Experience Big Bear outdoor activities

The Ultimate Guide to Outdoor Adventures in Big Bear, California

California’s Big Bear is every outdoor enthusiast’s dream vacation destination. This Golden State town offers numerous adventures, ranging from on-land, aquatic, and aerial thrills, making it one of the nation’s foremost locations for connecting with nature. Here’s an in-depth look at what Big Bear outdoor activities offer.

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Discover Big Bear hiking trails

Scenic Hiking Trails

Hiking is one of the best ways to enjoy Big Bear’s lovely outdoors as you traverse the sweeping landscape on gorgeous trails. The San Bernardino National Forest hosts over 20 trails, giving you access to over 100 miles of year-round hiking routes. The 3.1-mile Jenks Lake Trail near Big Bear Lake offers a generally simple hiking experience, featuring an elevation gain of roughly 486 feet. The trail begins with a gentle incline towards the lake, offering breathtaking views atop a wooden boardwalk that extends into the water.

The Bertha Peak Trail provides a moderately challenging 7.5-mile hike featuring an elevation gain of 1,358 feet. You can access the route via the Cougar Crest Trail before emerging at Pacific Crest Trail, then Bertha Peak Road, where you’ll enjoy sweeping views of Big Bear Lake. The Plantation, Skyline, and Seven Oaks Trail is Big Bear’s most arduous hiking route, covering 11 miles with an elevation gain of 2,575 feet. The trail takes you to Grand View Point, eventually emerging at Radford Camp outside Seven Oaks.

Lovely Biking Routes

Biking is an excellent alternative to hiking, with Big Bear featuring multiple miles of well-groomed trails primed for exploration. Bear Lake Woodland Trail stretches 1.6 miles, offering a hassle-free biking experience with lovely lake vistas towards the road’s end. Explore Bertha Peak via Holcomb Valley Road for a slightly more challenging route and relish the 2.8-mile biking experience with excellent views of Holcomb Valley and Delamar Mountain.

The 11.3-mile Beast Trail is Big Bear’s most demanding biking route, with an elevation gain of 3,510 feet. Cycle up to Snow Summit and enjoy the gorgeous sights of sweeping pine forests and the city’s vicinity. For quality mountain bike rentals, check out Chains Required Bike Shop and explore their impressive selection of high-end options. Choose from full-suspension or comfort E-bikes, cross-country, hardtail, or downhill demo bikes, and enjoy an exciting biking escapade with quality equipment.

Plan for zip lining in Big Bear

Awesome Ziplining Tours

Ziplining blends the thrill of soaring through the air at incredible speeds with majestic views of the gorgeous landscape. For Big Bear’s most exciting ziplining adventures, check out Action Tours and relish an exhilarating escapade near Big Bear Lake. The company offers ziplining on nine high-speed zip lines where you’ll zip above the forest floor at up to 35 miles per hour. The tour also features a suspension bridge that helps connect different parts of the course while delivering a fun experience as you walk across.

Action Tours provides transportation from the departure site to the zipline center, saving you the time and hassle of driving. The experience lasts roughly three hours, including transportation time, giving you ample time to enjoy the adrenaline-pumping excitement. The company permits ziplining for kids aged eight and older, allowing for riveting, wholesome family fun with your little ones. The zipline course’s design adheres to San Bernardino County’s building codes, ensuring safe ziplining for you and your loved ones.

Thrilling Off-Roading Trips

Big Bear hosts hundreds of miles of awe-inspiring off-roading trails, delivering epic drives in the expansive San Bernardino National Forest. The Pioneertown to Big Bear OHV Route covers 19.2 miles, offering an easy to moderate technical off-roading experience with picturesque views. The 11.1-mile Gold Fever OHV Trail passes through the lovely Holcomb Valley, promising several historical areas, including Two-Gun Bills Saloon, Jonathan Tibbetts Quartz Mill, and Original Gold Diggings.

The John Bull OHV Trail stretches 15.2 miles, delivering Big Bear’s most arduous off-roading experience. The route features steep climbs with massive boulders and umpteen rock gardens, putting your driving skills to the test. You can conquer some of Big Bear’s off-road trails with a stock off-roading vehicle, but most require high-clearance 4X4s with differentials to help maneuver through tight sections.

Experience horseback riding in Big Bear

Relaxing Horseback Riding

Explore Big Bear’s breathtaking backcountry on a peaceful horseback riding tour. Baldwin Lake Stables is the town’s most renowned horseback riding company, offering numerous rides along multiple trails. The three-hour ride takes you through the Pacific Crest Trail, where you’ll enjoy impeccable views of the famous Mojave Desert. Watch the sun dip over the majestic mountains on a Sunset Ride, or book a Private Guide Ride for a secluded riding experience.

If you’re vacationing with your little ones, head to the Baldwin Lake Petting Zoo and enjoy delightful interactions with the zoo’s animals. They get to feed, pet, and cuddle cute rabbits, pigs, goats, and alpacas as they relish the company of the zoo’s adorable residents. Your kids can also take pony rides as a trained guide leads them around the grounds. Baldwin Lakes Stables ensures a careful selection and handling of horses, promising a safe and smooth ride for you and yours.

Epic Stargazing Experiences

Big Bear features breathtaking night skies thanks to its high altitude, making it one of South California’s premier spots for spectacular stargazing opportunities. Holcomb Valley Road off North Shore Drive is one of Big Bear’s best locations for viewing stars owing to its distance from central Big Bear, lowering levels of light pollution. Woodland Trailhead also offers optimal sky viewing opportunities thanks to its remoteness from lighted areas. Other popular spots for clear night skies include North Shore Lane, PCT Crossover Hwy 18, and Boulder Bay Park.

As you prepare for your night under the stars, dress in layers to keep out the cold, even in summer, since temperatures can drop as low as 42 degrees. Also, use a red LED flashlight over a conventional flashlight to help generate greater rhodopsin levels in your eyes, enhancing better night vision. For an extended stargazing experience, carrying snacks and drinks can help maintain energy and hydration. Pack a foldable or reclining seat and enjoy cozy viewing outside the confines of your car.

Experience fishing in Big Bear

Fishing Charters

Relish an exciting angling escapade on a fishing charter as you aim to reel in Big Bear’s local fish species. Fish Big Bear Charter Service offers Big Bear’s best fishing experience aboard a fully equipped 22-foot pontoon vessel featuring fish-finding and catching equipment. The system’s advanced capabilities allow you to see the fish on-screen before being hooked. The boat’s massive bimini top supplies adequate shade, especially on warmer summer days, allowing a serene fishing journey safe from the sunshine.

Captain Sean Rabago has over 25 years of fishing experience in Big Bear Lake, offering expertly guided service. Fish Big Bear Charter Service provides all the necessary fishing equipment, including an ice chest for storing your catch. Since Big Bear Lake lies nearly 7,000 feet above sea level, the lake tends to be colder than the marina, so dress in layers to keep warm. Kindly note that you’ll need a California Fishing License for anyone aged 16 years or older, which you can purchase online at the California Department of Fish and Wildlife website.

Kayaking and Stand-Up Paddleboarding Adventures

Explore Big Bear Lake’s gorgeous waters on a laid-back kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding adventure. The lake hosts 22 miles of scenic shoreline with numerous inlets, coves, and bays, making it an excellent spot for exploration. Several bird species frequent the lake, including bald eagles, mallard ducks, and great blue herons, allowing exciting bird-watching opportunities. Launch from one of the local public boat ramps and go upwind for a less arduous paddling experience.

All kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding activities require Lake Use Permits from the Big Bear Municipal Water District. Permit costs range from $25 for a day, $35 for two days, $45 for three days, and $55 for four days, while a seasonal permit goes for $60, giving you year-round access to the lake. For quality kayak and paddleboard rentals, check out Get Boards and explore an impressive selection of top-range equipment. If you’re a first-timer looking to learn the basics, their experienced staff offers expert advice and a free map of the best kayaking and paddleboarding spots.

Experience parasailing in Big Bear, CA

Blissful Parasailing Escapades

Parasailing offers spectacular panoramic views of local scenery from several hundred feet in the air. The principle involves attaching a parasail to a boat via a tow rope, which fills the chute with air as the vessel accelerates across the water surface. The drag created by air resistance holds the parasail up, delivering a unique vantage point to take in the sweeping sights of Big Bear Lake and its surroundings.

Pine Know Marina Parasail is Big Bear’s only go-to for exciting parasailing adventures. Enjoy a solo experience at $80 or a tandem flight at $160. The parasail rises to 500 feet, allowing for a one-of-a-kind aerial adventure as the wind rushes across your face. The tow rope safely reels you back to the vessel as the boat slows down.

Fun Helicopter Excursions

Experience Big Bear’s beautiful skies on a scintillating helicopter ride and enjoy excellent views of the rolling hills and lush forested landscape. Helicopter Big Bear is the town’s most renowned helicopter tour company, offering several riveting helicopter excursions. Their tours range from seven to 45-minute flights, taking you past Big Bear’s most famous spots. Depending on your preferred flight option, you’ll fly past Big Bear Lake, Big Bear Snow Summit, Bear Mountain, Bear Valley, Mojave Desert, Holcomb Valley, Van Dusen Canyon, and Onyx Summit.

Each tour can accommodate two to three passengers, making it a popular choice for sightseeing with your partner or family. The seven-minute Tour Romeo costs $65 per person for two passengers or $55 per person for three passengers, while the longest 45-minute Tour Echo costs $300 per person for two individuals or $260 per person for three passengers. Carry a sweater or jacket to keep warm as the temperatures get chilly up in the air. The family-owned company has been a Big Bear mainstay for over a decade with FAA-approved personnel, ensuring a safe flight experience.

Fast-Paced Sledding at Alpine Slide

The Alpine Slide has garnered worldwide fame for offering epic downhill descents at incredible speeds. The renowned slide delivers South California’s sole genuine bobsled experience, drawing massive annual crowds. The ride starts with a picturesque chairlift to the top of the hill, where you navigate your sled down the cement tracks. Each sled features Teflon runners to provide abrasion resistance and ball bearings for a smooth descent. Choose from two quarter-mile tracks and enjoy the fast-paced ride with long straightaways and banked turns.

Control how fast or slow you want to go using the control handle to apply the brakes. The experience usually lasts roughly two minutes, based on your speed, with an option of running side-by-side with family or friends. The Alpine Slide remains open daily, with single ride charges at $9 and five rides costing $40. Kids must be at least 36 inches tall to ride with an adult 18 or older. The ride remains open year-round, allowing for riveting action regardless of the season.

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Book Your Big Bear Vacation Rental Early

Big Bear has etched its place as one of California’s best locations for epic outdoor thrills. Whether you’re looking for epic outdoor escapades with your partner or want to treat your loved ones to a memorable vacation as you connect with nature, Big Bear has everything you need for a riveting experience. From scenic hiking and biking trails to exhilarating helicopter rides and laid-back paddleboarding adventures, indulge in scintillating outdoor adventures.

As you prepare for your Big Bear escape, look to Big Bear Cabins for the town’s finest vacation rentals. We offer an impressive selection of high-end holiday homes, including corporate rentals, Jacuzzi cabins, lakefront homes, and pet-friendly rentals for vacationing with your precious pawed pal. Our properties feature ample amenities, including spacious living rooms, fully equipped kitchens, snug bedrooms, modern bathrooms, and convenient locations, offering easy and quick access to the best outdoor thrills. Contact us today to book your vacation rental early and enjoy the splendor of Big Bear in comfort and convenience.

Explore these winter activities in Big Bear

Top Winter Activities in Big Bear

No matter when travelers take time to enjoy a Big Bear, California adventure, they’re in for a treat. While this beloved vacation destination is a fan-favorite for explorers year-round, it’s hard to deny the appeal of winter weather fun when you’re heading this way when temperatures fall. Whether you’re one for outdoor adventure or you’re looking to warm up in style, you’ll find something inspiring waiting for you to enjoy in Big Bear this year. The following are the top winter activities in Big Bear to make sure you add to your to-do list when you’re in town.

Spend Quality Time Skiing

For travelers who love to spend as much time as possible skiing during a winter getaway, a trip to Big Bear is a dream come true. Here, you’ll have access to Bear Mountain and Snow Summit—both of which provide optimal runs and challenging terrain to navigate through on skis and snowboards. If you haven’t given skiing a try before but you’re looking forward to learning, you can book a winter ski lesson at these locations as well.

Snow Tube Your Way to Fun

If snow tubing tops your list of winter activities in Big Bear to enjoy, a trip here should most definitely include time at the Big Bear Snow Play Area as well as the Alpine Slide. Both destinations are notorious for snow tubing fun in the winter and come with the peace of mind of being far from rocks, trees, or other hazards that might upend your independent snow tubing adventures. If you’re looking to take the excitement to the next level, stick around for evening glow tubing which has the slopes illuminated in neon lights after the sun goes down each night.

Snowshoe Along Popular Trails

Travelers who look forward to a summer getaway to Big Bear will find the mountain trails here endless and tantalizing to explore on a bike or foot. That said, when the snow falls, those same trails become a haven for new seasonal outdoor adventures via snowshoes! Simply rent a pair if you don’t own any and make the most of afternoons trekking along at your own pace. The glittering trails are great for nature photographers and work well for winter birding outings too. Big Bear Lake’s National Forest trails are a great place to start, and Goldsmith’s Sports has your snowshoe rental needs covered. There are also guided snowshoe outings in the winter offered through the Big Bear Discovery Center.

Enjoy a New View on Winter Terrain

There’s no shortage of options for fun on land in the winter across Big Bear, but the fun goes sky-high when you book a winter helicopter tour during your stay. The team at Helicopter Big Bear specializes in unforgettable aerial tours that guests can customize according to what they’d like to see from a bird’s eye view. No matter what route you choose, it’s likely to be the highlight of your getaway!

Explore with Action Tours

Making the most of winter fun independently can be exciting but if you want to maximize your time and insight, let the experts at Action Tours lead the way instead. This local outdoor recreation provider offers zipline tours and Segway tours year-round that promise to delight. On Segway, you’ll get to see backcountry roads and destinations that are one-of-a-kind and learn more about area history along the way. If you choose a winter zipline experience, you’ll soar over the terrain at thrilling speeds taking in the sights from a new vantage point.

Infuse a Spa Day into Your Stay

Bundling up and heading out to explore in the winter is a fan-favorite activity to enjoy in Big Bear. That said, warming up in luxurious style is just as inviting. To that end, make sure that your winter to-do list includes a spa day or two while you’re in town. Elevations Day Spa offers facials, specialized packages, and massages while Altitudes Massage and Spa offers no less than 18 different types of massage on their list of services. They also have an in-house skincare line of products to browse. If you prefer your massage specialist to come to you, book a session through Mountain Mobile Massage & Spa.

Find time for Flavor

No matter when you arrive in Big Bear, you’ll find it’s a place packed with flavorful options to enjoy in the way of eateries and winter is no exception to the rule. While you’re in town, check out some top spots to enjoy a savory meal including Peppercorn Grille and Oakside on Village Drive.

Book Your Getaway Today

Now is the very best time to turn Big Bear travel plans into a reality. When you know you’ll want luxurious accommodations to top off your stay in style, the team at Big Bear Cabins is here to help. Reach out today to learn more about our exciting and inviting property options to choose from.

Enjoy these secluded Big Bear activities

Secluded Activities in Big Bear

When travelers are looking for a place where they can enjoy high-energy fun alongside family and friends, there’s no better place on the map than Big Bear, California. However, when it’s a more quiet and secluded retreat you’re looking to enjoy, tranquility is well within reach in Big Bear too! From the stunning surroundings to the many mindful activities, you can easily add to your itinerary far from the crowds, enjoying some well-deserved peace of mind is always an option here. The following are a few of the secluded activities in Big Bear you can try the next time your travel plans bring you this way in the name of a relaxing stay.

Go Equestrian

Racing through a getaway is one way to do things but when you’re looking to slow life down and enjoy time at your own pace, booking a riding session at Baldwin Lakes Stables during your Big Bear adventure is a good way to go. The stables are found at 46475 Pioneertown Road and private lessons are available upon request. Feel free to book a 1-hour, 2-hour, or 3-hour riding experience alongside a knowledgeable guide who will lead you on trails that showcase the best of Big Bear scenery. The stables have been serving the area for over 25 years and are happy to accommodate riders of all skill levels.

Check Out the Big Bear Retreat Center

When focused seclusion is just what you need, participating in an experience at the Big Bear Retreat Center promises to inspire. This destination enjoys a location on a 100-acre property nestled within a gorgeous forest of junipers and pines. Here, guests are invited to take all the time they need to meditate and allow the beauty of nature to help them focus their minds and calm their spirits. Letting go of stress is well within reach at the Big Bear Retreat Center which offers year-round guided experiences as well as space to just take it all at your own pace.

Let Yoga Guide the Way to a Moment of Well-Deserved Solitude

A traditional yoga session is often packed with participants but when you’re looking to enjoy a well-earned moment of solitude, Mountain Yoga Center in Big Bear has you covered. Located at 41957 Big Bear Boulevard #3, the Mountain Yoga Center is a place in town where you can book 1-hour private yoga sessions for just $75. Sessions are easily customized to skill level and are a great way to refresh, revitalize, and relax alongside your knowledgeable one-on-one instructor.

Explore the Baldwin Lake Ecological Reserve During Your Stay

Oftentimes, it’s an act as simple as getting into nature and appreciating your surroundings that can be endlessly refreshing. When this sounds like exactly what you need, make sure your Big Bear getaway includes some quality time at the Baldwin Lake Ecological Reserve. Here, you can leave the hustle of life far behind as you spend time savoring nature’s tranquility. The Baldwin Lake Ecological Reserve hosts stunning landscapes featuring unique pebble plain habitats that thrive within the parameters of the Big Bear Valley. Lingering longer than you originally planned is easy once you realize you’re looking at landscapes that are a rarity everywhere else on the planet. The terrain here is the result of clay soil covered with Ice Age-era alpine plants referred to as pebble plains. The white and orange quartzite on the surface provide the area with its name and a mesmerizing combination of hues to enjoy too. If you happen to swing by in the spring, bring your camera and appreciation for even more color as wildflowers throughout the reserve are in full bloom.

Embrace Gratitude at Grateful Heart Animal Sanctuary

A little gratitude enjoyed in solitude can go a long way when you visit the Grateful Heart Animal Sanctuary in Big Bear. Found at 47022 Lakeview Road, the Grateful Heart Animal Sanctuary is a haven and local retreat for rescued farm animals. Here, they’re nursed back to health and given the opportunity to live out their lives in a place where they’re cared for around the clock. A visit here is a good reminder of the power of hope and second chances. It’s a wonderful way to spend the afternoon that will likely inspire you to go out and do good in the world yourself in the name of the resilience you’re surrounded by.

Book Your Big Bear Getaway Today

No matter what type of travel it is that brings you to scenic Big Bear, having amazing accommodations in place can elevate your stay from start to finish. At Big Bear Cabins, we’re proud to provide our guests with access to amazing vacation rental options that are sure to inspire! Reach out today to learn more about our selection of exciting and inviting properties across Big Bear and to learn more about how we can help you make more of every single moment you’re in town. We can’t wait to see you in Big Bear soon!

Explore Big Bear fall activities on your next visit

Budget-Friendly Fall Activities in Big Bear

For travelers who are looking to make the most of all fun complete with gorgeous scenery and easy access to entertainment of all types, there’s no place better to go this year than Big Bear, California. Just a few hours from Los Angeles, Big Bear offers up an autumn retreat where the views are one-of-a-kind, outdoor recreation abounds and you certainly don’t have to break the bank to enjoy every moment alongside family and friends! Whether you’re in the mood to make the most of lake views, set your sights on fantastic fall foliage, or sip a pumpkin spice latte while strolling downtown, Big Bear offers the best of it all and more. Here, it’s simple to customize your stay according to travel style and the following Big Bear fall activities are a few ways you can boost your itinerary in the name of fun without overspending.

Book an Exciting Fall Colors Segway Tour While You’re in Town

For the fall traveler to Big Bear who is excited to get out and explore alongside a fun, friendly, and knowledgeable guide, you’ll want to make sure to reserve your place on a Fall Colors Segway tour through the team at Action Tours. These fall tours are available exclusively in October to celebrate the change in season, but if you happen to be heading to Big Bear another time of year, traditional Segway tours are also available to enjoy. The reasonable price paired with the amazing views makes it an experience that’s well worth your while! Fall Colors Segway tours depart at 1:30 pm and 2:30 pm daily throughout the month with options to book your spot online in advance. You’ll get a chance to enjoy the changing season colors while your guide provides you with insightful information on both local wildlife and how creatures in this area use the fall to get ready for the winter snow to come. It’s an outing that promises to be as fun as it is educational for the entire family!

Add a Local Scavenger Hunt to Your Itinerary

An exciting and interactive way to enjoy unique sightseeing in Big Bear in the fall is to participate in a scavenger hunt hosted through local companies like Urban Adventure Quest. Scavenger hunts are set up to help visitors get to know Big Bear through its history, nature, and amazing landmarks along the way. The fall tours are phone-guided, making it a convenient option to add to your to-do list, and throughout the autumn season, those who participate can enjoy 20% off the cost of the hunt. It’s a cost-effective way to get acquainted with new surroundings, enjoy the view, and spend quality time with those you love most.

Participate in Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest

Big Bear is a place where visitors can enjoy participating in events year-round but when your budget-friendly getaway brings you this direction in the fall, you’ll be right on time to enjoy the arrival of the annual Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest celebration! A festival that celebrates all things German culture and flavor, Oktoberfest is a fun-for-all experience that’s been a staple event here for decades. You can expect to enjoy costumes, traditional German music, and dancing as well as amazing beer, food, and other beverages to enjoy. The festival runs every weekend between early September and early November and is designed for guests of all ages to enjoy.

Make the Most of Hiking Fun

A free and fun way to spend time in Big Bear this fall is out on the trails enjoying everything Mother Nature has to offer! Fall is a particularly beautiful time out and about in the mountains surrounding Big Bear as trails take on colorful yellow, orange, and red hues in abundance. Both Pine Knot Trail and Castle Rock Trail are must-try routes for those who are looking to maximize the vistas and possibly hike out with their professional camera in hand. Both are wonderful choices for enjoying time in the San Bernardino National Forest capturing seasonal moments on film and making the most of wildlife watching too. If you’re traveling this way with a canine companion in tow this fall, many of the hiking trails are designed to be pet-friendly as long as dogs remain leashed.

Enjoy These Big Bear Fall Activities

Capturing the fun and thrills of Big Bear in the fall isn’t hard to do and when you’re looking for accommodations that infuse comfort, quality, and style into your stay as well, Big Bear Cabins has you covered! Our property options are suitable for weekend getaways or extended stays alike and provide the amenities, features, and fun extras that make all the difference in your experience. Reach out today to learn more about our exciting property options available including our Airbnb rentals in Big Bear and how we can help you turn those Big Bear travel plans into a reality soon.

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Visit the hiking trails in Big Bear

All Hiking Trails in Big Bear

Taking time to enjoy a getaway to scenic Big Bear is always the right choice for travelers from near and far. It’s a place where you’re invited to relax and unwind at your own pace or get out and enjoy the thrilling experiences in nature you’ve been looking forward to as well! Either way, you won’t want to miss out on enjoying some of the very best and most beautiful hiking trails in Big Bear and around town. When it’s time to lace up your boots and enjoy a customized trek, the options are refreshingly vast and varied in Big Bear.

Be Sure You Have the Documentation You Need Before You Head Out

Before you set foot on the trails in Big Bear, it’s important to know that for many of the routes, you’ll be required to obtain an Adventure Pass. It’s particularly important at U.S. Forest Service trailheads but an America the Beautiful National Park pass can be used in its place if you’re already a pass holder. If you don’t have a National Park pass, head over to the Big Bear Visitors Center to grab your Adventure Pass instead. Simply place it on your dashboard before you hit the trails and enjoy trekking worry-free for the rest of the day.

Start Slow and Savor the View on the Alpine Pedal Path

If you’re traveling to Big Bear with little ones in tow, or you’re just looking to start things slow and really relish the view, the Alpine Pedal Path is definitely the place to start. This 2.5-mile route is fully paved and popular with hikers, bikers, and those with strollers alike. It makes its way around the north shore of Big Bear Lake and offers up great vantage points over the ski resorts. Along the way, those who choose to hike the Alpine Pedal Path can enjoy admiring alpine meadows, wildflowers, and pine forests. There are picnic areas available when you want to infuse a savory moment into your trek as well. Accessing the path is simple by heading to the Stanfield Cutoff and beginning the hike around the Solar Observatory.

Explore the Stanfield Marsh Boardwalk

Yet another leisurely hiking option in Big Bear is the Stanfield Marsh Boardwalk. This scenic route works its way through the Stanfield Marsh Wildlife and Waterfowl Preserve making it a great option for those who are excited to pair hiking with bird watching as well. The views are stunning along the way and it’s as educational as it is gorgeous thanks to the helpful signage and informational boards showcasing local wildlife and habitat info that could be useful. Park at the intersection of Stanfield Cutoff and Big Bear Boulevard to access the trail with ease. If you want to make sure to get great parking and avoid crowds, showing up early is always highly recommended.

Check Out Castle Rock Trail

Those hikers who are looking for a bit more of a challenge without sacrificing anything in the way of inspiring scenery will find their solution on Castle Rock Trail. This round-trip path covers 2.4 miles of terrain and is a fan favorite for its boulder outcroppings, seasonal waterfall, and gorgeous forested landscapes. Castle Rock is a trail that can be tackled year-round, but if you happen to be heading to Big Bear in the springtime to hike, you’ll find it’s bursting with color in the form of wildflowers. Fall on this trail is just as tantalizing thanks to the foliage changing colors in a perfectly seasonal style.

Pack Your Hiking Gear and Hit Pine Knot Trail

Advanced hikers hoping to enjoy time on an intermediate-level route can set their sights on Pine Knot Trail while they’re in town. 6 miles total, this route begins at Aspen Glen Picnic Area on Mill Creek Road and requires about 3 hours to complete. Hikers will enjoy the scenery that includes manzanita, oaks, white fir, and Jeffrey pine along the way. The trail winds its way past the Deer Group Camp and adventurers always have options to link up with Grandview Point trail to extend their journey. If you choose the extended route, you’ll find yourself enjoying sensational views over Mt. San Gorgonio. Pine Knot Trail is also open for mountain bikers so there are certainly options to pair your trek with single track fun if that’s what sounds ideal.

Book Your Big Bear Adventure Today

There’s never been a better time to turn Big Bear travel plans into a reality. Of course, having amazing accommodations such as our houses for rent in Big Bear Lake to top off your stay in style can elevate the fun even further, which is where Big Bear Cabins comes in. Reach out today to learn more about our exciting and inviting mountain cabins with hot tubs in Big Bear and how we can help you get settled into the ideal home-away-from-home for your stay. We look forward to hearing from you and welcoming you to California soon!

Check out the best spots to view Big Bear eagles

Best Places to View the Eagles of Big Bear

When you can’t wait to get out of town and leave the hustle of life behind for a scenic getaway instead, setting your sights on Big Bear Lake, California is always an inspiring choice. This four-season escape offers guests access to a one-of-a-kind mountain retreat complete with amazing options for entertainment, outdoor recreation, and stunning views alike. For those who find their vacation state of mind most easily when there’s shopping and dining added to the itinerary, Big Bear has you covered there as well. From skiing in the winter to mountain treks on gorgeous trails in the summer, Big Bear has something for everyone to enjoy thanks to its prime location in the San Bernardino National Forest. It’s also a haven of opportunity for those with a passion for wildlife watching. If it’s spotting eagles that gets your heart racing, you’ll find every moment spent in Big Bear with eyes on the sky is well worth your while for viewing Big Bear eagles.

Capture the Nest View on Webcam

Residents and visitors of Big Bear alike have been thrilled to see bald eagle populations on the rise in the area since 2012. Maintaining this upward trend is a cause supported by a local organization known as Friends of Big Bear Valley. Year-round, the group maintains webcams over one of the primary eagle nests in the area so that viewers and eagle enthusiasts from across the country and world can see what eagle life is really like in a captivating and of course, safe manner. Friends of Big Bear Valley planned the camera experience and then proceeded to raise the funds and permits necessary to install the cameras in a way that wouldn’t interfere with the eagle’s opportunities to thrive. 24/7 viewers can tune into the Big Bear eagle cam and watch over a nest that is located on the north side of a lake near Fawnskin within the San Bernardino National Forest. The tree the camera is mounted on is a 150-foot Jeffrey Pine with the nest sitting no less than 120 feet up in the air. The camera first put its lens on the nest in 2013 and since that time, droves of eagle watchers continue to check in to see paired eagles lay eggs, hatch eaglets, and watch those same eaglets take their first flight. Initially, raptor experts noticed that bald eagles tended to exclusively winter in the Big Bear Valley when food was abundant. These days, some eagles are maintaining a residence in the area year-round giving locals and visitors more options to spot them beyond the camera. That said, the area around the nest is closed to the public during nesting season to avoid the unfortunate occurrence of eagles abandoning their young due to human disturbances.

How to View the Big Bear Eagles in Person

The good news is, there are plenty of opportunities for guests and locals to view the eagles of Big Bear outside of nesting season. Your best bet is to begin at the Big Bear Discovery Center where you can sign up for a volunteer-led experience at a designated eagle viewing station. Another great option for eagle viewing in Big Bear is to make your way to the Chirp Nature Center where high-definition eagle nest monitors can be enjoyed right on-site. Additionally, there’s an opportunity to get close to these incredible raptors at the Big Bear Alpine Zoo. This location rescues, rehabilitates, and releases local wildlife. However, in the event an eagle is too injured to be released, they’re cared for on-site indefinitely and become fantastic ambassadors for their species!

Consider Participating in the Winter Bald Eagle Count

You don’t have to be a raptor expert to take part in the annual winter bald eagle count in Big Bear which is another fantastic way to set your sights on these majestic creatures that call the area home. This yearly volunteer-supported event lets you become part of an important citizen scientist experience around Big Bear Lake that’s been happening since 1978. Throughout the winter season, volunteers can set up at a designated observation point for an hour at a time to see how many eagles they spot and report those numbers back for research totals. The winter bald eagle count happens between December and March and many of the observation areas are close to the water where eagles are more likely to continue hunting their food this time of year. You don’t have to register to participate but you’ll have to show up for a brief orientation and make sure you have binoculars in hand. It’s a great way to get your eagle spotting thrills for a good cause in Big Bear.

Book Your Big Bear Adventure Today

The next time travel plans bring you to Big Bear, make sure you have great accommodations in place to match the moment by partnering with Big Bear Cabins. Reach out today to learn more about our exciting mountain cabins with hot tubs and to start planning.

big bear tours

Top Tours to Experience in Big Bear

Seeing all the best parts of Big Bear can be difficult when you plan out everything individually. Big Bear encompasses a huge area with plenty to see and do! Make the most of your journey to Big Bear by booking one of the many tour options here in the area. Professional guides can take you around Big Bear showing you all of the highlights as you get to enjoy yourself. Here are some top Big Bear tours for you:

Action Tours

Do you want near-endless options when booking a tour here in Big Bear? If so, check out Action Tours for incredible thrills and expansive tours. This local tour agency is open all year long, but the summer season is where it is at. Action Tours offers thrilling zipline tours that take you up into the treetops and have you shoot down at 35 to 45 miles per hour. Each tour is three hours in length and a professional guide will show you around the entire way. Learn more about the Big Bear region as you enjoy the beautiful scenery from high up. Other activities in your tour will also include a suspension bridge off-roading in a Jeep. Some restrictions may apply to the activities so make sure to contact this incredible tour company today!

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Helicopter Big Bear Tours

Another high-flying adventure can be found when booking a tour with Helicopter Big Bear Tours! As the name suggests you will be taking an aerial tour around Big Bear from the comfort of a helicopter. This unique tour lets you book a private tour with loved ones. Your tour guide will be the helicopter pilot who is on board to entertain you and tell you all you need to know about Big Bear.

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Big Bear Pirate Ship

The summer season is always spent best on the water, so make sure to hop on the Big Bear Pirate Ship. This Big Bear Lake tour has you hit all of the highlights of the lake while enjoying a pirate adventure on the water. Relax with a drink available from the ship bar as the children are thrilled by the pirate ship fights your tour will find on the way.

Book Your Big Bear Tours Today

The summer season is just around the corner, so make sure to book these popular tours before their reservation limits are reached. Contact us for more information! Browse our Big Bear mountain view lodges today.

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Summer Activities Big Bear

Summer Activities in Big Bear

It is time to gear up for another exciting summer season right here in Big Bear. Our location in the mountains makes Big Bear an ideal location to get away from the heat often found in nearby Los Angeles. Take a look at some of our favorite summer activities in Big Bear:

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Hang Out at the Lake

There is nothing better during the summer than cooling off at Big Bear Lake. While the weather will be cooler at the start of summer, you will still want to jump into this beautiful lake. There are a variety of ways to enjoy Big Bear Lake. Head over to one of the many marinas and rent out a pontoon boat to relax on the water. Kayak and canoe rentals are perfect for singles or groups of people to explore the shore with. Stand up paddleboards are the new craze and offer a unique way to enjoy the lake. Thrill lovers will enjoy jetting around the water with a jet ski rental. Take a boat tour that will take you to the most popular areas of the lake. Last but certainly not least is trout fishing at the lake. Fishing charters can give you a personal experience or grab some gear at the marina head out on your own.

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Outdoor Family Fun

Big Bear will have most of its outdoor attractions open during the summer season. Take your family to the Big Bear Discovery Center where the children can enjoy geocaching, kayaking, and nature walks. The Big Bear Alpine Zoo features many incredible animals that are native to the mountain region and are rehabilitated.

Mountain Biking

Now that the winter slopes are without snow, you can enjoy them on mountain bikes. Downhill tracks can be found over at Summit Bike Park that features beginner and advanced courses. If you are looking for a casual ride out in the mountains, you will find over one hundred miles of trails surrounding Big Bear. Our home is your outdoor summer destination!

Fun Summer Activities in Big Bear

As you can see, there are plenty of ways to enjoy a summer getaway to Big Bear. Make sure your trip is the best one yet by choosing one of our exclusive rentals in the area. You will have access to amenities no other lodging in the area can provide.

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early summer vacation

Early Summer Vacation Guide to Big Bear

We are still rolling through the start of 2021, and before you know it summer will be here. Big Bear is the perfect place to spend an early summer vacation. We have all put off vacations long enough, so get planning on your much-deserved Big Bear getaway!

Perfect Time to Visit

One of the best reasons to visit Big Bear during the early summer is to catch the cool weather. While the rest of the country may be heating up to uncomfortable temperatures, Big Bear stays in the 60s and 70s throughout May and June. You can enjoy all of our outdoor activities in your most comfortable shorts without feeling the heat. The nights are still crisp and cool so you can easily set up a fire pit to roast s’mores or warm up with a nice beverage.

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Hit the Lake

Obviously, Big Bear Lake is right here next to our early summer vacation rentals in the area. The lake is the biggest and most popular attraction for plenty of reasons. Get a boat rental from one of the marinas such as canoes, kayaks, jet skis, pontoon boats, and much more. These rentals allow you to explore the lake safely and enjoy activities such as fishing. The water might still be a little chilly, but you will get used to it quick enough!

Explore Big Bear Mountain Without the Snow

Big Bear Mountain offers some incredible winter sports during the colder season of the year. Now that summer has arrived, you can use the area for some wonderful outdoor exploring. The Snow Summit Bike Park offers plenty of thrills for mountain and extreme sports biking. Head up the Snow Summit Scenic Sky Chair to have an elevated view of Big Bear; it takes you up to 8,200 feet in elevation. The summer season kicks off at Snow Summit at the end of May!

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Early Summer Vacation Rentals

Of course, no early summer adventure getaway would be complete without the perfect early summer vacation rental to host you. Our selection of privately owned rentals offers plenty of spacious features and amenities to keep you comfortable all stay long. You can stay near the lake or even by the mountain to have easy access to your favorite summer activities. All you need to do is contact our team today to find you the perfect rental here in Big Bear!

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getaway to Big Bear

Plan a Fun Fall Getaway to Big Bear

If you are like most others in the country, you are probably looking for a fall getaway to Big Bear to help refresh yourself after a long and sedentary beginning to the year. The summer season is coming to a close, bringing cooler weather and plenty of fun to Big Bear Lake. The fall season is one of the most exciting times for a visit to Big Bear; learn more about how you can enjoy a fall getaway to Big Bear below!

Enjoy the Lake

It should be no surprise that Big Bear Lake is the top attraction in the area outside of winter. It feels fantastic to jump in during the warm summer season and cool off. While the lake temperatures will be colder during the fall, a day on the lake is still something to be enjoyed. Fall visitors will have more space around them and be able to enjoy activities that are often booked up during the summer such as fishing charters and boat rentals. Pick up a kayak or canoe and go exploring. The marinas offer plenty of rental shops and areas designated for smaller vessels such as these.

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Explore the Area

Big Bear is an outdoor paradise, and there are many ways to explore the area. Two of our favorite ways are up in the air or on a Segway. Action Zipline Tours is one of the most popular attractions in Big Bear. While reservations usually need to be booked in advance during the summer, you should be able to enjoy their activities whenever you visit in the fall. Enjoy a day slinging down multiple zip line courses, or if you prefer to stay grounded, hop on one of their Segway tours for a ride around Big Bear. Other activities they offer include suspension bridges and hiking tours. Let the masters of outdoor exploration help you enjoy the fresh air!

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Hit the Green on your Getaway to Big Bear

Golfing is quite popular with many of our visitors, and you will be pleased to find plenty of golf courses here in Big Bear, including Bear Mountain Golf Course. Similar to the other attractions in the fall, you should have no problem finding plenty of time to reserve a spot on the green.

More Fun in the Fall

The fall season is one of our favorites, and we hope you’ll join us for a variety of fun in the cool mountain air. Call today and reserve one of our exclusive vacation rentals in the area. You will be close to everything Big Bear has to offer when you choose one of our comfortable Big Bear rentals for Veterans Day!

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