Best Skydiving Experience in Big Bear Lake: Scenic Views & Tandem Jumps
Okay, real talk—if you’ve ever thought, “You know what would make this weekend more interesting? Jumping out of a perfectly good airplane,” then congrats, you might be exactly the kind of beautifully unhinged human who’s ready for skydiving in Big Bear Lake, California.
And trust me, Big Bear is not just about cozy cabins, snowboards, and hot chocolate. It’s also about adrenaline, epic views, and questioning all your life choices at 10,000 feet—right before realizing it’s the best decision you’ve ever made.
Ready to (literally) take the plunge? Here’s your fun, full-sending guide to skydiving in Big Bear—no parachute knowledge required. (That’s what instructors are for.)
Why Big Bear Is the Perfect Place to Terrify Yourself… Safely
Let’s paint a picture: You’re floating above a glistening alpine lake, surrounded by pine-covered mountains, fresh air rushing past your ears, and your heart doing gymnastics inside your chest. Below? Big Bear Lake. Above? Nothing but sky.
Here’s why this jump is worth it:
- Killer views: San Bernardino Mountains, the lake, and forests = 10/10 scenery.
- High elevation: Less plane time, more dive time. Gravity does the rest.
- Great weather: Big Bear gets over 300 sunny days a year—skydiving weather MVP.
- Chill mountain vibes: Even the pilots have beanies and positive energy.
So… Where Can I Throw Myself Out of a Plane?
Skydive Big Bear
- Based at Big Bear City Airport
- Staff: Chill but certified (USPA instructors with lots of jumps under their belts)
- Cost: Around $199–$250 depending on packages
- Add-ons: Yes, you can get the full dramatic slow-mo jump video with background music worthy of a movie trailer.
This is the main—and best—place to skydive in Big Bear. They offer tandem jumps (meaning: you’re strapped to a professional who actually knows how to open the parachute), and they’ve got a reputation for keeping people alive and laughing.
The vibes are good, the gear is fresh, and you’ll feel surprisingly safe while freefalling at terminal velocity.
What Actually Happens on Jump Day?
Spoiler: You don’t just walk in, say “Yeet me outta that plane,” and go. There’s a process—and it’s kinda fun.
Here’s the lowdown:
- Check-in & paperwork: You’ll sign some “Yes, I know this is insane” waivers.
- Training: A short but helpful briefing—like “how not to flail your arms while plummeting.”
- Gear up: Get fitted into a harness that hugs you tighter than your favorite hoodie.
- Plane ride: About 15–20 minutes of scenic climbing. This is the part where most people start nervously laughing or silently questioning their choices.
- The jump: You, your tandem buddy, and gravity have a little party together at 10,000 feet.
- Freefall: About 45 seconds of pure chaos-bliss combo, then the parachute opens and things suddenly become strangely peaceful.
- Landing: Glide back to earth, legs up, heart still somewhere in the clouds.
Who Can Skydive?
The basic checklist:
- 18+ years old (Sorry, adrenaline-loving teens.)
- Under 230–250 lbs (varies by center, so check before you book)
- Relatively healthy (No major heart, spine, or mobility issues)
- No fear of heights (Kidding. Everyone’s scared. That’s part of the fun.)
Wear comfy clothes, lace-up shoes, and absolutely NO capes (unless you want to be remembered in headlines).
And yes—you can wear glasses or contacts. They’ve got goggles for that. Superhero-level goggles.
Best Time of Year to Skydive in Big Bear
Summer (June–August)
Sunny, warm, and beautiful—but also a bit busier. Book ahead!
Fall (Sept–Oct)
Cooler air, golden leaves, and fewer crowds. Also, sweater weather… until you put on a harness.
Winter (Nov–Feb)
Sometimes snowy, sometimes closed due to weather. But when it’s on? Snowy mountain views from above = breathtaking.
Spring (March–May)
Fresh air, blooming wildflowers, and a good balance of visibility and weather. A personal fave!
Tips for First-Time Skydivers (aka: Don’t Pee Your Pants)
- Eat light: You don’t want a full burrito bouncing in your stomach at 120 mph.
- Trust your instructor: They’ve done this thousands of times. You’re the new one here.
- Don’t overthink it: You’ll be strapped in, the door opens, and you go. That’s it.
- Scream, laugh, cry—whatever: Just don’t forget to breathe and enjoy the chaos.
- Smile for the camera: Even if you’re internally screaming, at least look fabulous.
Where to Crash (After You’ve Flown)
Nearby Cozy Spots:
- Big Bear Frontier – Lakeside cabins, fireplace vibes.
- Marina Resort – Lakeside chic and close to everything.
- Airbnbs with hot tubs – Soak your “I-just-flew” muscles.
You’ll want somewhere comfy to process what just happened and maybe write a “Dear Gravity” thank-you note.
Pair It With More Adventure!
Because once you’ve flown, hiking seems pretty tame. Still fun, though.
- Ziplining at Action Tours
- Kayak or paddleboard on Big Bear Lake
- Castle Rock hiking trail – Killer views without jumping
- Mountain biking at Snow Summit
- Post-jump beer at Big Bear Lake Brewing Co.
But Is It Safe Though?
Yes. Skydiving might look wild, but it’s surprisingly regulated.
- Instructors: USPA-certified and way more chill than you’d expect
- Gear: Modern rigs with backup parachutes and auto-openers
- Weather rules: If conditions are sketchy, they don’t jump. Safety > selfies.
Bottom line: It feels crazy, but it’s statistically very safe. Skydivers are professionals, not thrill-seeking lunatics. (Okay, maybe a little of both.)
Quick FAQs
Q: Can I film myself with a GoPro?
A: Not unless you’re licensed. Your instructor handles the pro footage.
Q: What if I chicken out?
A: You can bail before takeoff—but you might not get a refund (and your friends will tease you forever).
Q: Do people actually pass out?
A: Rarely. Most people scream and then go totally zen when the chute opens.
Q: Is tipping expected?
A: Not required, but it’s a nice way to say “Thanks for not letting me fall to my doom.”
Final Thoughts: So… Should You Do It?
If you’ve ever wanted to feel fully alive, like really alive, with the wind in your ears and a mountain lake sparkling below your feet—then skydiving in Big Bear Lake is your moment.
It’s scary. It’s magical. It’s something you’ll never forget (and never shut up about at dinner parties).
So what are you waiting for?
Big Bear’s calling. Pack your courage and leave your excuses at the door—because the sky is waiting, and it wants a hug.
