Find a Ski Resort in North America & Worldwide
# 2Small Ski Area in California
All Reviews

Overview

Bear Mountain is Southern California's home for year-round high-altitude adventure, with world-class skiing and snowboarding in the winter and a unique 9-hole golf course in the summer. In the winter (November-April), Bear Mountain offers a combined 748 acres of skiable terrain with lifts and trails for all ability levels. Highlights include award-winning terrain parks, a recently renovated base area, and the region's largest beginner areas and highest lift-served peak (8,805 feet). Bear Mountain is part of Big Bear Mountain Resort, along with Snow Valley and Snow Summit.

Where Is Bear Mountain Located?

The easiest way to get to the mountain is by car, either your own or a rental. It’s about two and a half hours from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) depending on traffic.

Inside Scoop

Big Bear has it all, including restaurants located throughout the resort along with various stops to snack, coffee bars, repair shop, sports shop and lessons. The snowfall is bolstered by 100% snowmaking. Take some time to enjoy the big sundeck after you get off the slopes.

For smaller version of the features for which Bear Mountain is known, head to the Skill Builder Park. Most of the features are lower to the ground and 5 to 10 feet long. You can access the park by using Chair 6, 7 and 9. Your lift ticket gives you access to both Snow Summit and Bear Mountain. If you need a break from terrain parks, Snow Summit has a lot of traditional runs.

If you’re planning on spending a week or weekend there, take advantage of all the rental cabins and homes in the area. They’re pretty close to the slopes, some even within walking distance.

While many California resorts must spend a large amount of time making snow, Big Bear Ski Resort benefits from snow from Big Bear Lake, meaning that the resort can make “real” snow. After a day on the slopes, either head to the town for a night out, or go to the beach and soak up some rays.

Restaurants

Breakfast Places

  • Grizzly Manor Cafe is a small eatery that believes in LARGE plates of food. Fill up on your favorite egg, pancake or waffle dish. 41268 Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear, CA 92314
  • Teddy Bear Restaurant is perfect for a hearty breakfast – or later in the day when you can without guilt indulge in one of their house-made pies. 583 Pine Knot Ave, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

Our Favorite Lunch Spots

  • Mountain Munchies is a cozy diner where you can get your favorite comfort food, including hunger-satisfying burgers. 42171 Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
  • With its Hawaiian-themed food and décor, you’re just going to love what’s served up at Local Tropicali. It’s also known for having great staff. 40616 Village Dr, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

Dinner

  • Offering some of the best Indian food in the area, the Himalayan Restaurant offers all your favorite Indian classics. 672 Pine Knot Ave, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
  • Or, if you prefer some quality Mexican food, head to Laguna Grill Restaurant. 40844 Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

Apres/Nightlife

  • Located in the Village, Oakside Restaurant & Bar offers live music on Friday and Saturday nights, and a large quantity of beer and cocktails. 40701 Village Dr, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
  • For some post-slope fun, grab some friends, and go to Mountain Bar and Grill. Get a few drinks, and play some games. 42164 Moonridge Way, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

Plan Your Trip

Ski Lessons

Best Time for Snow

Average Snowfall

40"
25"
17"
9"
4"
5"
Nov
15"
Dec
28"
Jan
33"
Feb
25"
Mar
4"
Apr
Beginners Runs
27%
Intermediate Runs
42%
Advanced Runs
23%
Expert Runs
8%
Runs in Total
26
Longest Run
1.5 mi
Skiable Terrain
198 ac
Snow Making
198 ac

Total Lifts: 7

High Speed Quads
2
Quad Chairs
1
Triple Chairs
2
Double Chairs
2

Elevation

Base
7140'
Summit
8805'
Vertical Drop
1665'

Important Dates

November 29, 20242024/11/29
Projected Opening
April 13, 20252025/04/13
Projected Closing
N.A.
Projected Days Open
N.A.
Days Open Last Year
81
Years Open
0"
Average Snowfall
Copyright © 1995-2024 Mountain News LLC. All rights reserved.