Big Bear to Lake Arrowhead | Scenic Day Trip

About the Drive

Looking for another mountain escape close to Big Bear Lake? Lake Arrowhead is just over an hour away and makes a perfect half- or full-day trip. The drive winds through the San Bernardino National Forest, offering dramatic overlooks, tall pines, and a completely different vibe — cozier, a little more resort-like, and packed with shops and restaurants clustered around the lakefront.

It’s an ideal change of scenery: trade Big Bear’s open alpine feel for Arrowhead’s European-style village, lakeside cafés, and forested trails.

Driving Directions — The Big Bear Lake Loop

Route: From Big Bear Lake, take CA-18 West through Running Springs to Lake Arrowhead Village (approx. 28 miles / 1 hour 15 minutes).
Driving note: Expect winding mountain curves and elevation changes — it’s a beautiful drive but take your time.
Alternate option: For a slightly different return, take CA-173 to Hesperia Rd toward Rimforest for wider forest views.

Things to Do in Lake Arrowhead

1. Explore Lake Arrowhead Village

📍 28200 CA-189
The heart of Lake Arrowhead is its picturesque Village, designed with alpine-style architecture and lake views around every corner. Browse local boutiques, outdoor-gear shops, and art galleries, or grab coffee and people-watch by the water.

If you visit on weekends, you’ll often find live music or seasonal festivals right in the main plaza.

2. Enjoy a Boat Tour on Lake Arrowhead

📍 Dock at Lake Arrowhead Village
Hop aboard the Arrowhead Queen Tour Boat for a narrated cruise around the private lake — the only way for visitors to see its hidden coves and celebrity homes. Tours run most of the year (weather permitting) and take about 50 minutes.

3. Visit the Lake Arrowhead Alpine Museum or Resort Area

📍 North Bay Rd & Highway 173
Learn about the area’s logging and film-industry history at the Mountain History Museum, operated by the Rim of the World Historical Society. It’s small but well-curated and free to enter.

4. Lunch & Pie at Belgian Waffle Works

📍 Lake Arrowhead Village
When hunger strikes, head to Belgian Waffle Works — a lakeside favorite since 1982. The menu features savory waffles, sandwiches, and salads, but the stars of the show are the desserts and pies (try the hot-apple waffle sundae!). Sit on the patio overlooking the lake for one of the best views in town..

Trip Planning Tips

• Travel time: Allow 4–6 hours total for drive and exploring.
• Best season: Year-round. Summer and fall offer festivals and boating; winter brings snowy village views and holiday lights.
• Family-friendly: Great for all ages — lots of shopping, casual dining, and easy walks.
• Parking: Public lots in the Village are paid ($3 per hour) and can fill on weekends — arrive early.
• Pro tip: Bring a light jacket even in summer — Arrowhead sits at ~5,200 ft and can stay cool.
  

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