Summer In Big Bear
Summer in Big Bear Lake, CA, brings clear blue skies, warm sunny days, and a cool mountain breeze, making it the perfect season for outdoor activities. Whether you’re into hiking, biking, swimming, or simply soaking in the beauty of the lake, there’s no shortage of adventures to enjoy in Big Bear. This guide will walk you through the best things to do in Big Bear during the summer, including top hiking and biking trails, swimming spots, boating and fishing areas, family-friendly activities, and summer events.
Best Summer Hiking Trails
Summer is a prime season for hiking in Big Bear, with trails offering breathtaking views of the lake, forests, and surrounding mountains. Here are some of the best summer hikes to explore:
Castle Rock Trail
Castle Rock Trail is one of the most popular trails in Big Bear, known for its scenic views of Big Bear Lake and the surrounding forest. This moderately difficult 2.6-mile round-trip trail is shaded by pine trees, making it a great option for hot summer days.
• Why It’s Great for Summer: With cooler mountain temperatures and plenty of shade, Castle Rock is a refreshing hike for a summer afternoon.
Pine Knot Trail to Grand View Point
Pine Knot Trail is a 6.9-mile moderate hike that takes you to Grand View Point, offering stunning panoramic views of the San Bernardino Mountains. Summer wildflowers bloom along the trail, adding color to the already scenic route.
• Why It’s Great for Summer: The elevation keeps temperatures cooler, and the wildflowers make it an especially beautiful hike during summer.
Cougar Crest Trail
Cougar Crest Trail is a 5.5-mile trail that connects to the Pacific Crest Trail, offering stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. It’s moderately challenging but rewards hikers with incredible scenery.
• Why It’s Great for Summer: The trail offers a cool breeze, shaded areas, and a challenging yet rewarding adventure for hikers looking to explore in the summer.
Best Summer Biking Spots
Whether you’re a mountain biking enthusiast or prefer a leisurely ride along the lake, Big Bear offers some of the best biking trails in Southern California.
Skyline Trail
Skyline Trail is Big Bear’s premier mountain biking trail, offering 15 miles of singletrack riding along the ridgeline with sweeping views of the lake and surrounding mountains. It’s great for intermediate to advanced riders.
• Skill Level: Intermediate to advanced.
• Why It’s Great for Summer: The cool mountain air, paired with thrilling descents, makes this a must-ride trail during the summer months.
Alpine Pedal Path
Alpine Pedal Path is perfect for casual cyclists and families. This 5.4-mile paved path runs along the north shore of Big Bear Lake, offering beautiful views and a peaceful ride.
• Skill Level: Beginner.
• Why It’s Great for Summer: The flat, easy terrain makes it perfect for a leisurely summer bike ride while enjoying lake views.
Snow Summit Bike Park
Snow Summit Bike Park offers lift-serviced mountain biking trails, making it a top destination for thrill-seeking riders. The park features trails for all skill levels, from beginner to advanced.
• Skill Level: Beginner to advanced.
• Why It’s Great for Summer: With chairlifts running all summer long, Snow Summit provides an exciting downhill biking experience for all levels.
Swimming & Beaches
When the summer heat rolls in, cool off at one of Big Bear’s many swimming spots. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly beach or a secluded spot to relax, Big Bear Lake has it all.
Swim Beach at Meadow Park
Swim Beach is the most popular spot for swimming in Big Bear. Located in Meadow Park, the beach features a designated swimming area, lifeguards, picnic tables, and a playground.
• Why It’s Great for Summer: It’s a safe, family-friendly spot with plenty of amenities, including shallow areas for kids and ample space to sunbathe.
Boulder Bay Park
Boulder Bay is one of the most beautiful and serene spots in Big Bear. Known for its scenic rock formations and calm waters, it’s a great place to enjoy a swim, rent a kayak, or have a picnic.
• Why It’s Great for Summer: Boulder Bay’s peaceful surroundings make it the perfect spot for a relaxing summer day by the water.
Boating & Fishing
Big Bear Lake is a prime destination for boating and fishing during the summer. Whether you’re looking to rent a boat, kayak, or go fishing, the lake offers endless possibilities.
Big Bear Marina
Big Bear Marina is the go-to spot for boat rentals, including pontoons, fishing boats, kayaks, and paddleboards. Spend the day cruising around the lake, enjoying the summer breeze and stunning views.
• Why It’s Great for Summer: The calm waters and warm weather make boating an ideal way to experience Big Bear Lake in the summer.
Fishing on Big Bear Lake
Summer is prime time for fishing in Big Bear Lake, especially for trout. Anglers can expect to catch rainbow trout, bass, and catfish, making it a great destination for both seasoned fishermen and beginners.
• Best Fishing Spots: Popular fishing spots include Stanfield Cutoff, East Boat Ramp, and Boulder Bay.
• Why It’s Great for Summer: The lake’s clear waters and abundant fish make it a favorite for anglers looking to spend a peaceful summer day on the water.
Things to Do with Kids in the Summer
Big Bear offers a wide variety of kid-friendly activities that will keep the whole family entertained during the summer months.
Big Bear Alpine Zoo
Big Bear Alpine Zoo is home to rescued animals native to the San Bernardino Mountains. Kids will love seeing black bears, mountain lions, eagles, and other wildlife up close.
• Why It’s Great for Summer: The cool mountain temperatures make it the perfect time to visit the zoo and learn about the region’s wildlife.
Pirate Ship Tour on Big Bear Lake
Pirate Ship Tour is a fun and interactive way for kids to explore Big Bear Lake. This replica pirate ship offers lake tours with swashbuckling fun and scenic views.
• Why It’s Great for Summer: The cool breezes on the lake and the interactive nature of the tour make it a family favorite during the summer.
Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain
Alpine Slide is a classic summer attraction in Big Bear, offering thrilling bobsled-style rides down the mountain, mini-golf, and a water slide.
• Why It’s Great for Summer: The alpine slide and water slide provide a fun way for families to cool off while enjoying the summer sunshine.
Summer Events in Big Bear
Big Bear’s summer calendar is filled with exciting events, from fireworks on the 4th of July to live music under the stars.
Big Bear Independence Day Fireworks Spectacular
4th of July Fireworks is one of Big Bear’s biggest summer events. The fireworks display over the lake is one of the most impressive in Southern California, attracting visitors from all over.
• Why It’s Great for Summer: A day filled with lakeside activities, BBQs, and an evening of spectacular fireworks makes this a perfect summer celebration.
Tour de Big Bear
Tour de Big Bear is a premier cycling event that takes place in August, offering riders of all levels the chance to tackle the mountain’s challenging terrain.
• Why It’s Great for Summer: The cool mountain weather and scenic routes make this one of the best cycling events in Southern California.
Music in The Mountains
Music in The Mountains is a summer concert series held at Snow Summit, featuring live performances from tribute bands and local musicians.
• Why It’s Great for Summer: Enjoy live music in an outdoor setting surrounded by the beauty of the mountains, making it a perfect summer evening activity.
Summer in Big Bear, CA, is filled with adventure, relaxation, and plenty of fun for the whole family. From hiking and biking on scenic trails to boating and fishing on the lake, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the great outdoors. With family-friendly attractions, vibrant summer events, and beautiful weather, Big Bear is the ultimate summer destination for visitors of all ages.