24 minute read
Get Out and Play
Big Bear’s sunny days and fluffy powder make for perfect skiing and snowboarding conditions.
Get Outside and Play
BIG BEAR LAKE IS THE BEST PLACE IN SOCAL TO ESCAPE INTO THE WIDE-OPEN OUTDOORS. SO GRAB YOUR GEAR (OR PICK SOME UP WHEN YOU ARRIVE), AND COME OUTSIDE!
In Southern California’s top four-season mountain town, you can enjoy well-groomed ski runs, rugged hiking and biking trails with beautiful views, and warm sunny days paddling on the lake. This jewel of the San Bernardino Mountains beguiles visitors with a wide variety of experiences all year round. All you have to do is choose your own open-air adventure.
GET THE GEAR
Find the perfect fit. Big Bear Mountain Resort offers a variety of gear rentals. Packages include skis, boots, and poles for skiing, and boots, bindings, and boards for snowboarding; add on helmets and snow pants à la carte. The resort also has a concierge service that will fit you at your cabin or hotel.
Stock up at Goldsmith’s Sports, which provides packages for different skill levels. You can also get fitted for gear at the Big Bear Mountain Resort Station. —Lauren Bonney
CARE FOR BIG BEAR
Our spaces are a joy to explore, and we work hard to ensure everyone has a great visit. Do your part to leave no trace: Turn to p. 5 to find places to properly dispose of plastic sleds and other snow play toys.
Let It Snow
Come December, Big Bear transforms into a snowy playground. With its frosty lake, snow-dusted forests, stand-out ski resorts, and clear blue skies, Big Bear is the ultimate spot for a glorious winter getaway.
Kids (and kids at heart) find lots to smile about on our sledding hills.
More Snow, More Fun
IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR SOMETHING TO DO OFF THE SLOPES, BIG BEAR OFFERS PLENTY OF OTHER FAMILY-FRIENDLY, SNOW-FILLED ACTIVITIES.
SNOWSHOE
Whether you’re an intrepid explorer or hesitant newcomer, snowshoeing is a great way to explore. Slowly work your way through the backwoods, or get your heart pumping with a brisk romp through serious powder. Learn more about the area with a guided tour from Big Bear Discovery Center or Action Zipline, Segway & More. Or go your own way with rentals from Goldsmith’s Sports.
BIKE
Who says you can’t bike in the snow? For a cruise around town or a spin down snow-covered backroads, rent a fat-tire bike from Bear Valley Bikes. Also known as fat bikes, these two-wheelers are fitted with oversized tires designed to glide across soft, unstable terrain.
TUBE
Truly, is there anything more fun than tubing? Ride the magic carpet up the hill, then race down on colorful inner tubes. Big Bear has three tubing areas:
Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain, Big Bear Snow
Play, and Grizzly Ridge Tube Park. Periodically, Alpine Slide and Big Bear Snow Play offer glow tubing for some nighttime sliding. —Lauren Bonney
— Meg Kee, founder of Mountain Girls Collective
SAFETY FIRST!
FIVE TIPS FOR VISITING BIG BEAR IN THE WINTER.
1STAY OFF THE LAKE The ice is thin, and not suitable for walking or skating.
2CARRY CHAINS in your car from November to April.
3BRING KITTY LITTER and a shovel to gain traction on icy roads.
4DRINK WATER You get dehydrated easily in high altitudes.
5SLED ON TUBING HILLS ONLY Avoid streets and private property.
BY THE NUMBERS
SNOW SUMMIT AND BEAR MOUNTAIN ARE MADE FOR SKIING AND SNOWBOARDING FUN. SEE HOW THE PEAKS COMPARE.
SNOW SUMMIT Founded: 1952 Skiable Terrain: 240 acres Number of Runs and Trails: 30 Vertical Drop: 1,200 feet Lifts: 10 Peak Elevation: 8,200 feet Longest Run: 1.25 miles (Westridge) Terrain Parks: 16 (+3 pipes) BEAR MOUNTAIN Founded: 1943 Skiable Terrain: 198 acres Number of Runs and Trails: 27 Vertical Drop: 1,665 feet Lifts: 8 Peak Elevation: 8,805 feet Longest Run: 1.5 miles (Geronimo) Terrain Parks: 6
Big Bear Mountain Resort BEARS EVERYWHERE
When you’re on the slopes at Snow Summit or Bear Mountain, keep an eye out for the resort’s fun-loving mascot, Biggie. He loves to snowboard!
Wintertime Hiking
Want to walk through the winter wonderland without donning snowshoes? Stroll Alpine Pedal Path, a local favorite that hugs the lakeshore for about three paved miles. The views are spectacular, and you might even see Big Bear’s wintering bald eagles. And that unusual whitedomed building at the trail’s western end? That’s the Big Bear Solar Observatory, home to one of the world’s highest resolution solar telescopes. —Matt Jaffe
Bike With Us
The Valley is known for its mountain biking trails, ranging from beginner to expert-level, as well as for its scenic road cycling. Ride up Summit Bike Park’s chairlift with your bike to access trails on and off property, or take off on any trail or road designated for cycling.
MOUNTAIN BIKING (At Summit Bike Park) Trail: Going Green Level: Beginner Distance: 4 miles Features: Gentle berms, minimal pedaling and braking, and picturesque lake views.
GEAR UP
THESE SPOTS WILL GET YOU OUTFITTED. BEAR VALLEY BIKES 40298 Big Bear Blvd. bvbikes.com 909.866.8000
GOLDSMITH’S SPORTS 42071 Big Bear Blvd. goldsmithssports.com 909.866.2728 Trail: Cabin 89 Trail Level: Intermediate Distance: 1.7 miles Features: Starting from the Aspen Glen Picnic Area, a short but thrilling ride featuring steep climbs and sharp corners.
Trail: 10-Ply Level: Advanced Distance: 1 mile Features: Mix of technical single-track terrain and natural features, including drops and rock gardens.
PADDLES AND PEDALS 40545 North Shore Ln. paddlesandpedals.com 909.936.2907
SUMMIT BIKE PARK 880 Summit Blvd. bigbearmountain resort.com 909.866.5841
DID YOU KNOW?
Pro athletes flock to Big Bear to train at altitude, and the Valley has hosted some major cycling events, ROAD CYCLING (Lake Loop and Onyx Summit are highway routes) Trail: Alpine Pedal Path Level: Beginner Distance: 3.2 miles Features: Car-free, relaxing lakeside cruise, perfect for family rides.
Trail: Lake Loop Level: Intermediate Distance: 17 miles Features: Hour-long pedal at a casual pace around the lake.
Trail: Onyx Summit Level: Advanced Distance: 9 miles Features: Ascend the highest altitude roadway in SoCal, which tops out at 8,443 feet.
Mark Your Calendars
THESE HIGH ENERGY EVENTS ARE BACK FOR 2022
Tour de Big Bear August 6
Kodiak 100 Big Bear August 19 – 20
Grizzly 100 and Big Bear MTB Gran Fondo October 8
Big Bear Turkey Trot November 24
Cyclists of all ages delight in biking Big Bear’s shady trails and drinking in the stunning lake views.
CARE FOR BIG BEAR
Weekends can get busy in Big Bear, but don’t worry — we have plenty of space to ride. If you see full parking lot at a trailhead, head to the next trail. And for traffic-free joyrides, consider making a trip during the week to enjoy our biking routes at their most pristine.
Tour de Big Bear
Gear up for Tour de Big Bear, presented by Big Bear Cycling Association. Cyclists are treated to legendary aid stations, ideal August temps, and mountain scenery. Featuring a family fun ride, 25-, 50-, 70-, and 100-mile courses, 25- and 50-mile Dirty Cub and Dirty Bear gravel rides, and cycling events and entertainment all weekend long! #ridewithus
bigbearcycling.com | G @bigbearcycling | e @bigbearcyclingassoc
Highlander Big Bear Lake
It’s the Adventure of a Lifetime. HIGHLANDER, the global long-distance hiking event series, is bringing the experience to Big Bear in fall 2022. HIGHLANDER promotes a healthy lifestyle and a digital detox while connecting with nature. HIGHLANDER Big Bear Lake is an unforgettable hiking journey that offers participants challenges and serenity while immersed in the singular setting of the San Bernardino National Forest. Take part in a 15-, 30-, or 60-mile journey; the events are open to everyone.
highlanderadventure.com G @highlanderadventure e @highlander.adventure
Hiking & Biking Map
1 ALPINE PEDAL PATH A paved path along the lakeshore, it's accessible to hikers, bikers, skaters, joggers, strollers, and wheelchairs. 3.2 miles, easy
2 WOODLAND TRAIL Take the self-guided tour to learn about the Valley’s flora, fauna, and geology. 1.5 mile, 300 feet elevation gain, easy
3 RATHBUN CREEK TRAIL Adjacent to Moonridge Road, this path provides a unique way to explore the city. 0.5 mile, easy
4 SNOW SUMMIT/GRAND VIEW LOOP BIKE TRAIL This out-and-back trail starts with a ride on the Scenic Sky Chair to Grandview Point Junction. 9 miles, intermediate
5 THE SKYLINE TRAIL Access this multiuse single-track from the east on Club View Drive, or from the west at the junction of 2N10 and 2N17. 30 miles, 160 feet elevation gain, intermediate
6 TOWNE TRAIL Enjoy a pleasant woodland hike that’s easily accessed from The Village. 3 miles, 100 feet elevation gain, easy
7 PINE KNOT TRAIL Mountain bikers can take the Scenic Sky Chair to 2N10 and follow the Pine Knot Trail west or take off from the Aspen Glen Picnic Area. 6 miles, 900 feet elevation gain, moderate 8 HAPPY HILLS TRAIL This ADA-compliant route gives hikers a view of wildlife and historical buildings. Parking available at City Hall. 0.5 mile, easy
9 CASTLE ROCK TRAIL One of Big Bear’s most popular trails, it begins one mile east of Big Bear Dam on Hwy. 18. (Note: Parking is limited.) 2.4 miles, 700 feet elevation gain, moderate to difficult
10 CHAMPION LODGEPOLE PINE TRAIL Located on the south side of the lake, this gentle walk follows a stream down to the Champion Lodgepole Pine, one of the largest known lodgepoles in the world. 0.6 mile, 100 feet elevation gain, easy
11 GRAY’S PEAK TRAIL This hike offers scenic panoramas of Big Bear Lake below. The trail is closed from winter to spring for bald eagle nesting. 7 miles, 1,000 feet elevation gain, moderate to difficult
12 GROUT BAY BIKE TRAIL This trail begins with a short climb from the Fawnskin Fire Station up to Hanna Flat Campground. 13 miles, intermediate
13 COUGAR CREST TRAIL This trail ends at the junction of the 2,600-mile-long Pacific Crest Trail. 4–7 miles, 750–1,360 feet elevation gain, moderate/difficult LEGEND
State Highway Paved Road Dirt Fire Road Designated Fire Road Bike Trail Multi-Use Path or Trail Hiking Trail Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail Interpretive Trailhead Watchable Wildlife Ranger Station Fire Station Picnic Area Adventure Pass Required PCT Access Campground Group Campground Ecological Reserve Fire Lookout Tower Visitor Center
Our trails lead to unbeatable views.
Hit the Trail
Whether you fancy a casual stroll or you crave the adrenaline-pumping experience of summiting a peak, Big Bear has the perfect trail for you. By Matt Jaffe
PEAK EXPERIENCE
On the way to the top of 8,201-foot Bertha Peak, the Cougar Crest Trail climbs through a cedar-and-pine forest to a junction with the Pacific Crest Trail. The 2,650-mile route travels between Mexico and Canada and, by taking this trail, you’ll have the chance to say, “I hiked the PCT!” (You’re really only on PCT for a few hundred yards before following the fire road that ascends to Bertha Peak, but don’t worry — we won’t tell!) This hike isn’t for the faint of heart — it’s about eight miles with a 1,300-foot elevation gain — but it delivers a big payoff: an epic view of Big Bear Lake and all the way to Mount Baldy.
LUNCH WITH A VIEW
One of the Valley’s newest hiking spots, Snow Summit’s Bobsled Trail winds past a creek and traverses meadows brightened with lupine. While much of the mountain is busy with bikers, the Bobsled Trail is open only to hikers, so you might have it to yourself as you trek two miles through forests of ponderosa pine and white fir. (No trees were removed when the trail was built.) The path, open June through October, climbs 1,200 feet to Snow Summit’s, er, summit, where you can extend your hike by tacking on the one-mile Mountain Top Loop. Or grab a picnic table outside the resort’s Skyline Taphouse, and nosh on juicy bratwursts and pulled pork sandwiches as you savor the top-of-theworld panorama of Big Bear Lake and the surrounding San Bernardino Mountains.
A CLOSE-TO-TOWN ESCAPE
Set on recently donated private land, the paths in the Maple Hill Trail System combine high desert and high country scenery. The classic hike is 3.2-mile School Loop, which winds through pines and manzanita. With about 300 feet of elevation gain, the climbing is modest, but still challenging enough to draw mountain bikers for training.
A WALK IN THE WOODS
Introduce your kids to the wonders of the mountains on 1.5-mile Woodland Trail, a gentle loop that includes 16 signed stops. The path passes a giant, gnarled western juniper estimated to be 1,500 years old. Look, too, for a Jeffrey pine pockmarked with hundreds of holes drilled by woodpeckers to stash acorns, and catch glimpses of the summit of 11,499-foot Mount San Gorgonio, SoCal’s highest peak.
LEAVE NO TRACE: HIKING TIPS FOR VISITORS
PLAN AHEAD AND PREPARE Check the weather and bring lots of water.
USE CAMPFIRES RESPONSIBLY Get your campfire permit at permit.preventwildfiresca.org.
LEAVE WHAT YOU FIND Do not take any natural items you find. Leave these treasures in the wilderness where you found them.
RESPECT WILDLIFE Give animals their distance. You’re in their home.
DISPOSE OF WASTE PROPERLY Pack it in, pack it out. Bring a bag to carry your trash.
Take Only Photographs
CAPTURE YOUR MEMORIES AT SOME OF BIG BEAR’S MOST
SCENIC SPOTS. By Olivia Olsen
Alpine Pedal Path Slung along the north shore of Big Bear Lake, this paved path welcomes cyclists, hikers, and leashed pets. GET THE SHOT: Follow an access trail to one of the tranquil beaches just off the path for family sunset selfies.
Boulder Bay Park Make a stop on your way into Big Bear at this pocket park, which delivers stunning lake and mountain views. GET THE SHOT: Walk out on the long, picturesque dock to take photos on the water. Or, come winter, snap shots of Boulder Bay’s snow-covered pines.
Woodland Trail This easy hike pairs glorious mountain views with a self-guided tour of flora and fauna, so you’ll know just what you’re oohing and aahing over — and snapping pics of! GET THE SHOT: Hike the trail in the fall to capture the leaves of the oaks in their fiery scarlet, orange, and golden glory.
QUICK TIPS FOR STELLAR SNAPS
YOU DON’T NEED PRO EQUIPMENT TO CAPTURE BIG BEAR’S LANDSCAPES. A SMARTPHONE CAMERA WILL DO!
Clean Your Lens Use a microfiber cloth to gently wipe the camera lens to get crisper pictures. Use Grid Lines Turn on the grid in your phone’s settings. This will help ensure the composition is straight to get a proper shot. Be Respectful Stay safe. Never approach wild animals or hike off of the trail in order to get a better picture. “I prefer to shoot around sunrise or sunset, when the lighting is much softer. Juniper Point on the Woodland Trail is beautiful, as is the corner of the lake near the dam! But try to think outside the box. I think landscape photography is about having fun and being creative. Explore and find unique viewpoints to make your photos stand
out.” —Brady Enger, Bending Energy Photography
CARE TIP: No matter what you’re angling for, keep Big Bear’s water clean and wildlife safe by packing out discarded fishing line—or any other litter—you find. See p. 5 for a list of trash sites around the Valley.
— Syd Blue, author and pilot
On the Water
At the heart of Big Bear is its lake, and with 22 miles of shoreline, there’s plenty of room for everyone. From kayaking to fishing to catching some rays, Big Bear Lake draws water enthusiasts of all kinds to its alpine shores. So, put on some sunscreen, grab your shades, and hit the water.
Play on the Water
CHOOSE YOUR WATERSPORT FOR THE ULTIMATE DAY ON THE LAKE.
KAYAK AND CANOE
Venture into parts of the shoreline and small inlets inaccessible to motorized vessels.
BOAT
Charter a pontoon boat and explore the lake at your own pace, or simply relax far from the shore.
STAND-UP PADDLEBOARD
Test your balance on a paddleboard as you glide through the water.
WAKEBOARD AND WATER SKI
Skiing isn’t just for the snow! If you’d like to hit the wake on a wakeboard or water skis, sign up for a lesson with a licensed instructor.
TUBE
Rent a tube and book a licensed driver for a wild ride across the water.
JET SKI
Hop on a Jet Ski and let ’er rip. Snag your ride from any of the marinas. —Lauren Bonney
RENT IT HERE
GRAB THE GEAR FOR YOUR LAKE TRIP.
FISHING Head to Big Bear Sporting Goods to stock up on everything you need to fish before hopping aboard with the expert anglers at Big Bear Charter Fishing, Cantrell Guide Service, or Fish Big Bear Charter Services.
PADDLES Rent a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard from Paddles and Pedals.
WATERSPORTS Check out Big Bear Watersports School or Designated Wakesports for tubing, waterskiing, wakeboarding, and Jet Ski lessons and rentals.
NOTE: All private watercraft, including non-motorized vessels, must display a permit, which can be bought at any marina. See p. 26 for more info.
COME PREPARED: A fishing license is required, and can be purchased at most marinas.
Fish Friendly in Big Bear Lake
HELP KEEP BIG BEAR’S FISHING TRADITION STRONG BY KNOWING WHICH FISH TO KEEP AND WHICH TO LET GO. By Ann Marie Brown
A smorgasbord of fishes swim in Big Bear Lake, from rainbow trout to bullhead catfish to the lake’s most numerous species, the common carp. You can help the underwater ecosystem flourish by following these guidelines:
Big Bear’s rainbow trout can reach weights of up to 18 pounds, but these hatchery-raised fish can’t reproduce and are destined for the dinner table. Keep up to five per day, any size.
Catch-and-release is the best technique for bass. Lake rules say you may keep five bass that are larger than 12 inches, but it’s best to give the smaller bass a chance to grow and reproduce. You can help ensure their survival by using barbless hooks, handling smaller bass as little as possible, and getting the fish back into the lake quickly.
Never toss back a common carp. This invasive fish destroys algae and other aquatic vegetation that other fish depend on to survive. If you don’t eat carp, take your catch to Big Bear Municipal Water District’s disposal site (40524 Lakeview Drive).
Catch and keep all you want of bullhead catfish, but the channel catfish limit is 10. (The difference is in the tail: the channel catfish has a forked tail; the bullhead’s is rounded.) If crappie or sunfish take your hook, keep up to 25 per day.
GO AHEAD, CAST A LINE
POST UP ONSHORE, OR VENTURE OUT BY BOAT, AND YOU’LL BE REWARDED WITH TOP-NOTCH FISHING .
TOP SPOTS: Spring and fall are the perfect seasons for anglers of all ages. The west end of the lake tends to see a majority of the action for trout, while hot spots for bass fishing are Eagle Point and Boulder Bay. Catfish are primarily found on the east end of the lake near Stanfield Cutoff and the East Boat Public Launch Ramp, while panfish typically hang out around the South Shore near the marina docks. LAUNCH SITES: Public launch ramps are open for all vessels, motorized and non-motorized. Both ramps are located on the North Shore. Launching your vessel is free, but you’ll need to pass an inspection to fish for the Quagga mussel, and you will also need to purchase a Lake Use Permit. Seasonal and day permits are available for purchase at all of Big Bear’s public and private marinas. CARE FOR BIG BEAR
Fishing in Big Bear Lake has brought together friends and families to enjoy the beauty of our outdoors for generations. Do your part to keep this tradition going strong by adhering to our fishing limits for bass (minimum size of 12” and daily bag limit of five), channel catfish (bag limit of 10), panfish (bag limit of 25), and trout (possession limit of five).
Big Bear Boating Life
All marinas offer the following items and services: kayak, SUP, pontoon boat, fishing boat, and personal watercraft rentals; boat charters for water skiing, wakeboarding, and tubing.
Public Boat Launch Ramps
For more info, call the Municipal Water District at 909.866.5796.
East Boat Ramp 41911 North Shore Dr., Big Bear Lake, 909.866.5200 West Boat Ramp 38925 North Shore Dr., Big Bear Lake, 909.866.2917
Top Boat Fishing Spots Top Shore Fishing Spots
SPRING TO EARLY SUMMER (APRIL, MAY, JUNE) EARLY SUMMER (APRIL, MAY) Stanfield Cutoff and Juniper Point
From Pine Knot Landing to Observatory and Gilner Point LATE SUMMER TO FALL (SEPTEMBER, OCTOBER)
LATE SUMMER TO FALL (SEPTEMBER, OCTOBER) East of Windy Point towards Observatory Between North Shore Landing and Observatory
Camp by the Lake The U.S. Forest Service offers tent camping in its National Forest campgrounds. RV camping is also available in the valley. Call 800.424.4232 for more information on RV parks.
Big Bear Lake Marinas
BIG BEAR MARINA
500 Paine Ct. | 909.866.3218 bigbearmarina.com Services Offered: Fishing Charter Lake Tours • Fishing License • Pro Shop Snack Shop • Quagga Inspections Launch Ramp • Lake Use Permits Gas Dock • Boat Storage Boat Maintenance
HOLLOWAY’S MARINA & RV PARK
398 Edgemoor Rd. | 909.866.5706 bigbearhollowaysmarina.com Services Offered: Fishing Charter Lake Tours • Fishing License • Pro Shop Snack Shop • Quagga Inspections • Launch Ramp • Lake Use Permits • Gas Dock • Boat Storage • Boat Maintenance
NORTH SHORE LANDING
38573 North Shore Dr. | 909.866.4386 bigbearboating.com Services Offered: Pro Shop • Slip Sales/ Membership • Boat Storage
PINE KNOT MARINE CENTER
439 Pine Knot Ave. | 909.633.7511 pineknotmarina.com Services Offered: Fishing Charter Lake Tours • Fishing License • Pro Shop Snack Shop • Slip Sales/Membership Quagga Inspections • Launch Ramp Lake Use Permits • Gas Dock Decontamination Facility • Boat Storage Boat Maintenance
PLEASURE POINT MARINA, LLC
603 Landlock Landing Rd. 909.866.2455 pleasurepointmarina.net Services Offered: Fishing Charter Fishing License • Pro Shop • Snack Shop Slip Sales/Membership Quagga Inspections • Launch Ramp Lake Use Permits • Gas Dock Boat Storage • Boat Maintenance
Pine Knot Marina
Every day is a good day on the water at Pine Knot Marina in The Village. Find your favorite way to play, with options galore for boating, fishing, cruising, and watersports. See the lake in comfort and style on a cruise aboard Miss Liberty. During the 90-minute narrated tour, you’ll hear fun facts and see amazing scenery while relaxing aboard a fully refurbished Skipperliner. Rent a fishing boat and venture into the coves, or take a pontoon for a group outing. An onsite bait and tackle shop is stocked with all you need for fishing and fun. Pine Knot Marina also offers kayaks, paddleboards, and Jet Skis, and hosts Big Bear Watersports School, offering expert instruction in wake sports.
Boat & Jet Ski rentals: 909.633.7511 pineknotmarina.com G @pineknotmarina Miss Liberty Boat Tour: 909.866.8129 pineknotmarina.com
OUTDOORS/WATER
Waterfront Activities Map
LEGEND
Boat Launch
Discovery Center
Fishing
Floating Restrooms Marina
No Boating Allowed No Swimming Allowed
Picnic Area Ranger Station RV Resort Visitor Center
Big Bear Marina
This majestic alpine lake nestled among tall pines with incredible fishing is a water-lover’s paradise. Enjoy the scenery of Big Bear Lake by paddleboard or kayak, take a tour on the Big Bear Cruiser, or rent a pontoon or fishing boat. Walking distance to The Village.
909.866.3218 | bigbearmarina.com G @marinabigbearlakeca | e Ö @bigbearmarina
Big Bear Pirate Ship
Avast, ye! Set sail on the Time Bandit from Holloway’s Marina for a uniquely entertaining lake cruise. Big Bear Lake’s only pirate ship promises a family-friendly good time. Daily tours April–October.
909.866.5706 hollowaysmarina.com
Pleasure Point Marina
This hidden gem located in Metcalf Bay is the perfect way to enjoy the beauty of Big Bear Lake. Pleasure Point Marina has a wide variety of rentals, including pontoon boats, fishing boats, paddleboards, kayaks, and pedal boats. Online booking available.
909.866.2455 pleasurepointmarina.net G @ppmbigbear e @pleasurepointmarina
The Bowling Barn
Recently voted Big Bear Lake’s “Best Recreation Venue,” the Bowling Barn is a must-see on every trip to Big Bear. Bring the whole family for a day of bowling (check out the blacklight glow bowl!), have a meal at the Grill, enjoy the video arcade and billiards, and watch your favorite team play at Alley Oops Sports Bar. There’s always a party!
909.878.2695 bowlingbarn.com G @bowlingbarn
Big Bear Alpine Zoo
Founded in 1959, Big Bear Alpine Zoo is the only facility of its kind in the U.S. Situated at nearly 7,000 feet above sea level, the zoo serves as a rehabilitation facility for mountain and nearby communities. The dedicated zoo staff nurses sick or injured animals to health before releasing them back to the wild. Animals that are too injured or have lost their fear of humans have a permanent home here.
909.584.1299 bigbearzoo.org G @bigbearalpinezoo
Helicopter Big Bear
Soar above Big Bear Valley and the San Bernardino Mountains while taking in the stunning beauty on a scenic flight with Helicopter Big Bear. An activity like no other, your journey is sure to make memories that last a lifetime.
909.585.1200 helicopterbigbear.com G @helicopterbigbear e @helicopterbigbear california Ö @heli_big_bear california
Riddle Routes
Find clues, solve riddles, answer trivia, and discover points of interest to learn more about the history and culture of Big Bear. Riddle Routes is phone-guided fun, outdoors and ready to play at your convenience. Just download and go!
riddleroute.com G e @riddleroutes
Goldsmith’s Sports
This family-owned and operated outfitter was the first snowboard shop in Big Bear. Rent or buy gear for your skiing, snowboarding, hiking, or biking adventure, and find clothing and gifts for everyone from beginners to outdoor enthusiasts.
909.866.2728 goldsmithssports.com G @goldsmith.boardhouse
Maximum Fun
Snow tubing is even better at Big Bear Snow Play, featuring SoCal’s largest tubing hill. Save your energy for downhill runs on the Magic Carpet lifts — no walking! Glow tubing on Fridays, Saturdays, and holiday nights puts a fun twist on tubing. The Ropes Course offers aerial adventure year-round, with more than 30 obstacles spread over 6,400 square feet on two levels, all from the safety of a climbing harness. The Speedway delivers a real racing experience with SODI RT8 single or double Karts. Race up to 30 mph on more than 2 miles on the open-air race track for a fun-fueled ride. Snow tubing open during the winter season; speedway open April-October.
909.585.0075 | bigbearsnowplay.com G @bigbearsnowplay
Action Zipline, Segway & More
Year-round adventure awaits at Action Zipline, Segway & More! Clip-in and zipline through the towering pine tree forest, glide your way by Segway, or take in the incredible views and fresh mountain air by snowshoe or on a guided hike. Fun for ages eight and older.
909.866.0390 | actiontourscalifornia.com | G @actiontourscalifornia | e @actionziplinetours
Open Air Big Bear
Open Air Big Bear is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to advance people-powered events and activities in the Big Bear Valley. Whether it’s a challenging competition you’re looking for or a fun day for the whole family, you’ll find it at one of their cycling, mountain biking, and running events.
openairbigbear.com Ge @openairbigbear
