Just a three hour drive from both Los Angeles and San Diego, Big Bear Lake is embedded in the San Bernardino Forest.
Within the region lies three different ski resorts with beginner friendly slopes, terrain parks, and a quaint little town to enjoy. Southern Californians seek out Big Bear for day trips and weekend getaways to enjoy the snow, scenic views and gorgeous lake.
Big Bear Ski Guide
What makes Big Bear Lakes such a unique destination in the ski world is its location and vibe. When you think of Southern California you think surfing, beaches and warm weather. Big Bears resorts contain a different vibe than most other areas in California and across the country. You will see more jeans, t-shirts, and sunglasses on this mountain than any other one in the world.
Whether it's December, February, or April the weather stays consistently warm for all its visitors from Los Angeles and San Diego. The vibe this creates is laid back and not as competitive of a mountain creating great opportunities to learn or improve your skills. Big Bear’s resorts take on the personality of its region it represents.
Another unique tidbit of Big Bear is the night skiing available at two of the three resorts, Snow Summit and Snow Valley. They keep the park open and the main groomers, extending the day for everyone and to keep getting those turns coming all the way till 8:30 P.M.
Gear Needed to Ski in Big Bear
As mentioned before the ski gear needed for Big Bear can vastly depend on weather conditions. Making sure to bring a quality pair of sunglasses or a darker tint goggle lens to keep the sun a non factor. Helmets, of course, although they may not be too popular with the skiers and snowboarders in Big Bear, it's very important to wear one at all times because of the exposed terrain, terrain park and plethora of inexperienced riders. Leave the powder skis at home and bring out either your favorite freestyle skis or whatever you prefer to use for speed and getting down the groomers.
In terms of clothing, it is recommended to wear real ski pants for protection and warmth for the possibility of night skiing at the end of the day, it does cool down significantly no matter how warm it is during the day. Besides a onesie of some sort or any costume, a t-shirt, sweatshirt and maybe a lighter coat just in case are the only layers you will need up top to stay warm enough.
The drive into Big Bear can get icy on days where snow melts and freezes over. If you're planning on heading up that direction, four wheel or all wheel drive cars are very strongly recommended for your best success, especially day trips.
Where to Stay in Big Bear
The Hampton Inn Big Bear Lake is a great place to stay for a weekend. One of the best and highest rated hotels in the area has an indoor pool, fitness center, and is just a 15 minute walk to Snow Summit Resort. The Hampton inn is also close to the suttles that go to Bear Mountain and the Lakeview Shopping Center for food and supplies.
The Fox Bear Cottages are a great value play for anyone looking for an authentic feel of nature and the mountain air. These cottages are located next to a local market and quality restaurants. There is also no lack of entertainment as they are also right near the alpine slides, the lake and of course the three ski resorts.
The Best Ski Runs in Big Bear
#1: The famed run at Bear Mountain is called “Geronimo” this is one of the steeper slopes in the whole region and is famous for its views down through the mountains including a site of the lake and millions upon millions of trees. A must hit for all the advanced skiers heading up to Bear Mountain.
#2: Upper, Face and Lower Park is a top to bottom park run off of Bear Mountain Express. With three different sections there are so many features for park skiers of all skill levels to have a shot at putting a line together. A highlight for many riders up at Bear Resort.
#3: Snow Summit’s Westridge Park is the ultimate lapping trail for the intermediate and advanced freestyle skier. A long but quick lap contains a variety of features from small jumps, rails, quarter pipe hits and much more. This trail also is under the lights on weekends for even more repetitions.
#4: Snow Valley is perfect for the beginners, with loads of greens it's hard to go wrong. Sundance is a green circle run at Snow Valley with a relatively straight path. If you're looking for a slightly more difficult green to keep improving then Winchester provides a bit more windy of a trail for you.
The Bottom Line: Big Bear Ski Guide
Big Bear Lakes is well known for its warm weather park days and family friendly ski slopes for everyone to enjoy no matter where you rank in the ski depth chart. If you find yourself in Southern California or looking to make a visit make sure to check out Big Bear’s three resorts and endless fun.
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