About Big Bear

Directions to Big Bear Lake

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

At A Glance

Big Bear Lake can be reached by several mountain highways, and the best route often depends on where you're coming from, weather conditions, and traffic. For most Southern California visitors, Highway 330 to Highway 18 is the fastest travel time.

330 → 18
Typically Fastest Route
38 → 18
More Gradual, Longer
18 Via Lucerne
Best From High Desert
Choose the Best Route

Which Route Should YOu Take

There are three primary routes into Big Bear Lake, each with its own advantages. While GPS apps may suggest different options depending on traffic, understanding the differences can help you choose the route that's right for you.

Highway 330 → 18 FASTEST FOR MOST VISITORS

Highway 330 → 18

The most direct route for many visitors coming from Los Angeles, Orange County, and much of Southern California. This route is often the fastest when conditions are clear but includes a steeper mountain climb and more curves.

Best for: Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego
Pros: Typically Fastest route, Scenic Mountain Views
Consider: More Traffic, More Curves, Steeper Climb
Highway 38 → 18 (Bear Blvd)

Highway 38 → 18 (Bear Blvd)

Highway 38 approaches Big Bear from the south and is known for its more gradual climb. Although it usually takes longer, many drivers find it less congested. Expect delays during weather as mudslides and ice are more common.

Best for: Drivers Wanting a Gradual Climb
Pros: Scenic Views, Gradual Incline
Consider: Takes Longer, Subject to Mudslides & Ice
Highway 18 via Lucerne

Highway 18 via Lucerne

Approaching from the High Desert, this route is often preferred by travelers coming from Las Vegas, Victorville, Apple Valley, and surrounding communities. It features a longer drive through the desert before climbing into the mountains.

Best for: Travelers from Victorville, Las Vegas
Pros: Less Mountain Curves, Least Traffic
Consider: Least Scenic, Longer Drive

Directions From Major Southern California Cities

Big Bear Lake is accessible from several major Southern California destinations. While GPS apps may suggest alternate routes based on traffic, these are the most common routes used by visitors.

From Los Angeles

Most visitors from Los Angeles take Interstate 210 East to Highway 330, then connect to Highway 18 into Big Bear Lake. This is typically the fastest route when traffic and road conditions are normal.

From Orange County

Most visitors travel north on CA-57 to Interstate 210 East before connecting to Highway 330 and Highway 18. Depending on traffic, some navigation apps may also suggest Highway 38.

From San Diego

Most visitors take Interstates 15 and 215 North then 210 West before connecting to Highway 330 through Highland. The best route often depends on traffic and weather conditions.

From Palm Springs

Visitors from Palm Springs typically travel north on Highway 62 through Yucca Valley and Lucerne Valley before connecting to Highway 18 for the climb into Big Bear Lake. This is usually the shortest and most direct route from the Coachella Valley.

From Las Vegas

Most visitors from Las Vegas take Interstate 15 South to Victorville before connecting to Highway 18 through Lucerne Valley. This route avoids much of the mountain driving until the final climb into Big Bear Lake.

Distance and Drive Times to Big Bear Lake

Los Angeles

~100 Miles
2–3 Hours

Orange County

~95 Miles
2–3 Hours

San Diego

~140 Miles
3-4 Hours

Palm Springs

~80 Miles
1.5-2.5 Hours

Las Vegas

~220 Miles
3.5- 4.5 Hours

Travel times can vary significantly due to traffic, weather, road construction, and winter driving conditions.

Road Conditions and Winter Driving

Mountain weather can change quickly, especially between November and April. Snow, ice, fog, and chain requirements can affect travel plans even when conditions are clear in nearby cities.


Before leaving, always check:

  • Current road conditions
  • Weather forecasts
  • Chain requirements
  • Traffic delays


If you're visiting Big Bear Lake during the winter months, it's important to understand California's chain requirements before heading into the mountains. Chain controls can be put in place whenever snow, ice, or winter weather creates hazardous driving conditions.


Even if your vehicle has all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive, you may still be required to carry chains when traveling in chain control areas. During major storms, chain requirements can change quickly and may be enforced at checkpoints before you reach Big Bear Lake.



Before your trip, check current road conditions and chain requirements through Caltrans. If chains are required, install them only in designated chain-up areas and allow extra travel time for winter driving conditions.

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

Local Road Tips

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What Is the Best Route to Big Bear Lake?

    The best route depends on where you're coming from, current road conditions, and your comfort level with mountain driving. For most visitors traveling from Los Angeles, Orange County, and much of Southern California, Highway 330 to Highway 18 is typically the most direct option. Drivers who prefer a more gradual climb often choose Highway 38, while visitors coming from the High Desert or Las Vegas usually take Highway 18 through Lucerne Valley.

  • What is the fastest route to Big Bear Lake?

    When roads are clear and traffic is normal, Highway 330 to Highway 18 is usually the fastest route to Big Bear Lake for most Southern California visitors. However, accidents, weather, road work, and holiday traffic can significantly affect travel times, so it's always a good idea to check conditions before leaving.

  • What is the easiest road to Big Bear Lake?

    Many drivers consider Highway 38 the easiest route because it offers a longer, more gradual climb with wider curves and fewer steep sections than Highway 330. However, this route typically takes longer and mudslides and ice are possible.

  • How Long Does It Take to Drive to Big Bear Lake?

    Drive times vary depending on where you're starting, traffic conditions, and the route you choose. Most visitors can reach Big Bear Lake in about 2 to 3 hours from Los Angeles or Orange County, 3 to 4 hours from San Diego, 1.5 to 2.5 hours from Palm Springs, and 3.5 to 4.5 hours from Las Vegas.

  • Are the Roads to Big Bear Lake Open Year-Round?

    Yes. Highways 18, 38, and 330 provide year-round access to Big Bear Lake. Temporary closures can occur during severe winter storms, traffic incidents, rockslides, or road construction projects, but the primary routes into Big Bear are maintained throughout the year. Visitors should always check current road conditions before traveling, especially during winter weather.

Other Transportation Options

About Big Bear

Shuttles & Private Transportation

Several private transportation companies offer airport transfers, group transportation, and mountain shuttle services to Big Bear Lake. These services can be a good option for visitors who prefer not to drive mountain roads.

About Big Bear

Uber & Lyft in Big Bear

Uber and Lyft operate in Big Bear Lake, though availability can be limited during busy weekends, late nights, and snowstorms. Visitors should not rely on rideshare services as their only transportation plan during peak travel periods.