Hwy 38 Closed for Winter: Best Alternative Routes to Big Bear Lake (2025)

The mountains are for everyone, but things will be different this winter with CA-38 closed until further notice, so plan ahead and see below for more info on getting to and from your favorite alpine destinations. If possible, consider extending your stay or visiting on weekdays or non-holidays, and remember: the shortest route may not always be the fastest depending on the date, time, and weather conditions.

road map showing ways to get to big bear mountain resort with sr-38 closure

Snow Valley

Direct: CA-330 from Highland
Alternate: CA-18/Waterman Ave. through Lake Arrowhead (merges with 330 in Running Springs)

CA-330 is the most traveled route to/from Snow Valley and Snow Summit/Bear Mountain, with extended travel times expected on weekends and holidays, so plan accordingly to avoid delays. On days with high traffic volume, CA-18/Waterman Ave. may provide quicker access to Running Springs despite being a slightly longer route.

Snow Summit & Bear Mountain

Direct: CA-330/18 for LA, OC & SD or CA-18 for High Desert & San Fernando Valley
Alternate: North Shore route through Fawnskin or CA-18 from Lucerne Valley

If you’re heading to Snow Summit or Bear Mountain on CA-330/18, skip the town traffic by taking Rim of the World Scenic Byway at the Big Bear dam intersection (turn left at the light) and following the North Shore route through Fawnskin.

Similarly, CA-18 from Lucerne Valley has the least amount of mountain driving and avoids most town traffic, but does have some switchbacks that may be challenging for inexperienced winter drivers, so plan accordingly.

Navigate the Backroads the Local Way

Backway routes in Big Bear Lake driving map

Whether you’re coming from the coast, the High Desert, or somewhere in-between, a little planning is all it takes to make the most of your trip to the mountains. Just remember to check the weather and road conditions before traveling, have proper traction devices for your vehicle, and avoid traveling during extreme weather conditions, then get ready to enjoy all that our mountains have to offer.

NOTE: Big Bear Mountain Resort does not own or operate any lodging properties and is not responsible for maintaining or repairing any city, county, or state roads. For more information on lodging options, go to BigBear.com.