Plan a Trip
Get Ready for Alpine Good Times
The Ultimate Guide
Step-By-Step Recommendations for Planning Your Next Trip
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Organizing a getaway to an unexplored town can feel like a daunting task. Where does one initiate the planning process? What will be the overall cost of the trip? How far are the different attractions situated from each other? To alleviate some of the planning stress, we've compiled this guide to assist you.
We recommend approaching the planning process in the following order:
We recommend approaching the planning process in the following order:
- Locate Big Bear Mountain Resort from your starting point
- Determine the ideal duration of your stay
- Book lodging accommodation
- Plan your transportation routes
- Reserve activities
- Explore events
- Prepare a packing list
- Identify dining options
Locate Big Bear Mountain Resort
Big Bear Mountain Resort manages two bike parks and a 9-hole golf course in the summer months in the San Bernardino National Forest in Southern California. Snow Valley is positioned in Running Springs, CA, while Snow Summit and Bear Mountain Golf Course are both situated in Big Bear Lake, CA. Depending on Southern California traffic, it is estimated to take less than 3 hours from Los Angeles, Orange County, or San Diego as your starting points.
Snow Valley is 13 miles from Snow Summit. From there, Bear Mountain Golf Course is less than 2 miles from Snow Summit. rich-text, responsive-table
Big Bear Mountain Resort manages two bike parks and a 9-hole golf course in the summer months in the San Bernardino National Forest in Southern California. Snow Valley is positioned in Running Springs, CA, while Snow Summit and Bear Mountain Golf Course are both situated in Big Bear Lake, CA. Depending on Southern California traffic, it is estimated to take less than 3 hours from Los Angeles, Orange County, or San Diego as your starting points.
Snow Valley is 13 miles from Snow Summit. From there, Bear Mountain Golf Course is less than 2 miles from Snow Summit. rich-text, responsive-table
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Determine the Ideal Duration of Your Stay
This guide centers on Big Bear Mountain Resort, emphasizing mountain biking, hiking, and golfing. It does not encompass the various other activities available in the area of Big Bear Lake, such as the lake activities, bowling, shopping in the village, or other mountain activities. We suggest allocating at least 2 days to fully explore our three properties. Approximate time you'll need for each activity includes:
9-Hole Golf Round: 2-3 hours
Mountain Biking: 3-6 hours
Basecamp Activities: 2-6 hours
Hiking: 2-6 hours
Pro tip: Start your day at Bear Mountain golf course and then visit Snow Summit for some cross-country or downhill MTB laps before visiting Snow Valley before heading down the hill. Snow Valley's bike park is open on Fridays until 6PM or 7PM. rich-text, responsive-table
This guide centers on Big Bear Mountain Resort, emphasizing mountain biking, hiking, and golfing. It does not encompass the various other activities available in the area of Big Bear Lake, such as the lake activities, bowling, shopping in the village, or other mountain activities. We suggest allocating at least 2 days to fully explore our three properties. Approximate time you'll need for each activity includes:
9-Hole Golf Round: 2-3 hours
Mountain Biking: 3-6 hours
Basecamp Activities: 2-6 hours
Hiking: 2-6 hours
Pro tip: Start your day at Bear Mountain golf course and then visit Snow Summit for some cross-country or downhill MTB laps before visiting Snow Valley before heading down the hill. Snow Valley's bike park is open on Fridays until 6PM or 7PM. rich-text, responsive-table
Book Lodging Accommodation
As of now, Big Bear Mountain Resort does not own or oversee any lodging properties. However, we are here to assist you with recommendations for some suitable options near our mountains.
Pro tip: While a distance of 4+ miles may not seem extensive, it's essential to consider that mountain towns often have limited road access, leading to potentially doubling the usual drive time. Please plan for triple or more of the typical time, particularly during heavy snow conditions, holidays, weekends, and peak periods, to ensure a more accurate estimation of travel time. rich-text, responsive-table
As of now, Big Bear Mountain Resort does not own or oversee any lodging properties. However, we are here to assist you with recommendations for some suitable options near our mountains.
Pro tip: While a distance of 4+ miles may not seem extensive, it's essential to consider that mountain towns often have limited road access, leading to potentially doubling the usual drive time. Please plan for triple or more of the typical time, particularly during heavy snow conditions, holidays, weekends, and peak periods, to ensure a more accurate estimation of travel time. rich-text, responsive-table
Near Snow Valley (Running Springs)
Please note that there are limited lodging choices near Snow Valley in Running Springs. We strongly recommend planning your visit to Snow Valley either on your way up or down from Big Bear Lake. When conducting your search near Snow Valley consider exploring the following areas:
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Please note that there are limited lodging choices near Snow Valley in Running Springs. We strongly recommend planning your visit to Snow Valley either on your way up or down from Big Bear Lake. When conducting your search near Snow Valley consider exploring the following areas:
- Running Springs (main area) - approx. 6 miles away
- Green Valley - approx. 8 miles away
- Arrowbear Lake - approx. 5 miles away
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Near Snow Summit & Bear Mountain (Big Bear Lake)
In contrast to other popular resort destinations characterized by condos and tall hotels, Big Bear Lake stands out for its inviting cabin-style accommodations. We highly recommend opting for a charming A-frame or a spacious house cabin rental to truly immerse yourself in the distinctive 'Big Bear' experience. When conducting your search in the Big Bear Valley, consider exploring the following areas:
Closest to the Resorts
If you're planning a multi-day stay, make sure to secure your lodging reservations directly through BigBear.com before arriving.
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In contrast to other popular resort destinations characterized by condos and tall hotels, Big Bear Lake stands out for its inviting cabin-style accommodations. We highly recommend opting for a charming A-frame or a spacious house cabin rental to truly immerse yourself in the distinctive 'Big Bear' experience. When conducting your search in the Big Bear Valley, consider exploring the following areas:
Closest to the Resorts
- Big Bear Lake - approx. 1 mile away
- Moonridge area - approx. 2 miles away
- Fox Farm area - approx. 1 mile away
- Boulder Bay area (west side of the lake) - approx. 4 miles away
- Big Bear City - approx. 5 miles away
- North Shore area - approx. 4 miles away
- Sugarloaf area - approximately 9 miles away
- Fawnskin area (north side of the lake) - approx. 6 mile away
If you're planning a multi-day stay, make sure to secure your lodging reservations directly through BigBear.com before arriving.
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Big Bear Lake Village
In addition to wanting to stay near the resorts, you'll also want to take into consideration the popular town attraction, the Big Bear Lake's Village. Located only a mile from Snow Summit and Bear Mountain, The Village offers a charming blend of shops, restaurants, and entertainment, providing a vibrant and convenient hub for visitors.
Pro tip: Hop on the free Mountain Transit to get around Big Bear Lake.
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In addition to wanting to stay near the resorts, you'll also want to take into consideration the popular town attraction, the Big Bear Lake's Village. Located only a mile from Snow Summit and Bear Mountain, The Village offers a charming blend of shops, restaurants, and entertainment, providing a vibrant and convenient hub for visitors.
Pro tip: Hop on the free Mountain Transit to get around Big Bear Lake.
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Visitors Center
Next time you’re enjoying all of the shopping, dining, and entertainment that Big Bear has to offer, be sure to stop by the Big Bear Mountain Resort shop inside the Big Bear Visitors Center, located on the corner of Big Bear Blvd. and Pine Knot Avenue at 40824 Big Bear Blvd, #B, Big Bear Lake, 92315.
If you need to purchase tickets, rent equipment, book a lesson, or just want to learn more about BBMR’s activities and upcoming events, you'll save time and get on the hill faster by stopping by the BBMR Visitors Center shop before making your way to the mountains.
If you need to purchase tickets, rent equipment, book a lesson, or just want to learn more about BBMR’s activities and upcoming events, you'll save time and get on the hill faster by stopping by the BBMR Visitors Center shop before making your way to the mountains.
Plan Your Transportation
Given Snow Valley's mid-way position on the San Bernardino mountains, you can reach it by taking either Hwy 330 or Hwy 18 through Running Springs. On the other hand, to reach Snow Summit or Bear Mountain, you have three options, as Big Bear Lake is positioned at the mountaintop.
While Big Bear Mountain Resort doesn't provide transportation, except for the intermountain shuttle between Snow Summit and Bear Mountain, we have compiled some suggestions on transportation options for your convenience, whether you're traveling from the beach cities or airports. rich-text, responsive-table
Given Snow Valley's mid-way position on the San Bernardino mountains, you can reach it by taking either Hwy 330 or Hwy 18 through Running Springs. On the other hand, to reach Snow Summit or Bear Mountain, you have three options, as Big Bear Lake is positioned at the mountaintop.
While Big Bear Mountain Resort doesn't provide transportation, except for the intermountain shuttle between Snow Summit and Bear Mountain, we have compiled some suggestions on transportation options for your convenience, whether you're traveling from the beach cities or airports. rich-text, responsive-table
Closest Airports
- Big Bear Airport (4 miles / 6 km)*
- Ontario International Airport (58 miles / 93 km)
- Palm Springs International Airport (85 miles / 136 km)
- John Wayne Airport, Orange County (92 miles / 148 km)
- Palmdale Regional Airport (100 miles / 161 km)
- Los Angeles International Airport (118 miles / 190 km)
*Private and charter aircraft only.
LAX/Beach Cities to Base Areas
Whether you're looking for ways to get from the beach cities to Big Bear Mountain Resort or have flown in from Los Angeles Airport, take the Metrolink to the San Bernardino Station, then connect to Mountain Transit to arrive directly to the base areas.
Route: multiple routes required
Operated by: Metrolink and Mountain Transit
Travel Time: varies based on pick up/drop off location
Metrolink Website
Route: multiple routes required
Operated by: Metrolink and Mountain Transit
Travel Time: varies based on pick up/drop off location
Metrolink Website
Running Springs to Big Bear Lake
To travel from Snow Valley to Snow Summit and Bear Mountain, you can take advantage of Mountain Transit. Simply board the Mountain Transit Route 5 Off the Mountain (OTM) for a convenient ride from Running Springs to Big Bear Lake. Please be aware that delays and operations could be impacted during snowy and challenging road conditions.
Route: Route 5 on the Mountain Transit on Hwy 18 from Running Springs to Big Bear Lake
Operated by: Mountain Transit
Travel Time: approx 30-40 minutes
Off the Mountain Route
Route: Route 5 on the Mountain Transit on Hwy 18 from Running Springs to Big Bear Lake
Operated by: Mountain Transit
Travel Time: approx 30-40 minutes
Off the Mountain Route
Around Town to Resort Base Areas
Whether you're staying a few days in the Big Bear Valley area or have parked in a parking lot not operated by Big Bear Mountain Resort, you can easily take the Big Bear Trolley to get from anywhere in the town to Snow Summit and Bear Mountain.
Route: Red Line on the Big Bear Trolley
Operated by: Mountain Transit
Travel Time: varies based on pick up/drop off location
Find Routes
Route: Red Line on the Big Bear Trolley
Operated by: Mountain Transit
Travel Time: varies based on pick up/drop off location
Find Routes
Off Site Parking Lots to the Resort Base Areas
Visitors who have parked in the offsite parking areas in Big Bear Lake owned/operated by Big Bear Mountain Resort can board the parking shuttles, which will transport them directly to Snow Summit or Bear Mountain's base areas.
Route: to/from Sandalwood Lot, Fox Farm Lot, Brownie Lane Lot, Moonridge Lot, and Backward Look Lot to Snow Summit and Bear Mountain base areas
Operated by: Big Bear Mountain Resort
Travel Time: approx 5-10 minutes
Currently, Snow Valley does not offer off-site parking facilities, and this service is not accessible to guests who have parked near Snow Valley.
Route: to/from Sandalwood Lot, Fox Farm Lot, Brownie Lane Lot, Moonridge Lot, and Backward Look Lot to Snow Summit and Bear Mountain base areas
Operated by: Big Bear Mountain Resort
Travel Time: approx 5-10 minutes
Currently, Snow Valley does not offer off-site parking facilities, and this service is not accessible to guests who have parked near Snow Valley.
Intermountain Shuttle
Once you're at either Snow Summit or Bear Mountain, visit both mountains in the same day by taking the Intermountain Shuttle service every 30 minutes on select dates throughout the season.
Route: to/from Snow Summit and Bear Mountain
Operated by: Big Bear Mountain Resort
Travel Time: approx 10 minutes
For transportation from Snow Valley in Running Springs to Snow Summit and Bear Mountain in Big Bear Lake, please see the Mountain Transit information provided below.
Route: to/from Snow Summit and Bear Mountain
Operated by: Big Bear Mountain Resort
Travel Time: approx 10 minutes
For transportation from Snow Valley in Running Springs to Snow Summit and Bear Mountain in Big Bear Lake, please see the Mountain Transit information provided below.
Hwy 330 to Hwy 18 RS
Shortest Distance
The shortest and quickest way for visitors coming from Los Angeles, Orange County, and other points west is Hwy 330 / Hwy 18 through Running Springs. Please note that this route can become very congested on the weekends during peak season.
The shortest and quickest way for visitors coming from Los Angeles, Orange County, and other points west is Hwy 330 / Hwy 18 through Running Springs. Please note that this route can become very congested on the weekends during peak season.
Hwy 18 RS
Alternative Route Avoiding Hwy 330
This is a great alternative route for visitors coming from the West. Hwy 18 through Running Springs bypasses Hwy 330 and connects straight through to Big Bear Lake and vice versa.
This is a great alternative route for visitors coming from the West. Hwy 18 through Running Springs bypasses Hwy 330 and connects straight through to Big Bear Lake and vice versa.
Hwy 38
Scenic Route, Less Switchbacks
Though the drive on this route takes a bit longer (approx 20 minutes), it is typically less congested than Hwy 330 / Hwy 18. This route will take you the back way through Redlands.
Though the drive on this route takes a bit longer (approx 20 minutes), it is typically less congested than Hwy 330 / Hwy 18. This route will take you the back way through Redlands.
Hwy 18 LV
Travel Through Lucerne Valley
Hwy 18 is the quickest way to/from Barstow, Las Vegas, and other high desert locations. This route has the least amount of mountain driving.
Hwy 18 is the quickest way to/from Barstow, Las Vegas, and other high desert locations. This route has the least amount of mountain driving.
Traveling to and from Big Bear Mountain Resort presents a considerable challenge when storms are prevalent.
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Reserve Your Activities Online in Advance
With your lodging and transportation arrangements in place, it's time to dive into booking your activities. Embracing the summer months (usually from June to October, contingent on conditions), Big Bear Mountain Resort provides a thrilling array of options, including mountain biking, hiking, golfing, zip lining, tubing, and much more.
Beyond access to the terrains, the resort offers mountain biking lessons, along with equipment rentals. Explore each tab for comprehensive insights on your requirements and guidance on how to make your purchases. rich-text, responsive-table
With your lodging and transportation arrangements in place, it's time to dive into booking your activities. Embracing the summer months (usually from June to October, contingent on conditions), Big Bear Mountain Resort provides a thrilling array of options, including mountain biking, hiking, golfing, zip lining, tubing, and much more.
Beyond access to the terrains, the resort offers mountain biking lessons, along with equipment rentals. Explore each tab for comprehensive insights on your requirements and guidance on how to make your purchases. rich-text, responsive-table
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Snow Valley and Summit Bike Park features Southern California’s premier lift-served, gravity-fed bike parks, with trails and terrain for riders of all ages and ability levels. Buy your lift ticket online and explore other MTB offerings like equipment rentals and lessons.
Pro tip: Upgrade your MTB lift ticket by adding on lunch at a discounted rate during checkout.
Trail Overview
Buy MTB Lift Tickets Online
Snow Summit
Once Snow Summit bike park opens, operations will be offered daily.
Advanced Purchase Rate Day-Of/Window Rate Monday - Thursday $45-$55 $59 Friday - Sunday $50-$65 $65-$69
Snow Valley
Once Snow Valley bike park opens, operations will be offered Friday through Sunday only.
Advanced Purchase Rate Day-Of/Window Rate Friday $29-$34 $39 Saturday - Sunday $34-$39 $44-$49
The earlier you buy, the greater the savings. Purchase your lift tickets online and save big compared to window rates. Below are approximate price ranges for BBMR full-day lift tickets based on adults. Lift ticket costs are based on participant's age, date of arrival, and peak/holiday periods. Prices subject to change at any time.
Why You Should Book in Advance
- The earlier you buy, the more you save
- Guarantee resort access as tickets will sell out during peak and holiday periods
- Go straight to a kiosk to pick up your ticket, no need to stand in line at the ticket window
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Take a ride on the Scenic Sky Chair to enjoy panoramic views of the San Bernardino National Forest on a mile-long ascent before arriving at the top of Snow Valley (elevation 7,841 feet) or Snow Summit (elevation 8,200 feet). All Scenic Sky Chair lift tickets are valid for one (1) round-trip ride. Get up to 2 free child lift tickets (ages 12 & under) per paying adult.
With Lunch Without Lunch Monday - Thursday $35 $25-$29 Friday - Sunday $49 $25-$29
Check out more things to do in Big Bear Lake with kids. rich-text, responsive-table -
Big Bear Mountain Resort also offers several base area activities that are perfect for little explorers and thrill-seekers alike, including a 30-foot Climbing Wall, Euro Bungee Trampoline, Kids Full Throttle Course, and Zip Line. All activities are located in the Snow Summit Basecamp area, next to the Adventure Academy on the west end of the base area.
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Big Bear Mountain Resort is home to some of Southern California’s best hiking, from leisurely mountaintop laps with picturesque lake views to an extensive network of Forest Service trails that are easily accessible from the Snow Valley and Snow Summit base areas. Check out the Bobsled Trail for an enjoyable 2-mile top-to-bottom trek featuring breathtaking views of SoCal's tallest mountain, Mt. San Gorgonio (elevation 11,500 feet).
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Upcoming Events
Join us for unforgettable moments and create lasting memories at Big Bear Mountain Resort. Check our event calendar for the latest updates and plan your visit to be part of the excitement.
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Join us for unforgettable moments and create lasting memories at Big Bear Mountain Resort. Check our event calendar for the latest updates and plan your visit to be part of the excitement.
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What to Pack
Weather conditions and temperatures can vary greatly in the mountains. BBMR highly recommends all guests wear multiple layers. UV exposure is 2% higher for every 1,000 feet above sea level, so remember to use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher during your visit – even on cloudy days – and reapply throughout the day.
If you forget something, or just want to grab some BBMR branded gear, stop by Big Bear Sports at Snow Summit and Bear Mountain or the Sports Shop at Snow Valley, located in the base areas. For an added bonus, check out our online retail store for BBMR goodies that'll remind you of your alpine good times on-hill. rich-text, responsive-table
Weather conditions and temperatures can vary greatly in the mountains. BBMR highly recommends all guests wear multiple layers. UV exposure is 2% higher for every 1,000 feet above sea level, so remember to use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher during your visit – even on cloudy days – and reapply throughout the day.
If you forget something, or just want to grab some BBMR branded gear, stop by Big Bear Sports at Snow Summit and Bear Mountain or the Sports Shop at Snow Valley, located in the base areas. For an added bonus, check out our online retail store for BBMR goodies that'll remind you of your alpine good times on-hill. rich-text, responsive-table
Quick Checklist
- Water Bottle MTB Helmet
- Eyewear (goggles or sunglasses)
- MTB Gloves & Helmet
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
- Lip balm
- Closed toe shoes
Where to Eat
Indulge in a delightful dining experience at the ski resorts of Big Bear Mountain, where a diverse range of culinary options awaits, providing the perfect blend of nourishment and mountain ambiance for visitors seeking to refuel after their alpine adventures.
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Indulge in a delightful dining experience at the ski resorts of Big Bear Mountain, where a diverse range of culinary options awaits, providing the perfect blend of nourishment and mountain ambiance for visitors seeking to refuel after their alpine adventures.
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The Planning Doesn't Stop There
With lodging, transportation, and lift tickets secured, the next steps for your mountain trip include exploring additional activities in Big Bear Lake through the Visitors Bureau at bigbear.com, and familiarizing yourself with mountain safety measures. Additionally, consider checking out in-resort services such as the sports shop, locker rooms, and repair shops to ensure a well-rounded and prepared mountain experience.
Visit BigBear.com to Complete Your Planning rich-text, responsive-table
With lodging, transportation, and lift tickets secured, the next steps for your mountain trip include exploring additional activities in Big Bear Lake through the Visitors Bureau at bigbear.com, and familiarizing yourself with mountain safety measures. Additionally, consider checking out in-resort services such as the sports shop, locker rooms, and repair shops to ensure a well-rounded and prepared mountain experience.
Visit BigBear.com to Complete Your Planning rich-text, responsive-table
Prioritizing Safety on the Hill
Big Bear Mountain Resort boasts the most extensive downhill mountain biking trails. We strongly urge you to familiarize yourself with the safety rules and policies and prioritize your well-being while on the hill this season.
On-Site Services
From on-hill emergency patrol to base area locker rooms and repair shops, learn more about the on-site services available.
Checking In
Big Bear Mountain Resort offers direct-to-lift, rental shop, and lesson check in. Learn more about how to skip the ticket windows and head straight to the chairs.
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