Big Bear, California, has a mountain climate that changes greatly depending on the season. Autumn, winter, spring, and summer are four different seasons.
Temperatures in Big Bear range from 40°F to 70°F during the autumn months, and the air is fresh and clear. Hiking, fishing, and beautiful drives are enjoyable in the warm weather.
Temperatures can drop below freezing in the winter, and snow is typical. Big Bear is a major skiing and snowboarding destination with multiple nearby resorts. The winter season lasts from November to April, on average.
The temperature begins to warm up in the spring, and flowers bloom. Temperatures range between 40°F and 65°F, making it ideal for outdoor activities like fishing and hiking.
Big Bear gets warm weather in the summer, with temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F. This is an excellent time for water sports such as boating, fishing, and swimming.
Big Bear’s climate and weather patterns make it an attractive all-year destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors should expect various temperatures and weather conditions depending on the season, so plan accordingly.
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Autumn
Typical temperatures
During the autumn months in Big Bear, temperatures range from 40°F to 70°F (4°C to 21°C) during the day, while nights can be chilly, ranging from 20°F to 40°F (-7°C to 4°C).
What to bring
Visitors to Big Bear during autumn should bring layered clothing, including a light jacket or sweater, and warmer outerwear for colder nights. It’s also recommended to bring hiking boots or comfortable shoes for outdoor activities.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Big Bear during the autumn season is from September to November when the weather is mild, and the fall foliage is at its peak.
Where to go during autumn
Autumn in Big Bear is an excellent time for outdoor activities, including hiking and scenic drives to enjoy the fall foliage. Some popular places to visit during autumn include Big Bear Lake, Castle Rock Trail, and Aspen Glen Picnic Area.
Cozy cabins with fireplaces or hot tubs are perfect for enjoying the cool weather and fall foliage, such as the cabins offered by Big Bear Cool Cabins or Destination Big Bear.
Rustic lodges with mountain views and proximity to hiking trails, such as the Pine Knot Guest Ranch or the Gold Mountain Manor Bed and Breakfast.
Winter
Typical temperatures
In winter, temperatures in Big Bear can drop below freezing, with average temperatures ranging from 20°F to 40°F (-7°C to 4°C) during the day and dipping below 10°F (-12°C) at night.
What to bring
Visitors to Big Bear during winter should bring heavy, warm clothing, including insulated jackets, hats, gloves, and boots for snowy conditions. Carrying tire chains is essential if driving in the mountains during the winter.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Big Bear during winter is from December to February, when the snowfall is heaviest, and the skiing and snowboarding conditions are optimal.
Where to go during winter
Winter in Big Bear is an excellent time for skiing and snowboarding, with famous resorts like Bear Mountain and Snow Summit. Visitors can enjoy sledding, tubing parks, and winter festivals like the Big Bear Winter Festival and the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony.
Ski-in/ski-out accommodations at the Big Bear Mountain Resort or Snow Summit ski resorts offer convenience for winter sports enthusiasts. Cozy cabins or chalets with hot tubs or fireplaces are ideal for snuggling up after a day on the slopes, such as those offered by Big Bear Vacations or Big Bear Frontier Cabins and Hotel.
Spring
Typical temperatures
During the spring months in Big Bear, temperatures range from 40°F to 65°F (4°C to 18°C) during the day, while nights can still be chilly, ranging from 20°F to 40°F (-7°C to 4°C).
What to bring
Visitors to Big Bear during spring should bring layers of clothing, including a light jacket or sweater and waterproof gear for rainy days. Comfortable shoes for hiking are also recommended.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Big Bear during spring is from March to May, when the weather is mild, and the wildflowers are in bloom.
Where to go during spring
Spring in Big Bear is an excellent time for hiking and fishing. Visitors can check out popular spots like the Alpine Pedal Path, the Cougar Crest Trail, and the Big Bear Discovery Center. The Big Bear Lake International Film Festival also takes place in the spring.
Bed and breakfasts with scenic views of the lake or forest, such as the Inn at Fawnskin or the Knickerbocker Mansion Country Inn.
Resorts or lodges with outdoor activities and amenities, such as the Northwoods Resort and Conference Center or the Big Bear Lakefront Lodge.
Summer
Typical temperatures
During the summer months in Big Bear, temperatures range from 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C) during the day, while nights can still be cool, ranging from 40°F to 60°F (4°C to 15°C).
What to bring
Visitors to Big Bear during the summer should bring light clothing, including shorts and t-shirts, sunscreen and sunglasses. Swimsuits and beach towels are also recommended for water activities.
Best time to visit
June to August is the peak season for summer activities and events, but September can also be a great time to visit for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
Where to go during summer
Big Bear Lake offers a variety of water activities, including boating, fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Hiking trails, such as Castle Rock Trail and Pine Knot Trail, offer scenic views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
Mountain biking and off-roading are famous in the nearby San Bernardino National Forest.
Visitors can also enjoy outdoor concerts, festivals, and farmers’ markets throughout the summer season.
Lakefront cabins or vacation rentals with access to water activities, such as Big Bear Lakefront Cabins or Vacasa Vacation Rentals.
Campgrounds or RV parks with outdoor recreation opportunities, such as Serrano Campground or Pine Knot Campground.
