Where to Ski in Big Bear Lake: Top Resorts, Pro Tips & First-Timer Advice
Let me start with a confession: I’ve skied down my fair share of mountains, and I’ve also tumbled down them in the most graceful ways possible (imagine a snowball with skis). But no matter how many slopes I’ve conquered—or awkwardly cartwheeled down—Big Bear Lake remains one of my favorite places to shred, slide, or just vibe in the snow.
Whether you’re a seasoned skier, a total beginner who’s still figuring out which foot goes where, or someone who just wants to wear cute snow gear and sip cocoa—you’re going to love skiing in Big Bear. So buckle your boots (not too tight!) and let me walk—or ski—you through it.
Why Big Bear is a Ski Lover’s Playground
Big Bear is like the mullet of winter destinations—business in the snow, party in the lodge. It’s just a couple hours from L.A., which means you can leave behind traffic and tacos and be on the slopes before lunch (if you don’t stop 5 times for coffee).
What makes it so great?
- Reliable snow (thanks to great snowmaking machines)
- Two fantastic resorts
- Views that’ll make you forget about your frozen fingers
- A small-town, friendly vibe—no ski snobs here
Basically, it’s SoCal’s snowy sweet spot.
The 2 Best Places to Ski in Big Bear Lake
1. Snow Summit – Smooth Sailing
If skiing were a playlist, Snow Summit would be your chill indie acoustic mix. It’s mellow, well-groomed, and great for folks who don’t want to break bones or egos.
Best for:
- Beginners
- Families
- People who want to enjoy skiing, not survive it
The runs here are wide and friendly (like a labrador retriever in snow form), and they’ve got a solid ski school. If you’re new, this is where you want to start.
Bonus: Night skiing! You haven’t lived until you’ve carved under the stars, then collapsed next to a fire pit with marshmallows and sore calves.
2. Bear Mountain – The Wild Child
Over at Bear Mountain, things get a little spicier. Think jumps, rails, and people doing backflips like gravity doesn’t exist. It’s known for its terrain park, which is basically a skatepark made of snow—and adrenaline.
Best for:
- Intermediate to advanced skiers
- Snowboarders who say “bro” unironically
- Anyone who wants their ski trip to feel like an action movie
If you’re more into watching than launching, don’t worry. There are still regular trails here where you can enjoy the views without flying off anything (except maybe your balance).
When to Ski (AKA When You’ll Look Coolest in Your Gear)
Big Bear’s ski season usually runs from late November to March, depending on snow. But the real magic happens between January and February. That’s when the snow’s solid, the crowds are manageable (on weekdays), and the weather is cold enough for hot chocolate to be a personality trait.
Pro tip:
Weekends can get packed. If you can sneak in a weekday run, your future knees will thank you.
First-Time Skiers: Don’t Panic
If you’re new to skiing, welcome! You’ve chosen a fantastic place to fall down repeatedly with a smile on your face.
Big Bear makes learning easy with gentle slopes, patient instructors, and lots of snow to cushion your dramatic crashes. Trust me, everyone falls. The trick is pretending you meant to.
What to wear (so you don’t freeze or fry):
- Waterproof jacket and pants (avoid cotton or you’ll turn into a snow sponge)
- Thermal layers
- Gloves, goggles, beanie
- Thick socks, but just one pair (your feet aren’t tacos)
Where to Rent Your Gear Without Selling a Kidney
Renting ski gear is part of the adventure—and luckily, Big Bear has lots of places that won’t make you feel like a lost tourist.
Top rental spots:
- Goldsmith’s Sports – Friendly, fast, and no judgment if you ask what “bindings” are
- Blauer Board Shop – Great for snowboarders too
- Getboards – Offers online reservations and budget-friendly bundles
Rent the day before if you can. That way, you avoid the early-morning gear scramble while trying to remember how pants work.
Lift Tickets: How to Ski Without Going Broke
Skiing isn’t the cheapest hobby (unless you count sledding on a trash can lid), but Big Bear does a pretty good job of keeping things reasonable.
Lift ticket options:
- Day passes: Around $100–$140 depending on when you go
- Half-day passes: Perfect if you plan on sleeping in
- Season Passes/Ikon Pass: Ideal if you’re a regular snow-chaser
Hot tip: Buy online in advance. Seriously. Don’t be that person holding up the line while trying to remember your ZIP code.
After-Ski Eats: Fuel Up, Buttercup
After a day of skiing, you’ll be tired, a little soggy, and hungrier than a snow yeti. Big Bear’s got you covered.
My go-to spots:
- 572 Social Kitchen – Big burgers, bigger vibes
- Teddy Bear Restaurant – Cozy, classic, and worth the carb coma
- Big Bear Lake Brewing Co. – Great beers, even greater fries
And don’t forget: Calories don’t count when you’ve been skiing. Science.
Where to Stay for Maximum Cozy
You’ve got options: hotels, motels, lodges, and more cabins than you can shake a ski pole at.
Close-to-slope favs:
- Bear Creek Resort
- Black Forest Lodge
- Cute Airbnb cabins with fireplaces, hot tubs, and sometimes even bear-themed decor (because… Big Bear).
Pro tip: book early if you’re coming on a holiday weekend. Places fill up faster than the ski lift line at 10 AM.
Parking, Chains & Surviving the Mountain Road
Here’s the stuff no one tells you (but you’ll thank me later):
- Get to the resort early. Parking lots fill up, and you don’t want to hike 2 miles in ski boots.
- Carry snow chains if you don’t have 4WD. And learn how to put them on BEFORE you’re stuck on the side of the road at sunset.
- Bring snacks, water, and backup socks. Trust me.
FAQs That You’re Probably Thinking Right Now
Q: Is Big Bear good for beginners?
Yes! Especially Snow Summit. It’s like the Disneyland of ski hills—but without Mickey Mouse judging your fall.
Q: Can I go if I’ve never skied before?
Totally. Just take a lesson, start small, and embrace the wobbles.
Q: What if I don’t want to ski?
There’s tubing, sledding, snowshoeing, people-watching, and cocoa-drinking. All excellent winter sports.
Q: Will I fall?
Yes. Gloriously. And you’ll laugh. And get up. And do it again.
Final Thoughts: Just Point Your Skis and Go
Big Bear Lake is one of those rare places where skiing feels like a vacation, not a competition. Whether you’re chasing powder, family memories, or just a reason to wear ski goggles as a headband, it’s the perfect winter escape.
So grab your gear, your fluffiest socks, and your most positive attitude. Hit the slopes, fall a few times, and finish the day with a burger, a story, and a seriously good view.
And remember: if you fall with style, it still counts as skiing. See you on the mountain, snow star.
