Things to do in Big Bear
Lake Recreation
Big Bear Lake offers it all! Paddle boating, pontoon boating, sailing or power boating, windsurfing, sailboarding, waterskiing or jet skiing - And all boats and equipment can be rented at any one of the marinas that dot the lake's 23 miles of shoreline.
Private boat permits are required and can be purchased at any marina.
Captain John's Fawn Harbor & Marina 909-866-6478
Pleasure Point Boat Landing 909-866-2455
Holloway's Marina & RV Park 909-866-2665
Big Bear Marina 909-866-3218
Big Bear Parasail & Water Sports 909-866-4359
Big Bear Charter Fishing 909-866-2240
Big Bear Night Clubs
Feeling like a drink or dancing after a day on the lake or on the slopes? Here is a list of fun places to visit in the evening. All are located in Big Bear Lake and most are in walking distance from eachother in the Big Bear Village.
Mozart's Bistro & Nightclub 909-866-9497
Murray's Saloon & Eatery 909-866-1444
Chad's Place 909-866-2161
Tail of the Whale Lakeside Lounge 909-866-5514
Bit 'n Spur 909-866-7242
Alley Oops 909-878-2695
Bike Riding & Mountain Biking
Steve's U Rent 909-866-8888
Team Big Bear Mountain Bike Center 909-866-4565
Massive Sports 909-878-9115
Alpine Sports Center 909-866-7541 The Big Bear Valley offers a vast collection of mountain biking trails and is known as one of the hot beds of the sport. Cross-country mountain bikers of all ages and skill levels will find the ideal two-wheel adventure in Big Bear.
Cross-Country Paradise
For novice riders, the Bristlecone Trail east of the base area and Towne Trail to the west offer gentle, rolling terrain that is a perfect introduction to mountain biking. Intermediate riders will find slightly more challenging terrain from the top of the Scenic Sky Chair including Skyline Drive, which rolls across the top of the ridge with great views of Big Bear Lake. A short, steep single-track climb takes you to Grandview Point, which is a great spot to take a break and is the starting point of a thrilling ride to Towne Trail and back to Snow Summit. It's a nine-mile loop and one of the most popular rides in the area. Those who are looking for more time in the saddle can stay on Skyline Drive all the way to the Champion Lodgepole Pine then loop back to the resort making an epic 16 miler.
Snow Summit will no longer transport downhill specific mountain bikes on the Sky Chair during the summer months for either recreational or competitive purposes. The resort will continue to haul conventional (cross-country) mountain bikes for general public on the Sky Chair, with access to off-site Forest Service trails and roads. The resort has taken this action because of the liability exposure and forest damage from downhill bikes. Furthermore, there will be no more biking of any kind on the ski runs.
Any one of the following four factors will disqualify a bike from being transported on the chair:
1. Bikes must be less than 35 pounds.
2. Designated tire size must be less than 2.5.
3. Front shock must have less than 6 inches of travel.
4. Bikes must have three chain rings unless they are single speed.
Horse Back Riding / Rental Stables:
Baldwin Lake Stables 585-6482
Rockin' K Ranch 878-4677
Frequently Asked Questions about
horseback riding in Big Bear Lake, Ca
What's the best time to come riding in Big Bear?
Big Bear is a four season resort so anytime is a good time. I personally like fall best for trail riding It's still warm during the day but not as hot as it can be during the summer. The nights are crisp so bring a light sheet for your horse. If you want to experience riding in the snow then you should come in the winter of course. If you plan to come in the spring and don't want to be surprised by snow, you may want to wait until May. We have had a last snowstorms in April. So I personally recommend April through October.
What about Holiday weekends?
You might not want to bring your horse on a holiday weekend. Too much traffic coming up the hill and too many motorcycles, ATV's and mountain bikes on the trails. Plus the rates are generally higher. Fall and Spring offers lodging specials for your cabin.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes you can bring your pets. Many vacation rental companies have pet friendly accommodations. Just make sure you ask before booking your cabin.
Where is the best trail riding in Big Bear?
Big Bear is surrounded by National Forest and trails. You can check with the local Discovery Center who will equip you with maps and trail info. Probably a good idea to call them ahead of time. The Pacific Crest Trail also runs through the Big Bear Valley and you have access to miles and miles of trail from anywhere in the Valley. If you board your horse, maybe ask the stable if they have a guide you could take along. That way you can get to the most scenic spots.
What's the best way to come up to Big Bear with a horse trailer?
I personally avoid the 30/330 (front way). Too windy, too many switchbacks with a lot of traffic. I would recommend the 38 (through Redlands) which brings you right to the east end of the valley where the boarding stables are. Good passing lanes, turnouts to let traffic by and very scenic drive. If you come from the north, use the 18 through Victorville. That is also an excellent choice in the winter as its closer to the high desert.
Vaccinations:
Talk to your vet about Strangles vaccine and if that would be the right choice for your horse. Big Bear, who used to have wild burros roam our streets, has had cases of Strangles over the years so I personally vaccinate all my horses. So check with your vet.
For availability and prices please contact these boarding stables, both located on the east end of the valley, approx 15 Minutes from Big Bear Lake:
Boarding Stables (daily, weekly or monthly boarding)
Sonny's Place Equestrian Center, Manager Richard White 909.585.9397
Shay Meadow Ranch, Manager Jana Taylor 909.585.0512
Big Bear Family Fun
There are lots of things to do for your family during your visit in Big Bear. Water slides in the summer and sledding hills for the winter, the zoo in Moonridge are with local wildlife. Petting Zoos, trout fishing, arcade, the movie theatres and much more.
Alpine Slides 909-866-4626
The Water Slide at the Magic Mountain Recreation Center is a big summertime favorite. Imagine an exhilarating ride down two twisting and turning flumes gushing with refreshing, cool water on your way to splashdown into a heated pool. And don't miss the Alpine Slide - Southern California's only authentic bobsled experience. Riders navigate their own individually controlled sleds down their choice of two quarter-mile long cement tracks filled with high-banked turns and long straightaways.
Moonridge Zoo 909-584-1171
In addition to all the great wildlife around the lake and in the forests, Big Bear's unique Animal Park offers the whole family a delightful and educational experience. It's a great way to see majestic bison, wolves, eagles and bears and learn about our animals in their natural mountain habitat. Your wild wee ones will also enjoy the playful menagerie at
Petting Zoo 909-585-0284
Super Bear Arcade 909-866-8620
Village Theaters 909-866-5115
Bowling Barn 909-878-2695
Discovery Center 909-866-3437
The Big Bear Discovery Center is a must-see on your getaway. It's "Your Gateway to Adventure and Discovery in the Great Outdoors." Located on the North shore of Big Bear Lake, visitors can learn about the natural environment, attend lectures, join a Discovery Tour; view rotating exhibits on wildlife, wildflowers, and history while learning about the many recreational opportunities in the forest. The Discovery Center is a one-stop shop for all permits regarding use of the San Bernardino National Forest.
Alpine Trout Lakes 909-866-4532 When you see the great sport fishing available at Big Bear Lake, you'll be hooked - but good. Trout, large and small mouth bass, blue gill (sunfish), crappie, and catfish are all in plentiful supply. Licenses and supplies can be purchased at sporting good stores and marinas.
Big Bear Lake Tours
Really get to know Big Bear Valley up-close and personal through a guided or narrated tour.
You can experience our community from almost any vantage point; on a boat, in an off-road vehicle, on horseback, on a mountain bike, or on foot.
Cantrell Guide Service-Boat Tour (909) 585-4017 Big Bear Adventure Racing (909) 910-1810 Big Bear Discovery Center (909) 382-2791 Victoria Park Carriages (909) 584-2277 Big Bear Off-Road Adventures (909) 585-1036 Baldwin Lake Stables & Petting Zoo (909) 585-6482 Big Bear Queen Boat Tour (909) 866-4447 Bear Valley Bikes (909) 866-8000 Big Bear Charter Fishing (909) 866-2240 Toll Free: 800-475-3166 Snow Summit Scenic Sky Chair (909) 866-5766 Big Bear Pirate Ship (909) 878-4040Toll Free: 800-BIG BEAR
Big Bear Lake offers it all! Paddle boating, pontoon boating, sailing or power boating, windsurfing, sailboarding, waterskiing or jet skiing - And all boats and equipment can be rented at any one of the marinas that dot the lake's 23 miles of shoreline.
Private boat permits are required and can be purchased at any marina.
Captain John's Fawn Harbor & Marina 909-866-6478
Pleasure Point Boat Landing 909-866-2455
Holloway's Marina & RV Park 909-866-2665
Big Bear Marina 909-866-3218
Big Bear Parasail & Water Sports 909-866-4359
Big Bear Charter Fishing 909-866-2240
Big Bear Night Clubs
Feeling like a drink or dancing after a day on the lake or on the slopes? Here is a list of fun places to visit in the evening. All are located in Big Bear Lake and most are in walking distance from eachother in the Big Bear Village.
Mozart's Bistro & Nightclub 909-866-9497
Murray's Saloon & Eatery 909-866-1444
Chad's Place 909-866-2161
Tail of the Whale Lakeside Lounge 909-866-5514
Bit 'n Spur 909-866-7242
Alley Oops 909-878-2695
Bike Riding & Mountain Biking
Steve's U Rent 909-866-8888
Team Big Bear Mountain Bike Center 909-866-4565
Massive Sports 909-878-9115
Alpine Sports Center 909-866-7541 The Big Bear Valley offers a vast collection of mountain biking trails and is known as one of the hot beds of the sport. Cross-country mountain bikers of all ages and skill levels will find the ideal two-wheel adventure in Big Bear.
Cross-Country Paradise
For novice riders, the Bristlecone Trail east of the base area and Towne Trail to the west offer gentle, rolling terrain that is a perfect introduction to mountain biking. Intermediate riders will find slightly more challenging terrain from the top of the Scenic Sky Chair including Skyline Drive, which rolls across the top of the ridge with great views of Big Bear Lake. A short, steep single-track climb takes you to Grandview Point, which is a great spot to take a break and is the starting point of a thrilling ride to Towne Trail and back to Snow Summit. It's a nine-mile loop and one of the most popular rides in the area. Those who are looking for more time in the saddle can stay on Skyline Drive all the way to the Champion Lodgepole Pine then loop back to the resort making an epic 16 miler.
Snow Summit will no longer transport downhill specific mountain bikes on the Sky Chair during the summer months for either recreational or competitive purposes. The resort will continue to haul conventional (cross-country) mountain bikes for general public on the Sky Chair, with access to off-site Forest Service trails and roads. The resort has taken this action because of the liability exposure and forest damage from downhill bikes. Furthermore, there will be no more biking of any kind on the ski runs.
Any one of the following four factors will disqualify a bike from being transported on the chair:
1. Bikes must be less than 35 pounds.
2. Designated tire size must be less than 2.5.
3. Front shock must have less than 6 inches of travel.
4. Bikes must have three chain rings unless they are single speed.
Horse Back Riding / Rental Stables:
Baldwin Lake Stables 585-6482
Rockin' K Ranch 878-4677
Frequently Asked Questions about
horseback riding in Big Bear Lake, Ca
What's the best time to come riding in Big Bear?
Big Bear is a four season resort so anytime is a good time. I personally like fall best for trail riding It's still warm during the day but not as hot as it can be during the summer. The nights are crisp so bring a light sheet for your horse. If you want to experience riding in the snow then you should come in the winter of course. If you plan to come in the spring and don't want to be surprised by snow, you may want to wait until May. We have had a last snowstorms in April. So I personally recommend April through October.
What about Holiday weekends?
You might not want to bring your horse on a holiday weekend. Too much traffic coming up the hill and too many motorcycles, ATV's and mountain bikes on the trails. Plus the rates are generally higher. Fall and Spring offers lodging specials for your cabin.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes you can bring your pets. Many vacation rental companies have pet friendly accommodations. Just make sure you ask before booking your cabin.
Where is the best trail riding in Big Bear?
Big Bear is surrounded by National Forest and trails. You can check with the local Discovery Center who will equip you with maps and trail info. Probably a good idea to call them ahead of time. The Pacific Crest Trail also runs through the Big Bear Valley and you have access to miles and miles of trail from anywhere in the Valley. If you board your horse, maybe ask the stable if they have a guide you could take along. That way you can get to the most scenic spots.
What's the best way to come up to Big Bear with a horse trailer?
I personally avoid the 30/330 (front way). Too windy, too many switchbacks with a lot of traffic. I would recommend the 38 (through Redlands) which brings you right to the east end of the valley where the boarding stables are. Good passing lanes, turnouts to let traffic by and very scenic drive. If you come from the north, use the 18 through Victorville. That is also an excellent choice in the winter as its closer to the high desert.
Vaccinations:
Talk to your vet about Strangles vaccine and if that would be the right choice for your horse. Big Bear, who used to have wild burros roam our streets, has had cases of Strangles over the years so I personally vaccinate all my horses. So check with your vet.
For availability and prices please contact these boarding stables, both located on the east end of the valley, approx 15 Minutes from Big Bear Lake:
Boarding Stables (daily, weekly or monthly boarding)
Sonny's Place Equestrian Center, Manager Richard White 909.585.9397
Shay Meadow Ranch, Manager Jana Taylor 909.585.0512
Big Bear Family Fun
There are lots of things to do for your family during your visit in Big Bear. Water slides in the summer and sledding hills for the winter, the zoo in Moonridge are with local wildlife. Petting Zoos, trout fishing, arcade, the movie theatres and much more.
Alpine Slides 909-866-4626
The Water Slide at the Magic Mountain Recreation Center is a big summertime favorite. Imagine an exhilarating ride down two twisting and turning flumes gushing with refreshing, cool water on your way to splashdown into a heated pool. And don't miss the Alpine Slide - Southern California's only authentic bobsled experience. Riders navigate their own individually controlled sleds down their choice of two quarter-mile long cement tracks filled with high-banked turns and long straightaways.
Moonridge Zoo 909-584-1171
In addition to all the great wildlife around the lake and in the forests, Big Bear's unique Animal Park offers the whole family a delightful and educational experience. It's a great way to see majestic bison, wolves, eagles and bears and learn about our animals in their natural mountain habitat. Your wild wee ones will also enjoy the playful menagerie at
Petting Zoo 909-585-0284
Super Bear Arcade 909-866-8620
Village Theaters 909-866-5115
Bowling Barn 909-878-2695
Discovery Center 909-866-3437
The Big Bear Discovery Center is a must-see on your getaway. It's "Your Gateway to Adventure and Discovery in the Great Outdoors." Located on the North shore of Big Bear Lake, visitors can learn about the natural environment, attend lectures, join a Discovery Tour; view rotating exhibits on wildlife, wildflowers, and history while learning about the many recreational opportunities in the forest. The Discovery Center is a one-stop shop for all permits regarding use of the San Bernardino National Forest.
Alpine Trout Lakes 909-866-4532 When you see the great sport fishing available at Big Bear Lake, you'll be hooked - but good. Trout, large and small mouth bass, blue gill (sunfish), crappie, and catfish are all in plentiful supply. Licenses and supplies can be purchased at sporting good stores and marinas.
Big Bear Lake Tours
Really get to know Big Bear Valley up-close and personal through a guided or narrated tour.
You can experience our community from almost any vantage point; on a boat, in an off-road vehicle, on horseback, on a mountain bike, or on foot.
Cantrell Guide Service-Boat Tour (909) 585-4017 Big Bear Adventure Racing (909) 910-1810 Big Bear Discovery Center (909) 382-2791 Victoria Park Carriages (909) 584-2277 Big Bear Off-Road Adventures (909) 585-1036 Baldwin Lake Stables & Petting Zoo (909) 585-6482 Big Bear Queen Boat Tour (909) 866-4447 Bear Valley Bikes (909) 866-8000 Big Bear Charter Fishing (909) 866-2240 Toll Free: 800-475-3166 Snow Summit Scenic Sky Chair (909) 866-5766 Big Bear Pirate Ship (909) 878-4040Toll Free: 800-BIG BEAR
Big Bear Real Estate - Lake Arrowhead Real Estate
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