Travelers love Big Bear Lake for its tranquil setting and majestic mountain views. The lake is a great place to go to cool off in the summer, and there are several ski hills to hit during the winter. Whether you’re there in the summer or winter, you’ll want to know the best ways to get around Big Bear Lake.
Getting Around Big Bear Lake
Take the Trolley
One of the perks of visiting Big Bear Lake in the summer is that the Mountain Transit Trolley service runs free! From mid-May to early October, you can ride for free. The trolley services spots such as Big Bear Airport, Big Bear Lake Convention Center, Big Bear Mountain Ski Resort, and Snow Summit Ski Resort. The trolley uses three lines to operate: gold line, blue line, and red line. Each line services different sections of Big Bear Lake, and by planning correctly, you can access all that Big Bear Lake has to offer.
From our ITH Mountain Retreat Center Hostel, you can easily access several trolley stops. If you need to buy groceries and other items, we recommend heading over to Vons or Stater Bros. Market. These two grocery stores have plenty of options when it comes to fresh foods.
Walk
While parts of Big Bear Lake are difficult to access by foot, several parts of town are pedestrian-friendly. The Village is one of the most popular places in Big Bear Lake, and the district is often buzzing with activity. There, you’ll find several shops, cafes, and restaurants. A few places in town that we recommend are Tropicali, Royal Thai Bistro, The Bowling Barn, and Amangelas Sandwiches. There are plenty of options to choose from in town, and each establishment offers something unique.
Drive or Rideshare
Not all travelers have access to a car. Driving in an unfamiliar state or country can be intimidating, and costly. However, having a car in Big Bear Lake is one of the best ways to experience the town to the fullest. From hitting hideaway spots on the lake, to secret beaches, and cliff-jumping spots, there are so many things to see and experience in Big Bear Lake. Driving around the lake is another great activity, as there are several scenic views and places to stop along the way.
While the town is small, there are still rideshare options. Uber and Lyft service Big Bear Lake, but we recommend planning ahead if you are relying on a rideshare. If you are planning to go out and hit the town, make sure you have a ride lined up first! Use this guide to navigate your way around Big Bear Lake and find some of the best places to swim.
Want to do some cliff-jumping in Big Bear Lake? Check out this informative video!
When visiting Big Bear Lake, make sure to check out our amazing Mountain Adventure Hostel. We feature nightly events, a free pancake breakfast, and also a hot tub!
To save money on your stay, sign up for our Traveler’s Club. It’s free to sign up!
