Here are few of our nearby favorite activities to experience in Big Bear: Big Bear Lake: Enjoy boating, fishing, paddle boarding, and kayaking on the beautiful lake. Snow Summit: Hit the slopes for skiing and snowboarding during winter. Enjoy mountain biking and scenic chairlift rides during the summer. Bear Mountain: Another popular ski and snowboard resort during winter. Offers mountain biking and scenic chairlift rides during the summer. Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain: Experience thrilling toboggan rides, waterslides, and go-kart racing. Big Bear Village: Explore charming shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Big Bear Discovery Center: Learn about the local wildlife, hiking trails, and educational programs. Castle Rock Trail: Enjoy a scenic hiking trail with breathtaking views of Big Bear Lake. Pine Knot Trail: A popular hiking trail that offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Big Bear Alpine Zoo: Visit the zoo to see and learn about native wildlife and rehabilitation efforts. Big Bear Bowling Barn: Enjoy a fun-filled bowling experience with friends and family. Gold Rush Mining Adventures: Pan for gold, gemstones, and fossils at this interactive mining attraction. Big Bear Jeep Experience: Embark on guided off-roading adventures and explore the scenic backcountry. Helicopter Big Bear: Take a thrilling helicopter tour and enjoy stunning aerial views of Big Bear. Big Bear Pirate Ship: Set sail on the lake aboard a pirate-themed ship for a unique adventure. Big Bear Escape Rooms: Test your problem-solving skills by attempting to escape from themed rooms. Big Bear Solar Observatory: Visit the observatory to learn about solar astronomy and view the sun through special telescopes. Skyline Trail: Enjoy a scenic mountain biking and hiking trail with panoramic views. Stanfield Marsh Wildlife and Waterfowl Preserve: Explore a natural preserve known for birdwatching and wildlife observation. Big Bear Farmers Market: Visit the local farmers market to discover fresh produce, crafts, and local goods. Big Bear Speedway: Satisfy your need for speed with go-kart racing at this outdoor track. You can find more in the Bearfoot Chalet Guest Book.

Yes, Big Bear offers several scenic hiking trails, such as Castle Rock Trail, Pine Knot Trail, and Cougar Crest Trail. These trails provide stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests.

Yes, there are numerous rental shops in Big Bear where you can rent equipment for skiing, snowboarding, kayaking, fishing, and biking. Some rental shops also offer guided tours and lessons.

Absolutely! Big Bear is home to a variety of restaurants, cafes, and eateries catering to different cuisines and tastes. Whether you're looking for casual dining, fine dining, or grab-and-go options, you'll find plenty of choices in the area.

Big Bear hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including Oktoberfest, Independence Day fireworks, the Renaissance Faire, and holiday-themed celebrations. Check the local event calendar or ask your host for upcoming events during your stay.

Wild animals like bears, coyotes, deer, and many other species are native to the region. Although Bearfoot Chalet is in a more residential area and does not immediately back a forest, we have spotted coyotes, silver foxes, deer and bobcats on the critter cam. So it’s possible you may see them during your visit. Typically these animals will avoid humans but if you do come across any wild animal, be sure to leave the area and do not attempt to approach, pet or feed them. Human contact is harmful to our wild animal residents, and a scared or threatened animal may feel the need to attack. Never leave small children unattended and always keep cabin doors locked to avoid any unwanted guests. Flashlights are available in most rooms of the cabin, please use them when walking around at after dark.

While seasonal, Big Bear Lake is known for its excellent fishing opportunities. You can catch trout, bass, catfish, and more. Make sure to obtain a fishing license, which can be purchased at local sporting goods stores or online.

Big Bear Lake offers a range of water sports and activities, such as kayaking, paddleboarding, jet skiing, and parasailing. Rental shops around the lake provide equipment and lessons for these activities.

Yes, Big Bear boasts several scenic drives and viewpoints. The Rim of the World Scenic Byway offers breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys. On the way, you can also visit the iconic Big Bear Solar Observatory.

Big Bear features off-road trails and designated areas for ATV and off-roading enthusiasts. The Holcomb Valley Trail, Dishpan Springs Trail, and Gold Mountain Trail are popular choices for off-roading adventures.

Yes, Big Bear has a fantastic mountain biking scene. The area offers a variety of trails suitable for different skill levels, ranging from beginner-friendly paths to challenging downhill routes. The Skyline Trail and the Snow Summit Bike Park are well-regarded options.

Golf enthusiasts will be pleased to know that Big Bear features a beautiful golf course. The Bear Mountain Golf Course offers scenic fairways, stunning views, and a challenging game for golfers of all levels.

Yes, horseback riding is a popular activity in Big Bear. Several stables and ranches in the area offer guided horseback rides through scenic trails, allowing you to explore the natural beauty of the region on horseback.

Absolutely! Big Bear is a paradise for photography enthusiasts. Some picturesque spots include Boulder Bay Park, Boulder Bay, Stanfield Marsh Wildlife and Waterfowl Preserve, and the Alpine Pedal Path along the lake's shoreline.

You can't go wrong with either resort but he are the differences: SNOW SUMMIT: Skiers and snowboarders come to Snow Summit with friends and families for a traditional alpine experience. There's plenty of room to roam, from the popular face of the mountain to peaceful, isolated trails with ideal ski conditions away from the crowd. Snow Summit’s Family Fun Park offers easy-does-it jumps, bumps and rollers. BEAR MOUNTAIN: Typically, snowboarders choose Bear Mountain whether for learning to ride, trying intermediate terrain, or honing a professional style. Bear Mountain is attractive to avid skiers too because of its steeper terrain. The Park offers upwards of 120 beginner to advanced jibs, rails, boxes and walls. It has over 100 snow features of all shapes and sizes, plus Southern California's only Superpipe!

Sledding is permitted on forest land however you must never engage in snow play near a highway or anywhere you might slide into traffic. Private property is off limits to snow play at all times and hefty fines are issued for violations. At Bearfoot Chalet, we have smaller hills in both the front and back yards which are perfect for our younger guests. For older guests, we recommend enjoying one of Big Bear's three snow play areas.

No. Walking or playing on Big Bear Lake ice is forbidden by county code and punishable by fine and/or jail time. The consequences can be far more grave however, as falling through into the frigid water can cost you your life.

Please check for any closures just prior to your drive, so that you can plan the best route. You can check for closures and other traffic conditions using the Caltrans map. There are 3 different routes to Big Bear Lake: Highway 330, Highway 18 and Highway 38. Check SoCalMountains for road status.

Between November and April, CalTrans REQUIRES that snow chains or cables be in all cars (such as in the trunk) no matter what. Chains or cables are required to be on the tires during R3 conditions. SoCal Mountains tends to be the most reliable source of information on road conditions. Additionally, there will be a check point with a place to pull off if they are required.

Yes. Chains or cables are required to be in all vehicles between the months of November and April regardless of the type or vehicle features during R3 conditions without exception.

When weather conditions warrant tire chains, there are typically workers available to put them on your vehicle. These individuals typically take payment in cash only and prices can vary wildly. It is recommended to carry $50 cash if you think you may need help. Moreover, a little practice before leaving home will help your confidence before you arrive near the mountain and is strongly encouraged. Keep in mind that you may need chains during your stay and there may not be anyone to assist you.

California maintains three levels of chain requirements: Requirement 1(R1) Chains are required on all vehicles except passenger vehicles and light-duty trucks under 6,000 gross weight and equipped with snow tires on at least two drive wheels. Chains must be carried by vehicles using snow tires. All vehicles towing trailers must have chaings on one drive axle. Trailers with brakes must have chains on at least one axle. Requirement 2 (R2) Chains or traction devices are required on all vehicles except four-wheel/all-wheel drive vehicles with snow-tred tires on all four wheels. Four-wheel drive vehicles must carry traction devices in chain control areas. Requirement 3 (R3) Chains or traction devices are required on all vehicles, no exceptions. Always check road conditions before driving.

Big Bear experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are generally warm with temperatures ranging from 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C). Winters can be cold, with temperatures ranging from 20°F to 50°F (-7°C to 10°C). Snowfall is common during the winter months, making it a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. When planning your Big Bear trip, we recommend checking Ben's Weather.

The best answer to this question is Ben's Weather. Ben maintains the most up to date and accurate weather information on the mountain.

Temperatures can fluctuate significantly during the winter months. Some days it will be sunny and warm and other days can drop into the teens. So plan to dress for winter weather -- water-resistant jackets, ski pants, hats, gloves and boots. Dressing in layers allows you to remove clothing if needed. Bring ski goggles, sunscreen and lip balm because the snow reflects the sun even on cloudy days.

As in any cold weather environment, cars will freeze and windshields will need to be defrosted when the vehicle is not garaged. To defrost your car we recommended that you: • Bring an ice scraper with you to Big Bear during the winter months to help the defrost process or pick some up at the DIY store. • Flip your wipers up every time you park. That way, after you scrape the snow off the window, your wiper blades are free of ice and ready to do their job. • Give your car time to warm up so the defroster starts working before you start scraping snow by starting the car 10 minutes before you leave. While it may be tempting to quickly thaw out your windshield with hot water, it’s a very bad idea as the rapid temperature change can cause your windshield to crack.

Yes there is both a Vons and a Stater Brothers within 1.5 miles from Bearfoot Chalet. There is however limited deliveries to the mountain and as such, items sell out quickly, especially on the weekends. The issue is exacerbated during the winter months as winter storms impact delivery schedules. Bringing groceries up the mountain with you is highly recommended. Not only will this ensure that you have the items that you want, it helps the full-time residents who rely on these stores as their primary mode of food security.

Around Big Bear however, most cabins use wood burning fireplaces. Some cabins provide guests with a starter set, others ask guests to bring their own. In either case, it's a good idea to check with your host prior to arrival and plan to bring firewood that has not been chemically treated with you to your cabin. If you are staying at Bearfoot Chalet however, you will not need firewood. Our fireplace is gas with an electric start. It has ceramic logs and we actually do not allow firewood to be used. Our fire pit is also gas with ceramic rocks.

Cell phone service can be spotty across Big Bear, especially when going up the mountain. In our experience, services using the Verizon infrastructure work pretty reliably with the Big Bear vicinity. Services using the AT&T infrastructure can be frustruting. Bearfoot Chalet offers 400 mbps mesh WIFI. In addition to the central hub, we have two mesh extenders on opposite sides of the cabin. So connecting to WIFI should subsidize mobile needs.

Yes InstaCart is available in Big Bear. As the grocery stores become easily over crowded, especially on the weekends, the InstaCart drivers can become inundated with orders and it takes much longer to check out. We strongly encourage guests to bring food up the mountain. If you need to use InstaCart, please be patient with the drivers, order several hours in advance and provide a hefty, hefty tip.

Around Town In general, EV charging stations are currently extremely limited in Big Bear. Big Bear Lake is however actively adding them. Tesla Stations: Tesla Level 2 ReMax parking lot in the Village (Donations are requested, matched and is given back to the community) More info. Electrify America Loop Stations: Non-Tesla Level 3 Union Bank near Starbucks in the by Vons shopping center. More info. ChargePoint Stations: Big Bear Lake is however actively adding them. Refer to the active list for city stations here: ChargePoint. At the Cabin Bearfoot Chalet provides a Juicebox 40, a WIFI-enabled 40-amp smart EV charging station (Level 2 EVSE) with 25-foot cable, with free usage to all of our guests. Tesla drivers will need to bring their adapter. Going Up the Mountain As traffic up the mountain can cause delays, consider getting a full charge at the EV station at San Bernadino Walmart in before going up the hill.

Yes there are food delivery options in Big Bear. Of the standard delivery companies, Grub Hub is most likely to have drivers available. Locally however, we recommend using Big Bear Takeout & Delivery as they typically carry the largest number of options. Additionally, you may want to refer to Big Bear Menus to check out food options.

Bearfoot Chalet accommodates up to 8 people per our permit. We have 3 bedrooms (one with a king bed, one with a queen bed and one with a queen bed and a queen loft bed) and 2 pullout couches (one queen and one twin XL) so our guests have plenty of space to sleep comfortably. Children and babies all count towards that number and this number is in affect at all hours of the day. Exceeding of the number can result in a fine for both the guests and the cabin owners by the city. While guests may want to have friends and family visit, this is unfortunately a regulation that even cabin owners with rental permits must adhere to. As such, we strictly enforce max occupancy rules.

Our permit allows for up to 4 cars to be parked at the cabin which includes two cars in the garage and two cars in the driveway. For the safety of the community and to deter parties, the city actively monitors the number of cars at each rental property. Properties exceeding the car limit are fined with tickets issued to both the property owners and the guests.

No. Due to owner's allergy related health concerns, animals are not allowed at the cabin.

The comfort and privacy of our guests are our top priorities. We want to ensure that your stay is enjoyable and worry-free, which is why we have implemented security measures, including security cameras strategically placed to protect the home. Rest assured that these cameras are not actively monitored, and more importantly, they are not in view of the hot tub area, respecting your privacy during your relaxing moments. Your safety and peace of mind are important to us, and we hope you have a wonderful and secure stay at Bearfoot Chalet.