SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — Big Bear Mountain Resort is widely considered the nearest major ski resort destination for those living in San Diego — and it’s a lot more accessible than you might think.
The resort invited guests for opening day on Thursday, Dec. 4, and the ski lifts will now be operating daily for the remainder of the season.
Getting there
The drive from San Diego to Big Bear Lake — where the resort is located — is roughly 147-170 miles, depending on the route taken. Under normal driving conditions, that’s about 2.5 to 3 hours of driving.
Resort officials suggest the following pathway for those coming from San Diego:
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Take northbound Interstate 15, merge onto northbound Interstate 215 N, then take Interstate 10 east to Interstate 210 west to access Highway 330.
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Highway 330 goes through Running Springs and turns into Highway 18.
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Once you reach Big Bear Lake Dam, continue straight onto Highway 18/Big Bear Boulevard, or turn left and take Highway 38 to Fawnskin.
(Directions courtesy of Big Bear Mountain Resorts)
With the resort’s location just a few hours away, Big Bear Mountain is one of the most realistic “get-out-of-town for snow” destinations for San Diegans wanting a day-trip or weekend escape — much quicker than higher-elevation resorts further north.
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What the resort offers
Big Bear Mountain Resort includes multiple ski areas under what’s known as “the Big Bear umbrella” — most notably Bear Mountain and Snow Valley, along with Snow Summit.
Mountain details
Snow Valley
Snow Valley base area map. (Courtesy of Big Bear Mountain Resorts)
Snow Valley has 240 skiable acres, with a base elevation of 6,800 feet and a peak elevation of 7,841 feet, according to the resort.
With 32 trails, the longest run on Snow Summit — known as Bubble Gum — is nearly a half-mile.
This mountain is 14% for begginners, 45% for intermediate skiers and 41% for those considered advanced.
Snow Summit
Snow Summit base area map. (Courtesy of Big Bear Mountain Resorts)
Snow Summit also has 240 skiable acres, with a base elevation of 7,000 feet and a peak elevation of 8,200 feet, according to the resort.
This mountain has 33 trails and its longest run — referred to as Westridge — is 1.25 miles.
Resort officials say Snow Summit is 35% for beginners, 40% for intermediate levels and 25% for advanced or expert skiers.
Bear Mountain
Bear Mountain base area map. (Courtesy of Big Bear Mountain Resorts)
Bear Mountain offers slightly less skiable acres than its two counterparts, with 196 total down the slopes. However, its height surpasses its neighbors, with base elevation at 7,140 feet and the tippy top hitting 8,805 feet up.
This mountain offers the longest run, with the descent — fittingly called Geronimo — at 1.5 miles.
Bear Mountain is 30% for beginners, 40% for intermediate, with advanced and experts skiing marking 30%.
Tubing and snow play
Big Bear Mountain Resort also offers alternative options for the non-skiers.
Visit the Coyote Creek Tube Park and Snow Play area at Snow Valley or the Grizzly Ridge Tube Park at Snow Summit. These areas are family-friendly and offer a great option for fun in the snow without having to take a ski lift.
Resort officials say these activities are very popular and oftentimes sell out. Tickets must be purchased online, at least one day prior to arrival.
Pass pricing
With the slopes now open, Big Bear Mountain Resort has released full pricing and details for its 2025–26 season passes — and officials say some passes are only available for a limited time.
Season passes provide unlimited or season-long access depending on tier, along with perks like direct-to-lift access and in-resort discounts — benefits not available with single or multi-day lift tickets.
Here’s a quick breakdown of season pass options:
Ikon Pass
This pass permits access to Snow Valley, Snow Summit and Bear Mountain with no blackout dates — plus over 50 additional destinations worldwide. The last day to purchase an Ikon Pass is Dec. 11. Pricing is as follows:
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Teens, young adults (age 13–22): $1,179
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College students, retired military, nurses: $1,139
There are two lower tier versions of this pass: the Ikon Base Pass and the Ikon Session Passes.
BBMR Anytime Pass
This option includes unlimited winter access at Snow Valley, Snow Summit and Bear Mountain with no blackout dates. Pricing is as follows:
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80+: $29 (must purchase in person)
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College students, retired military: $739
BBMR passes will remain on sale until mid- to late-December (exact cutoff still to be announced).
Snow Valley Anytime Pass
The pass option offers unlimited winter access at Snow Valley only, including Night Sessions at Snow Valley. Pricing is as follows:
This pass is not offered to those age 4 or under.
Resort leaders are urging skiers and riders not to wait, noting that passes can be used immediately once purchased.
BBMR Midweek Pass
The offering allows Monday-Friday access at Snow Valley, Snow Summit and Bear Mountain. It also includes all Night Sessions with limited blackout dates during the holidays (Dec. 22-26, 2025; Dec. 29, 2025; Jan. 2, 2026). Pricing is as follows:
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College students, retired military: $449
This pass is not offered to those age 4 or under.
Lift tickets
Lift tickets allow access to the slopes. Single and multi-day day lift tickets are available for those who do not wish to purchase season passes.
Prices vary based on the day of the week and when the ticket is purchased. Prices range from $129 to $158 for adults, while children, teens and seniors are offered discounted rates.
A full calendar of daily rates can be found here.
Also worth mentioning, Kids Ski Free Week at the resort is Dec. 6-12. This offering is for those age 12 and under.
For San Diego residents, Big Bear Mountain Resort stands out as one of the most convenient ski resorts during the winter season. For more information or to secure passes, visit bigbearmountainresort.com/.
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