Things to do in Big Bear Lake

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Big Bear Lake
Big Bear Lake showing landscape views, forest scenes and kayaking or canoeing
Big Bear Lake featuring cuddly or friendly animals and a park as well as a couple
Big Bear Lake
Big Bear Lake

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What to do in Big Bear Lake

Discover the most popular places to visit in Big Bear Lake

Snow Summit

Snow Summit

Hit the slopes in Big Bear Lake with a visit to Snow Summit. Stroll along the lakeside or discover the mountain views in this quaint area.

Snow Summit
Big Bear Alpine Zoo

Big Bear Alpine Zoo

Why not meet the animals who call Big Bear Alpine Zoo home during your trip to Big Bear Lake? Amble around this quaint area's lakeside, or seek out the ski slopes.

Big Bear Alpine Zoo
IMHO the most epic view for a modest hike in all of SoCal. 30 minutes of hard work and you get the most amazing panoramic view of Big Bear above all the surrounding tree tops. Tip - this is a really popular hike so to avoid the crowds go on a weekday or early morning before most people have gotten up. #AdventurePacked #TroverTips

Castle Rock Trail

Enjoy a trip to Castle Rock Trail and popular activities like skiing in Big Bear Lake. Stroll along the lakeside or discover the mountain views in this quaint area.

Castle Rock Trail

The Village

You can search for that perfect souvenir at The Village during your visit to Big Bear Lake.

The Village

Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain

You can enjoy the entertainment at Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain during your travels to Big Bear Lake. Wander the lakeside or discover the mountain views in this quaint area.

Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain

Big Bear Marina

Explore the waterfront of Big Bear Marina and enjoy activities such as skiing in Big Bear Lake. Wander the lakeside and lush forest in this quaint area.

Big Bear Marina

Bear Mountain Express Lift

You can take time to visit Bear Mountain Express Lift during your travels to Big Bear Lake. Stroll along the lakeside or discover the mountain views in this quaint area.

Bear Mountain Express Lift

Big Bear Visitor Center

After visiting Big Bear Visitor Center, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Big Bear Lake. Stroll along the lakeside in this quaint area, or seek out the ski slopes.

Big Bear Visitor Center

Boulder Bay Park

After visiting Boulder Bay Park, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Big Bear Lake. Wander the lakeside and lush forest in this quaint area.

Boulder Bay Park

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Big Bear Lake

Big Bear Lake

Big Bear Central

If you're spending some time in Big Bear Central, Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain and Big Bear Marina are top sights worth seeing.

Big Bear Central
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Moonridge

Skiing and mountain views are notable features of Moonridge. You might consider a stop by Big Bear Mountain Resort while you're exploring the neighborhood.

Moonridge
Sunset overlooking Big Bear Lake #trovember

Boulder Bay

5/5(1 area review)

If you're spending some time in Boulder Bay, Big Bear Lake and Metcalf Bay are top sights worth seeing.

Boulder Bay
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Upper Moonridge

4.5/5(10 area reviews)

If you're spending some time in Upper Moonridge, Big Bear Mountain Resort and Chair 7 are top sights worth seeing.

Upper Moonridge
Big Bear Lake

The Village

While visiting The Village, you might make a stop by sights like The Village and Pine Knot Marina.

The Village
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Summit Estates

5/5(6 area reviews)

When in Summit Estates, you can plan a visit to Snow Summit and Chair 7, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Summit Estates

Popular day trips from Big Bear Lake

Fawnskin

Fawnskin

Photo by Josh Phillips

Angelus Oaks

Photo by Anthony Hilario

Big Bear City

Frequently asked questions

Is Big Bear Lake worth visiting?
From retail therapy to outdoor activities and history, there are plenty of fun things to do in Big Bear Lake. Be sure to enjoy the area's blend of cool attractions, local charm and culture.
How do I spend a day in Big Bear Lake?
Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain and Big Bear Marina are two awesome places to start your getaway adventures. Be sure to check out the shopping and dining options in Big Bear Lake while you're there too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Big Bear Lake?
Don't leave without visiting Snow Summit, ranked the top tourist attraction in Big Bear Lake.
Is three days enough to stay in Big Bear Lake?
You can easily tour popular attractions like Snow Summit, Big Bear Alpine Zoo and Community Arts Theater Society with a three-day break in Big Bear Lake. On average, most travelers book two days here. There's plenty to see and do nearby too, so stay a little longer and check out San Bernardino.
Is Big Bear Lake a walkable city?
Some leading sights in Big Bear Lake, including Snow Summit and Big Bear Alpine Zoo, are within walking distance. You can also visit several of the city's neighborhoods on foot. Only 3 kilometers from the city center of Big Bear Lake is Winter Park and Summit Estates is 3 kilometers away.
What are some activities to do in Big Bear Lake with kids?
Whether you're vacationing with hard-to-please teens or tiny adventurers, a schedule filled with fun activities is the key to a stress-free getaway. Take a look at our recommendations for what to do in Big Bear Lake with kids.

What to do in Big Bear Lake for adults?
There's no shortage of things to do in Big Bear Lake, with activities for adults of all ages. End the day with a visit to Gold Mountain Memorial Park.
Are there free things to do in Big Bear Lake?
In Big Bear Lake, Big Bear Marina is a top spot for anyone planning to enjoy the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, wander around the parks and other neighborhoods, and ask a local tour guide for ideas. It's an easy way to find out about the best free things to do in Big Bear Lake.