The selection of which mountain to visit will determine the success of your Big Bear vacation. Many first-time visitors realize too late that “Big Bear Mountain Resort” is actually two distinct ski areas: Snow Summit and Bear Mountain. They are separated by about two miles of town roads.
While the two resorts operate with shared lift ticket access, guests must spend time traveling between them. Parking at the wrong base area can mean hauling gear on shuttles when you could be skiing.
This guide highlights the unique personalities of each mountain to help you pick the right slopes based on your group’s vibe.
At a Glance: The Quick Verdict
Short on time? Here is the fast breakdown to help you decide where to set your GPS.
- Choose Snow Summit if: You want long groomed runs, family zones, traditional alpine skiing, and a more relaxed environment.
- Choose Bear Mountain if: You ride park, snowboard, or want to watch high-level freestyle progression. It attracts a younger, higher-energy crowd.
- The Ticket Rule: Your big bear ski pass or single-day ticket grants access to both mountains on the same day. You do not need to buy separate tickets.
- The Distance: The resorts are roughly two miles apart, which takes 10 to 15 minutes to drive or shuttle under normal traffic conditions.
Resort Comparison Table
| Feature | Snow Summit | Bear Mountain |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Families, Beginners, Carvers | Park Riders, Snowboarders, Spectators |
| Vibe | Traditional Alpine, Relaxed | Youthful, Loud, Energetic |
| Terrain Focus | Groomed Runs, Top-to-Bottom | Terrain Parks, Jumps, Rails |
| Crowds | Skiers & Families | Teenagers & 20-somethings |
Snow Summit: The Family and Carving Hub
The traditional big bear ski resort experience lives at Snow Summit. The resort provides a classic mountain atmosphere which enables guests to ski from the highest point to the base on continuous trails. This is the best home base if your team has different skill levels or includes children.
The Terrain
Snow Summit is famous for its wide, manicured groomers. The layout is intuitive. The main base area serves as the primary funnel for most runs, which reduces the chance of getting separated from your group. You will find plenty of intermediate blue runs that allow for long, sweeping turns. For beginners, the learning area is substantial and separated from the faster through-traffic.
The Vibe and Amenities
The atmosphere here is family-oriented. You will see more parents with children and skiers concentrating on technique rather than acrobatic stunts. The base area features a spacious sundeck and dining facilities that operate like a typical ski lodge. It gets busy, but the crowd is usually looking for relaxation rather than a party.
Bear Mountain: The Freestyle Capital
Bear Mountain (often just called “Bear”) is synonymous with Southern California park culture. It was one of the first mountains to dedicate almost its entire footprint to freestyle terrain features.
The Terrain
While you can find standard runs here, the heart of Bear Mountain is its terrain parks. The resort boasts a high concentration of jumps, rails, and boxes. The park provides users with progressive features, starting with small rollers for beginners and moving up to pro-level jump lines. Note that because the terrain is so feature-dense, the flow can feel chaotic if you aren’t used to dodging park rats and tracking riders in the air.
The Deck and Culture
Bear features its own distinct environment. The main sundeck is famous for its high-energy atmosphere. On sunny weekends, it feels like a beach party with music and crowds watching riders hit the features at the base. It draws teenagers, young adults, and dedicated freestyle skiers and snowboarders looking to progress their skills.
Logistics: Shuttles and Parking
Both mountains operate under the same big bear mountain ski ownership group (an Ikon Pass destination), which allows them to share operational systems. However, moving between them requires a bit of planning.
The Inter-Resort Shuttle
A free shuttle service runs continuously between Snow Summit and Bear Mountain. According to the official resort transportation page, the shuttle is complimentary for all guests.
- Pros: Free to use and eliminates the need to move your vehicle and lose your parking spot.
- Cons: Walking in ski boots carrying gear is never fun. Wait times can vary; during peak holidays, lines may result in a wait of 20+ minutes.
Parking Strategy
Common field practice is to park at the resort where you intend to start and end your day. Moving your car midday is rarely worth the hassle due to traffic and full lots. Pick a base location, gear up—don’t forget your ski pass holder for easy scanning—and take the shuttle mid-morning before the lunch crowds arrive.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
The dual-resort system generates confusion for first-timers. Avoiding these mistakes will keep your day running smoothly.
- The “Rentals” Trap: If you rent gear at the Snow Summit base, you generally cannot return it at Bear Mountain. You must haul it back to the original rental shop. Guests who want to hop between resorts freely should consider renting from independent stores in town, as they often offer easier return options.
- The Shuttle Rush: [Experience Note] Don’t wait until the lifts close to catch the shuttle back to your car. Hundreds of others have the same plan. You could be waiting in the cold for 30 to 45 minutes. Leave the second resort 45 minutes before closing to beat the rush.
- Lesson Location: If you book a lesson, check your confirmation twice. Showing up to Bear Mountain for a class scheduled at Snow Summit will likely result in a missed session due to the transit time.
Check the full pass price breakdown to see if an Ikon Pass is worth it for your Big Bear trips.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I ski both Snow Summit and Bear Mountain on the same day?
Yes. A standard lift ticket or season pass grants access to both mountains on the same day. You can take the free shuttle between them, which takes about 10–15 minutes. Just be mindful of the shuttle schedule so you don’t get stuck at the wrong base area after hours.
Which Big Bear resort is better for beginners?
Snow Summit is generally better for beginners. It offers wider runs, dedicated learning zones, and a more traditional layout that separates slow skiers from fast traffic. Bear Mountain has beginner terrain, but the heavy presence of park features can be intimidating for true novices.
Do I need chains to drive to Big Bear ski resorts?
Yes, during winter storms, chain controls are strictly enforced by CalTrans on all routes up the mountain. You must carry chains in your vehicle even if you have 4WD or AWD. Weather in the San Bernardino Mountains can change rapidly.
Is there a shuttle between Snow Summit and Bear Mountain?
Yes, a free inter-resort shuttle runs continuously between the two base areas. It typically operates from the morning until slightly after the lifts close. Always check the daily schedule on the resort app or Big Bear Mountain Resort website.
