Exploring Big Bear Lake: Navigating the Scenic Trolley

Big Bear Lake has long been a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers and if you have visited Big Bear Lake in the past, you probably already know that transportation options are very limited.  With its picturesque landscapes, recreational activities, and vibrant Village area, Big Bear attracts thousands of visitors each year who typically exclusively travel by car.  However, there is one option that is frequently overlooked. The Big Bear Trolley. Unknown to many, the Big Bear Lake Mountain Transit Trolley System offers 3 routes for visitors (and residents) to get our the town. The Trolley can be a viable means of transportation and is a recommended option during peak seasons. If you are planning to visit Big Bear in the near future, take a look at this article to see how the Trolley can make your trip easier. Best of all, the routes around Big Bear Lake are free!

Trolley Routes

The Big Bear Lake offers 3 main routes around Big Bear Lake that offer great opportunities for visitors to get around town avoiding congestion, especially during peak weekends. While there are a few other routes offered, we will take a look at the free routes around Big Bear.

RED Line: VILLAGE AREA and Ski Resorts

This is a great route for accessing Bear Mountain and Snow Summit. The route begins in The Village and heads straight to Snow Summit. After a quick stop at the Big Bear Hospital, the next stop is Bear Mountain. If you are staying near the Village this is a convenient and free way to avoid traffic to the resorts and not have to search or pay for parking. After leaving Bear Mountain, the next stop is Stater Bros for those who need to grocery shop. After a few stops in Big Bear City, the trolley will make stops at the Vons center on Big Bear Blvd, where there is a Starbucks. Then once again stopping at both resorts and the hospital before returning to the village. Visitors can catch this route every half hour starting at the Village. And don't forget if you are skiing at Snow Summit and want to head over to Bear Mountain, or vise versa, this is the route for you.

BLUE Line: MOONRIDGE ZOO AND BEAR MOUNTAIN SKI RESORT

The Blue Line runs from Veterans Park to Willow Landing Rd/Blue Jay Rd. This route is similar to the Red Line, including both ski resorts and the Vons center but also includes a few lake stops such as the Big Bear Marina and Willow Landing. The Blue Line is best for those staying near the Boulder Bay and Metcalf bay to access the ski resorts, the Village and the Vons center for shopping or Starbucks. While skiing and snowboarding, both the Blue and Red Line can be used to easily get to and from each resort throughout the day. 

GOLD Line: SNOW SUMMIT SKI RESORT AND CONVENTION CENTER

The Gold Line makes similar stops as both the Red and Blue Lines. Using this route you can access the ski resorts, Village and shopping, however this route does add on a section that makes a few stops in Big Bear City and the north shore, north of Stanfield Marsh and the Lake. 

How to Use the Trolley System

TICKETING AND FARES

The Blue, Gold and Red Lines are all free to use for both visitors and residents of Big Bear Lake.

TIMETABLE AND SCHEDULE

The trolley system operates on a predefined schedule, which can be accessed on their official website. On the official website, you can find a link to download their new app which gives real time updates on schedules and stops. You can also find information on any delays or detours.


The Big Bear Lake Mountain Transit Trolley System serves as an invaluable resource for visitors to Big Bear Lake. By utilizing the trolley routes, tourists can effortlessly navigate the Village area, access wildlife parks and ski resorts, reach the Convention Center, and explore various neighborhoods. All for FREE! So, the next time you plan a trip to this idyllic mountain getaway, hop on the trolley and embark on an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Big Bear Lake.