Things To Do
The Best Things to Do in Big Bear Lake with Kids
Big Bear Lake is one of Southern California's best-kept secrets for family travel. Whether you're visiting in summer or winter, there's genuinely something for every age — from toddlers to tweens. As hosts of The Cubhouse, a family-focused cabin rental right in Big Bear Lake, we've put this guide together from our experience entertaining our own guests (and our own kids).
Here's everything we recommend, broken down by category.
Best Activities for Little Kids (Ages 2–8)
Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain
0.4 mi · 2 min drive
A must-do and one of our top recommendations for families. It's a year-round facility packed with activities for all ages including the Alpine Slide, Go-Karts, Mineshaft Coaster, Mini Golf, Snow Play (winter), and the Soaring Eagle zip line. So close to The Cubhouse you could walk — but the drive is easier with gear and little ones.
Big Bear Alpine Zoo
3.8 mi · 9 min drive
A small but charming zoo that makes for a great 1–2 hour outing with little kids. They also have a playground and climbing structure on site — a big win when you need to burn some energy.
Big Bear Discovery Center
5.5 mi · 14 min drive
A hidden gem for families with young children. The Discovery Center runs weekly eco-tours, nature programs, and a dedicated nature discovery zone for kids ages 2–7. They also host outdoor concerts and evening interpretive programs at their amphitheater.
Bowling Barn
1 mi · 3 min drive
Old-school bowling alley with an arcade, comfort food, and beer for the grown-ups. A perfect rainy day or evening activity.
Walk, Eat & Explore the Village
Big Bear Village
1.2 mi · 5 min drive
We do a village walk on every single visit. Pine Knot Avenue is lined with local shops, restaurants, toy stores, bars, and seasonal attractions. Let the kids pick a toy, grab an ice cream, and just wander. It never gets old.
Enjoy the Lake
Big Bear Lake is stunning and surprisingly easy to enjoy with kids. Three marinas are within a mile of The Cubhouse:
- Big Bear Marina — 0.9 mi · bigbearmarina.com
- Pine Knot Marina — 1.2 mi · pineknotmarina.com
- Holloway's Marina — 0.8 mi · bigbearhollowaysmarina.com
Rent a boat, kayak, or paddleboard. In summer, the lake is calm and perfect for families with young kids.
Snow Activities in Winter
Big Bear is one of the closest ski destinations to Los Angeles — and it's incredible for families.
Skiing & Snowboarding
- Snow Summit — 3 mi · Best for intermediate skiers and families; has snow tubing
- Bear Mountain — 4.8 mi · Best for beginners and advanced riders
- Snow Valley — 10.4 mi · Best for beginners and families; has snow tubing
Snow Tubing
- Grizzly Ridge Tube Park at Snow Summit — 880 Summit Blvd
- Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain — 800 Wildrose Lane
- Snow Tubing at Snow Valley — 35100 CA-18, Running Springs, CA 92382
Big Bear Snowplay
A family-friendly snow resort with gentle tubing slopes, a magic carpet ride back to the top, glow tubing at night, a ropes course, and a speedway. Great for younger kids who aren't ready for skis yet.
Hiking & Outdoor Trails
Happy Hills Trail — Very Easy, Close By
Fully paved and family-friendly. Starting from City Hall, it's a 0.2-mile stretch past historical buildings and protected wildlife with picnic tables along the way. Perfect for toddlers and strollers.
Alpine Pedal Path Trail 1E50
A paved trail for biking, walking, skating, and wheelchairs. Famous for bald eagle sightings — a truly special experience for kids. Great for all ages and abilities.
Pine Knot Trail 1E01
A picturesque trail through pine trees and wildflowers leading to sweeping views of Big Bear Lake and the surrounding forest. Moderate difficulty — great for older kids and adults.
Castle Rock Trail
A 2.7-mile out-and-back trail rated moderately challenging, averaging about 1 hour 38 minutes. Best visited May through August. Dogs welcome on leash.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best things to do in Big Bear Lake with kids?
Top picks for families include the Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain, Big Bear Alpine Zoo, the Village, Bowling Barn, snow tubing at Grizzly Ridge or Snow Valley, and the Big Bear Discovery Center for young children.
Is Big Bear Lake good for families with toddlers?
Absolutely. The Alpine Slide, Discovery Center nature zone (ages 2–7), Big Bear Zoo playground, Happy Hills Trail, and Alpine Pedal Path are all perfect for very young children.
What is there to do in Big Bear in the summer with kids?
Summer brings lake activities (boating, kayaking, paddleboarding), hiking, the Alpine Slide, village walks, and the Discovery Center. Big Bear is surprisingly uncrowded in summer compared to ski season.
How far is Big Bear Lake from Los Angeles?
Big Bear Lake is approximately 100 miles from Los Angeles, typically a 2–2.5 hour drive depending on traffic and road conditions.
Are dogs allowed on Big Bear hiking trails?
Yes, dogs are welcome on many trails including Castle Rock Trail, but must be kept on a leash.