Local Big Bear Guide
15 Things To Do in Big Bear This January
January is upon us, and if your new year's resolution is to have more adventures, then a vacation may be in order. Big Bear, nestled in the San Bernardino Mountains, is Southern California's premier vacation getaway with no shortage of adventure. A roughly two-hour drive from Los Angeles and a two-and-a-half-hour drive from San Diego, Big Bear is the perfect weekend escape this winter.
Trek Big Bear's famous hiking trails. Big Bear is famous for its rich trail system winding around Big Bear Lake and into the wilderness beyond. January's weather gives outdoor enthusiasts a unique way to experience this popular hiking destination, with snow-covered slopes and glistening peaks. Plus, the volume of hikers is lower in the winter months, meaning you'll have this winter wonderland mostly to yourself. Try Castle Rock Trail, Cougar Crest Trail, the Alpine Pedal Path, or Pine Knot Trail.
Visit the Big Bear Discovery Center, the largest visitor center serving the Big Bear Valley. Stop by for information about the area, children's events, or guided nature hikes led by naturalists, and pick up your Forest Adventure Pass.
Go sledding or snow tubing. Book a stay with Sessions and enjoy wintery fun at your doorstep. Locals and guests enjoy free sledding on our property in the winter, and Big Bear Snow Play offers snow tubing, plus glow tubing under multicolored lights at night.
See the animals at the Big Bear Alpine Zoo, a family-friendly spot with bald eagles, black bears, grizzly bears, and more, devoted to rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing them.
Walk on frozen water, snowshoeing of course. Pick up a rental at Goldsmith's Sports or join a guided eco-tour at the Big Bear Discovery Center.
Satisfy your need for speed at Magic Mountain, with go-karts, tubing, and the alpine slide.
Treat your tastebuds at one of Big Bear's many eateries. From Italian to Japanese, Thai to Nepalese, you'll have no shortage of cuisines to try.
Take in the sights at Boulder Bay Park, a free spot with walking trails and a picturesque view of Big Bear Lake.
Shred some pow at a ski resort. Big Bear Mountain Resort encompasses Bear Mountain and Snow Summit, with slopes from green to double black diamond.
Enjoy a steamy hot sauna. At Sessions, our infrared and steam sauna will help you recharge so you can get back to adventuring.
Shop til you drop. The Village is a shopping center at the heart of Big Bear with over 120 vendors, plus unique spots like Gold Rush Mining Co.
Plan a picnic at one of Big Bear's picnic areas. Bear Cupboards Market in The Village has the snack and libation essentials.
Admire Big Bear's flora and fauna at Stanfield Marsh Wildlife and Waterfowl Reserve, with a gorgeous boardwalk and stunning views.
Bowl it up at Bowling Barn, which also offers ice skating, mini-golf, and laser tag.
Test your puzzle-solving skills at one of Big Bear's themed escape rooms.
If you're looking to ring in the new year on an adventurous note, Big Bear is the place to be. Sessions Retreat is your base for adventure and sanctuary for rejuvenation this January.
Make Sessions your base camp.
Comfortable rooms, cabins, and group lodging in the heart of Big Bear.