December Overview
- High temperature: 47°F (8°C)
- Low temperature: 21°F (-6°C)
- Hours daylight/sun: 10 hours
- Water temperature: 59°F (0°C)
With an average snowfall of 12.3 inches, it is usually mid December when the ski and snowboard season starts in Big Bear Lake. Temperature highs reach 47°F (8°C) and lows drop to 21°F (-6°C). There is daylight for 10 hours- so plenty of time to get on the slopes! Surprisingly, the lake remains at an average water temperature of 59°F (15°C), even now.
You won’t be alone in enjoying the winter scenery as December is the busiest time in Big Bear Lake- just make sure to book your spot well in advance. But even if you aren’t into skiing or snowboarding, Big Bear Lake has some winter activities on offer for everyone- you could try some Snowshoeing or Ziplining for example. Don’t miss one of the Santa Sightings for Christmas and also book your special celebratory dinner in advance. A must see is the torchlight parade on New Year’s Eve!
Best Time to Visit Big Bear Lake
Well, the time of year that suits you to visit very much depends on what you are looking to do in Big Bear Lake. If you are looking to ski or snowboard, the season usually opens in mid December and finishes at the end of March or beginning of April depending on the snow conditions. For any types of watersports, the water will be just about warm enough in the lows 60s°F (16°C) (it’s a mountain lake after all!) from June until October. The shoulder seasons will be the least busy with mostly good weather to enjoy the great outdoors whilst hiking or cycling for example.
Things to know about Big Bear Lake
Unbelievable nature, peace and quiet awaits you just a 2 hour drive away from Los Angeles in the family-friendly Big Bear Lake. Big Bear Lake is actually a small and endearing place with lots of charm, sunny skies and beautiful mountain scenery. You will feel cosy in the small town which invites you to enjoy breaks in small coffee shops and local restaurants and shops. All sorts of activities are offered at any time of the year- skiing being top of the list! The San Bernardino National Forest surrounds Big Bear Lake and has beautiful trails for hiking and cycling.
Top things to do in Big Bear Lake:
- Start your visit at the Big Bear Discovery Center. The experts will explain in detail all you need to know about the area. They will know exactly which roads are open and which trails are best to avoid at a given time of year. They will also provide you with some great tips on how to spot grizzly bears and also how to avoid having to deal with them. They will also be able to give you all the details about current events.
- When you are there in winter, it’s obvious to ski! Experts will be able to enjoy the only superpipe in Southern California. The ski area of Snow Summit has everything for families and beginners and Bear Mountain is the place to be for snowboarders!
- Any time other than winter, you should get out on the trails, whether hiking or mountain biking. There are endless trails through the San Bernardino Mountains. The ski resort of Snow Summit turns into downhill mountain biking trails in summer. The Castle Rock hike offers the most amazing views.
- The Big Bear Alpine Zoo is one of only 2 alpine zoos in the United States. You will be able to observe animals like bald eagles, black bears, arctic foxes and even a snow leopard.
- Driving through the backcountry is another way to explore the great nature around. Among the best scenic drives is the Holcomb Valley Scenic Drive. Make sure to check for any possible road closures when travelling in winter.
- Enjoy numerous watersports in the Big Bear Lake. Jet skiing, kayaking,...and many more. And if you haven’t ever tried fishing, you really should- it’s one of the most calming activities out there.
- The Boulder Bay Park is a great spot to have a picnic. It offers beautiful views and they even provide you with picnic tables!
