Skiing in Big Bear Lake
Ski Southern California mountain terrain at Snow Summit and Bear Mountain.
AT A GLANCE
Best For
Families, first-time skiers, recreational skiers and experienced riders
Season
Winter; typically November through April, weather and conditions permitting
Experience
Beginner to advanced
Where to Go Skiing in Big Bear
Snow Summit and Bear Mountain are the two lift-served ski areas in Big Bear Lake. If your group includes first-time or less-confident skiers, Snow Summit is often the more straightforward place to begin. More experienced groups should compare the current trail and lift report for both mountains before deciding where to park and start.
At A Glance
Big Bear's lift-served skiing is centered at Snow Summit and Bear Mountain, with terrain ranging from beginner areas to advanced runs.
What to Expect
Skiing in Big Bear is split between Snow Summit and Bear Mountain, and choosing between them matters more than many first-time visitors realize. Both are part of Big Bear Mountain Resort, but the terrain and feel are not identical. Snow Summit has a larger concentration of beginner-friendly terrain and traditional groomed runs, while Bear Mountain is especially associated with terrain-park riding. Your lift access may connect the experience, but start the day at the mountain that best matches how your group actually skis.
How to Experience
Buy lift access through Big Bear Mountain Resort and either bring equipment or rent from the resort or a local shop. Lessons are available for beginners. On busy winter weekends, treat parking and arrival time as part of the ski plan—not an afterthought—and check current resort transportation and parking instructions before leaving your lodging.
Best Time to Go
The published snow-sports season generally runs from November through April when conditions permit, but the calendar does not tell you how much terrain is open. Snowmaking can create skiable mountain conditions even when there is little snow around town. Check the current lift and trail report rather than judging the day from your cabin window.
Best Season
Winter; typically November through April, weather and conditions permitting
Know Before You Go
The ski areas climb well above Big Bear Lake's already high elevation, so exertion, sun and weather can feel different from conditions in town. Dress in layers, use sunscreen and eye protection, stay hydrated and allow extra travel time when winter road conditions or chain restrictions are in effect.
Local Insight
Do not cancel a ski day because the roads and yards around the lake look dry. Snowmaking and higher elevation can produce a completely different scene on the mountain. The resort's actual snow and trail report is far more useful than looking outside in town.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can you ski in Big Bear?
Lift-served skiing is available at Snow Summit and Bear Mountain, both operated as part of Big Bear Mountain Resort.
Is Big Bear good for beginner skiers?
Yes. Both mountains serve multiple ability levels, and Snow Summit has a larger concentration of beginner-friendly terrain and lessons for new skiers.
When is ski season in Big Bear?
Snow sports generally operate from November through April, weather and conditions permitting. Exact opening dates and available terrain vary each season.
Can you rent skis in Big Bear?
Yes. Ski equipment is available through resort rental operations and local rental shops around Big Bear Lake.
Does Big Bear offer ski lessons?
Yes. Big Bear Mountain Resort offers ski instruction, with lesson types and availability varying by date and season.