What's the Best Way to Get to Big Bear?
There are four routes up the mountain from the Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego areas.
- The “Front” Way: The green squiggle on the map above (the 330) will take you directly up. Be aware, though, that is a twisty-turvy drive and can be quite crowded on busy weekends. Check the timing on all of the routes up, including the three others below.
- The “Scenic” Way: Highway 38 through Redlands connects directly to the city of Big Bear. It’s an easy and pleasant drive, and kinder to those prone to carsickness or anxiety over the front-way drive. This usually only adds about 30 minutes to the drive over the faster and winding front way.
- The “Easy” Way: Head up the 15 North until you hit the 18 at Bear Valley Road. You’ll go through the Cajon Pass, then ride the 18 through the desert. (Note: From Las Vegas, this is the quickest route.)
- The “Lake Arrowhead” Way: This route bypasses where the 330 is closed. This is actually the most direct way to get to Snow Valley (the blue dot, above). You’ll take the Waterman/CA-18 exit off the 210 and loop below Lake Arrowhead. This route reconnects with “the front way” at Running Springs.
Be Prepared to Drive in the Snow!
Always carry tire chains (it’s the law) and make sure to check out the Big Bear Lake weather and CalTrans road conditions before you hit the road, so you’ll know what you’re in for. Conditions can change quickly in the mountains!
A good tip on chains is to look up and order your car’s exact size online at O’Reilly Auto Parts. (Make sure you “Select or Add a Vehicle” to get the right ones.) If the chains end up unused and are still in the original packaging, you can return them for a refund after you get back. (Keep your original receipt!)
