Big Bear trades the heat of the Los Angeles basin for a pine-ringed lake at roughly 6,700 feet, and its signature move is simply getting you outdoors in whichever season you arrive. The tours below cover ziplines, jeeps, quiet hikes, snowshoeing and a pop-up picnic.
Related: Big Bear Lake, California: A Complete Travel Guide
Top-Rated Big Bear Lake California Tours & Experiences
Big Bears Only Pop Up Picnic Light Lunch Included Amazing Lake Views
The pop-up picnic is a styled, light-filled meal setup that suits couples and celebrations rather than active travelers. Check what food and décor are included on the listing, and plan around the weather, as mountain conditions change.
Locals Tour and Hike to Bluff Lake
The local’s tour and hike to Bluff Lake is a quiet, walking-focused outing for nature lovers who want a guide’s knowledge of local wildlife and trails. Wear layers and bring water, since the altitude can tire hikers.
Best Fall Colors Hiking Tour in Southern California Big Bear
The fall colors hiking tour is timed for the seasonal change, usually in autumn, when leaves brighten the hillsides. It suits photographers and walkers. Dates matter, so check which weeks the operator runs it.
Best Snowshoe Tour Big Bear Lake with Hot Chocolate
The snowshoe tour is built for winter, with equipment and a guide who keeps beginners safe on snow. Wear waterproof boots and warm layers, and expect the pace to be slow.
Easy Wilderness Hike in Big Bear with Lake Swimming Experience After
This easy wilderness hike is a good first outing for families and beginners who want trees and views without steep climbs. Bring water and a hat, and ask about trail distance and difficulty.
As with most in-demand destinations, the best tours in Big Bear Lake California tend to sell out first, so booking a few days ahead is generally a good idea.
Browse more Big Bear Lake California tours on Viator →
What Makes These Tours Worth Booking
Big Bear is Southern California’s closest true mountain getaway, about two hours from Los Angeles, with a lake in summer and snow in winter. A guided outing adds local knowledge of trails and wildlife. The 6 priced tours have 282 reviews averaging 4.9 stars.
Zipline Tour is the most reviewed with 81 reviews, while Family-Friendly Nature Hike around the Big Bear Valley holds the best rating at 5 stars from 58 reviews.
Best Time to Book Big Bear Lake Tours
Winter brings snow and skiing at the local resorts, with snow play on weekends. Summer is lake season, with warm days and cool nights. Fall colors arrive in October, while spring can be changeable with late snow. Weekends and holidays are busy year-round.
Where to Sleep in Big Bear Lake
The village on the lake’s south shore has restaurants, shops and short walks to the water. Cabins in the surrounding pine forest are popular for groups. Big Bear City, at the east end, is quieter and generally cheaper. Mountain roads can need chains in winter.
Tour Prices in Big Bear Lake
The family nature hike at $37 is the best value, while the nine-line zipline is the most expensive at $179. Jeep tours land in between, with most prices clustering near $79. Check whether gear such as snowshoes or park passes is included.
Practical Tips Before You Book
Book zipline and jeep outings ahead for summer weekends. Wear layers, since temperatures drop quickly after sunset. Altitude can cause headaches, so drink water and take it easy on the first day.
Big Bear Lake Tours: Quick Answers
Is Big Bear Lake good for a weekend trip from LA?
Yes, the drive takes about two hours without heavy traffic. Tours here run from $37 to $179, so you can combine a hike, a jeep tour or a snow outing in two days.
Which Big Bear tour has the best reviews?
Family-Friendly Nature Hike around the Big Bear Valley is rated 5 from 58 reviews, and Zipline Tour is the most reviewed with 81. Both are well proven, though the rest of the list also scores highly.
Do I need snow chains in Big Bear?
In winter, mountain roads may require chains or snow tires, so check conditions before you drive. Tours that run in snow usually advise what to bring.
Are Big Bear hikes suitable for kids?
The family nature hike and the easy wilderness hike suit children, but check age and distance details. Bring water and layers for changing mountain weather.
Write Your Review
No reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience!