It's Wintertime! How to Have Fun in Big Bear

As Southern California’s best winter destination, it's important to be prepared for fun in the snow and staying safe during your visit.

1. Wear Your Warmest Clothes

Warm clothes are a must in colder mountain temperatures, especially for little ones who will want to tumble, slide and run through the snow. Layer up with thermals and sweaters when heading outdoors, and keep the chill out with a warm hat and gloves. Waterproof jackets and pants are best for snow play or sports like skiing and snowboarding. Snow boots and thick socks are great if you plan on snowshoeing or snow tubing. Bring extras of everything so you can shed any wet clothes and slip into something dry when you’ve had your fill of snow play.

2. Bring Tire Chains

Tire chains, cables, and other traction devices help your vehicle manage snowy and icy roads. The law requires you to carry chains or other DOT (Department of Transportation) approved traction in your vehicle from November 1 through April 1. Check your vehicle owners manual for tire sizes and any special instructions, then buy a pair of chains or cables at your local auto supply store before traveling. If you need to stop to put chains on while driving, pull over to the side of the road so other cars can pass you.

• Tip: Practice putting chains before traveling. Study the 3 main routes to and from Big Bear.

3. Bring Your Imagination

Snow has a way of stirring our imaginations and sense of playfulness. Building snowmen, making snow angels and snowball fights are all fun activities in Big Bear’s winter wonderland. Need some inspiration? Stop by the Big Bear Visitor Center for maps, recreation suggestions, and more.

4. Build Your Itinerary

Skiing and sledding are obvious winter activities everyone can enjoy, but while you're in town, seek out some of our more 'uniquely Big Bear' experiences like:

• Hollywood Studios at Santa Land
• Escape Rooms & Scavenger Hunts
• Gold Rush Mining Adventures
• Grateful Heart Animal Sanctuary
• Year-Round Guided Tours
• Discovery Center

5. Snow Tubing In Big Bear

The Alpine Slide and Big Bear Snow Play offer a safe and fun snow tubing experience. And, you can forget about trudging up steep hillsides or rocky terrain – both of these snow play areas offer a “magic carpet” ride to the top. Both locations offer an indoor area where you can warm up with hot cocoa, snacks, and an arcade. When the sun goes down on Friday and Saturday nights, the neon lights come on and glow tubing begins!

6. Southern California's Best Ski Resorts

Big Bear Mountain Resorts features two ski resorts, Snow Summit and Bear Mountain. Both locations offer skiing and snowboarding for all ages and abilities and are full-service ski resorts with lifts, lessons, equipment rentals, restaurants, and sport shops with a wide array of clothing and accessories. Snow Summit is also home to Grizzly Ridge Tubing Park as well as summer sports in the Spring through Fall.