Big Bear City, Mountain census-designated place in San Bernardino County, United States.
Big Bear City is a mountain settlement in the San Bernardino Mountains at roughly 6,800 feet (2,100 meters) elevation, surrounded by pine forests and alpine meadows. The area contains lakes, trails, and ski runs that form the backbone of outdoor recreation for residents and visitors.
The Serrano people lived in this region for thousands of years before European settlement, establishing deep roots in the mountain landscape. The settlement later emerged as a logging community and gradually transformed into a recreation-focused mountain town.
The place centers on outdoor recreation and mountain living, where skiing and hiking shape how people spend their time throughout the seasons. You'll notice this rhythm in local shops, lodges, and how the community organizes around seasonal activities.
The area is most accessible during dry months, though winter visits require winter tires or chains on mountain roads. Plan for sudden weather changes at this elevation and allow time to acclimate to the altitude.
A solar research observatory operates at the summit, taking advantage of the clear mountain air to study the sun in detail. This facility makes the location one of the few places globally where such specialized solar observations happen continuously.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
