Thinking about a trip to Snow Summit? The immediate picture that comes to mind when one thinks of Snow Summit is probably skiing, snowboarding, and other snow-related activities.
While this is certainly the biggest draw to the area, it certainly isn’t the only thing going on! This breathtakingly beautiful area of the country provides a wealth of activities to thrill just about anyone.
But first, let’s find out a little about the history of the area.
The Beginnings of Snow Summit
Located in the San Bernardino Mountains in Southern California, Snow Summit was established in 1952.
It’s one of the largest and most popular ski resorts in SoCal.
For many years, Snow Summit and its sister resort, Bear Mountain, existed independently of each other, but in 2002, Snow Summit purchased Bear Mountain, and the two together gained a new moniker-Big Bear Mountain Resorts.
This relationship is beneficial to patrons, as lift tickets can be used at each spot and a free bus carries visitors between locations.
Snow Summit Stats
- The top elevation at Snow Summit is 8, 174 feet.
- It boasts 240 acres of skiable area with 31 total runs.
- The longest run is Westridge, at 1.25 miles.
- There are 14 lifts, which serve 18, 550 passengers per hour.
- The snowfall is 100 inches, which is almost exclusively human-made via a multi-million-dollar snowmaking system that utilizes water from Big Bear Lake.
Winter Attractions
It seems obvious, right?
Snow Summit’s skiing, snowboarding, and tubing are legendary in SoCal.
Skiing and snowboarding
In addition to the normal schedule, Snow Summit also offers night sessions.
Upper Miracle Mile, Summit Run, and Westridge Park are all open to skiers and snowboarders who wish to take in some of the brisk night air.
Lessons for beginners and ski and snowboard rentals are also available.
Tubing
The Grizzly Ridge Tubing Park offers a tube lift so that you can use your energy blazing down the lanes in a high-speed tube.
Summer At Snow Summit
Skiing and snowboarding are certainly the main draws to Snow Summit, but they aren’t the only ways to have fun.
The resort offers a full range of enjoyable summer activities.
Biking
–Mountain bikers will be thrilled with the more than 40 miles of US Forest Service roads and trails.
Don’t worry If you’re a newbie! Snow Summit offers MTB lessons.
-For the cross-country bikers, there are over 60 miles of professionally built trails.
Some of the famous cross-country trails offered include Mountain Top Trail, Fern’s, and Pirates.
-Snow Summit boasts the only downhill bike park in Southern California served by a lift.
This unique park features berms, step-ups, and bridges, as well as a mix of differing terrain and runs.
If traveling with a bike isn’t an option, the resort also offers bike rentals.
Scenic Sky Chair
If you’re wondering where to get the best views of Big Bear, the Sky Chair is the answer. It offers visitors of all ages the chance to experience a mile-long ride through the San Bernardino National Forest.
Once you reach the top of the mountain, you can have a bite to eat at the Skyline Taphouse. Enjoy the scenery while you’re indulging in some BBQ or an adult beverage.
Hiking
With various trails stretching across Snow Summit, you can enjoy a picturesque view of Big Bear Valley, and log some miles.
You have choices when it comes to trails!
–Log Chute Trail will take you through the towering trees and across dormant ski runs. Length: 1.4 miles
–Mountain Top Loop is a one-mile loop at the top of Snow Summit. It stops and starts at the Skyline Taphouse restaurant. Length: 1 mile
–Three Mile Mountain Top Loop is just right for those hikers seeking a little more mileage. Length: 3 miles
Climbing Wall
This new addition is appropriate for climbers of all ages and abilities.
Euro-Bungy
Anyone who thinks it’s fun to jump and bounce will enjoy this trampoline experience. Young, older, or somewhere in between, you’ll have a good time!
Golf
The Bear Mountain Golf Course is nine holes of mountain splendor. The high altitude (7,000 feet) will work wonders for your distance, and the view of the San Bernardino Mountains can’t be beaten.
Location and Directions
Snow Summit is located at 880 Summit Boulevard, Big Bear Lake, California
Directions to Snow Summit from Tom Wohrman Sports:
- Head northeast on Big Bear Blvd. toward Bonanza Trail. (1.6 miles)
- Turn right onto Summit Blvd. (0.5 miles)
- Turn right onto Forest Trail. (361 feet)
- Arrive at Snow Summit Ski Resort.
Snow Summit has something for every age, skill level, or interest. Winter or summer, you won’t lack for interesting activities to keep you busy!
