🍂 Pine Crowns & Mountain Air: A Big Bear Getaway
Location: Big Bear, CA
[Get Directions ➔]
Good day local adventurers, Thomas here with another valley escape.
Tucked into the San Bernardino Mountains, Big Bear is a welcoming alpine town surrounded by tall pines, sparkling lake views, and crisp mountain air. It offers a blend of outdoor adventure, small-town charm, and year-round activities for every kind of traveler.
This isn’t just a ski stop. Big Bear balances cozy village energy with immersive experiences — from mountain trails and history museums to lakefront strolls and family fun.
Start your day off with coffee in The Village, where you can wander through boutiques, galleries, and mountain-style shops. Then head to the Big Bear Valley Historical Museum in Big Bear City, which shares the area’s past through pioneer artifacts, a blacksmith shop, mining exhibits, and preserved cabins (open seasonally).
Walk through Big Bear Lake Village: explore shops, grab lunch at a local café, and enjoy the laid-back mountain vibe.
Spend the afternoon outdoors: ride the Scenic Sky Chair at Snow Summit for panoramic views, hike a nearby trail, or rent a kayak or paddleboard on Big Bear Lake. Families can also check out the Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain, offering a mountain coaster, mini-golf, and year-round slides.
As evening approaches, look for special events like the Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest (running weekends in the fall) or seasonal art shows such as the Plein Air Art Competition, which highlight local culture against a mountain backdrop.
Thomas’s Local Tips:
- 🍽️ Make dining reservations – Popular Village restaurants like Peppercorn Grille and Oakside can book up quickly on weekends.
- 📆 Book in advance – Scenic Sky Chair tickets tend to sell fast during busy weekends.
- 🌲 Pack layers – Mountain weather shifts quickly from warm afternoons to chilly nights.
- 🚗 Plan travel time – Weekend traffic up the mountain can be heavy; leave early.
Nature's calling, it's time to pick up... See you out there!
- Thomas 🥾📷
For more local wildlife and landscapes, check out: @tekksdotco