As a popular drive-to destination, there are three main routes leading to Big Bear: Highways 330, 38, and 18. Driving distance to Big Bear, CA from major hubs: Los Angeles (105 miles), San Diego (155 miles), Palm Springs (90 miles), and Las Vegas, NV (210 miles). Big Bear is also about an 8-hour drive from San Francisco.

Flying? The most common California airports to get to Big Bear are LAX (Los Angeles), Ontario International (ONT), Palm Springs, or the John Wayne Airport in Orange County. A small airport in Big Bear is also available for private planes.

As a four-season destination, there is always something to enjoy in Big Bear. With that said, the busiest times are definitely ski season (from about late November or mid-December through mid-March) and summer months between Memorial Day to Labor Day. Skiing and snowboarding are the main attractions for winter, while outdoor adventures in and around Big Bear Lake are high points throughout the summer.

Spring and fall are equally as welcoming in Big Bear, particularly for those looking to avoid bigger crowds. Additionally, spring and fall are peak fishing seasons for rainbow trout.

Big Bear is home to a variety of annual events and festivals, not to mention the best Oktoberfest in the Western U.S. Some of the traditional highlights include:

• Oktoberfest: A popular fall tradition for over 50 years that combines German traditions and Big Bear’s mountain landscape into a frenzy of music, food, and drinks. Prost!
• Big Bear Maifest: Yet another celebration of beer, food, and music set in the fabulous spring, generally late May.
• Big Bear Run: A two-day dual sport motorcycle tour of the mountains surrounding beautiful Big Bear Lake, running motors for over 30 years.
• Tour de Big Bear: This late summer two-day cycling event is one of Southern California’s favorite rides
• Annual Bald Eagle Count: An annual event for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts to observe bald eagles during their wintering period.