Skiing & Snowboarding

Big Bear is the ultimate winter destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts in Southern California. With two premier resorts and additional options within a short drive, Big Bear provides plenty of terrain for all skill levels. In this guide, we’ll explore the best spots for skiing and snowboarding in Big Bear and nearby, including details on what each resort is known for, rental spots, kid-friendly options, night skiing, and more.

Bear Mountain Resort

Bear Mountain is well-known for its extensive terrain parks and is a haven for snowboarders and freestyle skiers. With several progressive terrain parks, including Southern California’s only half-pipe, it’s a popular choice for thrill-seekers looking to test their skills.

            • Location: 43101 Goldmine Dr, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

            • What Makes It Unique: Bear Mountain is home to multiple terrain parks that cater to all skill levels. From beginner boxes and rails to expert-level jumps, it offers the best freestyle experience in the area.

            • When It’s Open: From mid-November through early April, weather permitting, with hours from 9 AM to 4 PM.

            • Kid-Friendly: The Bear Mountain Ski & Snowboard School offers lessons for children, making it a great spot for kids to learn how to snowboard or ski.

            • Night Skiing: While Bear Mountain doesn’t offer night skiing, its nearby counterpart, Snow Summit, provides this feature.

Snow Summit Resort

Snow Summit is a more family-oriented resort known for its impeccably groomed trails and relaxed atmosphere. Ideal for skiers of all levels, it also caters to families with young children and those new to winter sports.

            • Location: 880 Summit Blvd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

            • What Makes It Unique: Snow Summit is loved for its wide, open trails that provide smooth, easy runs for beginners, while offering advanced skiers the opportunity to tackle more challenging slopes. The resort’s laid-back, family-friendly vibe sets it apart.

            • When It’s Open: Open daily from mid-November to early April, with lift hours from 9 AM to 4 PM. Night skiing is available from 3 PM to 8:30 PM on select weekends and holidays.

            • Kid-Friendly: Snow Summit’s Adventure Academy is perfect for young skiers. The resort offers group lessons, private lessons, and kid-friendly amenities to help children gain confidence on the slopes.

            • Night Skiing: Snow Summit is one of the only resorts in Big Bear to offer night skiing, making it a favorite for those wanting to extend their time on the slopes. Check the night skiing schedule for availability.

Snow Valley Mountain Resort

Snow Valley Mountain Resort is located about 30 minutes from Big Bear and offers a more laid-back, uncrowded experience for skiers and snowboarders. With fewer crowds and affordable lift tickets, it’s a great alternative to the busier Big Bear resorts.

            • Location: 35100 CA-18, Running Springs, CA 92382

            • What Makes It Unique: Snow Valley boasts the most extensive beginner-friendly terrain in the region, making it a great option for families and newcomers to skiing and snowboarding. It also offers one of the longest sledding and tubing areas in Southern California.

            • When It’s Open: Typically opens in mid-December and runs through early April, with daily lift hours from 9 AM to 4 PM.

            • Kid-Friendly: Snow Valley’s Children’s Learning Center provides ski and snowboard lessons for kids as young as 4. The wide, gentle slopes make it the ideal place for little ones to get comfortable on the snow.

            • Night Skiing: Snow Valley offers night skiing on select days, allowing visitors to enjoy uncrowded runs under the stars. Check their night skiing schedule for details.

What Each Resort is Best Known For

            • Bear Mountain: Best for snowboarders and freestyle skiers due to its expansive terrain parks. It’s the go-to spot for those looking to improve their tricks or ride the only half-pipe in Southern California.

            • Snow Summit: Best for families and skiers looking for well-groomed trails and a laid-back atmosphere. It’s also the resort to visit if you’re interested in night skiing.

            • Snow Valley Mountain Resort: Best for beginners and families with young children, offering a more relaxed experience and fewer crowds. Its extensive beginner terrain and tubing areas make it a hidden gem for families seeking a quieter day on the slopes.

Nearby Ski Resorts

            • Snow Valley Mountain Resort: As mentioned, Snow Valley is a fantastic alternative to the busier Big Bear resorts and is just a 30-minute drive away, located near Running Springs.

            • Mount Baldy Resort: Mount Baldy Resort is about a 45-minute drive from Big Bear. Though a bit further out, it offers a unique skiing experience with challenging terrain for more advanced skiers. Its backcountry terrain and steep slopes are ideal for thrill-seekers.

Where to Buy Snow Sleds and Tubes

If you’re planning to explore public areas or want to bring your own gear, Big Bear has several stores where you can buy snow sleds and tubes:

            • Getboards Ride Shop: Located in Big Bear Village, this shop offers a range of winter gear, including snow sleds and tubes.

            • Goldsmith’s Sports: Another great option for renting or purchasing snow gear, including sleds and tubes.

Top Spots to Rent Ski & Snowboard Gear

Big Bear offers several excellent spots to rent gear for your winter adventures:

            • Getboards Ride Shop: Known for its convenient locations and quality rentals, Getboards offers everything from skis and snowboards to helmets and accessories.

            • Goldsmith’s Sports: Located close to Bear Mountain and Snow Summit, this local shop offers rentals, lessons, and high-quality gear.

            • Blauer Ski & Board Rentals: With multiple rental packages and the option to pick up your gear the night before, Blauer makes it easy to get ready for a day on the slopes.

Family-Friendly Services at Big Bear and Nearby Resorts

            • Bear Mountain: Bear Mountain offers the Bear Mountain Ski & Snowboard School for children, where kids can participate in fun and interactive lessons. It’s an ideal place for kids to learn snowboarding or skiing in a safe, encouraging environment.

            • Snow Summit: Snow Summit’s Adventure Academy is specifically designed for families with young children. The academy provides structured lessons for kids in a nurturing and engaging environment.

            • Snow Valley: With its Children’s Learning Center, Snow Valley caters to beginners and young kids with gentle, wide-open slopes and affordable lessons. It’s perfect for first-timers.

Big Bear, CA, and the nearby areas offer some of the best skiing and snowboarding in Southern California, with options for all skill levels. Whether you prefer the freestyle parks at Bear Mountain, the family-friendly atmosphere of Snow Summit, or the quiet slopes at Snow Valley, you’ll find a resort that fits your needs. Be sure to check out the rental shops in the area and take advantage of the night skiing options for an extended adventure on the slopes. With so many choices, Big Bear is the perfect winter destination for everyone, from beginners to seasoned pros.