Big Bear Lake, California is a prime example of why so many people head to the Golden State for a relaxing vacation complete with stunning views, outdoor activities, and amazing nature. Big Bear also attracts a ton of tourists from within California, for the same reasons. It’s a stunning area that won’t disappoint, especially if you like outdoor activities. Even if you don’t, the breathtaking vistas, and impressive wildlife will leave you wanting to stay longer. Join Viewcation, as we cover the Best Things to Do in Big Bear Lake, CA.
Big Bear Lake
Big Bear Lake itself is the biggest reason why many people make the trek to the area. It’s a gorgeous body of water, set within the towering forest and hills of the area. It’s actually a man made lake, and we can all agree they made it pretty much perfect. It features 22 miles of shoreline, and on its shores there are shops and other places to pop into. And a big reason to do that, besides grabbing a bite to eat, is probably to rent gear for water sports. Big Bear Lake is ideal for taking out a jet ski, renting a boat, canoeing, kayak, and any number of related water-based activities. There are six marinas set at various points around the lake, and you’ll be able to rent water vessels there, or even get more fuel for them if you’ve been out on the water for a while. If you’re into fishing, you can check out charter fishing expeditions. And for the more adventurous type, there are flyboarding opportunities as well as parasailing. It’s a great place to spend one or multiple days.
Big Bear Alpine Zoo
In 1959, the Big Bear Alpine Zoo was constructed as a place to rehabilitate local animals after a large forest fire in the area. At this point it was called Moonridge Animal Park. And while it has technically turned into a zoo in the more traditional sense, it still retains the spirit of the reason it was created. That’s because it only hosts animals that are either orphaned or injured. It seeks to rehabilitate them and, if possible, get them back out in nature as soon as possible. And if that’s not possible, then they can live out their lives being cared for at the Big Bear Alpine Zoo. So for anyone who might have hesitance in visiting zoos because they want the animals to be free, it’s reassuring to know that the Big Bear Alpine Zoo only has this guiding principle. It takes care of more than 180 animals, making up around 85 different species. These include animals like arctic foxes, owls, flying squirrels, mountain lions, American badgers, and many more. And these animals often only have human contact with the keepers of the zoo as they are rehabilitated. But each day there’s a presentation of many of these creatures at the zoo’s amphitheater. But to really get a chance to check out the animals, head on one of the tours led by a zoo docent!
Stanfield Marsh Wildlife and Waterfowl Preserve
Nature lovers will adore the Stanfield Marsh Wildlife and Waterfowl Preserve. It’s a stunning nature preserve, and a fantastic place to take in the gorgeous scenery that the Big Bear area has to offer. If you’ve spent time in and around a bustling metropolis before getting to Big Bear, this might be the ideal first spot to hit up, because it’s basically the opposite of that. You’ll be able to breathe deep, soak in the quiet landscape around you, and fully enjoy the wonder of the region. There are wooden walkways that have been placed throughout the marshes. These allow you easily traverse the entire area, whether it’s simply to stroll around, or to check out the excellent variety of waterfowl. If you’re a bird watching enthusiast, you’ll definitely want to pick out a couple of spots and sit to enjoy the many species in and around the preserve. And even if you’re not, a walk and a picnic in the Stanfield Marsh Wildlife and Waterfowl Preserve is a great way to spend an afternoon.
Alpine Pedal Path
If you’re a cyclist, the Alpine Pedal Path is an ideal spot in Big Bear. Or even if you’re more of a hiker, this 3.2 mile path is a great spot for taking in the scenic environment. The path starts at the Stanfield Cutoff, and goes until the Serrano Campground. Along the way you’ll see great sites like the Big Bear Discovery Center and the Big Bear Solar Observatory (more on that one later!). It’s a great free activity for people of all ages and abilities. That’s because it’s a very flat path with a lot of benches along the route. So you can take your time and rest whenever the need arises. The view along the Alpine Pedal Path is just as stunning as the other outdoor attractions in Big Bear, and the opportunity to see incredible birds is equally good. If you’re on a bike, you’ll make quick work of the 3.2 miles. So as good as this is of a bike path, it might even be best served by transportation that moves a little slower. You’ll see people along in on rollerblades, parents with strollers, kids on scooters, and more. A good idea might be to plan ahead for a BBQ picnic during the walk, and if you decide on that, you’ll be able to use the BBQ grills at Juniper Point.
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Big Bear Solar Observatory
Have you ever wanted to stare directly into the sun? Hopefully the answer is no. Or at least, hopefully you haven’t actually tried to do this with your naked eye. But at the Big Bear Solar Observatory, they provide the chance to safely stare at the sun! They host a solar telescope, which are specifically designed to allow you to look at the sun without burning your eyes. It’s open year round, though there are the most public tours available in the summertime. And obviously it’s best to come while the sun is out and shining, since the telescopes are not designed for checking out the moon and stars. One word of note is that you’ll need to travel around 1000 feet back and forth on a gravel road to get to the building, and then the telescope is up three flights of stairs. So if that level of movement might be tough for you, this could be an attraction to avoid.
Alpine Slide At Magic Mountain
The Alpine Slide At Magic Mountain is fantastic particularly because its set up for adventure and fun at any time during the year. When its warm out, you can ride a chairlift to the mountain’s peak. From there, you’ll have your choice of two alpine slides to chute down, on sleds that hold 1 to 2 people on them. It’s a super fun ride, especially for the kids. (The 2 person sleds also make it a great option for holding a parent and a kid for the same trip down.) The attraction also has a mini golf course, go karts, and an alpine waterslide. And for the rollercoaster enthusiasts in your group, the Soaring Eagle ride will be sure to get your heart pumping. It launches you 100 feet up at 28 miles per hour.
But the fun isn’t dependent on it being a nice day out. In the winter, come check out the excellent tubing hill. It’s a fun ride down the mountain, made even more fun by the fact that they have a ‘magic carpet’ lift that’s inside of plexiglass to get you back up the hill. So you won’t get cold trying to start your next ride down. And since the resort makes a ton of its own snow, you won’t have to worry if there isn’t snow on the ground yet in the area. You’ll still be able to take advantage of the alpine tubing hill. One thing of note is that they don’t take credit cards, so be sure to bring cash with you.
Pine Knot Trail
Big Bear Lake is known as a place sought out by hikers. That’s because there’s an abundance of incredible hikes that put you in the middle of gorgeous and scenic nature. While you can’t go wrong with any of the hikes in the area, a very popular one is Pine Knot trail. It’s a 6.2 mile hike, so expect it to take a while if on foot. Of course, some people also choose to traverse it by bike or by horse. But that’s up to you. Regardless of how you go, the Pine Knot Trail offers stunning views and amazing panoramas of the area.
Now it’s time to hear from you. Have you ever been to Big Bear Lake, California? If so, did we miss any of your favorite spots? If not, do you think you’ll ever visit there? Let us know in the comments section below. And before you go, be sure to give this video a like, and subscribe to Facts Verse if you haven’t already. Click the bell icon to stay updated on all our latest content!