Dangling my feet below the Snow Summit chairlift at about 8,000 feet above sea level had to be one of the coolest things I did during my Big Bear Lake summer vacation. I didn’t even mind when the chairlift paused briefly. I just took in the scenic views and fresh mountain air, and before I knew it, we were nearing the top of a mountain I’d previously only skied down.
I’ve been to Big Bear several times, but rarely in the summer. So, this birthday vacation was a real treat and a chance to explore this mountain town when the flowers are in bloom, the sky is blue (except for those big fluffy clouds that are so wonderful at cooling down the temperature), and the air feels fresh — although a little thin! At 6,752 feet above sea level, the elevation is a big difference from our hometown on the San Diego coast.
We were invited to stay at Ridgecrest Resort in Big Bear Lake by our friends, the owners of this custom mountain home, for my birthday week. We had no idea what we were in for.
When my family arrived and opened the door, we immediately understood why it’s called a resort. This is luxury mountain living at its finest. Everything you need is already here, from coffee stations on multiple floors to a spa on the deck, a Traeger BBQ, and a spacious kitchen that opens to a game room complete with big-screen TVs, a pool table, ping-pong, shuffleboard, and even karaoke. I would have loved to use the fireplaces, but it was simply too warm during our summer stay.
Our week moved at a different pace from home, shaped by bike rides, long afternoons near the water, and quiet evenings at this gorgeous mountain house. It was the perfect setting for a memorable summer vacation.
Summer Fun in Big Bear
The best things to do in Big Bear Lake during the summer aren’t confined to one itinerary. And since we’re never shy about exploring more, we went searching for fun. I found that the strongest days paired an active outing with enough unplanned time to enjoy the mountain vacation home, the views, and a shared meal.
Some days, we spent half the day at home because there were so many ways to enjoy ourselves: relaxing and curling up with a good book, playing pool or ping pong, soaking in the jacuzzi while having great family conversations, or even watching a movie in the daytime! What a treat; we never do that at home, but here, when you’re in a treehouse (at least that’s what it felt like) – why not! The second and third floors had beautiful views of Big Bear’s forest; you can see Bear Mountain Ski Resort from the decks. So, we planted ourselves in several spots during our week-long stay.
Key Takeaways
- Cool mountain mornings make cycling, hiking, and lake paddling more comfortable before midday sun.
- Head to the Alpine Pedal Path for a mostly flat, gorgeous ride, but no motorized bikes are allowed – you have to do the work to enjoy the path!
- Boulder Bay is a scenic choice for calm-water kayaking and paddleboarding, especially early in the day.
- Snow Summit pairs high-elevation views with seasonal outdoor dining, music, and scenic chairlift rides.
- A private mountain home gave my family space to recover between outings and gather at night for home-cooked meals, games, s’mores on the firepit deck, and movie night.
- Lake Arrowhead offered a fun day trip with a distinctly different shoreline and boating culture.
- A drive around Big Bear Lake gives you two different takes on this mountain town.
Why Big Bear Lake Is Worth Visiting During Summer
Summer gives you so many options to really explore Big Bear’s trails, lake access points, and outdoor events. While it can get hot here, the mountain elevation keeps many mornings and evenings pleasantly mild. We could have breakfast at home on the deck, head out for the day, and settle into dinner without the rush of a packed schedule. When you stay in a private custom home rental, as we did, you get the extra perks like having a washer and dryer to use, so we didn’t have to bring too many clothes – a huge plus for an overpacker like me.
Weekends can be crowded, especially around popular launch areas and village parking lots. At Boulder Bay, we had to circle the parking lot a few times before we were able to find a spot on a Sunday afternoon. We watched the weather closely because mountain sun is intense, afternoon storms can form quickly, and temperatures drop after sunset, but in July it never really gets too cold. We even took a chairlift ride up Snow Summit Mountain and just needed a light sweater. More on that later.
But it’s worth mentioning that altitude can change the pace of your vacation. We noticed on our first day in Big Bear that we felt more thirsty and a little bit like we were trying to suck in the air. However, we quickly acclimated.
LFM Travel Tip: Drink a lot of water – more than you usually do, especially if you’re out on the lake or hiking. You need more than you think, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
A Luxury Custom Mountain Home Makes an Ideal Big Bear Home Base
What I loved is that this home had room for different speeds and moods. Some of us did yoga or played pool, while others lingered over the coffee bar and even got absorbed in catching up on a few emails or writing at laptop workstations around the home. We love to cook together and were so grateful that we had plenty of room to make our favorite meals.
At night, the outdoor spa eased our tired legs, and the fire pit was the perfect place to splurge when we indulged in s’mores and a game of Chubby Bunny (look it up – I had no idea how hilarious this game is!).
The home sleeps 16 when you factor in the bunk beds, so with just four people in it, we really had room to spread out and make it a place to relax for the week. That flexibility mattered after long rides and hikes. It also made an early morning at the lake feel manageable because it was a short drive. I imagine in the winter it would be especially appreciated since it’s located very close to Bear Mountain.
The Best Things to Do in Big Bear Lake During Summer
Bicycling Around Big Bear Lake and Through the Mountain Town
Cycling was a fun way to see the sights in town and around the lake. Shoreline stretches and paved routes made for easy riding. E-bikes are a practical option if your group has mixed fitness levels. We opted for old-school, manual bikes and powered through a good 10-mile workout. The place we rented bikes from required some street riding before we wound up at Alpine Pedal Path. The entire experience was blissful. As my Mom says about scenic car drives, “I’m eating the scenery.”
We rented the bikes for two hours, and that was plenty of time to see the lake and grab a snack. If you ride by Moonridge Coffee Company and show your bike rental receipt, you’ll get a free pastry with the purchase of a drink. After miles of riding in the heat, we needed it!
Hiking in Big Bear for Forest Views and Cooler Air
We chose hikes by distance, shade, elevation gain, and how everyone felt that morning. Big Bear has forest paths, lake overlooks, and routes near the ski areas, but access and conditions can change by season.
One of my favorite hikes was the Interpretive Trail, also known as the Woodland Trail, on Big Bear Lake’s North Shore near the Big Bear Discovery Center. It’s an easy, 1.5-mile loop that takes about an hour, depending on how often you stop to read the interpretive signs along the way. Each one shares fascinating information about the area’s plants, wildlife, and ecology, making it as educational as it is scenic. There are countless picturesque views, so don’t be surprised if you find yourself stopping often for postcard-worthy photos. We tackled the trail with coffee in hand on the morning before driving home from Big Bear, and it was the perfect way to end our vacation — taking one last moment to soak in the mountain scenery.
Another trail that caught my attention — if only because of its name — was Cougar Crest Trail. Starting at the Big Bear Discovery Center, we followed the paved connector path across a picturesque wooden bridge to the trailhead. From there, the dirt trail climbs toward the famed Pacific Crest Trail. Since it was a warm summer afternoon, we opted to skip the climb and trade mountain views for paddleboards and kayaks on the lake.
Paddleboarding and Kayaking at Boulder Bay
Boulder Bay is one of Big Bear Lake’s most popular spots for paddling, especially on warm summer weekends. We arrived on a Sunday afternoon and circled the parking lot a few times before finally finding a space. It was well worth the wait.
Two of our group rented paddleboards, while the rest of us shared a tandem kayak. The rental shop is just a short distance from the launch area. While you’ll need to transport your gear to the water, detachable wheels secure directly to the paddleboards and kayaks, making the walk much easier.
Once on the water, the crowds seemed to disappear. Towering pines, massive granite boulders, and the calm, reflective water created a peaceful setting for our first afternoon in Big Bear. It’s easy to see why Boulder Bay is one of the lake’s most photographed locations. Whether you’re gliding quietly on a paddleboard or exploring the shoreline by kayak, it’s a wonderful way to experience Big Bear Lake.
LFM Travel Tip: Rental companies require you to wear the provided life jacket while you’re on the water. According to our outfitter, removing it outside of designated swimming areas could result in a citation, so be sure to keep it on throughout your paddle.
Ride the Scenic Sky Chair to Snow Summit for Dinner and Live Music
This was so much fun. The Scenic Sky Chair at Snow Summit offered a different kind of mountain adventure with dinner and music. As we soared high above the mountain, I couldn’t help but think back to skiing Snow Summit decades ago. Seeing those familiar slopes without a blanket of snow gave me a whole new perspective of a mountain I’ve visited many times over the years but mostly in winter.
As the chairlift climbed, panoramic views of Big Bear Lake stretched farther into the distance. We enjoyed dinner at the summit as the afternoon light softened across the ridgelines.
Dinner featured a delicious BBQ buffet with plenty of choices, including desserts and drinks. The live music created a fun, laid-back atmosphere, making it a wonderful way to spend a summer evening in Big Bear. I highly recommend this experience; it was easily one of the most memorable moments of our vacation.
LFM Travel Tip: Before your visit, check the Skyline at Sundown schedule to confirm scenic lift hours, event dates, dining options, and weather-related updates, as operations can vary throughout the season.
Take a Thrill Ride on the Mine Shaft Coaster
Not every Big Bear adventure involves hiking boots or a paddleboard. We couldn’t resist taking a ride on the Mine Shaft Coaster, and it turned out to be one of the most fun surprises of the trip.
As the coaster winds and whips through the forest, you control your own speed, so you can ease your way down the track or let it fly. We, of course, chose the faster option, and barely braked. It only lasts a few minutes, but it’s a fun break from the lake and trails — and the perfect reminder that you’re never too old to enjoy a thrill ride. I was laughing so hard, tears were streaming down my face.
Driving the Scenic Loop Around Big Bear Lake
Some of my favorite travel memories begin with a scenic drive, and Big Bear Lake is no exception. As a teenager, my mom packed two of my friends and me into her Volkswagen Bus for a weekend in the mountains. One afternoon, she ventured onto a quiet dirt road and — yes, this was a different era — let us sit in the open sliding doorway as she carefully cruised along. It remains one of those unforgettable moments that instantly comes back whenever I return to Big Bear.
This trip brought back those memories as I set out to drive the scenic loop around Big Bear Lake. Without stopping, the drive takes about 45 to 60 minutes, but that’s missing the point. Plan at least two hours or longer if you enjoy photography, short walks, or simply pulling over to enjoy the views. Explore Big Bear Lake Scenic drives.
One thing I noticed is how different each side of the lake feels. The south shore, where we stayed, is livelier and closer to The Village, restaurants and marinas, while the north shore feels quieter, with wider lake vistas, forests and a more relaxed pace.
The drive itself is part of the experience. Every bend reveals another postcard-worthy view, making it easy to understand why so many visitors return to Big Bear Lake season after season.
Scenic Stops Worth Pulling Over For
- Boulder Bay Park — One of Big Bear’s most photographed locations, with giant granite boulders, calm water and excellent sunrise or sunset views.
- Big Bear Solar Observatory — An iconic landmark that appears to float on the lake and makes for a great photo stop.
- Stanfield Marsh Wildlife and Waterfowl Preserve — A peaceful boardwalk area that’s ideal for birdwatching and nature photography.
- Juniper Point — A favorite spot for panoramic lake views, picnics, and watching boats on the water.
- Big Bear Dam — Pause to admire the engineering that created the lake and enjoy expansive views across the water.
- Meadow Park — A convenient place to stretch your legs with lakeside access, open green space, and family-friendly amenities.
- The Village — End your drive with boutique shopping, restaurants, coffee shops, or an ice cream before heading back to your cabin.
- Piza Kama Scratch Pizza Bar — If you love Neapolitan-style pizza, don’t miss this spot. It was one of our favorite meals in Big Bear.
Take a Day Trip to Lake Arrowhead
About 25 miles from Big Bear Lake — less than an hour drive through the San Bernardino Mountains — Lake Arrowhead makes for an easy half-day or full-day excursion. While the two mountain communities share a similar alpine setting, they offer distinctly different experiences.
Unlike Big Bear Lake, which welcomes visitors with public marinas, beaches and water recreation, Lake Arrowhead is a private lake. Created in the early 1920s as a planned mountain resort, much of its shoreline is reserved for property owners and their guests, giving the community a quieter, more residential feel.
Our hosted boat outing offered a relaxing change of pace after several active days in Big Bear. Cruising across the lake gave us a deeper appreciation for the area’s history while our guide pointed out impressive lakefront estates, including homes owned by celebrities such as John Legend and Chrissy Teigen.
Although we hadn’t planned ahead, we were fortunate to secure seats on a boat tour about 45 minutes after arriving. If a cruise is on your itinerary, I recommend reserving in advance, especially during the busy summer season, when departures can fill quickly, and schedules may change with weather conditions.
To learn more about guided boating excursions and other lake activities, visit Lake Arrowhead Resort & Spa. You don’t have to be an overnight guest to enjoy many of their experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best month to visit Big Bear Lake during summer?
June typically offers smaller crowds, while July and August bring warmer lake temperatures and a full lineup of summer activities and events. No matter when you visit, check the weather forecast and local event calendar before your trip.
Can beginners kayak or paddleboard at Boulder Bay?
Yes. Boulder Bay’s calm morning waters are ideal for beginners, although afternoon winds can make conditions more challenging. Rent from a reputable outfitter, wear your life jacket, and head out early if possible.
How much time should I allow for the Scenic Sky Chair and Skyline at Sundown?
Plan on spending several hours at Snow Summit if you want to enjoy the Scenic Sky Chair, dinner, and live music. Before you go, confirm lift hours, Skyline at Sundown dates and weather conditions, as schedules can change throughout the season.
Is Big Bear Lake a good summer destination for families?
Absolutely. Families will find a nice mix of outdoor adventure and downtime, from kayaking and easy hikes to scenic drives, mountain dining and evenings spent together at a cabin or vacation home.
What should visitors know about Big Bear Lake’s summer weather?
Days are often warm and sunny, but mornings and evenings can be surprisingly cool. Because Big Bear sits at nearly 7,000 feet in elevation, drink plenty of water, wear sunscreen, and bring a light jacket for changing temperatures.
Should I book a Lake Arrowhead boat excursion in advance?
Yes, especially during the busy summer season. Boat tours can fill quickly, so it’s a good idea to reserve ahead of time and confirm departure times, weather policies, and parking information before making the drive from Big Bear.
Planning Your Big Bear Lake Getaway
Big Bear Lake has been welcoming visitors for more than a century. What began as a mountain retreat has grown into a year-round destination, yet it still feels relaxed compared to many California vacation spots. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning after years away, you’ll likely discover something new each season.
If you’re looking for a spacious home base for family or friends, we thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Ridgecrest Resort; you can learn more at Sky High Cabins.
Looking for more California travel inspiration? Continue exploring Live Fit Magazine:
- Yosemite National Park — Follow our three-generation family adventure through one of America’s most iconic national parks.
- The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara — Discover one of California’s premier coastal resorts and why it’s an ideal luxury getaway.
- California Travel Hub — Explore more weekend getaways, restaurants, and travel guides throughout the Golden State.
