When the temperatures rise across Southern California, there's no better place to cool off than Big Bear Lake. Nestled in the San Bernardino Mountains at nearly 7,000 feet in elevation, Big Bear offers fresh mountain air, sunny days, and endless outdoor adventures that make summer one of the best times to visit.
Spend Your Days on the Lake
Summer and Big Bear Lake go hand in hand. The sparkling lake becomes the center of activity, offering plenty of ways to get out on the water. Rent a pontoon boat for a relaxing cruise, paddle across the lake in a kayak or stand-up paddleboard, or enjoy wakeboarding, tubing, and jet skiing for a little more excitement.
Fishing enthusiasts can cast a line for rainbow trout, bass, bluegill, and catfish, while families can spend the afternoon picnicking or relaxing along the shoreline.
Explore Miles of Scenic Trails
Big Bear is home to hundreds of miles of hiking and biking trails that wind through towering pine forests, alpine meadows, and breathtaking mountain overlooks.
Popular summer hikes include:
- Castle Rock Trail
- Pine Knot Trail
- Cougar Crest Trail
- Woodland Interpretive Trail
Mountain bikers can also enjoy lift-served trails at Snow Summit Bike Park or explore cross-country routes throughout the valley.
Adventure Around Every Corner
Beyond the lake and trails, Big Bear is packed with exciting activities for visitors of all ages.
Spend the afternoon riding the Scenic Sky Chair at Snow Summit for panoramic mountain views, soar through the trees on a zipline adventure, test your skills at the Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain, or enjoy horseback riding through the forest.
Families will also love the Big Bear Alpine Zoo, one of the nation's premier wildlife rehabilitation facilities where you can see bears, wolves, mountain lions, bald eagles, and many other native animals.
Stroll Through The Village
No trip to Big Bear is complete without exploring The Village. This charming downtown area is filled with local boutiques, coffee shops, restaurants, breweries, and sweet treats.
Enjoy outdoor dining, browse unique mountain shops, grab an ice cream after a day on the lake, or simply relax while taking in the friendly mountain-town atmosphere.
Summer Events You Won't Want to Miss
Big Bear's summer calendar is packed with events that bring the community to life. Depending on when you visit, you can enjoy:
- Weekly Farmers Markets
- Live music and outdoor concerts
- Fourth of July festivities and fireworks
- Village Wine Walk
- Car shows
- Fishing tournaments
- Family festivals and seasonal celebrations
There's always something happening, making every visit a little different from the last.
Cool Mountain Weather
One of the biggest reasons guests love visiting Big Bear during the summer is the weather. While nearby cities experience triple-digit temperatures, Big Bear's higher elevation offers pleasantly warm days and cool evenings, perfect for hiking, relaxing on the deck, or enjoying a barbecue under the stars.
Don't forget to bring a light jacket for those refreshing mountain nights.
Stay Close to the Adventure
The perfect summer vacation starts with the perfect cabin. Whether you're looking for a cozy retreat for two, a pet-friendly family cabin, or a spacious lakeview home for a group, Big Bear Cool Cabins has accommodations for every type of getaway.
Many cabins feature hot tubs, game rooms, fully equipped kitchens, fire pits, BBQ grills, and easy access to hiking trails, the lake, and The Village—giving you everything you need for a memorable mountain escape.
Make This Summer One to Remember
Summer in Big Bear is more than just a vacation—it's a chance to slow down, reconnect with nature, and create lasting memories with the people you love.
Whether you're spending your days on the lake, exploring scenic trails, discovering local shops, or simply relaxing on the cabin deck surrounded by towering pines, Big Bear offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
Book your summer stay with Big Bear Cool Cabins today and discover why Big Bear shines brightest during the summer season.