Looking for a relaxing vacation sprinkled with outdoor adventure? Then Big Bear Lake is the place to go. Located 100 miles Northeast of Los Angeles in the beautiful and majestic San Bernardino Mountains and surrounded by national forest, breath-taking scenery and year-round fun for the whole family, Big Bear is the premier destination for those who seek to escape the hustle-and-bustle.


During the winter, Big Bear provides a slice of heaven for those who love to play in the snow. For sledding, skiing and snowboarding, Big Bear is the snow capitol of Southern California. Don't despair if you're a beginning skier, Big Bear is home to Snow Valley, a great place to hone your skiing or snowboarding skills. Bear Mountain Ski Resorts, Southern California's number one ski resort, is a Big Bear favorite for all ages and abilities. For the Big Bear visitor who rules the snow, check out the advanced slopes of Snow Summit Ski Resort, part of Bear Mountain.

The winter spirit in the mountain doesn't die when the flowers start to bloom. Bobsledding year-round on the Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain, Southern California's only authentic bobsled experience, is a Big Bear family favorite. Magic Mountain also offers go-karts, miniature golf and, in the summer, a water slide. Another great Big Bear attraction is the Moonridge Zoo, a 2.5 acre facility for animals wounded in the wilderness.

No matter what time of year you visit Big Bear, make sure you don't leave without spending some time walking around the shops and eateries of quaint Big Bear Village, the "downtown" of Big Bear. Shopping fanatics will want to make sure to stop in to the Bear Mountain Trading Co. This Big Bear shop sells nostalgic mountain accents and other authentic souvenirs.


Visiting Big Bear in the summer? Then Big Bear Lake is a must-see for enjoying a boat ride, jet-skiing or fishing with the kids. Big Bear visitors interested in taking advantage of this natural wonder can stop by Big Bear Marina for rentals on everything from pontoon boats and wave runners, to fishing boats and equipment.



If your muscles are sore after hitting the slopes, experience an afternoon of pampering and relaxation, Big Bear style, at Elevations Day Spa. If the weather is ripe for golfing, Big Bear's best bet is Silver Creek Golf Course, just 30 miles from Big Bear. Or drive a few miles farther and hit up Tahquitz Creek Golf Course, featuring fabulous views of nearby Palm Springs.


Another great bet for off-season Big Bear visitors, is Baldwin Lake Stables, where people of all ages will discover the peaceful countryside of the Big Bear Valley's east end- on horseback.

In Big Bear, romantic evenings start with a visit to the Mandoline Bistro, a fine-dining eatery that features Italian food. If you're visiting with kids, Big Bear's Evergreen International Restaurant, known for its superb seafood faire, is popular with both families and couples.