snow at Big Bear

Playing in the Snow at Big Bear, CA!

It may seem a little strange to be talking about playing in the snow when most of the country is already planning their summer vacations, but the heat will soon be upon us and we’re not quite ready to let go of winter; can you blame us? The active snow season ends in mid-March, but it’s never too late to start planning for next year, so we have provided a list of snow activities that are fun for every member of your family. Put on your mittens, drag out your snow boots, and start preparing for a winter vacation that reminds you of your childhood. Snowball fights are included at no extra cost!

Fun Activities in the Snow at Big Bear

The slopes of Big Bear offer more than a great place to ski or snowboard. There are many hills that offer the perfect opportunity to sled or innertube down as well. Your children can experience the thrill of the cold air snapping against their cheeks as they speed down the hill hanging on tightly and laughing the whole way down—then picking up their sled and trekking back up to the top to do it again!

Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain

You’ve watched the fun on television during the Winter Olympics, now it’s time to experience it yourself on the only authentic bobsled experience in Southern California. THIS is snow play at its finest! Offering snow making machines to help make the fun last until April, Spring Break vacations have never been this fun! The “Magic Carpet” people mover allows you to stretch out your fun even longer; no more trudging up the steep slopes, just step on the pad and allow machinery to do the hard work for you!

Grizzly Ridge Tubing Park at Snow Summit

If you find yourself with the “need for speed,” Grizzly Ridge Tubing Park offers a safe, yet exhilarating high-speed snow tube ride. The tubes are made from heavy duty materials and glide easily across the packed snow!

Big Bear Snow Play

Offering speed, distance, and the Magic Carpet for the return trip up, Big Bear Snow Play—formerly known as Rebel Ridge—is another tube run that will appeal to your inner child. The snow making machines found here allow the fun to continue through April. Summer is just around the corner; wouldn’t it be fun to put off the heat just a little longer?

Covered from the Elements

Both Big Bear Snow Play and the Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain offer plexiglass tunnels that allow great views while keeping out the inclement weather! Yep, they have thought of everything necessary to ensure your winter fun in Big Bear is the best ever. It won’t be long before the snow melts, the sun shines brightly, and cold winter days are just a distant memory. Book your rustic Big Bear cabin today and rediscover the joys of playing in snow at Big Bear.

Image of white dinner plates filled with food on a wooden table at one of the restaurants in big bear

Top Restaurants in Big Bear Village

If you are like most of us, one of your favorite vacation activities is discovering new restaurants in Big Bear and trying all the foods that are unique to the area you are visiting. Mexican food, seafood, barbecue—each destination offers up a new meal that promises to be your favorite and rarely lets you down!

Eating out on vacation can sometimes be the highlight of your trip; remember that time you climbed what seemed to be 3000 steps to the top of the lighthouse, only to discover that the fog and clouds hid your views of the landscape beyond? And then you went to that hole in the wall diner and discovered the bliss of a lobster roll? That meal was the saving grace of the entire day and you still talk about it to this day!

Well, now that you’ve made the decision to vacation in Big Bear, we’ve compiled a list of our favorite restaurants in Big Bear Village to ensure your California vacation is unforgettable!

Nottingham’s Restaurant – 40797 Big Bear Boulevard

Serving hearty English meals with a California twist, Nottingham’s is one of our favorite restaurants in Big Bear, especially when the weather is kind enough to allow us to eat on the patio; the views are incredible from there and are almost as nice inside!

Masala Craft Indian Cuisine – 40760 Village Drive Suite A

California is a multicultural state that celebrates all nationalities, and nowhere is that more clear than at the best Indian restaurant in town: Masala Craft Indian Cuisine. We dream about their chicken tandoori, cooked in the classic clay oven, and their extensive vegetarian menu means the salad eaters in our family can peacefully coexist with the carnivores over one combined family dinner!

Grizzly Manor Café – 41268 Big Bear Boulevard

Breakfast is the specialty of the Manor—the Grizzly Manor Café, that is—with huge portions, amazing coffee, and that homemade taste that always tastes better when someone else is doing the home cooking! Please don’t make us choose our favorite dish here; they ALL are our favorites!

Hacienda Sports Bar & Grill – 41787 Big Bear Boulevard

You can’t visit California without sampling our Mexican fare, and Hacienda’s dishes surpass them all! Because we like the heat on, our favorite is the Shrimp a la Diabla, but if you lean towards milder temperatures, the Bistek Ranchero may be the dish you dream about long after this vacation is a distant memory!

Don’t Hesitate to Contact Us About Restaurants in Big Bear!

If you have more questions about restaurants in Big Bear or our vacation rentals, be sure to contact Big Bear Cabins today! We have plenty of rentals within walking distance to the village. We can help you find accommodation for small or larger groups rentals like Berghuette #1906 near the village.

Big Bear wildlife

Big Bear Wildlife Watching

Big Bear Lake is a medium sized lake found about 100 miles east of Los Angeles. The lake and the adjacent Big Bear City have always been a special place for people to get away and enjoy some of the natural wonders of the world. Besides the scenic beauty here, you can also enjoy the amazing beauty of the numerous species of Big Bear wildlife that roam throughout the area.

The Big Bear Wildlife

The area was named for the massive grizzly bears that roamed here in the 1800s. The Native Americans who lived here for thousands of years saw these grizzlies as their ancestors and lived in peace with them. These days, you cannot find grizzly bears here, but there is still plenty of wildlife that captivates visitors that have had the privilege to witness their beauty.

The bird wildlife is abundant and beautiful. It is for this reason that Big Bear has been attracting bird watchers from all over the world for decades. You can even see the amazing bald eagle from November to April. Use binoculars and focus on the tops of dead trees to see these animals. Apart from the birds, visitors frequently see chipmunks, squirrels, raccoons, coyotes, and even black bears.

Some of the lesser seen and more majestic animals are the bobcat and the mountain lion. Bobcats are beautiful creatures typically weighing around 20 pounds, looking like a very large house cat. The mountain lion, on the other hand, can weigh around 160 pounds and reach astonishing lengths of 8 feet. They are truly an amazing sight to behold. The gray fox is another of the animals that is seldom seen, as it hunts at night.

How to Get Out and Experience It

Wildlife is quite a common sight throughout the Big Bear area. This is especially true if you know where to look. Walking around the banks of the lake is a great way to encounter beavers and a wide variety of other animals drinking water. The north shore and the wilderness beyond it are your best bet for finding animals, as it is the less populated side of the lake. Trek through these areas with snowshoes in the winter to enjoy a one of a kind experience. When looking for these animals, it is important to be patient, as they can be rare sights.

Stopping by the Discovery Center on the north shore of the lake is a great way to find out more about how you can best go about finding Big Bear wildlife. You can rest assured that you are safe in your endeavors to find these animals, as the bigger specimens, such as the cougars, mountain lions, and black bears are shy and will avoid confrontations with humans.

Big Bear is one of the best places in the Southwestern United States for watching wildlife. Looking for wildlife in a beautiful place like Big Bear can be a very a beautiful and humbling experience. Make Big Bear your next vacation destination for some of the most awe-inspiring natural beauty you have ever seen! Contact us today to book your very own cabin in Big Bear!

Grandview Loop Bike Trail

Top Views in Big Bear, California

Big Bear is known for great skiing, fun vacations, and for being the spot with the best views in the United States, so it may be difficult narrowing down the list of the top views in Big Bear, but we’re going to give it a shot! You, our beloved guests, deserve a vacation filled with great memories, fantastic food, and postcard-worthy photographs that will remind you of the fabulous time you had in Big Bear. We’ve spent many hours hiking trails, visiting parks, and even dining out with our cameras in hand, and the final results are posted below!

Sky Chair at Snow Summit

When not in use for transporting colorfully garbed skiers to their various trails, the Sky Chair at Snow Summit offers a phenomenal opportunity for taking some of the best pictures of your life! Starting at the base of Snow Summit, the chairs slowly rise towards the summit, allowing for magnificent views of the mountains and the valleys surrounding. Once you’ve reached the top, you can expect more scenic photo opportunities as you hike the many trails.

Boulder Bay Park

Rocky islands topped with pine trees, quiet waters that offer the casual canoer a chance to improve their rowing skills safely, and views of tree-covered hills in the background all combine to make Boulder Bay Park one of the most scenic areas in the valley. During the winter, snowcapped trees, frozen waters, and friendly snowmen create ethereal pictures that really will take your breath away.

Nottingham’s Restaurant and Tavern

Located right on Big Bear Lake, the views from this charming English styled restaurant are photo worthy, especially when viewed from the outdoor patio (open during the warmer months only). Nottingham’s is the perfect place for a romantic dinner, and the scenic views allow for a peaceful spot to enjoy the fresh salmon that is a specialty here!

Stanfield Marsh Boardwalk & Wildlife Preserve

Professional photographers will always tell you that a photo without living, breathing creatures in it will be beautiful, but somehow lonely and sad at the same time. Bringing your camera to the Stanfield Marsh Boardwalk & Wildlife Preserve will ensure your photos will not be lonely or sad. With lush green trees and wooden boardwalks that meander alongside the calm waters where fish and waterfowl make their home, forgetting your camera when visiting this spot of natural beauty would almost be considered a crime!

Big Bear Cabins

Finally, we can’t forget the views from the windows of your very own Big Bear cabin! Book yours today and discover the sheer natural beauty that exists right outside your window.

Top 5 Cheap Eats in Big Bear

Okay, let’s be honest: planning a vacation budget never goes exactly according to plan. This means that you need to find the restaurants that give the biggest bang for their buck. So if you’re looking to save a few dollars here and there, these are the restaurants—in no particular order—that you need to check out on your visit to Big Bear!

Thelma’s Family Restaurant

Thelma’s has been around for several decades, making it a staple for both locals and repeating tourists. It’s best-known for its breakfasts, its pot pies, and its ability to get everyone fed quickly and happily, no matter how packed the place looks! You’ll find Thelma’s on the eastern side of town, just west of Greenway Drive on Highway 18.

Maggio’s Pizza

If you’ve got the time to wait, then you’ll be well rewarded here with pizza the way pizza is meant to be: fresh from the oven! Featuring all kinds of pizzas as well as salads, Maggio’s is especially great on colder evenings when everything from the cheese to the crust can fill you with warmth. It’s across the road from the Lakeview Shopping Center.

Get the Burger

Just south of Maggio’s, on the northeast corner of Big Bear Boulevard and Fox Farm Road, you’ll find Get the Burger. It’s a popular local spot for—you guessed it—burgers! If you’re looking for a burger joint with a local flair, this is the spot. Burgers, fries, drinks, shakes, and a kid’s menu—everything you need!

Murray’s Saloon and Eatery

If you’re up for adult drinks and a round of pool, Murray’s has you covered. It’s a comfortable restaurant with friendly service, reasonable prices, and generous portions. They feature American fare such as BLTs and burgers—as a bonus, they’re also one of the only places around for karaoke! You’ll find it near Village Drive between Bonanza Trail and Bartlett Drive.

Mountain Munchies

In the Lakeview Shopping Center, you’ll find Mountain Munchies—an American diner that’s been serving locals and tourists since 1984.  Their large servings and all-day breakfasts are major selling points, and their fries are very popular side dishes. And, like any good dining establishment, the service makes the meal twice as nice!

Get the Full Big Bear Experience with Big Bear Cabins!

Knowing the popular restaurants is a great way to start feeling like a local, but remember that your cabin probably has a fine kitchen too, so you can cook up any favorites you miss from home! Stay in one of our fabulous cabins and you may find yourself choosing “take-out” more often than not! Call 877-473-5360 or browse our offerings to learn more!

coffee in Big Bear

Cap Off Your Big Bear Experience with a Great Cup of Joe!

Whether you come to Big Bear for the brisk mountain air and the thrill of skiing in the wintertime or you come for the scenic hiking and pleasant days by Big Bear Lake during the summer, there’s nothing like starting off your day with an amazing cup of coffee in one of the quaint coffee shops in this charming alpine town. Before you hit the slopes or the water, check out our list below of the top local coffee shops to grab a cup of coffee in Big Bear when you want to begin the day on a high note!

Moonridge Coffee in Big Bear

Particularly convenient when you want to stop for coffee before a long day of skiing, snowboarding, and the like, Moonridge Coffee is located right next to Bear Mountain Resort, serving as a wonderful outlet for awesome brews, hearty breakfast options, and the cheapest prices that you can get when you’re that close to the resort.

The Copper Q

For the quintessentially pleasant tourist coffee shop experience in Big Bear, look no further than The Copper Q. They have excellent coffee and tea, in addition to serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as providing cooking demonstrations for their patrons.

Teddy Bear Restaurant

Grab a slice of Big Bear’s best pie while you sip on your coffee, as Teddy Bear Restaurant’s most famous dessert will not disappoint. The restaurant is also well-known for its delicious breakfast and comfort food menu items.

Grizzly Manor Café

While Grizzly Manor Café and the previously mentioned Teddy Bear Restaurant are admittedly not your stereotypical coffee shops, both provide excellent coffee and a bevy of breakfast options. Grizzly Manor Café in particular is renowned for its food, with lines often stretching out the door. If you’re up for waiting, you’re sure to enjoy the old school diner-feel of this traditional restaurant with amazing java.

Big Bear Cabins Can Help You Start Planning Your Alpine Adventure Today!

Contact our dedicated team of reservation specialists to learn more about what there is to see and do in Big Bear all year long when you book your stay today in one of our quaint and cozy cabins for a traditional no-frills cabin experience in the mountains of Big Bear, California!

image of someone climbing a boulder on Big Bear Mountain

The Top Things to Do on Big Bear Mountain

One of the best things about living in Big Bear is our proximity to the plethora of activities on Big Bear Mountain we can partake in year-round. More than just skiing (although we LOVE spending a crisp winter morning schussing down the slopes!) there is no end to the fun adventures that can be had on our favorite mountain. Keep reading for a list of activities that will keep you entertained and active during your Big Bear vacation.

Mountain Biking

This summer sport is made more fun by the fact that you can ride your mountain bike on an actual mountain! Big Bear is home to Southern California’s only chair lift for bikers, so take it to the top (saving energy!) and prepare for the wild and crazy downhill ride on one of the many ski trails!

Sky Chair

For unparalleled views of the mountain and valley surrounding Big Bear, take a trip on the sky chair during the offseason and enjoy one of the most beautiful landscapes Mother Nature has ever designed! Once you get to the top, have lunch at the view house (this is one view you can never get enough of) and then make the decision as to whether you want to hike down or take the chair.

Helicopter Rides

If you think the view from the top of Snow Summit is incredible, just wait until you catch sight of the mountain from the cockpit of a helicopter! Perfect for celebrating special occasions, Helicopter Big Bear offers many different tours year-round—including a sunset tour so amazing, you will dream about it for years to come.

Sledding

The thrill of sledding madly down a hill with no thought to your safety is still as appealing today as it was when you were a child. Wintertime provides lots of opportunities for snow play in Big Bear. Check out their website at www.bigbearsnowplay.com for more information about this and other snow play options.

Snowshoeing

Strap on a pair of what looks like tennis rackets and start hiking and exploring the area of Big Bear and surrounding areas. The tennis rackets are snowshoes, of course, and if you didn’t pack your own, you can find them for rent at many of our snow sports shops in the area.

Big Bear Cabins

Book your rustic Big Bear Mountain view lodges today and discover the exciting year-round activities on Big Bear Mountain! This Southern California vacation promises to be the best one ever! Contact us today for more information!

Top Five Upcoming Events in Big Bear

As the days shorten and grow chillier, and fall starts thinking about turning into winter, Big Bear begins to become a hot spot of fun and excitement. Not that it isn’t always fun and exciting here, but as the holidays grow closer, the excitement clicks up a few notches! Cooler days mean more time spent outside, while chilly nights offer opportunities for snuggling close to the one you love as you celebrate Oktoberfest, or trick or treating with your kiddies at the Big Bear Alpine Zoo.

Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest has been celebrated in Big Bear for the last 46 years. Feast on brats and beer as you tap your toes to the polka music played on the big stage. And on October 29th, Oktoberfest goes spooky with a costume contest for the kids. So put on your lederhosen and grab a stein—this party is schaukelnd (German for ROCKING!)!

Trick or Treat at the Big Bear Alpine Zoo

Just because you are on vacation, it doesn’t mean your kids have to skip the candy haul. The Big Bear Alpine Zoo sponsors a trick or treat day at the zoo with a costume contest, candy treats, and sweet animals that are sad they can’t share in the fun!

Turkey Trot

Thanksgiving is a time of giving thanks—and sometimes overindulgence! Too much rich and delicious food can have you napping the rest of the day away, so if you want to start the holiday season out right, you can sign up for this fun run that starts at 9 AM on Thanksgiving Day.

Santa’s Grand Entrance and Tree Lighting

Thanksgiving signifies the traditional beginning of the Christmas season, with Santa making his official entrance (accompanied by the always wonderful Mrs. Claus) on November 25th. Our Big Bear Trees are always impressive, so be prepared to ooh and ah over the big reveal!

Christmas in the Village

This old-fashioned celebration come complete with carolers dressed in Victorian garb, tasty home baked treats, and toys for every child. Harkening back to a simpler time, Christmas in the Village takes place from Thanksgiving through Christmas Eve.

Big Bear Cabins

It’s not too late to reserve your Big Bear Cabin to coincide with these exciting upcoming events. Book yours today and celebrate the holidays from the comfort of your own Big Bear cabin!

Top Big Bear Hiking Trails to Check Out on Your Next Vacation

Big Bear Lake is the perfect location to stretch your legs and really enjoy the outdoors. Many hiking enthusiasts love the scenic trails that surround the lake, and find hiking the perfect activity to partake in while on their Big Bear Vacation. As such, we have taken suggestions from guests and locals to compile the best trails to experience during your trip in Big Bear; below are the top five hiking trails that we think you will love!

Castle Rock Trail

Castle Rock Trail is a 2.7-mile trail that lies just off the lake. The trail is heavily trafficked and remains one of the most popular local trails. The view is stunning, featuring a great forest setting, and is rated at a moderate difficulty for hikers. The trail is generally used for hiking, nature trips, and birding. It is accessible from March until October. If you have an outdoor loving pet, make sure you bring them, as it’s a great trail for dogs and owners alike!

Pine Knot Trail

Pine Knot Trail is a 6.1-mile trail that is lightly trafficked and is rated as a moderate trail for hikers. The trail features views of the lake, forest, and surrounding area, and is open and accessible from March until November. Your furry sidekicks are welcome, but do need to be leashed for this one.

Champion Lodgepole

This trail is a 5.8-mile loop that is accessible through the Castle Rock Trail, and is also rated as moderate while giving hikers access to the Bluff Lake Preserve. This area is home to a lot of rare plants and is quite beautiful, but you do need to get permission from the Wildlands Conservancy before leaving the trail. This trail is a great hiking destination that is available year-round. Dogs are welcome on this trail and do not require leashes.

Big Bear Lake Trail

This trail is a moderate 5.6-mile hike that features lakeside views. We love this trail due to the proximity to the lake and the great scenery offered. The trail is accessible from March until November and provides for great photo opportunities, so don’t forget your camera!

Rim of the World Scenic Byway

This scenic driving trail is great for those who want to see the entirety of Big Bear, but may not be able or want to hike through it. The 87-mile trail takes visitors from San Bernardino to Redlands and features the greatest scenic views. The trail is primarily used via car and is accessible year-round.

We hope you will have a great time visiting Big Bear Lake, and if you need help or would like more information on our services, please feel free to explore our website or call Big Bear Cabins at 877-473-5360.