That December, my impression of California completely changed when I visited Big Bear. No longer the familiar sunny Cali, Big Bear appeared covered in white snow, bringing a strangely gentle and peaceful beauty. Traveling to Big Bear in winter is still a new and exciting experience for many Vietnamese tourists. So, how can you have a memorable visit to Big Bear Lake this winter?
Discover the Unique Beauty of Big Bear
Big Bear is a stunning mountain region located on CA highways 18 and 38, about a 1.5-hour drive from Orange County. Situated in San Bernardino County, California, this small city sits high in the mountains at about 2,000 meters, with a population of only around 6,000 people. Notably, Big Bear boasts some of the cleanest air in the world, a major plus that attracts visitors.
Thanks to its mountainous terrain and natural lake system, Big Bear offers a wide range of year-round sports activities. In winter, especially during Christmas, the two famous ski resorts, Bear Mountain and Snow Summit, become bustling with families and friends coming to have fun.
Ideal Time to See Snow in Big Bear
If you want to admire the white snow in Big Bear, the best time to visit is from December to February of the following year. This is when Big Bear is covered in a thick layer of snow, creating a beautiful and romantic scene.
Visiting Big Bear in winter gives you the opportunity to participate in many exciting activities such as skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, or simply enjoying the fresh air and admiring the beautiful natural scenery.
Fun Winter Activities in Big Bear
Big Bear is not only famous for its beautiful natural scenery but also for countless exciting entertainment activities in winter. Here are some suggestions you can consider:
- Skiing and Snowboarding: Bear Mountain and Snow Summit are the two largest ski resorts in Big Bear, with many slopes suitable for all skill levels.
- Snowshoeing: Explore snow-covered trails, enjoy the fresh air, and admire the majestic natural scenery.
- Snowmobiling: Experience the thrill of riding a snowmobile on snow-covered roads.
- Ice Fishing: Try your hand at ice fishing on the frozen lake, a fun and unique activity.
- Visit Big Bear Village: Stroll around the quaint village, explore souvenir shops, cozy cafes, and local restaurants.
- Mountain Top Views: Take a cable car to the mountain peak to admire the panoramic views of Big Bear and the surrounding areas.
A group of friends snowshoeing in Big Bear during winter
Must-Try Local Cuisine
When you come to Big Bear, don’t forget to enjoy the local specialties. One of them is the hot and fragrant Big Bear-style burgers. In addition, you should also try the crispy golden Calamari of Paoli’s Big Bear restaurant, prepared according to a unique recipe.
Tips for Traveling to Big Bear in Winter
To have a smooth and memorable trip to Big Bear, you should note a few things:
- Book accommodation and ski tickets in advance: Especially during peak season, booking in advance will help you avoid sold-out rooms and tickets.
- Prepare warm clothes: Temperatures in Big Bear in winter can drop very low, so bring enough warm clothes, gloves, beanies, and scarves.
- Wear non-slip shoes: The roads in Big Bear can be slippery due to snow, so wear shoes with good traction to ensure safety.
- Check road conditions: Before departing, check road conditions to avoid icy or congested roads.
- Bring sunscreen: Sunlight reflecting off the snow can be harmful to the skin, so bring sunscreen to protect your skin.
- Drink enough water: Exercising a lot in cold weather can dehydrate you, so drink enough water to stay healthy.
Conclusion
Visiting Big Bear Lake in winter is a wonderful experience, giving you the opportunity to admire the majestic natural beauty, participate in many exciting entertainment activities, and enjoy local culinary specialties. Hopefully, the above information will help you have a memorable trip to Big Bear. Are you ready for your winter adventure to Big Bear?