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.

Featured Drives

Popular Scenic Drives in Big Bear Lake

These popular scenic drives showcase a mix of lake views, forested roads, and mountain overlooks throughout the Big Bear Valley.

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.

Year round

Best Time of Year for Scenic Drives

Scenic drives in Big Bear Lake change dramatically with the seasons. Spring and summer offer clear roads and forest views, fall brings colorful foliage along mountain routes, and winter can provide snow-covered scenery when conditions allow. Always check weather and road conditions during winter months, as chain restrictions or temporary closures may apply.

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.
Big Bear Village lined with trees in fall colors: yellow, orange, and red. Clear blue sky.

Big Bear Fall Colors Guide 2025

By Discover Big Bear Lake • October 17, 2025
Discover where to see the best fall colors in Big Bear Lake 2025 — from scenic drives to hiking trails, lake views, and mountain overlooks.

Road Safety

Tips for Driving Scenic Routes in Big Bear Lake

  • Some scenic routes include narrow mountain roads with limited shoulders
  • Weather and elevation can change quickly, especially in fall and winter
  • Pullouts may be limited—use designated turnouts when stopping for photos
  • Winter driving may require chains or 4WD depending on conditions

While scenic drives around Big Bear Lake are accessible year-round, road conditions can shift fast due to winter chain requirements, ice, rock slides, and occasional accidents in the mountains.

Current Weather Conditions

Check current temperatures, wind, and mountain forecasts before you go.


Big Bear Lake Weather Forecast (NOAA)

Local Road Conditions

Get real-time traffic, closures, and chain control updates for Highways 18, 38, and 330.


Caltrans QuickMap – Live Road Conditions

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Discover More Things to Do

Wooden walkway along Big Bear Lake , with mountains and trees in the background under a blue sky.

Stanfield Marsh & Boardwalk – Big Bear Lake Nature Walk

By Discover Big Bear Lake • December 31, 2025
Explore the Stanfield Marsh Boardwalk in Big Bear Lake — an easy, peaceful walk perfect for birdwatching, dogs, kids, and sunset views. Seasonal parking and bathrooms available.
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.
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.
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.
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