Things to Do in Big Bear Lake

Explore year-round fun in Big Bear Lake

Big Bear Lake Activities

Hike pine-scented trails, relax on sandy shores, ski and ride at Snow Summit and Bear Mountain, paddle calm coves, and cap the day with cozy dining in The Village. It’s all here, minutes apart. Big Bear blends outdoor adventure with a small-town mountain vibe. Beaches and marinas sit close to trailheads, bike parks, and the ski resorts. After dark, find live music, local breweries, and a walkable village for food and shopping.

Top Things to Do in Big Bear

Outdoor Activities

Hike alpine routes like Castle Rock, Pine Knot, Cougar Crest, and the Alpine Pedal Path for easy lakeside strolling. Kayak or paddleboard the shoreline in the morning when the lake is glassy. Ride electric bikes or take lift-served laps at Summit Bike Park in summer. Try rock scrambling at boulder fields near Castle Rock and Holcomb Valley.

Ski Resorts

Snow Summit and Bear Mountain offer winter skiing and snowboarding for all levels, plus terrain parks. Summit turns into a downhill bike park in summer. The resorts are minutes from The Village and lake marinas.

Beaches & Parks

Relax at Boulder Bay Park in summer, or spread out at East Boat Ramp picnic areas. Water is calmest early, great for families. Rent SUPs, kayaks, and pontoon boats at local marinas.

Nightlife

Evenings are low-key and walkable. Look for live music, breweries, and bars around The Village, plus seasonal events and outdoor shows.

Historical Sites

Visit the Big Bear Valley Historical Museum for local pioneer and mining history, or explore Holcomb Valley’s gold rush relics on self-guided routes.

More Things to Do in Big Bear

Start at the Visitor Center on Big Bear Blvd for maps, current conditions, and ideas tailored to the season.

What Big Bear has to offer:

Breweries and Cider
Family Activities
Scenic Drives
Golf
Outdoors

Photography Spots
Tours and Attractions
Winter Sports
Accessible Recreation

What To Do in Big Bear for Every Season

Big Bear is a true four-season mountain lake. Activities change with weather, and something is always in season.

Spring

Off-season hikes with wildflowers, quiet lakeside walks on the Alpine Pedal Path, and early fishing. Warm days, cool nights. Pack layers and sturdy shoes for mixed trail conditions.

Summer

Bike park laps at Snow Summit, kayaking and paddling on the lake, family beach days, and stargazing nights. Book rentals and boat time ahead on busy weekends.

Fall

Crisp air, golden foliage, uncrowded trails, and prime mountain biking and hiking. Scenic drives around the lake and through Holcomb Valley.

Winter

Ski and ride at Snow Summit and Bear Mountain, plus snow play, tubing, and sledding areas. Plan parking and chains when storms roll through.

Lodging in Big Bear

Choose from lakefront cabins, cozy lodges, hotels near The Village, and slopeside options close to the lifts. Look for places with gear storage, hot tubs, and easy access to transit or parking.

Big Bear Things to Do FAQs

Choose from lakefront cabins, cozy lodges, hotels near The Village, and slopeside options close to the lifts. Look for places with gear storage, hot tubs, and easy access to transit or parking.

What are the top attractions in Big Bear Lake?

Snow Summit and Bear Mountain for winter sports, The Village for dining and shopping, Castle Rock for a classic lake view hike, and lake activities from the marinas.