Scenic Mountain Expeditions

Take The Plunge

Early March brings one of the town’s most popular fundraisers, the Polar Plunge. Brave the cold waters of Big Bear Lake, party with friends, and be freezin' for a reason as you support the regional Special Olympics. Lodging businesses offer special rates for participants.

Longer days and carpets of wildflowers mean spring has sprung. Sure, it’s time to put away the skis, but the good times don’t skip a beat. BY ERIC HISS

- DAY1

ELEVATED EXPLORATIONS

Get into vacay mode on a leisurely half-mile guided nature walk at the Big Bear Discovery Center. During the free one-hour tour, a friendly naturalist leads the way, sharing information about local wildlife. Next, two wheels are one great way to experience Big Bear. No matter how you roll, local outfits like Bear Valley Bikes and Goldsmiths Sports have you covered, whether you just want to cruise the town, go on a road bike excursion, or take on a singletrack in one of the world’s top mountain-biking destinations. Board an afternoon Helicopter Big Bear tour for unrivaled mountaintop and lake views. After all the excitement, it’s time to wine, dine, and compare social posts at a beloved local institution such as Captains Anchorage

- DAY2

SOAR, SPLASH, AND SAUNTER

Start the day with an adrenaline-fueled, fresh-air adventure. Families with little ones love the views and thrills at Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain, which includes attractions like the Alpine Slide and Mineshaft Coaster. If flying through the forest is more your speed, Action Zipline & Segway Tours will have you soaring like an eagle on their zipline course.

Now that you’ve experienced the mountains, get ready for some play time on the lake. Whatever floats your boat, be it kayak, canoe, stand-up paddleboard, or even a tour on a full-sized paddlewheeler, local operators like Paddles and Pedals and Pine Knot Marina have your watercraft. Spring is prime fishing season, and Cantrell Guide Service can take you out to cast a line. The three-hour charters include the chartered boat, rods, reels, and tackle.

Cap your day with a stellar sunset trail ride at Baldwin Lake Stables. They welcome all levels and will take you into pristine areas in the Valley’s scenic east end. Settle in for a casual dinner at Nottinghams Tavern, where you can soak up the cinematic ambience—John Wayne was among the stars who frequented this establishment in the 1960s when it was the Robinhood Inn.

- DAY3

All About Balance

Trailblaze the backcountry with Betty’s Buggies or Big Bear Off-Road Experience Bragging rights earned, it’s time to downshift and explore inviting shops such as Chirp Nature Center and Big Bear Sporting Goods before treating yourself to a well-deserved spa treatment at Elevations Day Spa. As you float out of the spa, make your way to Big Bear Bar & Grill and raise a glass to your travel companions as you celebrate an unforgettable weekend and a lifetime of memories made at Big Bear Lake.