Big Bear, California is well known for its scenic mountain and lake views, but there is much more than scenic beauty to take in. There are many different ways to enjoy your Big Bear trip and we are here to help you plan your vacation to get the most out of a short trip. Here is our 7-day guide to Big Bear, California that will leave you with a satisfying and well-rounded Big Bear trip from the stresses of everyday life.
Day 1: Cool Off in Big Bear Lake
Big Bear Lake is the crown jewel of the area and provides a load of activities to do year-round. In the summertime, it’s the most fun to get out on the water by renting a boat. Whether trying out water skiing or catching the biggest fish of your life (When you retell the story, it will be even bigger!), summer at Big Bear Lake is a blast. We also highly recommend trying the new sport of stand-up paddleboarding. This is a fun and inventive way to see the sights of Big Bear Lake without so much of a high cost of renting a boat. All equipment can be rented on-site by the hour and it’s a great way to get on the water. If it’s a little snowier when you visit, the lake makes for some amazing scenic views that will leave you breathless. There is nothing quite like the picturesque views of Big Bear Lake in the winter.
Day 2: Enjoy the Outdoors
Being so high up in the mountains will give you the perfect opportunity to enjoy some fresh air and hike around for scenic views. When the snow melts in the spring and summer the ski trails transform into amazing hiking trails. Along with the long elevation changes in the mountains, there are also amazing trails around Big Bear Lake to experience as well. This change in elevation with flat trails intermixed provides for trails for all levels of difficulty. Big Bear has some of the best trails in the country and will provide ample opportunity to find picturesque views to take home a stunning photo; your family back home will be jealous!
Day 3: Golfing at Any of Big Bear’s Golf Courses
Many flock to Big Bear to experience the best rounds of golf you will play. The high altitude will add distance to your drive and make you feel like a pro. While cracking open a cold one between holes, you can sit back and take in the sights. Big Bear is a beautiful location to golf almost all times of the year. In the spring and summer, you will see bright greenery around town, and in the fall to winter you will see the leaves change and become a whole new experience before the snow falls. No matter the time of year, Big Bear is the perfect backdrop for a great golfing experience.
Day 4: Explore the Wonderous Animals of Big Bear Alpine Zoo
The San Bernardino National Forest features a very unique type of animal habitat that provides for one of the most interesting zoos in the nation. . The Big Bear Alpine Zoo seeks to show off the amazing animals that call Big Bear home. The amazing people who take care of these animals seek to inform everyone about the dos and don’ts of interacting with these amazing creatures to ensure your safety if encountered outside of the zoo. They are incredibly informative, and you will walk away knowing more about animals than you ever expected. From fierce predators like snow leopards, snowy owls, and grizzly bears to the meek prey like deer and ringtail cats, this stop on your Big Bear itinerary is sure to have something for everyone.
Day 5: Big Bear Lake Alpine Slide
Enjoy the thrill-seeking experience of Big Bear’s alpine slide. This slide is a long chute that sends riders down the mountain in a bobsled-type experience for one or two passengers. After taking a ride down the slide, Magic Mountain Recreation Area also has go-karts and golf in the summer and snow tubing in the winter.
Day 6: Helicopter Tour
One unique way to absorb the great views of Big Bear is from the high view of a helicopter. Tours range in price and duration, but this is definitely one way to experience Big Bear from a whole new point of view. There are many different companies to take these tours, but they all offer something unique. Tours range from 7 to 45 minutes of air time, and they all cater to the people booking the tour. Pricing starts at $35 a person, so it’s more affordable than you may think and provides a truly unique way of seeing Big Bear. Besides the picturesque scenery within the Big Bear Valley, many other points of interest include alternative mountain lakes, the Mojave Desert, the San Gorgonio Mountain range, Santa Ana Canyon, and many others. All tours are guided and highlight fun facts and local history. Helicopter tours are great for all special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, holidays!
Day 7: A Family-Friendly Day in Big Bear
Big Bear is not only for adults, but there are loads of activities for the family. Big Bear Funplex has laser tag and ice skating for all ages, while Big Bear Historical Museum will give you a glimpse into the past. If your kids love horses, make sure you also check out one of the many horseback riding trails and experiences during your Big Bear trip.
There’s plenty more to do during your 7-day journey to Big Bear. Contact us today to book one of our extended stay properties or one of our lakeside cabins in Big Bear and plan your getaway!
