Outdoor Family Fun this Spring

Spring time in Big Bear is a great mix of seasonal fun. Skiing and snow tubing often extend into April and Big Bear Lake comes to life with fishing, kayaking, boating, and more April 1 when many marinas open for the year. The spring forest beckons with its fresh wildflowers making for beautiful hiking and biking. Spring is Big Bear's shoulder season and tends to see fewer crowds and lower lodging rates. Once you've booked your stay, consider these activities:

Top 10 Outdoor Family Fun Activities

1. Hiking

Available year round, hiking trails offer an opportunity for little ones to discover the natural world. Be sure to bring sunblock, appropriate footwear, and water. Some trailhead parking lots require an Adventure Pass which can be purchased at our Visitor Center. Please help us preserve our environment and be sure all water bottles, food wrappers, and other litter make it into your backpack and out of the forest.

2. Biking

Bike rentals are available from many shops but Goldsmith's Sports, Paddles & Pedals, and Bear Valley Bikes offer all the biking equipment you could imagine from e-bikes, to downhill bikes, kids carriers and safety equipment. Once you're ready to cruise, see our Trails page to choose your route.

3. Kayaking

Kayak and canoe outings on Big Bear Lake can be enjoyed by anyone. Bring your own (be sure to purchase your lake permit from BBMWD) or rent one for the day from Big Bear Lake's many marinas.

4. Fishing

Big Bear Lake is a hub for freshwater fishing and spring is the best season for reeling in the rainbow trout. Take the kiddos on their first fishing excursion or get expert help from a charter fishing guide.

5. Jet Skiing

Make waves as you zoom around on a high speed jet ski. Spring lake activities may be chilly so consider a wet suit when planning to get soaked.

6. Big Bear Zoo

Big Bear Alpine Zoo mixes family fun with education in wildlife preservation and sustainability.

7. Family Entertainment

Head to Alpine Slide Big Bear for a thrilling ride on the Alpine Slide and Mineshaft Coaster! These taboggan experiences allow the rider to control their sled down a twisting, turning high-speed track. The center also features a Go-Kart track, Soaring Eagle ride, and Miniature Golf. Big Bear Summer Tubing, Speedway & Ropes Course features more Go-Kart fun and a sky-high ropes course with numerous obstacles and challenges.

8. Scavenger Hunts

Learn about Big Bear and enjoy the beautiful scenery as you go! Check out Urban Adventure Quest and Riddle Routes with friends and family.

9. Farmer's Market

Every Tuesday from 8 AM to 1:30 PM, the Bear Valley Farmers Market sets up shop at the Big Bear Lake Convention Center. The freshest local produce, handcrafted breads and hummuses, carefully blended coffees and teas, and artisan wares fill the parking lot from April through September.

10. Bear Valley Historical Museum

The Bear Valley Historical Museum was founded in November of 1967 by a small group of people who wished to preserve the colorful past of this beautiful valley. Located at the northeast end of Big Bear City Park off Greenway Drive. The museum is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

No matter the adventure you embark on in Big Bear Lake, there is bound to be a ton of fun for the entire family to enjoy!