Big Bear Lake has so much to offer from stunning scenery, an endless array of outdoor activities, great food and drink, and a friendly, relaxing mountain vibe.
Ready to plan a summer to remember? Check out our list of things to do in Big Bear Lake this summer:
Hit the Links at Bear Mountain Golf Course.
This course offers a scenic backdrop where players of all skill levels can enjoy a unique 9-hole experience. Advanced reservations are recommended as tee times fill up quickly.
Mountain Biking
Big Bear Lake is Southern California’s mountain biking mecca. Head for Summit Bike Park where you can find a variety of downhill trails, and over 60 miles of cross-country trails, suitable for all skill levels. Take in stunning views of Big Bear Lake and the surrounding San Bernadino Mountains as you descend the summit trails.
Looking for a tamer trail the whole family can enjoy? The Alpine Pedal Path is a unique and all-ages-friendly path on the north shore. The 2.5 mile, mostly asphalt path is ideal for bikes, scooters, rollerblades, and strollers!
Need to rent a bike? Paddles and Pedals on the North Shore has a large selection of adult, kid, and tandem bikes, as well as trailers and tag-alongs. Enjoy pedaling along the water as you breathe in some fresh mountain air, and take in the scenery.
Get Hooked!
Did you know lake temperatures never get too hot in Big Bear, so the fish stay active even on the warmest days of the summer, making this natural reservoir of water a fantastic place to go fishing. The lake is filled with Bass, Carp, Crayfish, Rainbow Trout, and a variety of Sun Fish. Applying for an online fishing license is easy and convenient.
Looking to rent a boat? The experienced and friendly team at Big Bear Marina offers an extensive rental fleet from Pontoons to Fishing Boats, as well as a fishing charter service, a pro tackle shop, and an official weigh station.
Prefer to stay on the shore? We love Boulder Bay Park with its large fishing dock, picnic area, and stunning views. Fishing licenses and tackle can be purchased at any marina and many of the local shops.
Hike the Trails!
Big Bear hosts miles and miles of scenic hiking trails. There are too many to list, but here are some of our favorite family-friendly hikes:
Bear Lake Woodland Trail
Bear Lake Woodland Trail is an easy 1.5-mile loop that is perfect for the whole family. Enjoy scenic views as you learn about the local flora and fauna from the informational markers guiding you throughout the trail.
Champion Lodgepole Pine Trail
Champion Lodgepole Pine Trail is just over a half-mile long and will lead you to one of the tallest trees in all of Big Bear. At 110 feet tall, 6 feet wide, and more than 440 years old, this legendary tree is quite an impressive sight to see.
Castle Rock Trail
The moderately challenging, 2.7-mile out and back Castle Rock Trail will reward your efforts with one of the best panoramic views of the Big Bear Lake Valley.
Bristlecone Road is perfect for all skill levels. Open for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, this 1.8-mile scenic loop is teaming with California wildlife. Keep your eyes open for a Bald Eagle sighting!
Slip ‘N Slide at Magic Mountain Recreation Area
Cool down this summer as you slip ‘n slide down the Alpine water slide at the Magic Mountain Recreation Area. Twist and turn through refreshing, cool water before splashing into the heated pool. The Magic Mountain Recreation Area also features other fun attractions – the Mineshaft Coaster, an 18-hole mini golf course, a go-kart track, a Soaring Eagle zipline, and an indoor arcade.
Take a Boat Tour on the Miss Liberty
Sit back, relax, and take in breathtaking views as you listen to a fully narrated 90-minute guided tour about the lake, and Big Bear’s rich gold mining history dating back to 1845. They also offer a sunset cruise – a perfect way to end another perfect summer day out on the lake.
Kayak or SUP (Stand Up Paddle) with Gear from Get Boards
With two locations, Get Boards makes renting paddle equipment convenient and fun. Hit the water in a kayak or give stand-up paddle boarding a try. Pups can join in the fun too! Either choice of watercraft, we guarantee you will love this fun and invigorating way to explore the calm and cool waters of Big Bear Lake this summer. Check out their website for coupons and discounts!
Boating on Big Bear Lake
Boating on Big Bear Lake is one of the most popular activities during the summer season. Enjoy a different view of this magnificent lake as you explore beaches, coves, inlets, and islands. If you don’t own a boat, you can rent one from one of the many marinas around the lake. Big Bear Marina is a great place to rent a boat for your “boat day” excursion!
Ready for a Ropes Challenge?
Big Bear Ropes Course is a high-octane aerial obstacle course designed to provide a challenging, yet exhilarating experience! Get your adrenaline flowing and create some summer memories with family and friends as you balance on ropes, cross suspension bridges, swing through the air, and climb through a variety of obstacles.
Go Off-Roading
This fun attraction lets you take the wheel as you explore canyons, trails, mountain ridges, and meadows in a fully equipped Jeep or UTV. All tours include a personal Jeep for up to 4 passengers, fuel, snacks and beverages, and an additional guide Jeep providing experienced off-road guidance and instruction. They also offer several tours to choose from, as well as a kid-friendly off-road mining adventure.
Stay With Big Bear Getaway This Summer.
Book a vacation rental with us, Big Bear Getaway. We have everything you need to have an unforgettable summer, including cabins, cottages, and luxurious lakefront estates. We hope to see you out on the lake soon!
