality and innovation. Today, Big Bear Mountain Resort is part of the Alterra Mountain Company, benefiting from modern upgrades like high-speed quads, advanced snowmaking, and eco-friendly practices, all while preserving the rustic charm that defines Big Bear Lake.
Winter Thrills at Big Bear Mountain Resort
Winter is when Big Bear Mountain Resort truly shines, offering some of Southern California’s best skiing, snowboarding, and snow play. From November to April, the resort’s 748 acres of terrain come alive with fresh powder, well-groomed runs, and a vibrant après-ski scene. Here’s a deep dive into the winter experience:
Skiing and Snowboarding: 62 Runs for All Levels
With 62 runs across Snow Summit and Bear Mountain, Big Bear Mountain Resort caters to every skier and snowboarder, from first-timers to pros. The resort’s 26 lifts, including four high-speed quads, ensure quick access to the slopes, even on busy weekends.
- Snow Summit: Spanning 240 acres, Snow Summit is the family-friendly heart of the resort, with 31 runs designed for all skill levels. Beginners can practice on gentle slopes like Summit Run, guided by instructors from the resort’s top-rated ski school. Intermediates enjoy cruisers like Miracle Mile, while advanced skiers tackle black diamonds like Olympic for steep, thrilling descents. Snow Summit’s night skiing sessions, available on select evenings, add a magical glow to the experience, with illuminated runs and crisp mountain air.
- Bear Mountain: Covering 198 acres, Bear Mountain is a freestyle mecca, known for its three terrain parks—Red Bull Plaza, The Scene, and Skill Builder—featuring jumps, rails, boxes, and a halfpipe. The resort’s 31 runs include beginner and intermediate options, but advanced riders flock to the double-black-diamond Grizzly Bowl, a steep, ungroomed chute that tests even the boldest. Bear Mountain’s youthful vibe, with live DJs and frequent events, makes it a hotspot for snowboarders and freeskiers.
Both areas benefit from Big Bear’s advanced snowmaking system, covering 100% of the terrain to ensure consistent conditions, even in lighter snow years. Rentals for skis, snowboards, and helmets are available at both resorts, with premium gear for those seeking an edge. Lessons, from group sessions to private coaching, cater to all ages, with the Kids’ Club at Snow Summit offering a fun, supervised experience for ages 4–12.
Snow Tubing and Sledding: Family-Friendly Fun
For non-skiers or those seeking a break from the slopes, Grizzly Ridge Tube Park at Snow Summit delivers high-speed thrills with minimal skill required. This dedicated tubing area features multiple groomed lanes where you zip down on inflatable tubes, reaching speeds that spark laughter and excitement. A covered moving carpet lift takes you back to the top, making it easy to enjoy run after run. Night tubing, with glowing lights and music, adds a festive twist, and the park is suitable for ages 3 and up (with height restrictions). Recent visitors on Tripadvisor called it “a blast for the whole family,” praising the friendly staff and well-maintained lanes.
For a different snow play experience, Snow Summit offers lift-assisted sledding on select slopes, combining the thrill of sledding with the convenience of chairlift access. This activity is perfect for families or groups looking for a unique way to enjoy the snow. Nearby, Big Bear Snow Play (a short drive from the resort) offers additional tubing and sledding options, including glow tubing at night.
Other Winter Activities
Beyond skiing and tubing, Big Bear Mountain Resort offers a range of winter experiences:
- Snowshoeing: Explore designated snowshoe trails near Snow Summit or venture into the San Bernardino National Forest. The Cougar Crest Trail, a 5-mile round-trip, offers stunning views of snow-draped peaks and Big Bear Lake.
- Scenic Chairlift Rides: Non-skiers can ride the Scenic Sky Chair at Snow Summit for a leisurely ascent to 8,200 feet, soaking in panoramic lake and mountain views. It’s a perfect way to experience the resort’s winter beauty without hitting the slopes.
- Après-Ski and Dining: Unwind at Snow Summit’s Slopeside Speakeasy, serving craft cocktails and hearty dishes like chili and burgers. At Bear Mountain, the Bighorn Smokehouse offers BBQ, craft beers, and live music. Quick bites, like hot cocoa at Laybacks Bar or tacos at SoCal Cantina, keep you fueled for the day.
Winter Events
Big Bear Mountain Resort’s winter calendar is packed with excitement, including:
- Torchlight Parade: A holiday highlight at Snow Summit, where skiers and snowboarders descend with glowing torches, creating a dazzling spectacle.
- Hot Dawgz & Handrails: Bear Mountain’s signature freestyle event, showcasing top snowboarders on creative park features.
- New Year’s Eve Celebration: Fireworks, live music, and festivities at both resorts ring in the new year in style.
- USASA Competitions: Bear Mountain hosts United States of America Snowboard and Freeski Association events, drawing elite athletes.
Check the resort’s website for event schedules and ticket details to plan your visit around these lively happenings.
Summer Adventures at Big Bear Mountain Resort
When the snow melts, Big Bear Mountain Resort reinvents itself as a summer adventure hub, with mountain biking, hiking, and family-friendly basecamp activities taking center stage. From June to September, the resort buzzes with warm-weather fun, drawing outdoor enthusiasts to its trails and scenic vistas.
Mountain Biking: Southern California’s Best Bike Park
Big Bear Mountain Resort is home to Southern California’s premier lift-served bike park, located primarily at Snow Summit. With over 60 miles of trails, the bike park caters to all abilities, from flowy beginner paths to technical downhill routes. Key features include:
- Beginner Trails: Trails like Turtle Trail and Party Wave offer gentle grades and smooth surfaces, perfect for first-timers or families. The bike park’s learn-to-ride programs and rentals make it easy to get started.
- Intermediate Trails: Routes like Miracle Mile and 10-Ply provide flowing berms, small jumps, and moderate descents, ideal for building confidence and skills.
- Advanced Trails: Pro-level trails like Westridge and Going Green challenge riders with steep drops, rock gardens, and high-speed features. These trails have hosted national competitions, earning praise from pros for their design.
- Freestyle Features: Jumps, tabletops, and berms on trails like Skill Builder cater to riders looking to hone their tricks.
The bike park’s high-speed chairlifts, including Chair 2, provide quick access to the top, maximizing your time on the trails. Rentals for full-suspension bikes, helmets, and protective gear are available, with options for kids and adults. Lessons and guided tours, led by certified instructors, help riders of all levels improve their technique. Tripadvisor reviewers have called the bike park “a must-do for mountain bikers,” praising its variety and stunning scenery.
Scenic Sky Chair: A Gateway to Views and Hiking
The Scenic Sky Chair at Snow Summit is a summer highlight, offering a mile-long ride from 7,000 to 8,200 feet. This 15-minute ascent reveals sweeping views of Big Bear Lake, the San Bernardino Mountains, and, on clear days, distant peaks like Mount San Gorgonio. At the top, you’ll find:
- Hiking Trails: Trails like the Skyline Trail (15 miles round-trip) and Grand View Loop (3 miles) offer scenic routes through pine forests and meadows. The trails range from easy to moderate, with interpretive