Winter In Big Bear Lake

Experience the Magic of Winter in Big Bear Lake

When the snow starts falling, Big Bear takes on a whole new personality. The air feels crisp, the pine trees sparkle, and the whole town hums with that cozy mountain energy that makes winter special up here. You’ll see families tubing down hills, friends loading up snowboards at Bear Mountain, and couples wandering The Village with hot cocoa in hand.

What makes Big Bear winter trips so great is how easy they are. You can leave Los Angeles or San Diego in the morning and be throwing snowballs by lunchtime. Whether you’re here to ski, explore snow-covered trails, or just enjoy cabin life by the fire, there’s something about winter in Big Bear that keeps people coming back year after year.


This page covers everything you need to know — from snow play areas and road safety tips to the best places to stay warm and eat well. If you’re new to mountain travel or just planning your annual getaway, use this guide to make your winter trip simple, safe, and unforgettable.

Explore Big Bear Winter Activities

Big Bear is built for winter fun. Whether you’re here for the slopes, snow play, or just want to enjoy the view with a warm drink in hand, there’s plenty to do once the snow hits. Explore our latest guides and tips below to make the most of your mountain time.

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.
Hiker with backpack and poles stands in snow, facing mountains, wearing blue jacket and jeans.

Snowshoeing in Big Bear Lake | Trails & Winter Tips

By Discover Big Bear Lake • October 21, 2025
Discover the best snowshoeing trails in Big Bear Lake. Learn about permits, rentals, and where to explore safely this winter.
Family tubing down snowy hill at Big Bear Snow Play

Where to Play in the Snow in Big Bear | Sledding & Tubing Guide

By Discover Big Bear Lake • October 11, 2025
Find the best snow play areas in Big Bear Lake — from quiet forest spots in Fawnskin to tubing at Snow Summit and other official hills.
Lake and mountains with snow-covered ski slopes. Buildings and trees line the water's edge. Cloudy sky reflects in the lake.

Skiing & Snowboarding in Big Bear Lake: The Ultimate Winter Guide

By Discover Big Bear Lake • October 11, 2025
Discover skiing and snowboarding in Big Bear Lake — from Bear Mountain’s terrain parks to Snow Summit’s scenic runs, plus tips, rentals & local advice.
Snowy lakefront with several rustic cabins nestled among pine trees.

Embrace the Magic of Winter in Big Bear Lake

October 16, 2023
Big Bear Lake is a perfect winter destination for a weekend getaway. Find things to do, places to stay and how to delve in the winter spirit while visiting Big Bear in the winter.

Winter Safety & Travel Tips

Winter in Big Bear is beautiful — but getting here and around town safely takes a little planning. Roads can go from clear to snow-packed in a few hours, and chain requirements often change throughout the day. Locals know that a little preparation goes a long way toward keeping your mountain trip stress-free.

Here are a few quick tips to make your drive smoother and safer:

  • Always carry tire chains, even if you have 4WD or AWD. CHP checkpoints will turn drivers around if chains aren’t in the vehicle.
  • Check Caltrans QuickMap before you start your drive. It shows current conditions, closures, and chain control areas on Highways 18, 38, and 330.
  • Pack smart. Bring extra layers, gloves, blankets, water, and snacks — you’ll be glad you did if traffic slows or snow delays your arrival.
  • Watch for black ice in shaded turns and on bridges. Roads can look dry but still be slick.
  • Drive early in the day when sunlight improves visibility and road crews are most active.
  • Refill your gas tank before heading up the mountain. Fuel stations can get crowded or close early in severe weather.
💡 Local Tip: If there is a loss of power to the mountain, ALL gas stations will be closed. Try to keep at least half of a tank of gas in your vehicle especially during storms.


Winter Hiking in Big Bear

You don’t have to put away your hiking boots when the snow arrives. Many Big Bear trails stay open all winter — and some are even better with a little snow on the ground. You’ll trade crowds for quiet forest views, crisp mountain air, and the crunch of snow underfoot. Popular lower-elevation trails like the Alpine Pedal Path, Stanfield Marsh Boardwalk, and Woodland Trail (1E23) are usually accessible year-round. Just wear waterproof shoes, bring trekking poles or microspikes if it’s icy, and check conditions before heading out.

Winter Hiking in Big Bear

You don’t have to put away your hiking boots when the snow arrives. Many Big Bear trails stay open all winter — and some are even better with a little snow on the ground.

Do You Need an Adventure Pass?

Most Big Bear trailheads inside the National Forest require an Adventure Pass for parking — even in winter. Find out where to get one and how it helps support trail maintenance.

Stop by the Big Bear Discovery Center

Open year-round, the Discovery Center is your go-to spot for local trail maps, weather updates, and wildlife info. Rangers can answer questions about current trail conditions.