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Driving to Big Bear: Highway 38 vs 330 vs 18

Three mountain routes. Very different drives.

The best drive to Big Bear depends on weather, traffic, where you’re coming from, and your comfort level on mountain roads. Here’s our local breakdown of each route and when we’d choose it.

Typical Drive

1.5-3 Hours

Best Overall

330 → 18

Typically Fastest

330 → 18

Winter Impact

All Routes

Driving Directions At A Glance

If roads are dry and traffic is normal, Highway 330 → 18 is usually the fastest and easiest choice for most visitors. Highway 38 offers a more gradual climb but often takes longer. Highway 18 through Lucerne Valley is usually best for High Desert travelers.

Choose the Best Route

Compare Routes to Big Bear

Highway 330 → 18 FASTEST FOR MOST VISITORS

Highway 330 → 18

Best for: Los Angeles, Orange County
DRIVE TIME
2 – 2.5 hrs
ROUTE
I-210 → 330 → 18
  • Fastest Overall
  • Scenic Mountain Views
CONSIDER:
  • More Traffic
  • More Curves
Highway 38 → 18 (Bear Blvd) MORE GRADUAL CLIMB

Highway 38 → 18 (Bear Blvd)

Best for: Drivers wanting a slower ascent
DRIVE TIME
2.5–3 hrs
ROUTE
I-10 → 38 → Big Bear
  • Scenic Views
  • Gradual Incline
CONSIDER:
  • Takes Longer
  • Mudslides
Highway 18 via Lucerne Valley BEST FROM THE HIGH DESERT

Highway 18 via Lucerne Valley

Best for: Victorville, Las Vegas
DRIVE TIME
~1.5 hrs from Victorville
ROUTE
~1.5 hrs from Victorville
  • Less Mountain Curves
  • Least Traffic
CONSIDER:
  • Least Scenic
  • Longer Drive

What You Should Know About Winter Driving

Conditions change based on chain controls, storm timing, road exposure, traffic, and time of day.

Local Take

Highway 38 may feel less steep but often sees more snow. Highway 330 is heavily maintained but backs up quickly. 

Always carry chains from November through April, even if not required at the moment.

Drive times from Major Cities

Los Angeles

2–2.5 hrs

Orange Co.

2–3 hrs

San Diego

3–3.5 hrs

Las Vegas

3–3.5 hrs

THings to Know Before the Drive

Fuel Before the Climb

Gas stations become more limited once you start ascending.

Leave Earlier Than You Think

Friday evenings and Sunday afternoons create the longest delays.

Conditions Change Fast

Roads can shift quickly after storms—especially in shaded areas.

Don’t Rely on GPS Alone

Apps don’t always account for closures or chain checks.

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