Silhouette of a bear walking to the right on a white background.

Discover Big Bear Lake

Big Bear Lake Travel Guide: Start Here

Planning a trip to Big Bear Lake or just looking for things to do?



This guide is designed to help you quickly find the best activities, places to go, and what to expect — whether you’re visiting for the first time or coming back for another trip.


From scenic drives and hiking trails to seasonal tips and local favorites, this is the best place to start exploring everything Big Bear has to offer.

Start Here: Planning Your Trip

If you’re new to Big Bear, these are the first things most visitors look for.

Scenic Drives

One of the easiest ways to explore Big Bear is by car. Driving around the lake gives you access to multiple viewpoints, stops, and a feel for the entire area without needing to hike.

Hiking Trails

Big Bear has a wide range of hiking options, from easy lakeside walks to more challenging trails with elevation and views. Pick a trail based on difficulty and time

Lake Activities

The lake is the center of activity in Big Bear, especially in warmer months. From boating and kayaking to relaxing by the shoreline, it’s one of the main reasons people visit.

Things to Do in Big Bear

There’s no shortage of things to do, but most visitors focus on a few core experiences.

Road alongside Big Bear Lake with trees and foliage on the right, hills in the background.

Drive Around Big Bear Lake

By Discover Big Bear Lake • April 28, 2026
Take a relaxing scenic drive around Big Bear Lake. Discover top stops, short trails, picnic spots, and photo views on this easy lake loop route.
Black bear swimming in greenish water, resting near a rock.

Big Bear Alpine Zoo: A Sanctuary for Wildlife

By Discover Big Bear Lake • October 20, 2025
Discover the Big Bear Alpine Zoo, a wildlife sanctuary in Moonridge where rescued animals recover and thrive. Open year-round for all ages.
Entrance arch to the Village with

Big Bear Village – Downtown Restaurants, Shops & Things to Do

By Discover Big Bear Lake • October 20, 2025
Explore Big Bear Lake’s Village—walkable shops, dining, events, and lodging. A must-see guide for first-time visitors to Big Bear.

Seasonal & Popular Guides

Some of the most helpful guides depend on timing or specific interests.

View of flags flying at Veterans Park in Big Bear Lake

Memorial Day Weekend in Big Bear Lake: What to Expect + Things to Do

By Discover Big Bear Lake • April 28, 2026
Planning Memorial Day weekend in Big Bear Lake? See what to expect, things to do, events, crowds, and local tips for the best visit.
Big Bear Lake surrounded by green pine trees and forest, viewed from rocky area on a sunny day.

Where to See Bald Eagles in Big Bear Lake

By Discover Big Bear Lake • April 22, 2026
Find out where to see bald eagles in Big Bear Lake. Learn the best locations, when to go, and what to expect when spotting eagles in person.
Outdoor farmers market with white and blue tents, people browsing, and mountain backdrop.

Big Bear Farmers Markets: Tuesday & Friday Market Guide

By Discover Big Bear Lake • March 30, 2026
Discover Big Bear’s two farmers markets, including fresh produce, bread, food trucks, live music, lake views, parking tips, and seasonal hours.

Local Favorites & Highlights

If you’re looking for places locals and repeat visitors tend to enjoy, these are a few worth knowing.

Wooden walkway along Big Bear Lake , with mountains and trees in the background under a blue sky.

Stanfield Marsh & Boardwalk – Big Bear Lake Nature Walk

By Discover Big Bear Lake • April 1, 2026
Explore the Stanfield Marsh Boardwalk in Big Bear Lake — an easy, peaceful walk perfect for birdwatching, dogs, kids, and sunset views.
Paved Alpine Pedal Path and wooden fence along Big Bear Lake with mountains in the background under

Alpine Pedal Path – 3.2-Mile Easy Lakeside Walk in Big Bear

By Discover Big Bear Lake • November 20, 2025
Explore the scenic 3.2-mile paved Alpine Pedal Path along Big Bear Lake's north shore. Perfect for walking, biking, and enjoying stunning mountain views.

Latest Big Bear Guides

If you’re looking for the most recent articles and updates, you can browse the latest guides below.

A person in a suit opens the door of a black car covered in raindrops.

Private Car Service, Local Rides & Airport Transportation in Big Bear

By Discover Big Bear Lake • April 1, 2026
Find private car service and airport transportation in Big Bear Lake, including rides to LAX, Ontario, Palm Springs, Burbank & local transportation around town.
Road intersection with stop signs, highway signs for Big Bear Lake and Green Valley, mountains in the background.

Best Way to Drive to Big Bear: Highway 38 vs 330 vs 18

By Discover Big Bear Lake • February 24, 2026
Not sure which route to take to Big Bear? Here’s the fastest and safest option based on weather, traffic, snow, ice, and Highway 38 closures.
Hand holding a chocolate frosted donut with sprinkles, wrapped in white paper, blurred street background.

Best Donuts in Big Bear Lake: Local Favorites for a Sweet Morning

By Discover Big Bear Lake • October 27, 2025
Looking for the best donuts in Big Bear Lake? Discover OJ’s Donuts, Dank Donuts in Moonridge, and a sweet bonus stop for pastries and cinnamon rolls.
Plate of steak, vegetables, and sauce with wine glass on a restaurant table. People in background.

Best Steakhouses in Big Bear Lake

By Discover Big Bear Lake • October 24, 2025
Looking for the best steak in Big Bear Lake? Discover Captain’s Anchorage, Peppercorn Grille, and Oakside — three local favorites for a memorable dinner.
Black bears, adult and cub, on a rocky outcrop in a forest with snow patches.

Are There Bears in Big Bear Lake? Facts & Safety Tips

By Discover Big Bear Lake • October 20, 2025
Yes, black bears live around Big Bear Lake. Learn about their history, where they roam, and what to do if you see one while hiking or camping.