Big Bear is nestled in the San Bernardino Mountains and is defined by its rustic traditions, rich history, pristine lake, beautiful mountainscapes and abundant recreational opportunities. All of Big Bear's outdoor activities are easily accessible and for most residents it is a short drive or walk to enjoy the lake or mountains.

Spring fever brings hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, off-roading, golfing, boating, water skiing, parasailing, fishing, kayaking, and canoeing activities. Hiking is abundant with a variety of trails, ranging from 1-1/2 mile easy loops, to full-day hikes along the Pacific Crest Trail, which spans from Mexico to Canada. If you prefer the outdoors on wheels, Big Bear offers some of the best off-roading and mountain biking experiences in Southern California. If four wheels are the preferred mode of transportation, off-road adventures are abundant in locations such as Holcomb Valley and Cactus Flats. Each summer, Big Bear is host to a Jeep Jamboree. Golfing at Bear Mountain Resorts is a local favorite. The course offers nine holes, a clubhouse, a golf pro on staff and of course, a gorgeous back drop.

Big Bear Lake is Southern California's premier recreational lake. It is has approximately 22 miles of shoreline and is seven miles long. The lake offers year-round fishing and a multitude of recreational opportunities.

When the colors start to change and the temperatures drop, Big Bear begins to "think snow". Down hill and cross country skiing, snowboarding, and moonlight snowshoeing move to the top of the "must do" list. Big Bear Mountain Resorts (Bear Mountain and Snow Summit) offer it all for both skier and snowboarder. Bear Mountain developed "The Park" in 2003. The Park is the ultimate snowboarding experience and is the world's only resort devoted entirely to freestyle terrain. Snow Summit is the place for everyday skiers and snowboarders looking for a family friendly laid-back winter playground. Snow Summit has fantastic beginner slopes, wide intermediate cruisers and challenging advanced terrain. Snow Summit's freestyle terrain parks offer a variety of beginner and intermediate jumps and jibs for skiers and snowboarders alike. Don't miss the opportunity to put on your snowshoes and join in the moonlight treks up the mountain. A few of Big Bear's equipment rental shops schedule snowshoeing trips and rent the gear as well.