Skiing in Big Bear — Photo courtesy of Miheco
1. It's Warm
No hand and feet warmers needed at Big Bear ski resorts. The California breeze is usually warm and though you're gliding through snow, you'll find that you may actually be hot by the time you get to the bottom of the mountain. It's also not uncommon to see people gliding their way down the slopes in T-shirts toward the end of the ski season.
2. Variety of Runs
Big Bear ski resorts cater to everyone: novices and experts, skiers and snowboarders, kids and adults. You'll be able to find a section of mountain just right for your skill set. If night skiing is your thing, that is also available.
3. 2 Resorts for the Price of 1
Big Bear has two premier ski resorts: Bear Mountain and Snow Summit. Both are part of Big Bear Mountain Resorts, meaning your lift ticket is good for both of them plus free shuttles are offered between the ski resorts, which are two miles apart. The main difference between the two is that Snow Summit has more traditional runs while Bear Mountain focuses more on terrain parks.
4. Beautiful Scenery
Big Bear Mountain and Snow Summit are situated next to Big Bear Lake, making for some beautiful vistas of the lake and surrounding town when you're heading up the chair lift. From the top of the run on some mountain peaks you'll be able to see a panoramic view of the lake.
View of Big Bear Lake from the ski slope — Photo courtesy of Kyle L.
5. Man-Made "Real" Snow
The ski resorts of Big Bear need a bit more help than just Mother Nature for snow - this is Southern California after all. However, due to the nearby lake, ski resorts are able to take the precipitation from Big Bear Lake and make an abundance of "real" snow, which enhances your skiing experience.
6. Fun Town
Big Bear Lake is a fun town to go out in after a day of skiing. Many of the restaurants have a cozy cabin feel to them. American-style comfort food is popular on the menus, which is great to dig into after a long day of skiing or snowboarding.
The town of Big Bear Lake, CA — Photo courtesy of inkknife_2000
7. Snowboarders Welcome
Big Bear was one of the first places to really accept snowboarding and some of the sport's top athletes honed their craft on the slopes and half-pipes of Big Bear. This has resulted in some special tailoring to the ski resorts, such as more runs with jumps and rails, plus benches at the top of the mountain by the chair lifts to easily get your board back on and buckled up.
8. Lively Chalets
Since it's often a warm, sunny day on the slopes, you'll find a lively atmosphere at the chalet, particularly on the outdoor part. The end of the day finds music, drinks and laughter on the chalet patios as people reminisce about the day's runs.
9. Nearby Cabins
Big Bear has many cabins and houses available for rent during the ski season, many of which are just a short drive away from the slopes, or even in walking distance. Book early as those in prime locations get scooped up fast.
10. Close to the Beach
On a warm Southern California day, it's entirely possible to spend the morning skiing or snowboarding and the afternoon lying on the beach. Plus, it makes for a fun story to tell your friends that you went skiing and went to the beach on the same day.