Activity Guide

Mountain Biking

Ride downhill bike-park terrain, forest roads and miles of mountain trails around Big Bear.

Overview

What to Expect

Mountain biking in Big Bear is really two different experiences. At Snow Summit, the bike park gives riders lift-served access to downhill trails, so you can spend the day descending without earning every run on a climb. Outside the resort, National Forest trails and roads offer cross-country riding where altitude and sustained climbing become a much bigger part of the day. Decide which experience you want before choosing a route or renting a bike.

Highlights

What Makes It Special

Lift-served downhill riding at Summit Bike Park plus cross-country forest trails and roads. Choose the experience first—bike-park laps and high-elevation trail riding require different bikes, skills and fitness.

The Best Time to Go

The broadest riding window is generally late spring through fall after snow clears. Summer mornings are better for long climbs because exposed trails can become hot and afternoon weather can change quickly. Fall brings cooler riding temperatures, but daylight becomes shorter.

Planning

Plan Your Visit

Check current lift, trail and Forest Service conditions before riding. Summer mornings are best for longer climbs, and altitude makes sustained efforts harder than the mileage suggests. Carry water, a helmet and repair supplies, and choose a route that matches both your bike and skill level.

Local Tip

If you are visiting with friends who say they want to 'mountain bike,' make sure everyone means the same thing. A day riding lifts at Snow Summit is completely different from climbing a cross-country route in the forest, and the bike, fitness and skills you need are different too.

Parking and Access

Getting There

For lift-served riding, start at Snow Summit and follow current resort parking procedures. Forest routes use separate trailheads and access roads, so confirm the exact trailhead, road status and legal parking before leaving.