A Big Bear California ski trip is the ultimate adventure. The alpine lake is home to two distinct ski resorts: Big Bear Mountain Resort and Snow Summit. Both resorts are known for being family-friendly and are suitable for all experience levels. Lift tickets are interchangeable between the two resorts and there is a free ground shuttle that links the resorts. With more than 400 acres of skiable terrain between the two of them, you will easily be able to spend days exploring the mountain.
Big Bear Mountain Resort
Big Bear Mountain is known for its consistent snow quality and conditions because of the resorts ability to make all of its snow. The lake provides a reliable water supply and they use one of the world’s largest snowmaking systems to make sure the mountain is covered with fresh snow all season.
Bear Mountain is more popular among both professional snowboarders and those new to the sport. It offers more than 120 jibs, rails, boxes, and walls as well as Southern California’s only Superpipe. The resort is also popular among hard-core skiers because of its vertical terrain.
Snow Summit Resort
Snow Summit Resort offers a more traditional alpine Big Bear ski trip and is a popular choice among families. During peak season the popular face of the mountain can be busy, but there are options to try more peaceful, isolated runs on the east side of the mountain. If you arrive early enough, you may even get the trail to yourself.
On the other side of the Snow Summit Resort is Snow Summit’s Family Park. The park has easy jumps, bumps, and rollers to practice your skills. If you are a complete beginner, Snow Summit has some of the best ski and snowboard instructors in Southern California who will make sure you’re riding down the slopes by yourself in no time.
Even More Snow-Based Fun
While your ski getaway to Big Bear promises to be fun, exciting and one of a kind, this area offers up even more snow-based adventures to enjoy while you’re in the area. Whether you’re on a solo ski getaway, in town with friends, or here with the whole family and little ones, you’ll never run out of options for wintery excitement. Be sure to add these to the list of must-try activities when you’re a cold-weather traveler setting their sights on Big Bear for a getaway.
Try Snowshoeing
Both Snow Summit Resort and Big Bear Mountain Resort are brimming over with exciting trails that wind through peaks, valleys, and forests and appeal to hikers in the warmer months. In the wintery months in Big Bear, these same trails offer up a myriad of adventurous moments for those looking to explore on snowshoes! This is a fantastic winter activity when you’re looking to set your own pace. Not only is it something that the entire family can do together but it provides for access to trails that would otherwise be blocked by snow and ice and makes a pathway to adventure that’s all your own. Bring a camera or binoculars with you to turn a traditional snowshoeing adventure into a bird watching or wildlife spotting journey too.
Go Snowmobiling
Need to pick up the pace a bit and have had your fill of downhill fun? Consider renting a snowmobile instead and hitting the trails alongside family and friends. Snowmobiling is a great way to get out and explore the terrain while also adding a touch of winter adventure into the mix. There’s no need to bring your own equipment as snowmobiles are readily available for rent in this area.
Big Bear Snow Play Area
Those that are traveling with little ones in tow won’t want to miss out on time at the Big Bear Snow Play Area. This is the ideal stop for tubing or sledding and provides kids with just the right amount of engaging fun to help them burn off excess energy. Located at 4285 Big Bear Boulevard, the snow play area is open to the public daily between 10:00 am and 4:00 pm. Of course, time at the snow play area should always be paired with time on the Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain. This unique adventure lets travelers of all ages have a bobsled experience with the ability to control the sled with a handheld break. As you travel down the quarter-mile track, you’ll be gifted with great views of your surroundings, making it a highlight of your journey!
Planning Your Big Bear Ski Trip
If you are looking for a place to stay during your Big Bear ski trip, consider booking one of our luxury vacation cabins. We have rentals that are located at the base of Snow Summit and just a short walk from the shuttle that will take you to Bear Mountain.
After a long day on the mountain with your family and friends, you can head back to your luxury cabin to relax. The interiors of our Big Bear winter cabin rentals have wood decor and are furnished with high-quality furniture. Gather with your family in the living room and relax in front of a warm fire. All of our homes also have high-end kitchens with stainless steel appliances and plenty of space to prepare a meal for your family.
For more information on our vacation homes and to book your Big Bear California ski trip, please contact us today.
