Road Closure Impacting Travel to Big Bear Lake this Winter
September 2025 Update
In September 2025, a significant rainstorm caused a major mudslide that washed out portions of Highway 38, the scenic "back side" route to Big Bear Lake. Many travelers use this route to avoid congestion on the “front side” via Highway 330. Unfortunately, the damage to the mountain road is severe, and while CalTrans is actively working on repairs, there is currently no estimated completion date. It could take several months or longer to fully reopen.
With winter operations potentially starting as early as November, we want to start educating you now about alternative routes to Big Bear Mountain Resort.
Recommended Alternate Routes
If you are coming from the beach cities (Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego counties) and typically take the "front way", we have a new alternative route we are recommending this winter. Once you reach the Big Bear Dam, most navigation apps like Google Maps or Apple Maps will guide you straight through the traffic light onto Big Bear Blvd. However, with Highway 38 closed, traffic on this road will be much heavier than usual.
Instead, we recommend you turn left at the light onto the North Shore side of Big Bear Lake. This route allows you to bypass the more congested areas by wrapping around the lake, crossing the bridge, and then continuing on to Bear Mountain or Snow Summit.
If you're coming from the High Desert, take Highway 18 through Lucerne Valley. This is your easiest alternative.
If you're traveling from Palm Springs and Redlands area, you will need to take Highway 330 to Highway 18 via Running Springs. Please note that this route may be congested, especially on weekends or during/after a storm. We strongly recommend leaving earlier than usual to avoid delays.
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With winter operations potentially starting as early as November, we want to start educating you now about alternative routes to Big Bear Mountain Resort.
Recommended Alternate Routes
If you are coming from the beach cities (Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego counties) and typically take the "front way", we have a new alternative route we are recommending this winter. Once you reach the Big Bear Dam, most navigation apps like Google Maps or Apple Maps will guide you straight through the traffic light onto Big Bear Blvd. However, with Highway 38 closed, traffic on this road will be much heavier than usual.
Instead, we recommend you turn left at the light onto the North Shore side of Big Bear Lake. This route allows you to bypass the more congested areas by wrapping around the lake, crossing the bridge, and then continuing on to Bear Mountain or Snow Summit.
If you're coming from the High Desert, take Highway 18 through Lucerne Valley. This is your easiest alternative.
If you're traveling from Palm Springs and Redlands area, you will need to take Highway 330 to Highway 18 via Running Springs. Please note that this route may be congested, especially on weekends or during/after a storm. We strongly recommend leaving earlier than usual to avoid delays.
rich-text, responsive-table