Discover Big Bear Lake

Things to Do in Big Bear Lake

Things to do

Scenic Drives

Big Bear has some of the most beautiful mountain drives in Southern California — from lake loops to high-elevation lookouts and forest backroads. These guides cover the best scenic drives, what you can expect along the route, and local tips that help you plan the perfect drive through Big Bear’s mountain terrain.

Stone wall in foreground with view of lake and forest on a hazy day.

Rim of the World Scenic Byway

By Discover Big Bear Lake • October 21, 2025
Take a scenic drive from Big Bear Lake along the Rim of the World Scenic Byway. Explore overlooks, alpine towns, and breathtaking mountain views.
Clock tower with red roof, white and brown Tudor-style trim, and

Big Bear to Lake Arrowhead

By Discover Big Bear Lake • October 21, 2025
Explore the scenic drive from Big Bear Lake to Lake Arrowhead through winding mountain roads, panoramic overlooks, and charming forest towns along Highway 18.
Red apples hanging on a tree branch, sunlight shining through leaves.

Oak Glen Day Trip from Big Bear

By Discover Big Bear Lake • October 21, 2025
Take a day trip from Big Bear Lake to Oak Glen — explore apple orchards, taste fresh cider and pies, and enjoy the scenic mountain drive.
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 • October 21, 2025
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.

Things to do

Local Wildlife

Big Bear Lake is home to incredible wildlife — including bald eagles, black bears, bobcats, deer, and dozens of bird species. Our wildlife guides will help you know where to look, what you might see, and how to observe animals safely and respectfully in their natural habitats.

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 • November 12, 2025
Want to see Big Bear’s bald eagles in real life? Find the best places to spot Jackie & Shadow safely — plus tips for respectful eagle watching.
Bald eagle with white head, yellow beak and intense gaze, dark plumage.

Jackie & Shadow – Nesting History of Big Bear’s Bald Eagle Pair

By Discover Big Bear Lake • November 12, 2025
Follow the nesting history of Big Bear Lake’s famous bald eagles, Jackie & Shadow — from Stormy to Sunny & Gizmo, and what’s ahead for 2025.
Two bald eagles perched on a tree branch with green and yellow leaves, against a blue sky.

Jackie and Shadow: Big Bear's Famous Bald Eagles

By Discover Big Bear Lake • October 20, 2025
Learn about Jackie and Shadow, Big Bear Lake’s famous bald eagles. Watch them live on the Big Bear Bald Eagle Cam, explore their history, nesting updates & more
Bald eagle in flight, wings spread wide against a blue sky. White head and tail feathers, dark brown body.

Big Bear Bald Eagles: Live Bald Eagle Cam

By Discover Big Bear Lake • October 20, 2025
See bald eagles in Big Bear! Watch the Big Bear Bald Eagle Cam live & learn where to spot bald eagles around Big Bear Lake this winter.

Things to do

Winter in Big Bear

Winter transforms Big Bear into a snow-filled playground. From skiing and tubing to winter hikes, scenic snow drives, and family-friendly snow play, these guides show you everything you can do when the mountains turn white. Find tips, safety info, and the best places to enjoy winter in Big Bear.

Person fitting snow chains on a car tire in a snowy environment.

Do I Need Chains for Big Bear? What First-Time Snow Drivers Really Need to Know

By Discover Big Bear Lake • November 26, 2025
Do I need chains for Big Bear? Here’s how chain laws, checkpoints, and road conditions work—plus when, where, and how to put chains on safely.
Snow groomer on a snow-covered slope, trees and mountains in the background. Cloudy sky.

Winter Driving Conditions in Big Bear Lake (2025 Guide)

By Discover Big Bear Lake • October 24, 2025
Plan ahead for snow and ice in Big Bear Lake. Learn about winter weather, chain laws, CHP checkpoints, road closures, and safe routes for 2025 travel.
Hiker with backpack and poles stands in snow, facing mountains, wearing blue jacket and jeans.

Snowshoeing in Big Bear Lake | Trails & Winter Tips

By Discover Big Bear Lake • October 21, 2025
Discover the best snowshoeing trails in Big Bear Lake. Learn about permits, rentals, and where to explore safely this winter.
Family tubing down snowy hill at Big Bear Snow Play

Where to Play in the Snow in Big Bear | Sledding & Tubing Guide

By Discover Big Bear Lake • October 11, 2025
Find the best snow play areas in Big Bear Lake — from quiet forest spots in Fawnskin to tubing at Snow Summit and other official hills.

Things to do

Hiking in Big Bear

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful lakeside walk or a challenging summit trail, Big Bear offers hiking for every level. Our trail guides highlight the best routes, difficulty levels, seasonal tips, and what to expect along the way — helping you find the perfect hike for your visit.

Paved Alpine Pedal Path and wooden fence along Big Bear Lake with mountains in the background under

Alpine Pedal Path

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.
adventure pass in front of trees in Big Bear Lake

Do You Need an Adventure Pass to Hike in Big Bear?

By Discover Big Bear Lake • April 1, 2025
Many trails and picnic areas in Big Bear Lake require you to have an Adventure Pass. Find out which ones and where to buy a pass.
A person with a backpack is walking through a forest.

The Pacific Crest Trail: A Hiking Adventure in Big Bear

By Discover Big Bear Lake • June 28, 2023
Experience a day hike on the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) from Big Bear Lake. Find out how to access the PCT from Big Bear and what to expect.

Resident Bald Eagles: Jackie and Shadow's Love Story

All you need to know about the Adventure Pass

Discover the Pacific Crest Trail

Your Ultimate Guide to Dog-Friendly Activities