A Local's Favorite Hike in Big Bear with Lake Swimming Experience
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This is really a local's favorite hike in Big Bear that goes to one of the least known scenic lake viewpoints in Big Bear.
What is the best time to do after a sweaty summertime hike? Swim off a dock in the beautiful Big Bear Lake Harbor! The lake water is actually warmer to swim here than in the middle of the lake. One thing a lot of travelers don't know, if you rent a boat on Big Bear Lake (Very pricy) you can not swim off the rental boats. This is a great summertime experience after a hike on a hot day to get to cool off in alpine Big Bear Lake
If my guests would like to picnic off the boat afterwards they can bring lunch, beer, drinks. I will bring an ice chest for them to put their lunch in while we are hiking. I will even walk to a nearby fantastic restaurant in the village (As a foodie, I know all the best restaurants in Big Bear) & pickup to-go lunches for my hikers to enjoy on the boat after the hike if requested (For this service, hikers must Venmo me to pay for their meals)
Available options
A Local's Favorite Hike in Big Bear with Lake Swimming Experience
What's included
Life jackets
Parking fees at dock included
Boat to lounge on
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
24 reviews
5★
24
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Kids under 13 years old they must wear a life jacket while on the dock or swimming per California law.
You can also bring fishing gear if you wish to fish off of our dock.
Meeting point
My hikers can meet me at the corner of Mill Creek and Tulip. I'll be in a black Subaru SUV. From here they can follow me in my vehicle to the hiking destination. We will hike for about an hour, then my guests can follow me in their vehicle to the boat docked in the harbor a short distance away.
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
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