Community, Diversity, Sustainability and other Overused Words
Community, Diversity, Sustainability and other Overused Words
Fall and Winter 2025
Just two hours from LA, snow and ski time for the fam!
Oktoberfest is happening now!
Riding the Mineshaft Coaster at Alpine Slide Magic Mountain is thrilling!
Big Bear Snow Play has year round recreation for the whole family.
Big Bear Mountain and Snow Summit are Southern California's go-to spots for skiing, snowboarding, and all things winter adventure.
Get up close with mountain lions, owls, and bears at Big Bear Alpine Zoo, where every animal has a rescue story.
Dine under the pines at Stella Luna, where local ingredients meet Big Bear's laid-back mountain style.
Cozy cabins, fire pits, and lakeside views! Noon Lodge is just minutes from the Village.
Eating in Big Bear is a treat for everyone's tast buds. Choose from rustic bites, craft beer, fresh pastries, and chef-driven dishes to warm up after a day outdoors.
Big Bear Lake is a destination for every season, but as the air turns crisp and the leaves start to glow gold and amber, the San Bernardino Mountains transform into a fall and early winter wonderland. Just 2.5 hours or less from Los Angeles, the drive up offers breathtaking scenery along CA‑330, the scenic CA‑18 "Rim of the World," or the road less traveled via CA‑38. If you're seeking crisp mountain air, cozy cabins, or thrilling outdoor adventures, Big Bear will deliver with the perfect blend of beauty, excitement, and alpine charm.
Fall Fun Means Leaf-Peeping and Oktoberfest
Autumn in Big Bear is magical. Trails like Castle Rock, Pine Knot, and Cougar Crest invite hikers of all levels to witness golden aspens, towering pines, and sweeping lake vistas. As leaves crunch underfoot, the cooler air makes outdoor exploration even more refreshing. Take a short stroll along the lake or a multi-mile trek along the Pacific Crest Trail.
Oktoberfest is happening now!
For a uniquely local celebration, don't miss the Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest 55th Anniversary, happening now through November 8, 2025. This Bavarian-style festival spans ten weekends, with traditional live music, bratwurst, steins, and family-friendly entertainment. New this year, Saturday After Dark offers an amped-up German-style party, while Game-Day Sundays welcome sports fans with discounts and fun for the whole family (kids 12 and under are free). Club Prost VIP membership brings perks like unlimited admission for a guest, a commemorative stein, VIP entry, preferred seating, merchandise discounts, and reserved parking. With beer tasting Fridays, family-friendly Sundays, and evenings filled with Chicken Dances and raised steins, Oktoberfest is a must-experience fall event for locals and visitors alike. Tickets are available at BigBearEvents.com
Skiing and Snow Sports: Snow Summit & Big Bear Mountain
Fall in Big Bear also teases the coming snow season. By mid to late fall, the first flakes start to dust the peaks, and ski enthusiasts can look forward to family-friendly skiing at Snow Summit and Big Bear Mountain Resort. Both mountains offer trails for all levels, from beginners finding their balance to experienced skiers carving fresh powder. Rentals, lift tickets, and ski passes are available right on the mountain, making it easy to hit the slopes and maximize bluebird days. Picture your family enjoying crisp mountain air, snow-covered trails, and cozy lodge breaks with hot chocolate; an alpine experience that's fun, accessible, and unforgettable.
Snow and Snowless Tubing Plus Off-Road Adventures
Not everything requires snow to deliver thrills. Big Bear Snow Play introduces Snowless Tubing, a 300-foot synthetic slide experience that captures all the fun of traditional snow tubing without winter weather. A Magic Carpet lift carries guests back to the top for endless runs, and the property also features a ropes course with over 30 aerial obstacles, plus Big Bear Speedway, where kids and adults race go-karts modeled after Formula 1 cars and a ropes course with over 30 aerial obstacles.
Big Bear Snow Play has year round recreation for the whole family.
For off-road excitement, the Big Bear Jeep and Off-Road Experience lets visitors take the wheel of a Jeep, navigating scenic backroads and rugged trails guided by experts over radio commentary. Fall foliage adds extra beauty to these mountain routes, offering both adventure and incredible views along the way.
At Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain, the fun never stops, no matter the season. Families can glide down Southern California’s only authentic bobsled-style Alpine Slide, twist and turn on the thrilling Mineshaft Coaster, or test their skills with mini golf. When it’s cooler, snow tubing takes over the hillside, and in warmer months, the zip line and go-karts keep the excitement going. It’s a one-stop spot for nonstop family adventure in Big Bear.
Riding the Mineshaft Coaster at Alpine Slide Magic Mountain is thrilling!
Aprés Ski or Just For Fun
When the day winds down, Big Bear offers plenty of ways to relax and enjoy the mountain vibe. The Big Bear Alpine Zoo, home to rescued black bears, bald eagles, and mountain lions, is especially lively in the cooler fall months. Families can stroll through the exhibits, learning about wildlife conservation while watching the animals move about in crisp air.
Get up close with mountain lions, owls, and bears at Big Bear Alpine Zoo, where every animal has a rescue story.
For something more hands-on, Mystic Moto Ritual Provisions Candle Bar lets visitors create a custom candle, choosing scents and pouring wax for a personalized keepsake. Visit on a quiet afternoon or make it an evening family or group activity. It's such a unique way to take a bit of Big Bear home with you.
Day or night, Glow Bowling at The Bowling Barn lights up with neon, making for the most exciting bowling experience you'll ever have and we promise you'll want to go back again and again. Arcade games and virtual reality add to the excitement, creating a modern yet nostalgic experience for families and friends. Trust us, it's a must-do experience!
Where to Get Alpine Flavors & Cozy Comfort Foods
Eating in Big Bear is a treat for everyone's tast buds. Choose from rustic bites, craft beer, fresh pastries, and chef-driven dishes to warm up after a day outdoors.
Big Bear's dining scene feels particularly inviting in the fall. Start your morning at Amangela's Sandwich & Bagel House in the Village, where bagels, specialty coffees, teas, and vegetarian-friendly deli fare energize the day. For sweet treats, Sister My Sister Bake Shop offers fresh pastries, scones, and coffee with oat or almond milk options. It's the perfect snack before a hike.
Evening meals feature both mountain casual and refined dining. Stella Luna offers farm-to-table dishes with seasonal ingredients, crafted cocktails and mocktails, and dog-friendly patios. Laguna Grill provides hearty, casual fare ideal after a day of non-stop excitement. For scenic views or a more classic lodge ambiance, try Oakside Restaurant, offering delicious and hearty dishes with mountain vibes. Beer lovers will appreciate Big Bear Lake Brewing Co., a local favorite with burgers, craft brews, and a pet-friendly patio.
Dine under the pines at Stella Luna, where local ingredients meet Big Bear's laid-back mountain style.
Where to Stay: Hotels, Cabins and Other Village Comforts
After a day of fall or winter adventures, your accommodations can enhance the magic of Big Bear.
Cozy cabins, fire pits, and lakeside views! Noon Lodge is just minutes from the Village.
* Noon Lodge at Mallard Bay: Couples or family-sized cabins with mid-century design and some rustic charm in a peaceful lakeside setting just minutes from the Village. Fire pits, pine trees, and lakefront views make evenings unforgettable.
* Bluegreen Vacations: The Club at Big Bear Village: Ideal for families or groups! For those seeking more space and luxury amenities, resort-style suites, a pool, and prime proximity to the Village shops and restaurants. You can reserve online, and the three-bedroom suite options are perfect for families or group getaways.
* Hotel Riviera Marina (new 2025): Lakeside rooms, a Viking-inspired lodge, an alfresco hot tub, and a barrel sauna provide the ultimate combination of adventure and relaxation.
* For private cabins, Big Bear has over 2,600 options: Evergreen Chalet, Kubo del Sol Log Cabin, Serenity Cove Lake House, High-Top Lakeview Chateau, and Fisherman's Paradise - perfect for hot tub evenings, stargazing, or lakefront fun. When booking, think private cabins for stargazing, hot tubs, and alpine views. Big Bear offers accommodations to match any taste or budget.
How to Get There
Big Bear sits at 6,752 feet (2,058 meters) and enjoys approximately 300 days of sunshine a year. It's located about 105 miles northeast of Los Angeles in San Bernardino County. Major airports include LAX, ONT, PSP, and SNA. During early snowfall, chains may be required, so check road conditions in advance. For maps, hiking guides, and seasonal tips, stop by the Big Bear Visitors Center.
Experience Big Bear in Fall Winter and Beyond
As summer crowds fade and the mountains are painted in shades of gold and amber, Big Bear transforms into a crisp, cozy retreat perfect for leaf-peeping hikes, early-season adventures, and Oktoberfest celebrations. Winter follows with snow-covered slopes ideal for skiing, snowboarding, and tubing, while warm lodges, hearty meals, and family-friendly activities make the season feel magical. Even beyond the cooler months, Big Bear remains a playground for all seasons where families can dive into the floating waterpark at Pine Knot Marina, zip down the Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain, ride the Mineshaft Coaster, or race around Big Bear Speedway on go-karts. summer tubing, ropes courses, boating, paddleboarding, fishing, and Dark Sky stargazing offer thrills and relaxation. No matter when you visit, the mountains, lake, and village provide endless opportunities for adventure and the coolest mountain memories.
Big Bear Mountain and Snow Summit are Southern California's go-to spots for skiing, snowboarding, and all things winter adventure.
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