Scenic Drives in Big Bear Lake
Scenic drives in Big Bear Lake offer an easy way to experience mountain scenery, lake views, and seasonal landscapes without hiking or long walks.
From classic mountain routes to leisurely drives around the lake, these scenic roads highlight some of the most beautiful views in the area and are accessible year-round, weather permitting.
Start Here: The Best Scenic Drive in Big Bear
Drive Around Big Bear Lake
If you are only doing one scenic drive in Big Bear, start with the drive around Big Bear Lake.
It is the easiest way to see the lake from multiple angles, stop at different viewpoints, and get a feel for the entire area in one trip.
On weekends, this drive can get slow near Boulder Bay and the dam, especially mid-day. If you want a more relaxed experience, mornings or weekdays are usually better.
Other Scenic Drives in Big Bear
If you want to go beyond the lake loop, these are the main scenic drives people do in and around Big Bear.
Big Bear to Oak Glen Drive
Best known as a seasonal drive, especially in the fall.
This route heads toward apple orchards, cooler temperatures, and fall color, making it one of the most popular drives later in the year.
Outside of fall, it’s still a scenic route, but most people plan this drive specifically for the season.
Big Bear to Lake Arrowhead Drive
A solid option if you want to extend your trip and visit another mountain lake.
This drive connects two popular destinations and gives you a different perspective compared to staying entirely in Big Bear.
Drive the Rim of the World Byway
This is a longer mountain drive with elevation changes, forest sections, and wider views as you travel toward or away from Big Bear.
It feels more like a mountain route than a lake drive and is a good option if you want something less centered around the lake itself.
Which Scenic Drive Should You Do?
If you’re not sure where to start, here’s a simple way to decide:
- First time in Big Bear: Drive around the lake
- Short visit: Drive around the lake
- Want a longer drive: Rim of the World
- Visiting in fall: Oak Glen route
- Want to explore beyond Big Bear: Lake Arrowhead drive
- Most visitors start with the lake loop, then branch out if they have more time.
What Makes Scenic Drives in Big Bear Unique
Big Bear’s scenic drives are different from long highway drives you might find elsewhere.
Here, the variety happens quickly.
Within a short distance, you can go from:
- dense forest roads
- to wide open lake views
- to quieter shoreline areas
- to mountain overlooks
Most of the time, you’re not driving long distances — you’re stopping often.
A lot of the best views in Big Bear are right off the road, not at the end of a hike.
How to Approach Scenic Driving in Big Bear
If you’re new to the area, the easiest approach is to pick one main drive and give yourself time to stop.
Most people:
- start with the lake loop
- pull over at viewpoints
- stop when something looks worth it
You don’t need a strict plan here.
Some of the best parts of driving in Big Bear happen when you slow down, notice something, and take a few minutes to step out.
What to Expect When Driving in Big Bear
Driving in Big Bear is fairly easy, but there are a few things that surprise visitors.
- Most roads are two-lane
- Traffic builds quickly on weekends and holidays
- The Village side is much busier than the north shore
- Parking at popular stops fills up fast
- Some pullouts are small and easy to miss
On busy days, the drive around the lake can feel slower than expected, especially near Boulder Bay and the dam.
The north shore side is generally quieter and easier to stop along.
Common Mistakes When Doing Scenic Drives in Big Bear
A few things that tend to catch people off guard:
- Trying to do the drive mid-day on a weekend
- Expecting it to be a quick loop without stops
- Not planning for traffic near Boulder Bay
- Skipping the north shore entirely
- Not giving themselves enough time to pull over
The best approach is to treat it as a relaxed drive, not a quick one.
Common Mistakes When Doing Scenic Drives in Big Bear
A few things that tend to catch people off guard:
- Trying to do the drive mid-day on a weekend
- Expecting it to be a quick loop without stops
- Not planning for traffic near Boulder Bay
- Skipping the north shore entirely
- Not giving themselves enough time to pull over
The best approach is to treat it as a relaxed drive, not a quick one.
When Is the Best Time for Scenic Drives in Big Bear?
Timing can make a big difference in your experience.
- Morning: Best overall (less traffic, easier parking)
- Midday: Busiest, especially on weekends
- Sunset: Great lighting, but limited parking at popular spots
Tips for Scenic Driving in Big Bear
- Start early if possible
- Take your time — this is not a rush drive
- Bring coffee or snacks if you plan to stop
- Watch for cyclists on mountain roads
- Use pullouts safely and don’t block traffic
- Check road conditions during winter
Discover Big Bear Lake
Frequently Asked Questions About Scenic Drives in Big Bear
Planning a scenic drive in Big Bear Lake? These are some of the most common questions visitors have when deciding where to go, when to drive, and what the experience is actually like.
What is the best scenic drive in Big Bear Lake?
The drive around Big Bear Lake is the most popular and easiest option, especially for first-time visitors.
How long does it take to drive around Big Bear Lake?
About 45 minutes to an hour without stopping, but most people take longer with stops.
Are scenic drives open year-round?
Yes, but winter weather can affect conditions and driving safety.
Is the drive around Big Bear worth it?
Yes. It’s one of the easiest ways to see the lake, viewpoints, and layout of Big Bear.
