The Angelenos Guide To Big Bear Skiing Getaways
(credit: Snow Valley Mountain Resort)
Many people associate Southern California and Los Angeles with sunshine, beaches and the entertainment industry. However, residents of Los Angeles and the surrounding counties have relatively easy access to skiing in the local mountains during the winter. Here are a few locations that Angelenos can utilize if they want to enjoy a Big Bear skiing getaway.
Bear Mountain
43101 Goldmine Drive
Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
(909) 866-5766
www.bearmountain.com/snowboard
Skiers and snowboarders who head to Bear Mountain will enjoy 12 mountain lifts on four mountain peaks that are designed to accommodate visitors who range in skill from beginner to advanced levels. The average annual snowfall of approximately 100 inches allows tourists to enjoy the winter sports season, which typically starts in November. Angelenos can leave the sunny weather in the valley below and be in the snowy mountains within a couple of hours.
Snow Summit
880 Summit Blvd.
Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
(909) 866-5766
More Info
The Snow Summit facility has 14 lifts and boasts 240 acres of skiable terrain. Terrain difficulty is geared toward the intermediate skier, as 40 percent of the runs are rated for that level of ability. To extend the season and maintain a consistent snow pack, Snow Summit employs more than 560 hydrants and 330 water guns to cover their entire developed area. Both Bear Mountain and Snow Summit are owned and operated by Big Bear Mountain Resorts.
Snow Valley
State Highway 18
P.O. Box 2337
Running Springs, CA 92382 USA
(909) 867-2751
More Info
The Snow Valley ski area is not specifically in Big Bear, but it is nearby in Running Springs, which provides an alternative destination for Angelenos in the mountains of Southern California. Snow Valley includes 14 lifts that can take visitors from a base of 6,800 feet all the way to the top of the peak at 7,841 feet. People can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, mini snowmobiles and sledding.
With each of these resorts, visitors can find enjoyment regardless of their skill levels. Beginners can rent equipment and take lessons, and those who want to experience the mountain with friends and family can take advantage of group discounts. Packages that include lodging, lift tickets and lessons are typically available throughout the season. In addition, each of these resorts offers a variety of activities that can be enjoyed by local visitors throughout the warmer months. While Southern California may not have the skiing variety of other locations like the Rocky Mountains, there are still places for Angelenos to enjoy a Big Bear skiing getaway and some winter sports without a long road trip to another state.
- Todd Pheifer
