A Choose-Your-Own-Adventure Scenic Drive
A scenic drive around Big Bear Lake can be as quick or adventurous as you want it to be. This 29-mile loop lets you cruise along the water's edge, soaking in epic mountain views, or transform it into a full day of exploration with pitstops for everything from wildlife spotting to lakeside lunches.
Here's the beauty: it's completely up to you! Need a quick afternoon escape? Hop in the car, crank up the tunes, and enjoy the ever-changing scenery. Got a full day to burn? This loop becomes your launching pad for all sorts of adventures – we'll give you some tips on where to stop and explore along the way! So, buckle up and get ready for a choose-your-own-adventure around Big Bear Lake!
Scenic Loop Overview
Big Bear Lake's beauty unfolds perfectly as you leave town and reach the northshore with spectacular views of the lake and mountains. Ready to hit the road?
Here's your directions:
Starting Point: Big Bear Lake Village is your launchpad. Head east on Big Bear Boulevard, the main artery through the town.
First Turn: At Stanfield Cutoff, take a left and continue straight until you hit North Shore Drive (Highway 38). This is where the lake views begin! Turn left and get ready to be wowed.
North Shore Majesty: North Shore Drive winds along the north side of the lake. Keep your eyes peeled for incredible photo opportunities and potential pull-off points to soak it all in.
Dam It, We're Almost There! Eventually, you'll reach the Big Bear Dam, a marvel of engineering and a great spot to stop and admire the lake from a different perspective.
Back to the Village: Continuing on North Shore Drive, you'll eventually reconnect with Big Bear Boulevard. Turn left, and you'll cruise back to the village, completing your scenic loop.
Must See Stops Along the Way
Now that you've got the roadmap for your scenic drive, let's turn it into an unforgettable Big Bear adventure! These suggested stops along the way offer more than just incredible views – they're springboards for exploration, relaxation, and connecting with the natural beauty that surrounds you.
North Shore Gems:
- Stanfield Marsh Wildlife Preserve: (At the Stanfield Cutoff) Pull over and park along the bridge or in the designated lot. Take a leisurely stroll on the boardwalk and keep your eyes peeled for a variety of birdlife that calls this marsh home. Check out our blog post "Stanfield Marsh Wildlife Preserve" for a more in-depth info.
- Alpine Pedal Path: (Parking at the corner of Stanfield Cutoff and North Shore Drive) Feeling energetic? This paved path runs parallel to the road, offering stunning lake views and a chance to stretch your legs. You can also access the path from other points along the loop – check out our blog post "Alpine Pedal Path" for more details!
- Woodland Interpretive Trail: A short and informative walk with signs highlighting the local flora and fauna. Perfect for a quick nature fix and learning about the unique ecosystem of Big Bear Lake. Check out our blog post "Woodland Interpretive Trail" for a more in-depth look.
- The Discover Center: Big Bear's visitor center is a treasure trove of information and a great place to orient yourself. Here, you can explore the "The Big Bear Discover Center Nature Trail" or take the Alpine Pedal Path Spur Trail to access the main path.
Picnics & Photo Ops:
- Picnic Areas: Dotted along the north shore are several picnic areas, including Juniper Point and The Meadows Edge. These offer scenic spots to spread out a blanket, enjoy a meal with a view, and maybe even take a dip in the lake (depending on the season and designated areas).
- The Dam: A marvel of engineering and a must-see for any Big Bear visitor. Stop here for breathtaking panoramic views of the lake and some truly unique photo opportunities.
Southern Shore Exploration:
- Boulder Bay Park: Once you're back on the south side of the lake, take a detour to Boulder Bay Park. Here, you can take a short stroll amongst the iconic boulders, a geological wonder of the area. Check out our blog post "Boulder Bay Park in Big Bear Lake" to learn more about this fascinating spot.
Bonus: Wildlife Spotting!
Keep your eyes peeled throughout your drive, especially near the Stanfield Marsh Wildlife Preserve, for a chance to see bald eagles, osprey, and other local wildlife.
These are just a few suggestions to get you started. With so many hidden gems along the way, the possibilities for exploration are endless! So, buckle up, hit the gas, and get ready to discover the magic of Big Bear Lake, one scenic turn at a time.
