Introduction
Hey there! I recently spent a refreshing getaway in Big Bear Lake, California, and left feeling inspired by how much this mountain town packs into one destination. It’s nestled high in the San Bernardino Mountains—crisp air, pine‑fringed hills, a shimmering lake, and a village that’s lively yet relaxed. Over the course of a couple of days, I found so many moments worth remembering: from paddle‑boarding across the lake at dawn to zooming down a mountain coaster, from browsing art in the village to hiking a ridge with sweeping views.
In this blog post, I’ll share 12 of my favourite, most fun things to do & places to visit in Big Bear Lake, weaving in personal reflections, useful tips, and plenty of photos so you can picture yourself there. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape, a family trip, or just a quiet nature break—there’s something here for you. Let’s dive in.
12 Best & Fun Things To Do In Big Bear Lake, CA (2026)
1. Paddle, Boat or Rent a Jet‑Ski on Big Bear Lake
One of my first mornings in Big Bear was on the water—renting a paddle board and slowly gliding across the glassy surface of the lake. According to local guides, the lake offers “23 miles of water activities including paddle boarding, pontoon boating, sailing, wake‑boarding, kayaking and much more.”
Why you’ll love it: Being on the water gives you a whole new perspective of the mountains and the forest. It’s peaceful, scenic—and a little active.
My tip: Go early for calmer water and softer light. Bring sunscreen, a bottle of water, and a light jacket—the breeze can pick up.
Best time: Summer or early fall. (In winter the lake may be very cold or partly frozen.)
2. Hike the Castle Rock Trail for Stunning Views
One of the local favourites: the Castle Rock Trail offers a moderate climb (about a mile or so each way) resulting in a striking panoramic view above the lake’s southern shore.
Why you’ll love it: It delivers “wow” views without requiring a full‑day trek. The mix of forest and water view is magical.
My tip: Parking at the trailhead is limited—arrive early or mid‑morning. Wear decent shoes (some rock steps near the top).
Best time: Morning or early afternoon. Late summer or early fall for crisp light.
See Also: 47 Fun Things To Do & Places To Visit In Vermont
3. Ride the Alpine Slide & Mineshaft Coaster at Magic Mountain
For a fun, adrenaline‑tinged break I found myself at the Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain amusement area: sled tracks down the mountain, go‑karts, a water slide, and even a mountain coaster.
Why you’ll love it: It’s playful, fast, and offers something different from “just hiking.” Great for families or groups.
My tip: Choose the mountain coaster if you want more thrill (you control the brakes). If you’re with little ones, the simpler sled slide is perfect.
Best time: Year‑round—summer for the water ride, winter for snow tubbing.
4. Visit the Big Bear Alpine Zoo
For an educational and pretty memorable stop, I visited the Big Bear Alpine Zoo—a rehabilitation zoo specializing in alpine species like bears, wolves and eagles.
Why you’ll love it: See wildlife close‑up in a meaningful setting, learn about rehabilitation and conservation, and it’s manageable time‑wise.
My tip: Check the feeding or talk times if you like to watch animals. Bring snacks for afterwards at the village.
Best time: Anytime the zoo is open; early afternoon is good for active animals.
5. Explore The Village at Big Bear Lake
When I wanted a change from nature and activity, strolling through the pedestrian‑friendly The Village at Big Bear Lake was the perfect break: quaint shops, cafés, galleries, and restaurants.
Why you’ll love it: Easy going, charming, a dose of small‑town mountain atmosphere. Great for a relaxing afternoon or early evening.
My tip: Go for dinner or dessert here—lots of good options. Maybe stop for fudge or gelato after walking.
Best time: Evening when lights come on and it’s cooler.
6. Ride or Hike to the Top of Snow Summit / Bear Mountain for Views
One morning I took the chair‑lift up to the summit at either Snow Summit or Bear Mountain (both part of the mountain resort area) for panoramic mountain/trail views and some downhill biking.
Why you’ll love it: It gives you a “big picture” moment of the lake and valley below from up high. Plus, you can hike or bike down.
My tip: Bring a light jacket—the summit is cooler. If biking, reserve ahead.
Best time: Summer or early fall for trails; winter for skiing/snowboard.
7. Horseback Riding or Off‑Road Jeep Adventure in the Forest
Another highlight was taking a trail ride—either on horseback through the forest or joining an off‑road Jeep tour to explore rugged terrain.
Why you’ll love it: You’re immersed in pine forest, dirt tracks, an adventure that doesn’t feel paved or typical.
My tip: Choose a ride appropriate for your fitness/speed. For jeeps, wear something you don’t mind getting dusty.
Best time: Late spring to autumn when trails are good.
8. Zip‑line, Climb & Try the Mountain Playground at the Base of the Summit
If you’re looking for something a little more adrenaline but less intense than downhill biking, I found the base area at Snow Summit offers a zip‑line, climbing wall, bungee and more “mountain playground” fun.
Why you’ll love it: Great for families, mixed groups, or anyone wanting to try something new without full‑on extreme sport.
My tip: Book ahead. Bring comfortable activewear and sneakers.
Best time: Summer; nice for warm weather.
9. Winter Skiing, Snowboarding, Tubing & Snow Play
If you visit in winter, Big Bear transforms: ski slopes, snowboarding, tubing, and snow fun everywhere. Locals describe it as a “four‑season getaway” for good reason.
Why you’ll love it: A mountain winter escape near Southern California – crisp air, snow‑fun, cozy evenings.
My tip: Book ski/snow gear ahead. Check road conditions (especially elevation). Dress in layers.
Best time: Late November through early spring, depending on snow.
10. Wildlife & Nature Exploration: Stanfield Marsh, Birding & Lakeshore Walks
One mood‑slow day I visited places like the Stanfield Marsh Wildlife & Waterfowl Preserve and the waterfront at Boulder Bay for walks and nature observation.
Why you’ll love it: Peaceful, reflective, chance to spot birds or lake life, and to slow down from full‑on activity.
My tip: Bring binoculars, a picnic, and a camera. Go early morning for bird activity and quiet.
Best time: Spring or early summer for birding; also nice in autumn.
11. Visit the Big Bear Solar Observatory & Stargazing
For something a bit different, I looked up into the skies—Big Bear is home to the Big Bear Solar Observatory, high altitude and with great skies, making stargazing magical here.
Why you’ll love it: When the sun sets, the sky opens. Bring your sense of wonder—it’s a quieter kind of fun.
My tip: Drive to a less‑lit spot, bring a blanket or reclining chair, and maybe a hot drink.
Best time: Clear nights; autumn through winter often offer clearer skies.
12. Seasonal Events, Shopping & Dining in Style
Last but not least: rounding off your trip with good food, some shopping in The Village, and maybe catching a seasonal event (concerts, markets, festivals) can tie it all together.
Why you’ll love it: The “after‑adventure” moments matter—relaxing dinner, browsing local crafts, watching a mountain sunset.
My tip: Reserve a nice lakeside dinner if you can. Check local listings for events. Dress in layers—mountain evenings can be cool.
Best time: Anytime—summer for festivals, autumn for crisp nights, winter for cozy dinners.
Final Thoughts
So there you have it—twelve of the best & most fun things to do in Big Bear Lake, California. After my trip, here are some take‑aways I’d love to share:
- Big Bear has variety: lake water fun, mountain hikes, adrenaline rides, winter snow, nature walks and peaceful moments.
- Don’t over‑pack your itinerary. Some of my favourite memories happened when I simply wandered, lingered, watched a sunset on a dock.
- Gear up right: mountain weather changes fast; layers, good shoes, sunblock and water matter.
- Visit off‑peak if possible (weekday, early morning) to avoid crowds. Parking can get tight at top trails.
- Embrace the local vibe: browse boutique shops, try the local brew or café, observe the wildlife, absorb the fresh air.
If I had to pick one must‑do if you only have one afternoon: Head up the Castle Rock Trail for the view, then paddle‑board the lake at dusk. That combo gives you both mountain and water magic in one go.
Here’s wishing you a wonderful trip to Big Bear Lake—may it inspire, refresh and delight you in equal measure.