Big Bear Lake Scenic Drive
Take a drive around Big Bear Lake to enjoy breathtaking views and stop at various lookouts for photos.
Top hotels & flights
Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Big Bear City.
Top Hotels in Big Bear City
Top Flights to Big Bear City
Popular activities
Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Big Bear City.
Tours
Big Bear Alpine Zoo
Visit the Alpine Zoo to see rescued wildlife and learn about conservation efforts.
Gold Rush Mining Adventures
Experience the thrill of mining for gold and precious stones in this family-friendly attraction.
Big Bear Discovery Center
Learn about the natural environment and history of the San Bernardino Mountains at the Big Bear Discovery Center.
Shopping
Big Bear Village Shopping
Explore the charming shops and boutiques in Big Bear Village, offering a range of unique items and souvenirs.
Pine Knot Village Spa Treatments
Relax and rejuvenate with a variety of spa treatments in the cozy Pine Knot Village.
Outdoor
Snow Summit Ski Resort
Experience thrilling ski and snowboard activities at Snow Summit, perfect for both beginners and advanced skiers.
Castle Rock Trail
Hike the Castle Rock Trail for a rewarding view of Big Bear Lake at the summit.
Alpine Pedal Path
Enjoy biking or walking along the picturesque Alpine Pedal Path with views of the lake.
Bear Mountain Golf Course
Tee off on the beautifully maintained Bear Mountain Golf Course surrounded by stunning scenery.
Location videos
Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.
Watch & explore
Practical info
The essentials for planning your time in Big Bear City.
Currency
$ | USD | US Dollar
Population
The approximate estimated total population of Big Bear City, California, is around 12,000.
Languages
English, English
Local guide
What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Big Bear City.
What people love
Big Bear City, located in California's beautiful San Bernardino Mountains, offers a variety of attractions and activities for travelers to enjoy. Some of the pros of traveling to Big Bear City include:
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Scenic Beauty: Big Bear City is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, including the picturesque Big Bear Lake, lush forests, and majestic mountains. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views and opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and boating.
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Outdoor Recreation: Big Bear City is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with a wide range of recreational opportunities available year-round. In the winter, visitors can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing at nearby resorts like Big Bear Mountain Resort. In the summer, activities like hiking, mountain biking, and zip-lining are popular options.
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Wildlife Viewing: Big Bear City is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including bald eagles, black bears, and mule deer. Visitors have the chance to observe these animals in their natural habitats and learn more about the local ecosystem.
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Peaceful Environment: Big Bear City offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and rejuvenation. Whether you're looking to unwind by the lake or explore the surrounding wilderness, Big Bear City provides a peaceful setting for travelers to enjoy.
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Charming Small-Town Atmosphere: Big Bear City boasts a charming small-town atmosphere with friendly locals, cozy cafes, and unique shops. Visitors can experience the warmth and hospitality of a close-knit community while exploring the town's historic landmarks and cultural attractions.
Overall, traveling to Big Bear City offers a mix of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and small-town charm, making it a wonderful destination for a relaxing and memorable getaway.
What to know
Traveling to Big Bear City in California, United States, has some potential drawbacks that visitors should be aware of:
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Weather Conditions: Big Bear City is located at a high elevation, which means it can experience extreme weather conditions. During the winter months, heavy snowfall can lead to road closures and difficult driving conditions. In addition, the area can get quite cold, so visitors need to be prepared for chilly temperatures.
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Crowds: Big Bear City is a popular destination for tourists, especially during peak seasons like winter for skiing and snowboarding or summer for outdoor activities. This can lead to crowded conditions at popular attractions, restaurants, and accommodations.
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Limited Public Transportation: Getting around Big Bear City can be challenging without a personal vehicle, as public transportation options are limited. Visitors may need to rely on taxis or ride-sharing services, which can be more expensive and less convenient.
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High Altitude: The high altitude of Big Bear City can affect some individuals, especially those who are not accustomed to it. Visitors may experience symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches, dizziness, or shortness of breath.
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Wildlife Encounters: Being in a mountainous area, visitors to Big Bear City may encounter wildlife such as bears, coyotes, or mountain lions. It's important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings to prevent any potential encounters.
Overall, while Big Bear City offers stunning natural beauty and a variety of outdoor activities, visitors should be prepared for the challenges that come with traveling to a mountainous region like this.