Big Bear in Summer: Lake Days, Trails and Family Fun
Summer in Big Bear is the easiest mountain escape in Southern California: a seven-mile alpine lake for boating, paddling and fishing, hundreds of miles of forest trails for hiking and mountain biking, and daytime temperatures that usually sit in the 70s while the cities below bake. It works just as well for a family with young kids as it does for a group of friends.
We manage one cabin in Big Bear, Villa Grove, in the Moonridge neighborhood, and summer is when our guests write to us most about what to do. This guide covers what our guests actually do up here in June, July and August.
What is the weather like in Big Bear in summer?
Big Bear Lake sits at roughly 6,750 feet, so summer feels very different from the valleys below. Days are warm and sunny, often in the 70s and low 80s, with low humidity and that clear, pine-scented air the mountains are known for. Nights cool off quickly, sometimes into the 40s and 50s, which is exactly why a hot tub and a fire pit matter in July. Pack layers, sunscreen and a hat, and plan hikes and lake time for the morning, since afternoon thunderstorms roll through now and then.
What can you do on Big Bear Lake?
The lake is the heart of a Big Bear summer, and several marinas around the shoreline rent just about anything that floats.
- Pontoon boats are the classic family choice: slow, roomy and easy to drive.
- Kayaks, canoes and paddleboards are lovely first thing in the morning when the water is glassy and the wind has not picked up yet.
- Jet skis and wakeboard or waterski lessons are there for anyone who wants more speed.
- Narrated lake tours are an easy, relaxing way to learn the history of the valley while someone else does the driving.
- Fishing is some of the best in Southern California, with trout the main draw. A local fishing charter will put newcomers on fish far faster than guessing.
Our tip: book pontoons and lessons ahead on summer weekends and holidays, when rentals go quickly.
Where are the best summer hikes and bike trails?
Big Bear calls itself the biking capital of SoCal, and the trails back it up. Snow Summit runs a lift-served downhill bike park with lessons and rentals at the base, cross-country riders have a huge free network of single-track and forest roads, bike shops in town rent mountain bikes, and road cyclists come for the altitude and the long climbs.
For hikers, the Castle Rock Trail is a short, steep favorite with a big view of the lake at the top, and the Cougar Crest Trail on the north shore is a longer climb that connects to the Pacific Crest Trail. The paved Alpine Pedal Path along the north shore is flat and stroller-friendly for an easy evening walk. Most forest trailheads need an Adventure Pass to park, sold at the Big Bear Discovery Center and in town.
What are the best summer activities for families?
Big Bear is wonderfully kid-friendly, and most of the fun is close together.
- Big Bear Alpine Zoo in Moonridge cares for injured and orphaned native animals, so you will see bears, eagles and bobcats up close while supporting their rehabilitation.
- Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain has the bobsled-style slide, summer water slides, mini golf and the Mineshaft Coaster.
- Big Bear Discovery Center on the north shore offers maps, ranger programs, nature walks and kids’ activities through the summer.
- Big Bear History Museum is a surprisingly fun stop with old cabins, a schoolhouse and gold-panning for the kids.
- The Bowling Barn, escape rooms and mini golf are good backups for a rainy afternoon.
- Zipline, Segway, helicopter, horseback and off-road Jeep tours all run through the summer for families who want a bigger adventure.
What summer events happen in Big Bear every year?
The Fourth of July is the big one, with fireworks over the lake that draw people to the shoreline and to boats on the water. The Big Bear Lake International Film Festival takes place every year in September, and the Village hosts car shows, art fairs and live music through the warm months. Check the Big Bear Lake visitor calendar for exact dates, since schedules shift a little each year.
Where should you stay for a Big Bear summer trip?
We love Moonridge: quiet, shaded by tall pines, and only a few minutes to the Village, the lake and the zoo. Our cabin, Villa Grove, has three bedrooms and two baths and sleeps eight, with a private hot tub for stargazing, a propane fire pit on the deck for s’mores, and a fully fenced backyard with a playset for the kids and the dog. One dog up to 60 pounds is welcome. It is 2.9 miles from Bear Mountain and Snow Summit, and about four miles from the lake and the Village.
Frequently asked questions
How hot does Big Bear get in summer?
Summer days are usually in the 70s to low 80s, with cool nights that can drop into the 40s and 50s. Bring layers for the evenings even in July.
Can you swim in Big Bear Lake?
Yes, swimming is allowed in designated areas, though the water stays cool even in August. Most visitors spend their lake time on boats, kayaks and paddleboards rather than swimming.
Is Big Bear crowded in summer?
Weekends and holidays, especially the Fourth of July, are busy. Weekdays are noticeably calmer, and the trails and lake are at their best early in the morning.
Do I need a pass to hike in Big Bear?
Most National Forest trailheads require an Adventure Pass to park. Day and annual passes are sold at the Big Bear Discovery Center and at several shops in town.
Is Big Bear dog-friendly in summer?
Very. Many trails, the Alpine Pedal Path and plenty of patios welcome dogs, and Villa Grove welcomes one dog up to 60 pounds with a fenced yard to enjoy.
Book your Big Bear cabin
If a summer in the pines sounds right, we would love to host you at Villa Grove. Booking direct through our site runs about 10 percent less than the big platforms, with no service fee, and you see the cancellation terms clearly before you pay. There is a two-night minimum, and we are happy to answer questions at (949) 407-7448.
See availability and book on our Big Bear page.
Because there’s no place you’d rather be.
