Big Bear Fall Bucket List 2026
Brought to you by Big Bear Vacations
The beauty of a fall landscape in Big Bear is something you cannot beat: fresh mountain air, golden aspens, and a slower pace than the big city might be just what the doctor ordered. From late September through early November, the valley comes alive with fall colors, festivals, and spooky-season celebrations. We have curated the perfect list for you to quickly and easily plan your Fall Getaway to the mountains. Our team is happily available to assist with your vacation experience needs 24 hours a day.
Fall Specials: Save on Your Big Bear Getaway
Midweek Fall Getaway – 25% Off
Escape the crowds and enjoy 25% off your base lodging rate when you book any Sunday through Thursday night stay (2-night minimum) between September 21 and November 19, 2026. Use code FALL26 at checkout or call us at (877) 417-6504.
Base lodging rate only; taxes and fees not included. Stays including Friday or Saturday nights do not qualify. Not valid at select properties and cannot be combined with other offers. Subject to availability.
Oktoberfest Lodging Package – Free 3rd Night + 2 Free Tickets
Book 2+ nights at a participating cabin and receive a complimentary third night plus 2 free Oktoberfest admission tickets with code OKTOBERFEST26. Select properties only; cannot be combined with other discounts.
Fall Foliage – Where to See Fall Colors in Big Bear
Here in Big Bear you will see a wide variety of trees, from aspens to maples, oaks, and more, showing off their bright reds, yellows, and oranges. Colors typically peak around mid-October. Read our full Autumn in Big Bear guide for more tips.
Stanfield Marsh Boardwalk – golden color reflected on still water
Boulder Bay Park – lakeside views framed by fall foliage
Walk or Bike the Alpine Pedal Path
Hike the Pine Knot Trail and its scenic overlooks
Drive North Shore Drive and stop at the scenic pullouts
Stroll Big Bear Village and the Neighborhoods
Take a Scenic Helicopter Ride
Set Sail on the Pirate Ship Tour
Fall Celebrations in Big Bear
Big Bear hosts signature events just for the fall season. Don’t miss out on these limited-time special engagements!
Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest – Weekends, September 12 – November 14
Big Bear Yoga Festival – October 2–4
Bear Crawl in the Village – October 3
Kodiak Ultra Marathon by UTMB – October 8–11
Big Bear Village Wine Walk – October 10
Special Fall & Halloween Activities to Check Out
Check out these Falltacular events happening in Big Bear Lake!
Twilight Safaris at Big Bear Alpine Zoo – September 20 & 27, October 11 & 18
Pumpkin Smash Zipline Tour – Every Saturday in October
Boo at the Zoo – October 24
Scarecrow & Día de los Muertos Festival
Dark Legends of Big Bear Night Hikes
Mystery Maze at the Moose Lodge
The Big Scare at Swim Beach
Trunk or Treat at Meadow Park
Paint a Pumpkin
Treats & Trails
See all the details in our guide to Halloween in Big Bear.
More Fall Big Bear Bucket List Ideas
Just in case you haven’t seen enough yet, here are some additional bucket list ideas for your inspiration.
Jump into a pile of Leaves
Roast Chestnuts or Pumpkin Seeds in your Big Bear Cabin
Take a Fall Foliage Drive
Throw a Friendsgiving Celebration
Carve pumpkins together
Get cozy by a wood burning fire
Bake Pumpkin Bread
Create an Autumn Craft
Take your Christmas Card photo
Make a Scarecrow
Have a Scary Movie Marathon
Go on a Nature Scavenger Hunt
Have a Fall Picnic by the Lake
Enjoy the lake before winter with a boat or kayak rental
Ready to plan your fall escape? Book midweek with code FALL26 and save 25%.
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