Big Bear is one of those destinations that slowly grew on me over the years. Back during the pandemic, when everything else was closed, I ended up skiing here at what used to be my least favorite resort. Funny how things change — now Big Bear has become one of my go-to escapes. Whether it’s a long stay or just a quick weekend getaway, I love leaving the city behind to recharge in the fresh mountain air, surrounded by pine trees, lake views, and endless activities.
Most people know Big Bear for its snowy winters and three ski resorts, but honestly, summer here has become my favorite. From hiking to lakeside afternoons, cozy cabin nights, and discovering little local gems, Big Bear has so much to offer. Here’s my guide to the best things to do in Big Bear during summer:
1. Hiking the Trails
Big Bear is a hiker’s dream — the trails are scenic, peaceful, and full of mountain air that makes every climb worth it. My absolute favorite is Cougar Crest Trail, which winds its way through shaded pines before linking up with the legendary Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). It’s one of those hikes where you’ll feel both challenged and completely recharged.
Don’t forget: most trailheads require an Adventure Pass or parking permit, which you can pick up at local shops in town. Other great trails to check out:
- Cougar Crest Trail – My personal favorite. It connects with the Pacific Crest Trail and has breathtaking views.
- Castle Rock Trail – Short but steep, with rewarding panoramic views of the lake.
- Pine Knot Trail – A moderate hike that takes you up to Grand View Point.
- Gray’s Peak Trail – A peaceful trail surrounded by pines, less crowded than others.
- Bertha Peak Trail – Challenging, but the views at the top are worth every step.
- Alpine Pedal Path – Perfect for an easy, scenic walk or bike ride.
- Jenks Lake Trail – Great for families, ending at a peaceful alpine lake.
2. Lake Days
Summer in Big Bear isn’t complete without time at the lake. Whether you’re swimming, sunbathing, kayaking, paddleboarding, or renting a pontoon boat, the lake is the heart of Big Bear in warm months. For a bit more adrenaline, try jet skiing or wakeboarding — rentals are easy to find along the marina.
- Rent a pontoon and cruise with friends
- Go on a guided boat tour
- Try paddleboarding or kayaking
- Jet skiing and wakeboarding for adrenaline lovers
- Swim and sunbathe on the shore
- Pack a picnic and enjoy lakeside views
Pro tip: Pack a cooler, sunscreen, and a good book for a lazy lakeside afternoon.
3. Biking Adventures
Big Bear is surprisingly bike-friendly. You can do a relaxed ride around the lake (about 20 miles if you circle the whole thing), or take it up a notch with mountain biking on the ski trails at Snow Summit, which turn into bike parks in summer. Expect chairlift rides up the mountain and thrilling trails down — definitely for the adventurous at heart.
4. Scenic Walks
Not every outdoor moment has to be intense. Sometimes I just love simple walks around the neighborhood cabins or along the Alpine Pedal Path, which runs right by the lake and is perfect for a morning stroll or sunset walk.
5. Dining & Drinks
Big Bear has more dining gems than people expect. My favorite is Oakside, a cozy spot with modern mountain vibes, craft cocktails, and really good food. For something casual, Big Bear Lake Brewing Company is great for beer and bites, while Himalayan Restaurant is an unexpected favorite for comfort food. If you want brunch, try Grizzly Manor Café — it’s tiny but legendary.
Big Bear has a surprisingly good food scene with cozy spots and a mix of cuisines. Here are my recommendations:
- Oakside – Elevated American dining with craft cocktails.
- Peppercorn Grille – A local favorite for steak and seafood.
- Tropicali – Fun, tropical vibes with poke bowls and fresh flavors.
- Captain’s Anchorage – Historic steakhouse with an old-school charm.
- Himalayan – Great for Indian and Nepalese food.
- Santana Mavericks Bar & Grill – Casual spot with hearty food.
- La Pergola Trattoria – Cozy Italian with homemade pasta.
- Stella Luna – Chic spot with Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
- The Pines – Lakeside dining with beautiful views.
- Hacienda Grill – Mexican food with great margaritas.
- Teddy Bear Restaurant – Classic diner vibes, comfort food.
Drinks & Bars
Big Bear might be small, but it has a fun bar scene perfect for nights out.
- Big Bear Lake Brewing Company – Craft beer lovers, this one’s for you.
- Murray’s Saloon and Eatery – Dive bar energy with karaoke nights.
- Whiskey Dave’s – Pool tables, live music, and a lively crowd.
- Club Bombay – A laid-back cocktail lounge.
- AV Bar & Nightclub – Dance spot with DJs.
- Barrel 33 – Great wine bar with outdoor seating.
- Social Kitchen & Lounge – Stylish spot for cocktails.
- Village Sports Bar – Casual and friendly atmosphere.
- Wyatt’s Grill and Saloon – Western vibes and live music.
Mountain Breakfast Spots
Fuel your day with some of the best breakfast in town:
- Teddy Bear Restaurant – Classic breakfast favorites.
- Grizzly Manor Café – Famous for huge portions and long lines.
- Stella Luna – Lighter, stylish brunch.
- Lumberjack Café – Hearty portions, no fuss.
- Thelma’s Family Restaurant – Homestyle cooking.
- Tropicali – Fresh, tropical-inspired breakfast.
- Fusion Juice & Coffee Bar – Smoothies, juices, and coffee.
- The Copper Q – Café plus kitchen store.
- Café Crêpe – Sweet and savory crêpes.
- Nuevo Vallarta Grill – Mexican breakfast dishes.
- Broadway Café – Cozy and casual.
- The Barnstorm Restaurant – Located at the airport, with fun views of planes.
6. Shopping Local
I always make time to wander around The Village, Big Bear’s charming downtown strip. You’ll find cute boutiques, outdoor gear shops, and even deals on ski equipment in the summer (yes, it’s often cheaper to buy off-season).
7. Cabin Time
One of my favorite parts about Big Bear is just being in a cabin. Summer evenings call for barbecues on the deck, roasting marshmallows by the fire pit, and stargazing when the sky is clear. It’s the perfect slow-down balance to all the active adventures.
- Fire up the barbecue
- Roast marshmallows
- Stargaze on clear nights
- Play board games
- Read books or journal
- Yoga and meditation on the deck
- Cook together with local ingredients
- Birdwatching and wildlife spotting
- Try outdoor sports in the yard
8. Big Bear Alpine Zoo
This is such an underrated spot. The Big Bear Alpine Zoo is actually a rehabilitation facility for injured and rescued wildlife, so your visit supports a great cause. It’s small, but you can see bears, eagles, mountain lions, and more up close.
9. Other Fun Summer Activities
- Try fishing at the lake or Jenks Lake.
- Ziplining through the mountains for an adrenaline rush.
- Ride go-karts at Alpine Slide.
- Go horseback riding through forest trails.
- End the day with stargazing—Big Bear’s skies are perfect for it.
Final Thoughts
Big Bear has come a long way from being “just another ski spot” in my book. Now, it’s one of my favorite summer escapes — whether I want to spend days hiking, biking, and exploring, or just chilling at the cabin with a glass of wine and the sound of the pines in the background. If you’re looking for a destination that mixes adventure, nature, and relaxation, Big Bear in summer might just surprise you the same way it surprised me.
