Big Bear Chain Requirements & Road Conditions

Yes, you are required to carry snow chains when driving to Big Bear Lake during winter months — even if it is not snowing.

Chain controls (R1, R2, or R3) may be activated due to snow or ice on Highways 18, 330, or 38. Roads are typically plowed quickly, but drivers must carry chains in case conditions change.

Here’s exactly what you need to know before driving to Big Bear in winter.

Do You Need to Carry Snow Chains in Big Bear Lake?

Yes. During winter months, you are legally required to carry chains in your vehicle when traveling to Big Bear Lake — even if it is not actively snowing.

This rule exists for one reason: conditions can change quickly in the mountains.

• Snowstorms can arrive unexpectedly.
• Ice can form overnight even without new snowfall.
• Chain controls can be activated after you’ve already arrived.
• You may be required to use chains to leave town if a storm moves in.

Law enforcement and CHP don’t just consider current weather — they consider forecasted conditions and road safety. Ice is often more dangerous than falling snow, especially on shaded mountain roads.

If you do not have chains when restrictions are active, you can be turned around before reaching town.

Do You Need Chains If It’s NOT Snowing?

Possibly, yes.

Chain controls are often enforced due to:



• Overnight freezing temperatures
• Shaded mountain curves
• Black ice
• Packed snow from previous storms

Even if Big Bear Lake looks clear, higher elevations and highways may still require chains.

Clear skies do not automatically mean safe driving conditions.

Understanding Chain Control Levels (R1, R2, R3)

Chain restrictions are issued by CHP and Caltrans using three levels:

R1

• Chains required on most vehicles.
• Vehicles with snow tires may be exempt.

R2 (Most Common)

• Chains required on all vehicles except:
• 4WD or AWD vehicles
• Equipped with snow-rated tires on all four wheels
• Even exempt vehicles must still carry chains.

R3 (Rare)

• Chains required on all vehicles, no exceptions.
• This level is uncommon but possible during major storms.

Most winter visitors encounter R2 restrictions.

Do AWD or 4WD Vehicles Need Chains in Big Bear?

Under R2 restrictions, AWD and 4WD vehicles with snow-rated tires typically do not need to install chains — but they must still carry them.

Under R3 restrictions, all vehicles must install chains.

Important: Many rental cars do not have proper snow-rated tires. AWD does not make a vehicle immune to ice.

What Happens If You Don’t Have Chains?

If restrictions are active and you do not have chains:

• You may be turned around by CHP.
• You may receive a citation.
• You could become stranded.
• You could cause road blockages or accidents.

Buying Chains in Big Bear Is Difficult

During storms:

• Local stores sell out quickly.
• Supply is limited.
• Gas stations rarely carry proper sizes.
• Prices increase due to demand.

Buy chains before coming up the mountain.



Common places to purchase:

• Walmart (usually stocked in winter)
• Amazon (order in advance and confirm correct size)
• Auto parts stores in lower elevations

Do not rely on finding chains once you arrive.

When Does Big Bear Usually Require Chains?

Chain controls are most common between:

November through March

They are typically required:

• During active storms
• Immediately after storms
• Overnight when temperatures drop below freezing

Holiday weekends often coincide with winter weather, increasing enforcement and traffic delays.

How to Check Big Bear Road Conditions Before You Drive

Before heading up:

• Check Caltrans QuickMap
• Look at CHP chain control updates
• Monitor weather forecasts
• Confirm Highway 38 status if considering that route

Do not rely solely on social media comments for road conditions.

Conditions can change quickly within hours.

Is It Snowing in Big Bear Right Now?

Weather in town does not always reflect highway conditions.

Important to remember:

• Big Bear Lake sits at over 6,700 feet elevation.
• Higher elevation highways may see snow before town.
• Microclimates affect different areas differently.
• Snow can fall at night and freeze by morning.

Always check current weather and chain restrictions before departure.

Local Winter Driving Tips from Big Bear Residents

These are practical safety tips visitors often overlook.

Gas Up Before You Climb

Fuel up in lower elevations because:

• Power outages occur during storms.
• Gas stations cannot pump fuel without electricity.
• Cell service can drop in severe weather.
• You don’t want to be low on fuel during delays.

Avoid Early Morning Black Ice

Even after plowing:

• Shaded curves freeze overnight.
• Bridges freeze first.
• Residential streets remain icy longer.

Midday travel is often safer after storms.

Install Chains in Safe Areas

Use designated turnouts.

Never stop in active traffic lanes.

Practice installing chains before your trip.

Allow Extra Time

Winter travel takes longer.

Traffic increases significantly during snow weekends.


Sunday departures after storms are often congested.

Final Takeaway

Big Bear Lake does not close when it snows. Roads are usually kept open and plowed quickly. However, winter mountain driving requires preparation.

Carry chains.

Check conditions before leaving.

Gas up.

Allow extra time.

Being prepared makes the difference between a stressful trip and a smooth mountain

getaway.