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Key Info for Visitors
- Currency: USD
- Languages: English, Spanish
- Climate: Alpine
- Timezone: America/Los_Angeles
- Population: Approximately 5,019 residents.
- Best Time to Visit: best time to visit Big Bear is during spring and summer for outdoor activities or winter for skiing.
- Visa Requirements Big Bear, being part of the United States, follows U.S. visa requirements. Citizens of visa-free countries like the U.S., EU, and UK do not need a visa for tourism stays under 90 days. Other nationals may require a non-immigrant visa or apply for a visa waiver program.
About Big Bear
Big Bear is a charming mountain resort town in Southern California, known for its stunning natural beauty and diverse outdoor activities. Nestled in the San Bernardino Mountains, it offers a serene escape from urban life with its picturesque lake, lush forests, and snow-capped peaks. Visitors can enjoy skiing in winter and hiking, fishing, and boating in summer. The town's quaint atmosphere, complete with cozy cabins and rustic restaurants, adds to its appeal as a relaxing getaway.
Top Attractions
1. **Big Bear Lake**: A beautiful lake offering boating, fishing, and scenic views. 2. **Snow Summit Ski Resort**: A popular ski resort with well-groomed slopes for all skill levels. 3. **San Bernardino National Forest**: Offers hiking trails, camping sites, and breathtaking vistas. 4. **Big Bear Alpine Zoo**: A small zoo featuring a variety of animals native to the region. 5. **North Shore Trading Company**: A historic trading post turned museum showcasing local history.
Popular Activities
Big Bear offers a range of activities, including skiing, snowboarding, hiking, fishing, and boating. Visitors can explore the San Bernardino National Forest, enjoy scenic drives, or relax in cozy cabins. The town also hosts various festivals and events throughout the year.
Big Bear Tours & Experiences
- Top Attractions: Highlights of California
- Duration Range: Big Bear offers a range of activities, including skiing, snowboarding, hiking, fishing, and boating. Visitors can explore the San Bernardino National Forest, enjoy scenic drives, or relax in cozy cabins. The town also hosts various festivals and events throughout the year.
- Group Size: Intimate Groups
- Difficulty Level: All Comfort Levels
- Recommended For: The best time to visit Big Bear is during spring and summer for outdoor activities or winter for skiing. Pack layers for unpredictable mountain weather. Cultural etiquette includes respecting local wildlife and natural environments. Credit cards are widely accepted, but cash is useful for small purchases.
Average Tour Price: $75
Lowest Price Tour: $55
Highest Price Tour: $180
19 Available Tour Excursions in Big Bear
I've been an outdoor adventure guide in Big Bear for the last five years. I've been exploring all the best hiking trails in the Big Bear Valley for the last 20 years. It's hard to find an easy hike in Big Bear; A lot of trails are steep and hard for little kids. This trail is actually stroller-friendly also, which you can not say about a lot of hiking trails in the mountain communities. I love the peace and solitude of this trail in the woods. It's hiked mostly by locals who live in this neighborhood and is not a tourist spot. I personally love to share the local history around the Big Bear Valley. I really enjoy pointing out different flora and fauna to my younger guests and teaching them how interesting nature can be like the wild native insects we might see on the trails
Price: $37.00
Duration: 1 hours
Bluff Lake is a hidden Big Bear secret. It's one of the most gorgeous areas in Big Bear Lake. So many people who are Big Bear locals don't even know it's here, hidden away three miles up a remote dirt road! Traveling to this hidden wilderness lake with a local tour guide is a great way to see some of Big Bear Lake's most secret beautiful hiking areas. I will pick up your group in my Jeep and drive your group up the forest road, telling you about the plants we see along the way and the interesting history of the Big Bear Valley. Once we reach the Bluff Lake Reserve we will go for one of the most scenic hikes in Big Bear Lake. This hike is stroller-friendly for those who wish to bring a stroller for young children.
Price: $65.00
Duration: 2 hours
This is really a local's favorite hike in Big Bear that goes to one of the least known scenic lake viewpoints in Big Bear. What is the best time to do after a sweaty summertime hike? Swim off a dock in the beautiful Big Bear Lake Harbor! The lake water is actually warmer to swim here than in the middle of the lake. One thing a lot of travelers don't know, if you rent a boat on Big Bear Lake (Very pricy) you can not swim off the rental boats. This is a great summertime experience after a hike on a hot day to get to cool off in alpine Big Bear Lake If my guests would like to picnic off the boat afterwards they can bring lunch, beer, drinks. I will bring an ice chest for them to put their lunch in while we are hiking. I will even walk to a nearby fantastic restaurant in the village (As a foodie, I know all the best restaurants in Big Bear) & pickup to-go lunches for my hikers to enjoy on the boat after the hike if requested (For this service, hikers must Venmo me to pay for their meals)
Price: $82.00
Duration: 3 hours
Come walk with me in the snow in Big Bear Lake's winter wonderland. Snowshoe tours are available from December through March. This is Big Bear Lakes' only snowshoe tour with a professional hiking guide. I have over 20 years of experience snowshoeing all the best trails in Big Bear Lake. When you book, kindly let me know if you would like to do an easy or moderate snowshoe hike. I have many different trails to choose from that are perfect for guests of all ages. Even when it seems like there is no snow anywhere in the Big Bear Valley, as a Big Bear local I always know where there are snowy trails for snow hiking or snowshoeing.
Price: $55.00
Duration: 2 hours
This hiking tour is hands down the best way to experience the best fall colors in all of southern California. It's hard to know where to hike in Big Bear Lake in the fall to find the best fall colors; Go with Big Bear Lake's expert hiking guide to find the best leaf-peeping experience. This is an amazing outdoor experience for nature lovers and those who love to take scenic photos. We will hike up a scenic locals-only trail underneath the yellow and orange oak trees, perhaps even trying local wild berries along the way, seasonably available. There is no better way to expiernce the crisp fall days in this mountain community than out on these hiking trails. *I can make the hike kid-friendly if you bring the family. *All of my experiences are always dog-friendly; Please bring your furry friends! *If you love to take photos this is the best place to get great leaf-peeping photos in all of southern California. *This is an experience great for groups & team building.
Price: $45.00
Duration: 2 hours
Take a break from the hustle & bustle of the cities with Big Bear's original picnic queen. Enjoy our gourmet picnic snack lunch in a scenic locals secret location in the forest. Your picnic guru will pick your group up in her Jeep SUV & drive your group up the dirt forest road to one of the most scenic locations in Big Bear Lake. This is a perfect location for all those Insta worthy photos. Our Big Bear Lake picnic pros will take as many scenic photos of your group as you would like. Your guide will hang out with your group & enthrall you with tales of the history of the Big Bear Valley & then leave you your privacy as you enjoy a casual lunch in nature at one of the most scenic hidden gems in Big Bear. Menu items are seasonal and a menu will be provided when you book with choices. Whether you are a couple or friends & or family, this activity is full of great sights, delicious food & quality time with each other in the wilderness. We are Big Bear's only stylish pop-up picnic gurus.
Price: $111.00
Duration: 2 hours
You’re gliding among the treetops, the air rushing past your face. You look down at the mountain below you, and the bright, glittering sky above and you wonder, “Is this how birds feel?” Then you realize you’re going much faster than the average bird soaring on the Big Bear breeze. You’ve got gravity on your side. You’re Ziplining!!! Action Zipline Tours are the most exciting way to experience Big Bear, weather permitting. The three hour tour includes an off-road ride two miles into the forest, with nine high-speed zipline lines that run down our mountain for the most avid thrill-seekers, a beautiful suspension bridge with stunning views of Johnson Valley as a backdrop for it all, Action Zipline Tours is truly an adventure. Our expert staff of tour guides will show you how to have the most fun ziplining in Big Bear.
Price: $178.21
Duration: 3 hours
You do not just experience one of the best hikes just for the locals in Big Bear Lake, but after the hike, relax on our private dock at Pine Knot Marina and enjoy the sunset with a complimentary bottle of champagne. I also include sugar-free sodas if there are children going on the hike. Hiking in Big Bear Lake is even more fun with a local nature guide who can explain some of the region's flora and fauna. This is one of the most scenic hikes in Big Bear Lake, with epic lake views.
Price: $75.00
Duration: 2 hours
All High-Tech puzzles and mysteries. Unlike other escape rooms, we utilize very few locks or combinations and we specialize in immersive environments for a thrilling and challenging adventure.
Price: $80.00
Duration: 1 hours
Embark on a town quest with your team and Riddle Routes! Solve clues, discover local treasures, learn fascinating city history, enjoy beautiful views, and make lasting memories with your crew. Challenge your team with puzzles, riddles, trivia, GPS navigation, and keen observations. Our mobile app games, available 24/7, blend adventure and intellect. Play at your pace and let the journey begin anytime! Routes average a distance of 2 miles and a duration of 3 hours, and are dog friendly as there is no need to go inside any stores. The purchase is for a team of 2-4 people with game access on one phone. Contact Riddle Routes directly if you have multiple teams (corporate event, field trip, birthday parties, team building, etc).
Price: $21.00
Duration: 3 hours
Our very unique, immersive adventures are the only ones of their kind. We, unlike other companies, provide your very own remote, interactive, live host to assist and encourage you along through your phone. We are an Austin, TX-based global custom event design company offering scavenger hunts and other events in 300+ cities in North America and beyond. Our specially hand-crafted adventures are equal parts tour, creative challenge, detective hunt, and social experiment! Guests get to discover in an alternate reality our favorite hidden gems off the beaten trail and creatively interpret fun art, history, and culture clues - for points! They get to enjoy fame and glory while appearing on our website’s international leaderboard, no matter what their score. They get to essentially race other teams in other cities, even if they don’t have competitors who have signed up in their city that day. Get ready to discover unusual oddities, laugh out loud, and make the experience your own!
Price: $27.00
Duration: 2 hours
Book your private Departure transfer from Snow Summit Ski Resort to Long Beach Airport (LGB). Your driver will be waiting for you at a scheduled time and you will travel comfortably to your destination. • Meeting with a Nameplate • We track your Flight • Door-to-door Service • No Hidden Charges • Clean cars & Professional drivers
Price: $519.39
Duration: 3 hours
Book your private Departure transfer from Snow Summit Ski Resort to Santa Ana John Wayne Airport (SNA). Your driver will be waiting for you at a scheduled time and you will travel comfortably to your destination. • Meeting with a Nameplate • We track your Flight • Door-to-door Service • No Hidden Charges • Clean cars & Professional drivers
Price: $365.24
Duration: 2 hours
Start times flexible: book as early as 4 p.m., with a popular window from 7–9 p.m. to enjoy the sunset Hosted in Big Bear Lake resort town, easily accessible from most accommodations Why Book This Experience? It’s not just a tasting—it’s a vibe. You’ll leave relaxed, full of good snacks, and possibly with a new favorite wine or beer. It’s the perfect pre-dinner hangout, a romantic date idea, or a fun group activity before a night out in Big Bear. Skip the crowds. Skip the overpriced bar menus. Join us in our backyard for a truly local Big Bear experience.
Price: $70.00
Duration: 2 hours
Discover the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation with us! Escape to Big Bear for an unforgettable outdoor getaway where every detail is meticulously planned for your enjoyment. Picture yourself kayaking on tranquil waters, hiking through pristine mountain trails, and cozying up around a crackling campfire under a starlit sky. Our all-inclusive packages ensure a hassle-free experience, complete with comfortable accommodations, delicious meals prepared with fresh, local ingredients, and expert guides to enhance your outdoor adventures. Whether you're seeking a thrilling escape with friends or a peaceful retreat with family, we promise an enriching journey filled with memorable moments in the heart of nature. Book your next adventure with us and let us take care of the rest!
Price: $573.00
Duration: 48 hours
Book your private Departure transfer from Snow Summit Ski Resort to Palm Springs Int Airport (PSP). Your driver will be waiting for you at a scheduled time and you will travel comfortably to your destination. • Meeting with a Nameplate • We track your Flight • Door-to-door Service • No Hidden Charges • Clean cars & Professional drivers
Price: $365.24
Duration: 2 hours
Book your private Departure transfer from Snow Summit Ski Resort to Ontario International Airport (ONT). Your driver will be waiting for you at a scheduled time and you will travel comfortably to your destination. • Meeting with a Nameplate • We track your Flight • Door-to-door Service • No Hidden Charges • Clean cars & Professional drivers
Price: $157.72
Duration: 1 hours
Book your private Departure transfer from Snow Summit Ski Resort to Los Angeles Int Airport (LAX). Your driver will be waiting for you at a scheduled time and you will travel comfortably to your destination. • Meeting with a Nameplate • We track your Flight • Door-to-door Service • No Hidden Charges • Clean cars & Professional drivers
Price: $519.39
Duration: 2 hours
1. Choose Your Tour
Browse our curated selection of tours and select your perfect adventure.
2. Check Details
Review tour inclusions, duration, and meeting points carefully.
3. Book Online
Complete your booking securely with instant confirmation.
4. Enjoy Your Experience
Join the tour and create unforgettable memories in Big Bear.
Important Tour Information
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
- Check tour cancellation and refund policies
- Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
- Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation
Frequently Asked Questions
Local Food & Cuisine
Big Bear's cuisine is characterized by hearty mountain fare, including burgers, steaks, and BBQ. Local specialties include trout from the lake and traditional American comfort food. Noteworthy restaurants include The Pines Lakefront and Peppercorn Grille.
Getting Around
Big Bear is accessible by car via Highway 330 or 18 from San Bernardino. Local transportation includes shuttle services and bike rentals. Parking can be limited in peak seasons, so planning ahead is advisable.
Travel Tips
The best time to visit Big Bear is during spring and summer for outdoor activities or winter for skiing. Pack layers for unpredictable mountain weather. Cultural etiquette includes respecting local wildlife and natural environments. Credit cards are widely accepted, but cash is useful for small purchases.
Culture & Customs
Big Bear has a laid-back, mountain town culture with a strong emphasis on outdoor activities and community events. Visitors should respect local wildlife and natural environments. Significant events include the Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest and the annual Christmas in the Village.
