Winter Activities
Best Snow Tubing Near Big Bear Lake (A Family Host's Complete Guide)
Snow tubing is one of the most underrated winter activities in Big Bear Lake — and honestly, it might be more fun than skiing for families with young kids. No lessons required, no gear rentals to figure out, no chairlifts to wrestle a toddler onto. You just grab a tube and go.
As hosts of The Cubhouse, a family cabin just minutes from Big Bear's best snow spots, we've put together this complete guide to every snow tubing option near Big Bear Lake so you can plan the perfect winter day.
Snow Tubing Options Near Big Bear Lake
1. Grizzly Ridge Tube Park at Snow Summit
3 mi from The Cubhouse
The most popular snow tubing destination in Big Bear — and for good reason. Located right at Snow Summit ski resort, it offers multiple lanes of groomed tubing runs with a magic carpet conveyor to carry you back to the top (no hiking required, which the kids will love). Tickets sell out fast on weekends — book online in advance. Height and age restrictions apply. Great option to combine with a ski day at Snow Summit.
2. Big Bear Snowplay
~4 mi from The Cubhouse
Our top pick for families with younger kids or first-time snow visitors. It's purpose-built for snow play — no skiing, no snowboarding, just pure snowy fun. The vibe is relaxed, the lines are manageable, and the magic carpet makes it easy for little legs. Activities include snow tubing (day and evening sessions), glow tubing at night, a ropes course, speedway, and even summer tubing year-round. The most accessible tubing option for young children and first-timers.
3. Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain — Snow Tubing
0.4 mi from The Cubhouse — practically next door!
This one is special because it's so close to The Cubhouse — you could almost walk. The Alpine Slide runs snow tubing in winter alongside their other year-round activities like go-karts, mini golf, and the Soaring Eagle zip line. Convenient if you want to mix tubing with other activities in one visit. Less crowded than Grizzly Ridge on peak weekends.
4. Snow Tubing at Snow Valley
10.4 mi · ~20 min drive
A bit further from Big Bear proper but worth knowing about — especially if Grizzly Ridge is sold out. Snow Valley caters to beginners and families and has its own dedicated tubing area. A great alternative on busy holiday weekends when the closer spots fill up fast.
Tips for Snow Tubing with Kids in Big Bear
- Book tickets online in advance — all four spots sell out, especially on holiday weekends.
- Dress in layers. Big Bear is nearly 7,000 feet — even sunny days get cold fast once you're wet.
- Arrive early. Lines are shortest in the morning; afternoons get long.
- Try Glow Tubing at Big Bear Snowplay — glowing tubes, music, mountain air. Kids go wild.
- Combine with a cabin night in: hot chocolate by the fire, hot tub, dinner around the big table.
Snow Tubing Quick Comparison
| Location | Distance | Best For | Magic Carpet |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grizzly Ridge (Snow Summit) | 3 mi | Older kids, ski resort experience | Yes |
| Big Bear Snowplay | ~4 mi | Young kids, first-timers, glow tubing | Yes |
| Alpine Slide Magic Mountain | 0.4 mi | Convenience, mixed-age groups | Check website |
| Snow Valley | 10.4 mi | Backup option, beginners | Yes |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best snow tubing in Big Bear Lake?
Grizzly Ridge Tube Park at Snow Summit is the most popular, but Big Bear Snowplay is our top pick for families with young children. Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain is the closest to The Cubhouse and great for mixed-age groups.
Do you need to book snow tubing in advance in Big Bear?
Yes — especially on weekends and during holiday weeks. Grizzly Ridge and Big Bear Snowplay both sell out regularly. Always book online before you go.
How old do kids need to be to go snow tubing in Big Bear?
Age and height requirements vary by location. Big Bear Snowplay is generally the most accommodating for younger children. Check each venue's website for current requirements.
Is there snow tubing near Big Bear for adults?
Absolutely — all four locations welcome adults and snow tubing is genuinely fun at any age. Glow Tubing at Big Bear Snowplay in particular is a huge hit with adults.
What should kids wear for snow tubing in Big Bear?
Waterproof snow pants and jacket, warm base layers, gloves, warm socks, and snow boots. Bring a change of clothes — kids will get wet.
Is Big Bear Snowplay open in summer?
Yes! Big Bear Snowplay offers summer tubing as well, making it a year-round destination.