Spring In Big Bear

Spring is a magical time in Big Bear, CA, when the snow begins to melt, and the mountains come alive with vibrant colors, blooming wildflowers, and abundant wildlife. The crisp air and mild temperatures make it the perfect season for outdoor adventures, whether you’re hiking, biking, fishing, or enjoying the lake. In this guide, we’ll cover the best things to do in Big Bear during the spring, including hiking and biking trails, places to spot wildlife and wildflowers, family-friendly activities, and much more.

Best Spring Hiking Trails

As the snow melts, Big Bear’s extensive network of hiking trails opens up, offering a mix of easy, moderate, and challenging hikes. Spring is the ideal time to enjoy these trails, with blooming wildflowers and active wildlife.

Castle Rock Trail

Castle Rock Trail is one of the most popular hikes in Big Bear and is known for its stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The trail is 2.6 miles round trip and offers a moderate challenge with some steep sections.

            • Wildflower Spotting: Spring brings out a variety of wildflowers along the trail, making it a picturesque hike.

            • Kid-Friendly: Yes, although some sections may be challenging for younger children.

Pine Knot Trail 

Pine Knot Trail is a 6.9-mile trail that starts near the Aspen Glen Picnic Area. This moderate trail is perfect for springtime hiking, as it weaves through pine forests and offers spectacular views of San Gorgonio Mountain.

            • Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for deer, birds, and other wildlife as they become more active in spring.

            • Kid-Friendly: Suitable for older kids and families looking for a longer adventure.

Cougar Crest Trail

Cougar Crest Trail connects to the Pacific Crest Trail and offers breathtaking views of Big Bear Lake. At 5.5 miles round trip, this trail is moderately difficult but rewards hikers with incredible scenery.

            • What to Expect: The trail passes through pine forests and meadows, making it a great spot for spotting wildflowers in the spring.

Best Biking Spots in Spring 

Big Bear’s biking trails start to reopen as the snow melts, and spring is a great time to explore the area on two wheels. The cool temperatures and blooming scenery make for a fantastic ride.

Skyline Trail

Skyline Trail is one of the most popular mountain biking trails in Big Bear, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. This 15-mile singletrack trail runs along the ridgeline and is great for intermediate to advanced riders.

            • Difficulty: Intermediate to Advanced.

            • Spring Views: The trail offers fantastic views of the San Bernardino Mountains and Big Bear Lake, with springtime flowers dotting the landscape.

Alpine Pedal Path

Alpine Pedal Path is perfect for families or casual cyclists looking for an easy, scenic ride. This 5.4-mile paved path runs along the north shore of Big Bear Lake and offers beautiful lake views.

            • Kid-Friendly: Yes, it’s great for families with kids of all ages.

            • What to Expect: The flat path makes it accessible for all skill levels, and it’s a wonderful way to enjoy the spring scenery.

Big Bear Mountain Resort Bike Park

Big Bear Mountain Resort Bike Park offers lift-serviced mountain biking trails, perfect for adrenaline-seeking riders. While more advanced trails may still have snow, the lower trails begin to open up in late spring.

            • What to Expect: Trails of varying difficulty, from beginner to expert, and stunning views of the lake and forest.

Boating & Fishing

Spring marks the beginning of the boating and fishing season in Big Bear, as the lake begins to thaw and the fish become more active. Whether you’re looking to rent a boat or fish from the shore, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy Big Bear Lake in the spring.

Big Bear Marina

Big Bear Marina offers boat rentals, fishing charters, and tours. Spring is a great time to get out on the lake, with fewer crowds and calm waters.

            • What to Expect: Rent a pontoon, kayak, or fishing boat and enjoy the peaceful waters of Big Bear Lake.

Fishing Spots

Spring is a prime time for trout fishing in Big Bear Lake. Popular fishing spots include the East Boat Ramp, Stanfield Cutoff, and Meadow Park.

            • Fishing Licenses: Don’t forget to purchase a fishing license, which is required for anyone over the age of 16.

            • Types of Fish: Spring fishing is best for catching rainbow trout, but you might also reel in bass, catfish, or bluegill.

Swimming & Beaches

As the weather warms up, Big Bear’s swimming spots start to open up for the season. While the water can still be chilly in early spring, by late spring, it’s perfect for a refreshing dip.

Swim Beach at Meadow Park 

Swim Beach is the most popular spot for swimming in Big Bear. Located within Meadow Park, this designated swimming area opens in late spring and offers lifeguards, picnic areas, and plenty of space for families.

            • Kid-Friendly: Yes, with shallow areas and lifeguards on duty during peak hours.

Boulder Bay Park

Boulder Bay is another scenic spot where families can enjoy picnicking by the lake and wading in the shallow water. While not specifically a swimming beach, it’s a great spot to enjoy the lake views in spring.

• Kid-Friendly: Yes, with shallow water, picnic tables, and grassy areas.

Spotting Wildflowers & Wildlife

Spring in Big Bear is the perfect time to explore the natural beauty of the area, with vibrant wildflowers in bloom and wildlife becoming more active.

Wildflower Spotting

You can find a variety of wildflowers along many of Big Bear’s hiking trails in spring, including Castle Rock Trail and Pine Knot Trail. Keep an eye out for lupines, wild iris, and California poppies, which bloom throughout the season.

 

Wildlife Viewing

Spring is a great time to spot wildlife in Big Bear, including deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species. Stanfield Marsh Wildlife and Waterfowl Preserve is a prime spot for birdwatching, and you may even spot bald eagles nesting near the lake.

Things to Do with Kids in Spring

Big Bear is a fantastic family destination in spring, with plenty of activities for kids to enjoy.

            • Big Bear Alpine Zoo

Big Bear Alpine Zoo is a must-visit for families. The zoo focuses on rehabilitation and education, with a variety of animals that are native to the region, including black bears, mountain lions, and bald eagles.

            • Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain

Alpine Slide offers year-round fun with its bobsled-style slide and mini-golf course, making it a perfect springtime activity for families.

            • Pirate Ship Tours

Take a Pirate Ship Tour on Big Bear Lake with Big Bear Pirate Ship, a fun adventure for kids and adults alike. The replica pirate ship offers lake tours with a bit of swashbuckling fun.

Spring Events

Big Bear’s calendar is full of spring events, making it a lively and exciting time to visit.

            • Grizzly 100 & Gran Fondo Mountain Bike Races

Grizzly 100 kicks off in late spring, attracting mountain bikers from around the region to race on some of Big Bear’s most challenging trails.

            • Big Bear Lake Memorial Day Weekend Festival

Memorial Day Weekend in Big Bear is a celebration of the start of summer, with live music, food, and festivities in The Village.

Spring in Big Bear, CA, offers a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. Whether you’re hiking through wildflower-filled trails, biking along scenic paths, or enjoying a family-friendly activity by the lake, there’s something for everyone. With mild temperatures and fewer crowds than the busy summer season, spring is the ideal time to explore everything Big Bear has to offer. Plan your trip to experience the magic of Big Bear in full bloom!