Big Bear Jeep off-road tour with Hike to Bluff Lake Reserve
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Bluff Lake is a hidden Big Bear secret. It's one of the most gorgeous areas in Big Bear Lake. So many people who are Big Bear locals don't even know it's here, hidden away three miles up a remote dirt road!
Traveling to this hidden wilderness lake with a local tour guide is a great way to see some of Big Bear Lake's most secret beautiful hiking areas.
I will pick up your group in my Jeep and drive your group up the forest road, telling you about the plants we see along the way and the interesting history of the Big Bear Valley.
Once we reach the Bluff Lake Reserve we will go for one of the most scenic hikes in Big Bear Lake. This hike is stroller-friendly for those who wish to bring a stroller for young children.
Available options
Big Bear Jeep off-road tour with Hike to Bluff Lake Reserve
What's included
Air-conditioned vehicle
Local Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Bluff Lake is a hidden Big Bear secret. Some locals who have lived in Big Bear for 15 years don't even know it's here! It is by far the most gorgeous place in Big Bear to spend a morning in nature.
2
A morning at Bluff Lake is the best way to spend a day in Big Bear no matter what season it is! Our tour starts with a drive up to Bluff Lake Reserve in my SUV. Spring through fall I lead hikers on tours all over Bluff Lake, the upper portion of Castle Rock and Skyline Trail. The easy version of this hike is about a two-mile hike over the mostly flat ground, not much altitude gain. This is a great hike for kids. We can even stop on the hike and I’ll teach kids a bit about our local butterflies and instruct them on the best technic to photograph butterflies. We will hike over to our Champion Lodgepole Pine; Which is the oldest and largest tree in our national forest. If you want to do the moderate hike to upper Castle Rock (Castle Rock is the most popular trail in the Big Bear Valley), this hike is available the same pricing. Us locals prefer to hike a less traveled trail starting from the top near Bluff Lake to Castle Rock. It's prettier and not a crowded hike. This hike has a lot more altitude gain and is about 4 miles round trip.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
5 reviews
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Tripadvisor
5.0
37 reviews
5★
37
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Guests will meet me at the junction of Mill Creek Road and Tulip Lane, on the south side of Big Bear Lake. There is room to park your car there on the dirt shoulder of the road. I will drive us up the dirt road through the pine forest in my SUV to where the hike begins.
About Big Bear
Big Bear is a picturesque mountain resort town in Southern California, known for its beautiful alpine lake and year-round outdoor recreational opportunities. Nestled in the San Bernardino Mountains, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.
Top Attractions
Big Bear Lake
A beautiful alpine lake offering a variety of water activities in the summer and a stunning backdrop for winter sports.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free to explore, activities vary in cost
Snow Summit Mountain Resort
A popular ski resort offering winter sports and summer activities like mountain biking and hiking.
Adventure
Half day to full day
Moderate to Expensive (lift tickets, rentals, lessons)
Big Bear Alpine Zoo
A small, unique zoo dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating injured wildlife, with a focus on alpine species.
Nature
1-2 hours
Budget ($10-$15 per adult)
The Village at Big Bear Lake
A charming downtown area with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Entertainment
A few hours to half day
Varies by activity
Big Bear Discovery Center
A visitor center and museum offering educational programs and exhibits on the local environment and history.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Free to explore, programs may have fees
Must-Try Local Dishes
Fish Tacos
A local favorite, often made with fresh local fish, crispy batter, and topped with salsa and crema.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be made with gluten-free batter and vegetarian options available.
Big Bear Burger
A classic burger with local ingredients, often topped with avocado, bacon, or other regional specialties.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian and vegan options available.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie
A decadent dessert featuring layers of chocolate and peanut butter, topped with whipped cream.
Dessert
Contains allergens (peanuts, dairy).
Popular Activities
Skiing
Snowboarding
Hiking
Mountain biking
Ziplining
Boating
Fishing
Picnicking
Best Time to Visit
December to March (winter), June to August (summer)
Winter is ideal for skiing, snowboarding, and other snow sports, while summer offers great conditions for hiking, boating, and other outdoor activities.
0°C to 20°C (winter), 15°C to 30°C (summer)
32°F to 68°F (winter), 59°F to 86°F (summer)
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Pacific Time Zone (PT, UTC-8)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Big Bear is generally a safe destination, but visitors should take common-sense precautions, especially in winter when weather conditions can be hazardous.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of weather conditions, especially in winter when snow and ice can make driving hazardous
- • Carry cash and identification at all times
- • Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash
Getting there
By air
- Ontario International Airport • 80 km (50 miles) from Big Bear
By bus
San Bernardino Transit Center
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are convenient for getting around town, but schedules are limited. Walking or biking is often a better option for exploring.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
The Village
Big Bear Lake
Moonridge
Big Bear City
Day trips
Lake Arrowhead
40 km (25 miles) • Full day
A picturesque mountain community with a beautiful lake, hiking trails, and a charming village.
Jenny's Junction and Snow Play
10 km (6 miles) • Half day
A popular spot for snow play and winter activities, with a variety of attractions and amenities.
San Bernardino National Forest
30 km (19 miles) • Full day
A vast forest offering a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and camping.
Festivals
Big Bear Blues & Jazz Festival • August
Big Bear Christmas Tree Lighting • Late November
Big Bear Lake International Film Festival • October
Pro tips
- Visit in the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) for fewer crowds and pleasant weather
- Rent a car for easy access to attractions and activities, especially in winter
- Book accommodations and activities in advance, especially during peak seasons
- Dress in layers for changing weather conditions, especially in winter
- Check weather and road conditions before planning outdoor activities, especially in winter
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
