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Mountain biker at Snow Summit in the spring

Mountain Bike Haven

Posted: 07/02/19

As Southern California’s premier four-season destination, Big Bear Lake is a haven for cross-country and downhill mountain biking in the summer months.

Big Bear Lake features 100+ miles of singletrack trails and the region’s best lift-served, gravity fed bike park.

In the Beginning

Big Bear Lake came to MTB prominence in the 80s and 90s, with Big Bear Mountain Resort’s Summit Bike Park serving as the place for pro and amateur riders alike – hosting some of the industry’s biggest events like the NORBA Nationals Series and MTB World Cup – while pushing the progression of the sport to new heights.

In the early 2000s the Big Bear Mountain Resort suspended all summer operations, including the Summit Bike Park, before amending its policy and allowing MTB riders to access non-downhill trails in 2004.

All Is Not Lost

In 2014 Mammoth Resorts acquired Big Bear Mountain Resort and the Summit Bike Park was reopened to the delight of downhillers throughout the Southland. Since reopening, the Summit Bike Park has reclaimed its status as one of the sport’s leading destinations, featuring new trails, expanded terrain, and training areas for riders to hone in their skills. In addition to its downhill and base area options, Summit Bike Park also provides access to 60+ miles of cross-country trails as part of the Big Bear Valley Trails Foundation’s Adopt-a-Trail program.

Not Just a Downhill Haven

With over 100 miles of cross-country trails weaving and winding through the National Forest, Big Bear has something for riders of all disciplines and abilities. All non-lift accessed trails are free to ride and offer a wide mix of options, from challenging technical terrain to more leisurely treks.

Building a Reputation

Over the years, Big Bear Lake has developed its prominence in the cycling industry by hosting such events as the AMGEN Tour of California and Tour de Big Bear. As it continues to build its mountain biking reputation, Summit Bike Park continues to host and grow events like the Summit Series. Community organizations also work hard to put on the annual Big Bear Gran Fondo & Grizzly 100/75 and numerous other cross-country and enduro events.

In Spring 2019, Big Bear Mountain Resort announced it's excitement to host the FOX US Open of Mountain Biking at Summit Bike Park, marking the first time in the event’s 16-year history to be held on the West Coast. In preparation for the event, Summit Bike Park built a new expert/pro downhill trail - 10-PLY - that further cemented Big Bear’s status as the MTB mecca of Southern California.

Featured Events:

Tour de Big Bear
One of SoCal’s most popular road races, 2019 marks the Tour de Big Bear’s 10th anniversary, featuring serene scenery, themed rides, a cycling expo, and 10K, 25-, 50-, 70-, 106- and 109-mile courses designed for riders of all ages and abilities.

Gran Fondo & Grizzly 100/75
The Gran Fondo & Grizzly 100/75 features some of the best riding in Big Bear, with five different routes to fit all levels of riders, ranging from the 20K Skyview to the Grizzly 100/75 National Ultra Endurance races.


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