The perfect Big Bear Lake summer weekend itinerary
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Not a bad view from Castle Rock Trail. Photo: Kate Murphy/Axios
Big Bear Lake is a popular destination for a cozy snowy mountain weekend getaway. But I recently discovered its summertime magic.
The big picture: It's a two- to three-hour drive from San Diego, with scenic mountain views through the San Bernardino National Forest on winding roads lined with wildflowers.
- The alpine lake surrounded by pine forests is prime for recreational water sports and outdoor activities.
Here's some itinerary inspo for a trip you should absolutely take:
🥾Hike Castle Rock Trail or Peak. It's a steep climb with some rocky terrain, but you don't need to get all the way to the top for stunning views.
- Try the town trail or around Boulder Bay Park for a more leisurely scenic walk.
🛥️ Get out on the lake — kayak, paddle board, jet ski, wakeboard or relax on a pontoon.
🚠 🍻 Ride the sky chair up to Snow Summit (elevation: 8,200 feet) and have a beer on the deck at Skyline Taphouse.
🚵 Go mountain biking down the trails at Snow Summit or Snow Valley.
🍩 Get breakfast at Dank Donuts.
🥪 Eat a massive sandwich on homemade focaccia at Amangela's.
🛍️ 🎶 Stroll through shops, listen to live music and sit on a patio at restaurants and bars in The Village.
- Consider Saucy Mama's Pizzeria, Himalayan Restaurant, Teddy Bear and 572 Social.
🍫 Enjoy the rich fudge, caramel apples and chocolate-covered treats at the North Pole Fudge & Ice Cream Co.
- Try the tiger butter crunch fudge — and buy enough to take home.
🐶 Plus, Big Bear is dog-friendly, so bring your pup on the adventure.
