Skiing Guide for 📍Big Bear Mountain, CA
I’m new(ish) to LA and I decided to take a day trip to Big Bear Mountain. It’s a small mountain, just 2 hours outside of LA, and a great place to get a weekend or day skiing fix.
You’ll save yourself a lot of time and a few bucks if you reserve your rentals and lift tickets online before arrival. Depending on the time of year or weekend, you may also have to reserve parking online before your arrival.
Overall, there were 2-3 green and blue slopes open when I visited (December) because there wasn’t much snow. There are more Black slopes available and the slope difficulty level is pretty easy to find as you’re skiing or snowboarding.
I think this is a great place to visit if you’re close to LA and just want a quick ski trip. Based on the low/mild snow levels, I’d definitely recommend other destinations for a longer trip.
Let me know if you want to see more ski resort/location reviews🎿⛷️
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My recent day trip to Big Bear Mountain reminded me why it’s such a fantastic option for a quick escape from LA. If you’re like me and craving some mountain air and snowy fun without a huge commitment, this is definitely a spot to consider. It’s not just about hitting the slopes; it’s the whole vibe of getting away for a bit. A common question I hear is "Which Big Bear mountain is best for beginners?" While my visit was to the resort generally known as Bear Mountain, it's good to know that the Big Bear Mountain Resorts group actually operates two main ski areas: Snow Summit and Bear Mountain. Both offer a phenomenal experience, but they do have slightly different vibes. Snow Summit is often seen as a bit more family-friendly, with a good mix of beginner and intermediate runs, and wider, groomed trails. Bear Mountain, on the other hand, is known for its terrain parks and more advanced features, but still has plenty of beginner-friendly slopes, like the ones I enjoyed! For a true beginner, Snow Summit might feel a touch more approachable, but you honestly can't go wrong at either. Just remember to check their specific trail maps online before you go. Speaking of planning, I can't stress enough how much booking everything online in advance saves you headaches. Not just rentals and lift tickets, as I mentioned, but even parking, especially on busy weekends. There are beautiful scenic lakeside views from the chairlifts, so don't forget to take a moment to soak it all in. I was there in December, and yes, the mild snow level meant some areas were less covered than others, but it still offered plenty of fun on the 2-3 beginner slopes available. This makes it ideal for weekend or day trips when you're not expecting deep powder. Beyond your gear, remember layers! The weather can change quickly. A good pair of waterproof gloves, a warm beanie, and sunglasses (especially important with the bright snow) are must-haves. Don't forget sunscreen, even on cloudy days. Food options on the mountain can be pricey, so packing some snacks and a water bottle is a smart move. After a day of skiing, there are some cute spots in Big Bear Lake Village for a warm meal or hot chocolate if you have the time before heading back to LA. Overall, for those looking for "big bear skiing" or specifically "snow summit big bear skiing" or "bear mountain ski resort big bear," it's a solid choice for a local escape. It provides that perfect quick fix without requiring an epic journey. If you're new to skiing or just want to brush up on your skills, Big Bear Mountain offers an accessible and enjoyable experience. I'm already looking forward to my next visit!