Skiing & Snowboarding in Big Bear

Forget the coastal gloom; when the mercury drops, the real scene is at 7,000 feet. Big Bear Lake is the heavy hitter of SoCal winter, serving up a dual-mountain playground at Snow Summit and Bear Mountain that caters to everyone from first-timers to seasoned park rats. Whether you’re looking to rail carves down Summit’s legendary groomed runs or spend your day lapping the world-class jib lines and “People’s Park” at Bear, the stoke here is unmatched. It’s time to wax your deck, load the rig, and claim your slice of the best terrain in the San Bernardino Mountains.

Snowboarding instructor teaching two kids on a snowy slope at Big Bear Mountain with chair lifts in the background under a cloudy sky

Destination Big Bear: Your Guide to Skiing & Snowboarding

Big Bear Lake houses Snow Summit alongside Bear Mountain, the two resorts next to each other which provide more than 400 acres of skiing still in the area. The resorts have more than 55 runs which are managed by 17 lifts. The guests are pleased with a unified experience of being able to visit both mountains with one lift ticket or a season pass.

Groomed trails, terrain parks, and professional instruction combined together make it possible for Big Bear to be one of the most winter oriented places in Southern California.

Snow Valley ski resort mountain landscape with snowy terrain and Snow Valley logo

Snow Valley

Recommended For: Beginners & Families

  • Ski & Snowboard Lessons
  • Equipment Rentals
  • Snow Tube Park
  • Snow Play Area
  • Scenic Sky Chair rides
  • Night Sessions
  • Valley SoCal Youth Program – accepting applications
  • Terrain Parks
  • Mid-Mountain Dining Option
  • Favorite Runs: Slide Peak
Snow Summit ski resort winter aerial view featuring mountain slopes and Snow Summit logo

Snow Summit

Recommended For: Intermediate & Families

  • Ski & Snowboard Lessons
  • Equipment Rentals
  • Snow Tube Park
  • Night Sessions
  • Snow Summit Race Team
  • Snow Rangers Non-Competitive Lesson Program
  • Terrain Parks
  • Mountaintop View Dining Options
  • View of Big Bear Lake
Bear Mountain ski resort aerial view with snow-covered runs and Bear Mountain logo

Bear Mountain

Recommended For: Beginners & Advanced

  • SoCal's Only Halfpipes
  • Highest Lift Served Peak in SoCal
  • Ski & Snowboard Lessons
  • Equipment Rentals
  • Freestyle Training Team
  • Airbag Training Camps
  • Terrain Parks
  • Mid-Mountain Dining Option
  • View of San Gorgonio Mountains

Find a Big Bear Cabin Rental

Explore Big Bear SKI & SNOWBOARD EVENTS

Big Bear ski and snowboarding events offer everything from high-stakes rail jams that draw the region’s heaviest hitters to festive, torch-lit parades that light up the summit for the next generation of riders. It’s a mountain culture built on shared chairlifts and tailgate lunches, where the morning’s park laps with your crew seamlessly transition into sunset sessions with the whole family.

Ski & Snowboard Rentals

Rentals of ski and snowboard are offered to all age groups and skill levels. For those who are not skiing or snowboarding, bringing their own gear will not be a hassle and they can easily enjoy the full day on the mountain. To make sure that you will have the equipment you want and at the same time to save your money and time, we advise you to make a reservation during the busy weekends of winter.

FAQ’s About: Skiing and Snowboarding in Big Bear

Yes, Destination Big Bear provides cabin rentals that are located near both Bear Mountain and Snow Summit. The accommodation provides you with proximity to the slopes which enables you to access skiing and snowboarding and mountain activities.

Yes, Big Bear provides a seamless experience for beginners from skiable areas to professional classes and equipment that guarantee the confidence of first timers´ being on the hill and skiing or snowboarding.

Yes, Snowboarding is permitted on both resorts with Bear Mountain being the top choice by most for freestyle as well as terrain park riding due to its superb nature for such activities.

Yes, There will be lessons provided on both mountains for kids, teens and adults thus making it hassle-free for everyone to get their skills learnt or improved.

Night skiing and snowboarding will be on and off at Snow Summit depending on the schedule.

Yes, Snow Summit really is a family-friendly ski resort with children’s and beginners’ areas, lessons offered for all ages and really strategically located bases to make sure no one misses out on fun in the snow because of discomfort.

No, Big Bear has opened up rental outlets on the mountain itself that are very handy, where you can rent out ski equipment, snowboard equipment, boots, and helmets according to your age and skill level, thus it’s giving you the idea of coming along to just ride.

Yes. It is advisable to book beforehand especially in the weekends and peak times during winter to guarantee and also save the waiting time upon your arrival.

Find a Cabin Rental Near Skiing & Snowboarding in Big Bear

Pet Friendly Rentals in big bear man on beach with dog
Luxury Rentals in Big Bear collection image of high-end kitchen
Lakefront Rentals in Big Bear a high-end living room with lakefront view
Big Bear Cabins with Hot Tub outside