Uber, Lyft & Taxi Services in Big Bear Lake

Uber, Lyft, and taxi services are available in Big Bear Lake, but they work differently here than they do in larger cities. While rideshare availability has improved in recent years, there are still times when finding a ride can be difficult, especially during snowstorms, holidays, late nights, and busy weekends.



For visitors who do not want to drive everywhere, rideshare can still be helpful for short trips around town, getting to The Village, heading to restaurants, or avoiding parking near ski resorts and major events.

Are Uber and Lyft Available in Big Bear Lake?

Yes, both Uber and Lyft operate in Big Bear Lake. In recent years, more local drivers have started offering rides through the apps, making it easier than it used to be to find transportation around town.

However, Big Bear is still a relatively small mountain community. Unlike larger cities where dozens of drivers may be available at any given time, Big Bear may only have one or two drivers working at certain times of day.



That means wait times can vary significantly depending on when and where you need a ride.

When Rideshare Is Most Reliable

Uber and Lyft tend to work best during:

• Midday and early evening hours
• Weekdays outside of holidays
• Summer weekends
• Trips around The Village
• Travel between hotels, restaurants, shops, and local attractions

Visitors staying near The Village, Snow Summit, Bear Mountain, or major resort areas may have better luck finding rides than those staying in more remote neighborhoods or cabins farther from town.

When It Can Be Hard to Get a Ride

Rideshare availability can become much more limited during:

• Snowstorms
• Holiday weekends
• Major events
• Late-night hours
• Busy ski weekends
• Times when road conditions are poor

One of the biggest mistakes visitors make is assuming they will easily find a ride back after being dropped off somewhere.

For example, you may have no problem getting an Uber to The Village for dinner or drinks, but later in the evening there may be no drivers available for the return trip. The same can happen after concerts, festivals, ski resort closing times, or busy holiday events.



If you are relying on Uber or Lyft, it is always smart to have a backup plan.

Taxi Services in Big Bear Lake

Big Bear no longer has a taxi service however we now have transportation companies that may be available for rides around town. In some cases, a transportation company may be easier to schedule in advance than relying on rideshare apps.

Is Uber or Lyft Enough for a Big Bear Vacation?

For some visitors, yes.

If you are staying near The Village or close to restaurants, shops, and ski resorts, you may be able to rely mostly on rideshare, walking, and the local trolley system.

However, if you are staying farther from town, visiting during winter, traveling with a large group, or need reliable airport transportation, rideshare may not be enough.

In those cases, a scheduled transportation service may be a better option.

Private Car Services May Be More Reliable

If you need dependable transportation to or from Big Bear, especially for airport trips, weddings, group travel, or winter vacations, a private transportation company is often more reliable than Uber or Lyft.

Private transportation services can usually be booked in advance and may offer service to airports including Ontario, LAX, Palm Springs, John Wayne, and Burbank.

For visitors who do not want to worry about finding a ride at the last minute, private transportation can provide more peace of mind.

Read next: Private Car Service & Airport Transportation in Big Bear Lake

Tips for Using Uber, Lyft & Taxis in Big Bear

• Do not assume a ride will always be available immediately
• Plan ahead during snow season and holiday weekends
• Book transportation before late-night events if possible
• Consider a local taxi company as a backup
• Save the phone number of your lodging in case you need help getting back
• Be prepared for surge pricing during busy times
• Have a backup transportation plan if you are staying outside of town