Explore Things to Do Around Town | Big Bear Mountain Resort Weddings

Snow Summit in the Summer & Fall

Explore Snow Summit During Summer & Fall

Snow Summit is best known for winter skiing and snowboarding, but once the snow melts, it transforms into a high-alpine playground just a short drive from Los Angeles. In the summer, you’ll find plenty of ways to get outside, from scenic lift-served mountain biking to hiking trails and family-friendly activities in the base area.

One of the biggest perks is the cooler mountain weather, making it an easy escape from the heat down below. Come fall, the experience shifts again as the trees turn shades of gold and amber, bringing that crisp, seasonal vibe that’s hard to find in Southern California.

Things to Do

Snow Summit turns into a lively summer hangout where the fun goes way beyond the trails. The season is filled with events, entertainment, and activities that bring the mountain to life. From laid-back afternoons with live music to hands-on experiences for families, it’s the kind of place where you can soak up the sunshine, stay cool, and find something new to enjoy every time you visit.

Skyfest
During select nights this summer, from 8PM to 11PM, the mountain shifts into a peaceful alpine setting made for stargazing and late-summer evenings under the night sky. Guests can ride the Scenic Sky Chair up the mountain after dark, then head out on a guided hike to take in wide-open views of the stars above Big Bear Valley. It’s a quiet, memorable way to experience the mountain after sunset, surrounded by cool air and a calm, natural atmosphere.

Ride to the to Top
Take your summer adventure to new heights at Snow Summit with a scenic ride up the Scenic Sky Chair. This mile-long lift glides through the beautiful San Bernardino National Forest, serving up sweeping views of Big Bear Valley before you reach the summit at 8,200 feet. It’s an easygoing, unforgettable way for all ages to soak in the mountain air and take in the scenery from above.

Fall Colors
Southern California may be known for beaches and palm trees, but up at Snow Summit, fall brings a completely different mountain feel. Crisp air, clear skies, and changing leaves turn the resort into a colorful alpine escape. From September into October, the surrounding hills around Big Bear Lake start to shift into warm shades of gold and red, making it a great time to enjoy the mountain before winter arrives.

Biggie's Den
Take a photo and capture a moment with Biggie the Bear at Biggie's Den during your alpine stay. This is the go-to home base at Snow Summit for Big Bear Mountain Resort's favorite furry friend mascot. During scheduled appearance times, Biggie pops out of his den to say hello, share bear hugs, and pose for snowy smiles with kids and families.

All ages are welcome to this free experience and no reservations are needed.

Hiking
Snow Summit is a great starting point for exploring some of Southern California’s best mountain hiking. From easy scenic loops with lake views to connecting Forest Service trails, there’s something for every pace and ability.

Monster Energy Pro Downhill Series
Snow Summit will host the Monster Energy Pro Downhill Series in July, bringing a major cycling event to the mountain. The week will feature both professional and amateur downhill racing, offering spectators a chance to see top athletes compete on a challenging course.
Snow Summit in the Winter
Explore Snow Summit During Winter

Whether you’re a seasoned skier or snowboarder—or experiencing Snow Summit for the first time—get ready for an unforgettable Southern California mountain adventure. Snow Summit offers a truly authentic alpine experience, providing endless recreation opportunities for every level of explorer.

With over 70 years of shaping our legacy of progression, we celebrate the spirit of optimism and strive to create lasting memories for everyone who loves the outdoors. Renowned for its wide-open runs and thrilling terrain, Snow Summit is a skier and snowboarder’s paradise, perfect for carving turns and picking up speed.

One of the mountain’s signature experiences is Night Sessions, where you can enjoy the slopes under the stars. Famous for its snowmaking infrastructure and family-friendly atmosphere, Snow Summit offers a balanced mix of terrain: 35% beginner/low intermediate, 40% intermediate, and 25% advanced/expert. With 17 miles of rideable trails and 1,200 feet of vertical drop, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Highlights:

Longest Ski Season: Opens first and closes last, thanks to its high elevation, consistent snowfall, and advanced snowmaking technology. The resort's dedication to maintaining and grooming its trails ensures excellent conditions that extend well into the spring.

Challenging Runs: Tommi’s and Log Chute. Additionally, expert skiers can tackle The Wall, a steep and demanding run, and The Side Chute, known for its narrow path and tricky tree obstacles.

Best View from the Slopes: View of Big Bear Lake.

Things to Do

Snow Summit isn’t just a ski resort, it’s a hub of non-stop fun! With a packed calendar of events all season long, there’s always something exciting happening on and off the slopes. From annual events to live music and family-friendly activities, Snow Summit keeps the energy high and the good times rolling for everyone.
Grizzly Ridge Tube Park
Located between Chairs 1 and 8, the Grizzly Ridge Tube Park is great for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. Skip the hiking and take a magic carpet to the top of the tube park, then slide down our 4 (four) 300-foot tubing lanes as fast as you can in one of our high-speed tubes.

Santa Comes to Summit
Head to Snow Summit and take your photo with Jolly St. Nick. This event is FREE on December 20, 2025 from 11AM to 3PM on the Coca-Cola deck. Grab your family and friends, mix in a little holiday cheer, and smile big with the guy in the red suit.

Biggie's Den
Take a photo and capture a moment with Biggie the Bear at Biggie's Den during your alpine stay. This is the go-to home base at Snow Summit for Big Bear Mountain Resort's favorite furry friend mascot. During scheduled appearance times, Biggie pops out of his den to say hello, share bear hugs, and pose for snowy smiles with kids and families.

All ages are welcome to this free experience and no reservations are needed.

Ikon Pass First Tracks
Ikon Pass First Tracks will be offered to Ikon Pass and Ikon Base Pass holders on select dates* during the 25/26 winter season. Pass Holders will have early access on Chairs 1 & 8 starting at 8AM, while the chairlifts open to the general public at 8:30AM; subject to change based on conditions.

*Dates for the 25/26 winter season: January 24, February 7, and March 7.

New Year's Eve Torchlight Parade
Get ready for an electrifying experience at Snow Summit's annual New Year’s Eve Party and Torchlight Parade on December 31. Immerse yourself in the evening thrill as over 200 skilled skiers and snowboarders cascade down the mountain, transforming the darkness into a mesmerizing sea of light with their torches, creating a magical spectacle before the grand (snow)ball drop. The festivities kick off around 6PM and admission to the parade viewing area is FREE.

Ski & Ride Under the Stars
During Night Sessions, you'll have the opportunity to ski or snowboard beneath the stars on iconic beginner to intermediate trails. At Snow Summit, gain access to 125 acres of terrain on popular runs such as Upper Miracle Mile and Summit Run. View dates.

IMPORTANT NOTE: The Ikon Pass Suite lift ticket is valid until 4 PM on dates without Night Sessions and until 6 PM on dates with Night Sessions. It is not valid until 8:30 PM like a Night Session lift ticket. Tickets can be upgraded to extend access past 6 PM for $19 per ticket, based on the adult upgrade rate.

Best Time to Go

As the saying goes, "Timing is everything," and the same is true when it comes to choosing the best time to come enjoy BBMR's fun-filled atmosphere and dependable snow conditions. At BBMR, the winter can be divided into three mini-seasons that have their own characteristics: early, mid-season, and spring.