One hundred and sixty-five miles northeast of San Diego sits Southern California’s best outdoor recreation destination. With clear blue skies and crisp mountain air, Big Bear Lake is the ideal setting for your summer season getaway.
Big Bear Lake Mountains
Hiking and mountain biking enthusiasts flock to Big Bear each summer to tackle miles of forest trails ranging from easy wooded hikes to multi-day treks. The valley has become a hot spot for trail running events and bike races over the years with its high altitude and steep terrain making it the ultimate challenge for even the most seasoned athletes. Not an elite athlete, not to worry, Big Bear also boasts a wide array of easy walks and trails ideal for families and accessible to all ability levels. There’s an adventure for everyone!
Big Bear Sunset.jpg
As John Muir once said, “In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.” Big Bear trails are alive with thousands of plants and animal species. Kids will love spotting squirrel, chipmunks, and other small critters. Deer are also a common sighting, through more rare. Stop by the Big Bear Lake Visitor Center to pick up information on the trails and what to look for on your forest trek.
Big Bear Lake Views
Big Bear’s most popular summer recreation hub is its seven-mile alpine lake offering endless water sports and relaxation. Cruise the water on a classic pontoon or rip around on a high speed jetski. Paddle the shoreline on a kayak or paddleboard or learn a new skill and learn wakeboarding and waterskiing with a licensed instructor and driver. Big Bear’s numerous marinas offer equipment for every water adventure.
For a more relaxing lake experience, hop aboard any of Big Bear Lake’s tour boats for a narrated cruise. Learn about the history of the valley, see the beautiful mountain homes, and hear about celebrities that have made Big Bear their second home.
Big Bear Lake Coast
Fishing at Big Bear Lake is considered some of Southern California’s best with rainbow trout fishing being the top game. Most of Big Bear’s marinas include a tackle shop to gear up on lures and bait and in-town fishing shops offer more than high end fishing rods, the employees are also seasoned anglers with a wealth of knowledge so don’t be afraid to ask for all the secrets.
Big Bear Lake Kayaking
While Big Bear is an incredible summer vacation spot, it’s known best as a four-season destination which means you get a new experience each time you visit. See the vibrant hues of colorful autumn leaves in October and November, the glittering snow – and festive holiday fun – in winter, wildflowers in full bloom in the spring and – of course – lake activities in summer. Annual events make Big Bear a place to build traditions, like the 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular, the Fishin’ For $50K trout derby, the Memorial Weekend Grill & Chill, live music festivals, the New Year’s Torchlight Parade and much much more.
So, we formally invite you to enjoy beautiful sunny days, breathtaking views, outdoor recreation, and endless connections to nature here in Big Bear. Welcome to the mountains, we can’t wait to see you!
