What’s the best way to get to Big Bear?
Big Bear Lake is located in the San Bernardino Mountains and is an easy drive from most areas in southern California. It is about 93 miles northeast of Los Angeles, an approximate 2 hour, and 10 minute drive depending on traffic and road conditions. From Beverly Hills it is approximately a 2 hour, 20 minute drive and from the City of San Bernardino (29 miles) - depending on traffic it is a 40 to 45 minute drive up the mountain.
There are three roads that lead in and out of the Big Bear Valley.
Front way: If you are driving on the I-10 or the CA-210 Freeways you can choose between the CA-330 which becomes the CA-18 through Running Springs and Deer Lick or proceed towards Redlands and take the CA-38 through Mentone.
CA-38 usually has less traffic, but the CA-330 is quicker. On busy weekends and during snow storms CA-38 may be a better choice.
There is some confusion about the CA-18 which starts at Running Springs and continues into Big Bear Lake. When you arrive at the bridge over the Big Bear Lake Dam, the CA-18 continues straight ahead and this section of the road is called CA-18/Big Bear Blvd. This dual name continues through the Town of Big Bear Lake past the Stanfield Cut-Off towards Big Bear City, and when you reach Greenway the CA-18 turns left on Greenway and then turns right where it becomes just the CA-18 again. It then continues down the back side of the mountain to Lucerne.
Some people prefer to take the back road because the drive out of the mountain is shorter. To go this way, take the CA-18 to Lucerne and then go west towards Hesperia until you reach Bear Valley Road. Take the Bear Valley Road until you reach the 1-15 South.
All the roads leading to Big Bear offer some pretty spectacular vistas, especially CA-330/CA-18 - there are numerous turn-outs where you can stop to enjoy the different views, on a clear day you can see all the way to the ocean. Other views are picture perfect with layers of mountains that look amazingly like a background in a Da Vinci painting.
On the way to Big Bear you will pass through the town of Running Springs, and then Deer Lick. Shortly after that you will pass by the Snow Valley Ski and Snowboard Resort. Approximately 11 miles later you will arrive at the traffic light at Big Bear Lake Dam, continue straight ahead over the new bridge for Big Bear Lake or turn left onto North Shore Drive if you are staying in Fawnskin.
When travelling to the mountains in the winter months, you are required to carry chains even if it isn't snowing at the time (if Highway Patrol stops you and you don’t have chains you will be asked to turn around and purchase them before you return). If it is snowing there will be police road blocks set up on the highway and they will make you pull over and put your chains on. If you have 4-wheel drive and mud & snow rated tires they willlook in your car to make sure you have chains but probably won't require you put them on.Don’t forget to keep a flashlight, water, snacksand extra blankets in the car - just in case there is a traffic delay due to a storm.
Driving to Big Bear Lake from Los Angeles International Airport
Drive: 114 miles, 2 h 12 min depending on traffic.
Get onto the I-105 East from S Sepulveda Blvd.
Continue on I-105 East – and then take the I-605 North to the CA-210 East.
Take the CA-210 East to the CA-330 North (Mountain Resorts / Big Bear Lake).
Follow the CA-330 North and when you arrive at Running Springs the CA-330 changes to the CA-18.
Take the CA-18 towards Big Bear Lake and when you arrive at the bridge at Big Bear Dam the CA-18 also becomes Big Bear Blvd - .cross over the bridge and continue on CA-18/Big Bear Blvd. into the City of Big Bear Lake. You will pass by Boulder Bay Park on your left and the Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain on your right before you arrive at the Village.
If you want to go directly to the ski resorts, after passing along Village Drive and turning left on Pine Knot in the Village you can turn right on Big Bear Blvd. and drive about 1.78 miles to Snow Summit Resort (on your left via Summit Blvd.) or 3.5 miles to Bear Mountain Resort via Moonridge Rd or Club View Dr.
FAQs
What is the easiest way to get to Big Bear? ›
Hwy 330 to Hwy 18
The shortest and quickest way for visitors coming from Los Angeles, Orange County, and other points west is Hwy 330 / Hwy 18 through Running Springs. Please note that this route can become very congested on the weekends during peak season.
The other route is through the high desert, Victorville and Lucerne Valley area, from Hwy. 15 to Hwy. 18 and up the “back way” to Big Bear. This is probably the safest bet to eliminate traffic and less mountain driving.
Is driving to Big Bear easy? ›Big Bear Lake is located in the San Bernardino Mountains and is an easy drive from most areas in southern California. It is about 93 miles northeast of Los Angeles, an approximate 2 hour, and 10 minute drive depending on traffic and road conditions.
How to get to Big Bear using Highway 38? ›- Take the 10 E, to the Orange Street exit (Hwy 38) in Redlands.
- Continue to the second stop light at Orange Street. Turn left.
- Turn right on Lugonia Ave (Hwy. 38).
- Follow Hwy. 38 through Mentone and follow signs to Big Bear.
Hwy. 38 (through Redlands) is a relaxing route that meanders through the national forest. This route has the least amount of curves and turns and beautiful backcountry scenery.
What are the different ways to get to Big Bear? ›3 Main Routes
The three main roads to Big Bear Lake are Hwy 330 (through Highland), Hwy 38 (through Redlands) and Hwy 18 (through Lucerne Valley). If you're driving to Big Bear Lake from your home in California or from an airport, study these routes and see what freeways they connect to.
Requirement 1 (R1): Chains are required on all vehicles except passenger vehicles and light-duty trucks under 6,000 pounds gross weight and equipped with snow tires on at least two drive wheels. Chains must be carried by vehicles using snow tires. All vehicles towing trailers must have chains on one drive axle.
Do you need chains to get to Big Bear? ›There are 3 ways to and from Big Bear Lake, CA. During the winter months of November - April, motorists may encounter traction chain controls in the mountain areas within California. By law, snow chains or cables must be carried in your vehicle at all times during winter months.
What is the front way to Big Bear? ›Take the 210 Freeway North or Interstate 10 East to Interstate 15 North. Follow the 15 North over the Cajon Pass towards Victorville and take the Bear Valley Road exit. Turn right (East) at Hwy 18 through the Lucerne Valley. Hwy 18 will take you into the Big Bear Valley.
What is the easiest drive to Big Bear? ›- Hwy 18 – Lucerne Valley. The shortest and quickest way for visitors coming from Los Angeles, Orange County, and other points west is Hwy 330 / Hwy Hwy 18 is the quickest way to/from Barstow, Las Vegas, and other high desert locations. ...
- Hwy 330 / Hwy 18 – Running Springs. ...
- Hwy 38 Redlands.
Is driving to Big Bear hard? ›
The drive up to Big Bear is not for the faint of heart. After the first three curves you may think you have it under control but the highway is full of windy, sudden and sharp turns. As you pass the 3,000-foot elevation sign, things get real.
How long is the Big Bear drive? ›Explore this 35.7-mile point-to-point trail near San Bernardino, California. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 16 h 11 min to complete.
Do you need a day pass for Big Bear? ›All guests are required to have a valid lift ticket/area use pass or season pass for skiing and snowboarding, including those taking a group or private lesson. Purchase for only the days you know you will ski/ride as there are no refunds for unused tickets.
Do you need a 4x4 to go to Big Bear? ›4x4 is always best, but if chain controls in effect, even 4x4 need chains. Don't just follow your navigation system. Check the traffic, often the shortest miles (through running springs) is the longest trip time with traffic and longer mountain driving.
Does Big Bear have a shuttle? ›Big Bear Mountain Resort offers alternative transportation to get you around Big Bear Lake and to the resorts quickly. During the winter season, guests that have parked in the remote lots can hop on the parking shuttles that will take you straight to Bear Mountain or Snow Summit.
What is the scariest road? ›To make it worse, weather conditions such as fog, dust clouds and rain reduces visibility to almost zero, along with mudslides and waterfalls. The North Yungas Road, also known as the Death Road, was labelled as the 'world's most dangerous road'.
How do you drive on a curvy highway? ›- When approaching a curve, slow down appropriately and position your car to the side of your lane which is opposite the direction of the curve. ...
- As you continue to drive through the curve, smoothly position your vehicle towards the other side of your lane.
The top stops along the way from Los Angeles to Big Bear Lake (with short detours) are California Science Center, Battleship USS Iowa Museum, and Crypto.com Arena. Other popular stops include Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament, Walt Disney Concert Hall, and Desert Hills Premium Outlets.
Is there entrance fee to Big Bear? ›Yes we do! Adventure Passes are available in the Visitors Center for $5/day or $30/annual pass each purchased with cash or credit card. Day passes are good for the day you purchased them and there is no limit to the number of passes someone may purchase at one time.
Can you go to Big Bear for the day? ›You can enjoy a day trip to Big Bear Lake any time of the year, and it will be an escape from city life. Whether in summer, winter, or fall, there is always something fun to do while exploring this beautiful part of Southern California.
How do I spend my day at Big Bear? ›
- Try Some of the Water Sports on Big Bear Lake. ...
- Or Any of the Other Adventure Sports & Activities. ...
- Hike Around Big Bear Lake. ...
- Cycle or Ski at Snow Summit. ...
- Eat Out & Enjoy Big Bear's Nightlife. ...
- Stay at a Cozy Cabin.
Ideally, you should put tire chains on all four tires for all types of vehicles. By using four tire chains, you'll be able to obtain the best possible traction and balance. Problems can occur by only chaining one axle.
How do you drive with chains? ›- Don't go over 25 miles per hour, or else you can damage the chains or your vehicle.
- Never drive on bare pavement.
- Avoid locking or spinning your wheels by starting or braking suddenly.
Requirement 2 (R2): Chains or traction devices are required on all vehicles except four-wheel/all-wheel drive vehicles with snow-tread tires on all four wheels. NOTE: (Four-wheel/all-wheel drive vehicles must carry traction devices in chain control areas.)
What clothes do I need for Big Bear? ›Warm clothes are a must!
Layer up with thermals and sweaters or hoodies. A warm, waterproof jacket and snow pants are also best for snow play or sports. Snow boots and thick socks are great if you plan on snowshoeing or tubing. Also, be sure to protect your hands and ears with gloves and hats.
The best route to Big Bear from Los Angeles is to take I-10 E out of the city, then merge onto CA-210 E. From there, you can exit to CA-330 N towards Big Bear and follow the road signs! The whole drive will only take about two hours, although you might hit some traffic if you're driving during rush hour.
Is there Uber or Lyft in Big Bear? ›Uber and Lyft operate here, and we also have Big Bear Cab Company for those who still appreciate the convenience of a good taxi.
Is Bear Lake road worth it? ›It's among the best drives in RMNP for fall colors. At the end of the road, the Bear Lake Trailhead is a great place to start an afternoon hike or overnight backpacking trip.
Which Big Bear mountain is better for beginners? ›The best place to find beginner slopes is at Snow Summit Ski Resort. With a vertical drop of only 1,200 feet, the mountain is a great place to learn how to snow plough without getting in the way of an expert skier. 55% of the area is designed for beginners, and is one of the most fun Big Bear Mountain things to do.
What is the best month to go to Big Bear? ›The perfect time to visit Big Bear Lake is April-May due to the excellent weather conditions, and you might even find that the cost of flights and accommodation are lower than if you travel during the peak holiday seasons. In summer, temperatures can reach as high as 35℃ (96℉) in the middle of the day.
Is there a speed limit on Big Bear Lake? ›
SPEED LIMIT: 35 MPH maximum; 10 MPH from sunset to 7:00 a.m.; 5 MPH between buoys indicating same and the shoreline; 3 MPH in Papoose Bay, Canvasback Cove and Mallard Lagoon. SAFETY EQUIPMENT: All boats must be equipped according to California Boating Law safety requirements.
Does Big Bear have waterfalls? ›Trail Guide
And if you're looking for the best hiking trails in Big Bear with waterfalls, the Castle Rock Trail should be at the top of your list. In spring, there's a beautiful waterfall to discover along the trail.
The pass provides FREE entry at 200+ state parks and beaches. The passes for the current application process are valid for the 2023 Calendar year.
Where is the free tube in Big Bear? ›- All "free sledding" results in Big Bear Lake, California. Showing 1-5 of 5.
- Cougar Crest Trail. 1.5 mi. 74 reviews. ...
- Big Bear Snow Play. 2.2 mi. 585 reviews. ...
- Grizzly Ridge Tube Park. 1.0 mi. Tubing. ...
- Snow Valley Mountain Resort. 7.7 mi. 450 reviews. ...
- Woodland Interpretive Trail. 1.6 mi.
Night shuttles operates daily. Fare on Bear Transit (except line RFS) is $1 and free for faculty, staff, emeriti, and students and a valid ID. A fare or a pass is required for line RFS. Special service is available to Cal home games at California Memorial Stadium.
How much is the zipline in Big Bear? ›Big Bear Zipline Tour Options and Pricing
This option costs $129 per person. Action Ziplines also offers an “Action Pass” that offers multiple activities, such as a Segway tour, at a discount. These passes are a great value for those who want lots of adventure in Big Bear!
We do provide fans within the homes as well. How much does it cost to rent a cabin in Big Bear? The cost to rent a cabin varies by season and size. Starting at $85 per night up to $1000 per night for Luxury homes.
Can you get to Big Bear without a car? ›Public Transportation. Mountain Area Regional Transit Authority (MARTA) provides bus service to Big Bear from both the San Bernardino and Lucerne Valley areas. Fare is approximately $10. Take the bus to the last stop in Big Bear (Fox Farm, near Vons) and coordinate a taxi/Uber/Lyft pickup from there (~1 mile from BBRC) ...
Is it hard to drive up to Big Bear? ›The drive up to Big Bear is not for the faint of heart. After the first three curves you may think you have it under control but the highway is full of windy, sudden and sharp turns. As you pass the 3,000-foot elevation sign, things get real.
What airport do you fly into for Big Bear? ›There is a regional Airport in Big Bear, but it only takes private planes. The closest major Airport would be Ontario International Airport, however if you are looking for flight flexibility you would need to fly into LAX. If you fly into Ontario or LAX you would need to rent a car and then drive up the mountain.
Can I drive to Big Bear without chains? ›
Requirement 1 (R1): Chains are required on all vehicles except passenger vehicles and light-duty trucks under 6,000 pounds gross weight and equipped with snow tires on at least two drive wheels. Chains must be carried by vehicles using snow tires. All vehicles towing trailers must have chains on one drive axle.
What is the easiest road to Big Bear? ›- Hwy 18 – Lucerne Valley. The shortest and quickest way for visitors coming from Los Angeles, Orange County, and other points west is Hwy 330 / Hwy Hwy 18 is the quickest way to/from Barstow, Las Vegas, and other high desert locations. ...
- Hwy 330 / Hwy 18 – Running Springs. ...
- Hwy 38 Redlands.
You can enjoy a day trip to Big Bear Lake any time of the year, and it will be an escape from city life. Whether in summer, winter, or fall, there is always something fun to do while exploring this beautiful part of Southern California.
Is there transportation to Big Bear? ›The Mountain Area Regional Transit Authority (Mountain Transit) is the primary public transportation provider on the mountain-top, providing local and off-the-mountain bus service to the Big Bear Valley, Running Springs, Lake Arrowhead, Crestline and San Bernardino.
What happens if you drive with chains without snow? ›Tire chains for cars should only be used if there is a layer of snow or ice on the road. Using chains on bare pavement can cause substantial damage to both your tires and the road itself. If you turn onto a road that's clearly been plowed and salted, pull over and remove the chains.
How difficult is it to drive in the snow with chains? ›Chains give the best traction in snow, but are cumbersome, clunky, and can be difficult to put on. They are required on some vehicles on some roads that pass over mountain passes, for example some passes in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California.