Big Bear Lake is located within the mountains of San Bernardino county, California and makes for the perfect snowy getaway from both San Diego and Los Angeles. It is located about a 2.5-3 hour drive from both. Growing up in Southern California, it was known as the snow-filled spot to visit when the ski/snowboard cravings hit. Keep reading for our quick Big Bear Weekend Itinerary.
Where to Stay in Big Bear
Option 1: Rent an Airbnb. Want to feel cozy in a cabin in the evening with some board games and a fireplace? Consider booking an Airbnb. This article has some gorgeous options. We stayed here on our visit (about 15 min from Big Bear Lake).
Option 2: Book a Bed & Breakfast. If you want to feel a bit like you’re in a home away from home, book a Bed & Breakfast. Apples Bed & Breakfast is an adorably pink option that is located about a 5-10 minute drive from the center of town.
Things to consider: Where you stay really depends on what type of visitor you are. Looking to hit the slopes early? Consider a closer option to the mountains. Want a more woodsy feel? Pick something a bit farther away!
Day 1 Itinerary: Things to do in Big Bear
Heading to Big Bear on Saturday? Start your day early and arrive in time for the slopes to open at 8:30AM. You’ll want to get a good parking spot and avoid the lines at the chair lift. Pick up a bagel at Amangela’s Sandwich and Bagel House for breakfast before hitting the slopes.
Morning – Skiing at Bear Mountain
When it comes to skiing and snowboarding in Big Bear, there are two primary spots – Bear Mountain and Snow Summit. Snow Summit is a “premier family-friendly destination”, and Bear Mountain has “award wining terrain parks” and the only halfpipes in SoCal. Both properties are only 2 miles apart. It’ll likely be that you’ll have lunch on the mountain (it’s pretty pricey but worth it when you’re starving). If not, visit Big Bear Lake Brewing Company for a bite to eat!
- Bear Mountain Address: 43101 Goldmine Drive, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
- Hours: The winter season runs November to April, but be sure to check out their calendar for current chairlift operation information.
- Lift Tickets: Most lift tickets give you access to both mountains, and you can purchase from half-day, full-day, or multi-day passes to save money. Additionally, the BBMR site offer packages that bundle lift tickets with rentals, or season passes.
Tips for your visit:
- RENTALS – If you need ski/snowboard rentals, check out the rental shops at the resort. They’re near both Bear Mountain and Snow Summit, and offer lift, rental & gear packages. It’s convenient, because it saves you both time and money!
- PARKING – During peak season, parking can get busy – make sure to give yourself at least an hour from the moment you depart to when you start to ski or ride. Seasonal parking passes are available for purchase, but there are also additional parking sites around the area that offer free shuttles to both mountains.
Afternoon – Big Bear Village
O Koo Ran Shop 
After lunch, head into the village for an afternoon of walking around and exploring the shops. Be sure to stop by O Koo Ran – the perfect spot to pick up a trendy souvenir. I picked up one of their amazing smelling candles!
Other spots to visit:
- The Village Sweet Shoppe to cure your sweet tooth
- Frusion Juice & Coffee Bar for when you need a little afternoon pick-me-up.
Make your way to 572 Social Kitchen for dinner. Grab some drinks and appetizers by the bonfire or warm up inside at one of their cozy tables.
End your evening back at your cabin (if you opted for that) with some s’mores, board games & a cozy fire!
Day 2 Itinerary: Day Trip to Lake Arrowhead
Start your morning early with breakfast at Grizzly Manor Cafe. Wait times can be crazy, so add yourself to their Yelp waitlist so you’re not waiting for hours!
Not a hardcore boarder? Spend your last day with a stop to Lake Arrowhead on your way home. It is located about an hour from Big Bear Lake on your way home.
Start with a walk around the lake, and consider taking a boat tour on the Lake Arrowhead Queen.
Jeannine’s Home Furnishings, Gifts & Accessories 
Afterwards pop into some shops – we recommend Jeannine’s for unique items! On your way out of town stop for lunch at the Lakefront Taproom Bar & Kitchen.
