Things To Do In The Fall in Big Bear

Things To Do In The Fall in Big Bear

Things To Do In The Fall in Big Bear: Your Ultimate Seasonal Guide

If you’re looking for Things to Do in Big Bear, you can’t go wrong with visiting this fall! As the vibrant green leaves of summer give way to the rich, warm hues of autumn, Big Bear Lake, located in Southern California, becomes a haven for those seeking to enjoy the crisp fall air and the colorful foliage. Fall in Big Bear sees a drop in the summer crowds, making it an ideal time to explore the area’s natural beauty and partake in seasonal activities. Big Bear Lake offers a range of outdoor adventures, from hiking the scenic Castle Rock Trail with its breathtaking views and distinctive rock formations to experiencing the thrills of a zip line tour above the forest canopy, providing a unique perspective of the autumn landscape.

Visitors to Big Bear in the fall can also immerse themselves in local cultural events such as the long-standing Oktoberfest, which brings together the community and visitors alike to celebrate with traditional German food, music, and dance. Furthermore, for those looking for a more relaxing experience, the town offers tranquil spots around the lake for picnicking and wildlife observation, as the region’s fauna prepares for the upcoming winter.

The autumn season in Big Bear provides an array of activities suited for families, couples, and solo travelers looking to enjoy the outdoors before the winter snow transforms the landscape once again.

Exploring The Great Outdoors

Big Bear Lake provides a picturesque autumn setting where visitors can engage in a variety of outdoor activities amid the changing foliage.

Hiking Trails

Big Bear Lake’s fall season is an ideal time for hiking, with The Castle Rock Trail being a prominent 2.5-mile path that offers sweeping views of the lake and vibrant autumn colors. Trails range from easy to challenging, ensuring options for all fitness levels.

  • Easy: Woodland Interpretative Trail (1.5 miles)
  • Moderate: Pine Knot Trail (6 miles)
  • Challenging: Cougar Crest Trail (5.5 miles)

For a MUCH more Detailed Guide to Big Bears Hiking Trails, See: Best Big Bear Hiking Trails: A Guide for All Seasons

Fishing Spots

The cool fall weather brings excellent opportunities for fishing in Big Bear Lake. Anglers can expect to catch trout, bass, and catfish at prime fishing spots such as:

  • Boulder Bay Park: Ideal for shore fishing.
  • Veteran’s Park: A popular location with picnic areas.
  • Stanfield Marsh: Offers a peaceful fishing experience.

Biking Routes

Mountain biking enthusiasts will discover an array of trails suitable for different skill levels. During fall, the lower temperatures provide a comfortable biking experience. Some note-worthy paths include:

  • Skyline Trail: A scenic route stretching along the mountain ridgeline.
  • Snow Summit Mountain Biking Park: Offers professionally designed routes and lift service.

Autumn Events

Big Bear is brimming with seasonal celebrations, offering a wealth of autumnal events that capture the essence of fall. These gatherings range from traditional Bavarian festivities to family-oriented harvest fun.

Oktoberfest

Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest has established itself as one of the region’s most anticipated fall events. Held annually, visitors can immerse themselves in authentic German food, live music, and a selection of craft beers. The event typically runs from September through the end of October, offering weekend entertainment that honors age-old traditions.

Fall Festival

The Big Bear Lake Fall Festival transforms the village into an autumn haven. The festival features decorative displays, activities, and local vendors showcasing their products. Patrons can experience the fall harvest theme throughout the season, engaging in activities suitable for all ages.

Pumpkin Patch Outings

For a quintessential fall activity, families can enjoy pumpkin patch outings at various farms around Big Bear. These excursions often include hayrides, corn mazes, and the opportunity to pick your own pumpkin. Seasonal treats and crafts add to the festive atmosphere, making it a perfect weekend retreat for families and friends.

Culinary Experiences

Big Bear offers a diverse range of culinary delights, from cozy local eateries and craft breweries to charming wineries. Culinary adventures are abundant for food enthusiasts seeking to savor the flavors of fall.

Local Dining

Big Bear’s local dining scene showcases a variety of restaurants where visitors can enjoy hearty mountain cuisine.

Teddy Bear Restaurant is known for its home-style comfort foods, serving dishes like chicken pot pie and homemade meatloaf. Another hidden gem, The Pines Lakefront, offers fine dining with a view, where one can taste freshly prepared seafood and steak dishes by the lake.

Brewery Tours

Craft beer connoisseurs can explore Big Bear’s brewery offerings. Big Bear Lake Brewing Company not only provides a selection of seasonal and year-round brews but also combines their craft beers with a delicious gastropub menu, ensuring guests have an unforgettable flavor experience.

For those seeking a personalized journey, smaller establishments like Big Bear Mountain Brewery offer a more intimate setting to taste unique, locally brewed ales and lagers.

Winery Visits

Winery visits are a delightful escapade for those looking to enjoy the ambiance of Big Bear with a glass of wine. Visitors can venture to Whispering Pines Winery for a taste of locally produced wines in an inviting, rustic setting.

The winery features a variety of reds, whites, and dessert wines, each crafted to reflect the distinct flavors of the region. Wine enthusiasts can indulge in tastings and bring home their favorite bottles as a remembrance of their autumnal retreat.

Leisure Activities

Big Bear amplifies the fall experience with leisure activities that cater to relaxation and a chance to absorb the tranquil environment. Whether it’s browsing unique shops, indulging in a spa day, or taking a leisurely drive, visitors have excellent options to unwind and enjoy the season’s beauty.

Shopping in The Village

Big Bear Village

The Village in Big Bear is a hub for shopping enthusiasts, offering a variety of stores selling everything from souvenirs to high-end apparel. Unique Gifts and Local Crafts can be found in boutique shops, ideal for visitors looking to take a piece of Big Bear home with them.

Spa Retreats

To rejuvenate during the fall, visitors can head to one of Big Bear’s Spa Retreats. They offer a range of services, from massages to facials, tailored to provide a relaxing escape amidst the mountain scenery.

Scenic Drive

A leisurely drive around Big Bear Lake or through the surrounding mountains offers some of the most Breathtaking Views of fall foliage. This activity is perfect for those who enjoy serene environments and the colorful tapestry of the season.

  • Rim of the World Drive: Majestic views of the valley.
  • North Shore Drive: Peaceful lake vistas.

Adventure Sports

Fall in Big Bear offers an array of adventure sports that attract enthusiasts seeking both thrills and the beauty of the season.

Zip Lining

Big Bear Zip Line Tour

Thrill-seekers can experience Big Bear from a unique vantage point as they zip through the trees. Special offers, such as a 10% discount when booking online, provide additional incentives to enjoy this family-friendly activity.

Offroading

Big Bear Gold Mountain Trail

Experience offroading on trails like Dishpan Springs and Gold Mountain Trail (pictured above, with my Jeep Gladiator!), ranging from beginner to challenging routes. The John Bull Trail is recommended for experienced drivers seeking a thrilling offroad experience.

Holcomb Valley Trail

  • Difficulty: Easy to Intermediate
  • Highlights: Ideal for beginners and those looking for a less intense offroading experience. The trail offers a mix of easy stretches with a few challenges along the way.
  • Scenery: The trail goes through the historic Holcomb Valley, providing glimpses of old mining sites and natural beauty.
  • Length: Varies, with multiple routes and loops available

Dishpan Springs Trail

  • Difficulty: Intermediate to Advanced
  • Highlights: Known for its challenging rock crawls and steep inclines, Dishpan Springs Trail offers a thrilling experience. It’s a great trail for drivers looking to test their vehicle’s capabilities and their driving skills.
  • Scenery: The trail features beautiful forest views and occasionally, streams crossing the path.
  • Length: Approximately 4.5 miles

Gold Mountain Trail

  • Difficulty: Intermediate
  • Highlights: This trail provides a mix of technical challenges and scenic vistas. It’s perfect for offroaders who enjoy a bit of a challenge without the extremes of more advanced trails.
  • Scenery: Expect stunning views of Big Bear Valley and the surrounding mountains.
  • Length: Roughly 4.5 miles

John Bull Trail

  • Difficulty: Advanced
  • Highlights: Recommended for experienced drivers, this trail is known for its rugged terrain and technical obstacles. It’s one of the most challenging trails in Big Bear.
  • Scenery: The trail runs through dense forests and offers occasional clearings with breathtaking views.
  • Length: About 6.5 miles

Each of these trails offers a unique offroading experience, catering to different skill levels and preferences. Always remember to follow trail rules, respect the environment, and ensure your vehicle is properly equipped for the challenges of each trail.

Disclaimer: Essential Offroading Advice for Big Bear Trails

Before embarking on any offroading adventures in Big Bear, it’s crucial to note a few key points for your safety and enjoyment:

  • 4×4 Requirement: Most offroading trails in Big Bear are challenging and require a 4×4 vehicle. These vehicles are equipped to handle the rough terrain, steep inclines, and potential obstacles you might encounter on the trails.
  • Research is Key: We strongly advise thoroughly researching each trail before your trip. Understand the trail’s difficulty level, current conditions, and any unique challenges it may present. This preparation will help ensure that the trail matches your skill level and that you’re adequately equipped for the journey.
  • Never Go Alone: Offroading alone can be risky, especially on unfamiliar or challenging trails. It’s best to go with a group or at least one other vehicle. This ensures that you have assistance available in case of any difficulties or emergencies.

Remember, safety is paramount. Always respect trail rules, stay on designated paths, and protect the natural environment. Happy and safe offroading!

Horseback Riding

Those looking for a more grounded adventure can engage in horseback riding. Riders of all skill levels can traverse scenic trails, reveling in the autumn colors and serene environment of Big Bear.

Cultural Attractions

In the autumn, Big Bear’s cultural scene comes alive with an array of artistic and historical offerings. Visitors have the opportunity to immerse themselves in local art and delve into the region’s storied past through various curated experiences.

Art Galleries

Big Bear Art Garden: A serene outdoor space that showcases sculptures and paintings from local artists. Visitors can enjoy the crisp fall weather while perusing diverse art pieces.

The Village Art Walk: Held in the heart of Big Bear, this event takes place during selected dates in the fall and features an array of local artists and craftsmen, with their works available for viewing and purchase.

Historical Museums

Big Bear Historical Museum: It provides an extensive look into the mountain community’s history, from its Native American roots to its development as a vacation destination.

Big Bear Valley’s Old Miners Museum: This museum focuses on the Gold Rush era, offering exhibits on mining techniques and the everyday life of the people who lived during that time.

Nature And Wildlife

In the fall, Big Bear offers an enriching natural environment, where visitors can enjoy wildlife viewing against a backdrop of vibrant autumn foliage.

Bear Watching

Visitors to Big Bear Lake during fall can increase their chances of spotting black bears as they prepare for hibernation. Bear sightings are more common in areas away from the town, especially in the early morning or late evening hours. It’s important for visitors to maintain a safe distance and not to feed the bears, ensuring a natural and respectful observation of these magnificent creatures.

Bird Watching

Big Bear Lake is a haven for bird enthusiasts, with a diverse bird population that includes migratory and native species. Fall brings the sight of various birds such as bald eagles, ospreys, and woodpeckers. The prime locations for bird watching include the Stanfield Marsh Wildlife and Waterfowl Preserve and the surrounding National Forest lands. Visitors are encouraged to bring binoculars for a chance to observe these birds in their natural habitat.

Seasonal Photography

Autumn in Big Bear offers photographers a palette of vibrant colors. During this season, the landscape undergoes a dramatic transformation, presenting unique opportunities for capturing stunning images.

Capture Fall Colors

The fall season in Big Bear is marked by a breathtaking display of fall foliage with trees showcasing shades of gold, crimson, and orange. Photographers can take advantage of the changing Aspens, Maples, and Oaks. Prime locations for snapping these autumn hues include:

  • Castle Rock Trail: for a mix of vivid foliage and grand boulders.
  • Woodland Trails: where the forest floor is often blanketed in fallen leaves.

Sunset Points

Photographers seeking the perfect autumnal sunset shot can head to the following vantages:

  • Snow Summit: offers expansive views of the lake against the backdrop of fiery skies.
  • Stanfield Marsh Boardwalk: ideal for capturing reflections of the sunset on the water with reeds and wildlife in the foreground.

For the best results, sunset enthusiasts should arrive early to secure a spot as these locations can be popular during the fall season.

Relaxation And Wellness

Big Bear’s serene landscape provides an ideal setting for relaxation and wellness activities. Here, tranquility is the natural order, and opportunities for restorative practices abound.

Yoga Retreats

Big Bear hosts yoga retreats that cater to both beginners and seasoned practitioners. These retreats take place in picturesque locations, offering a chance to enhance one’s yoga practice while being surrounded by the calming effects of nature. Participants can expect to find a variety of options, from intensive weekend workshops to gentle daily classes.

  • Location: Various, often with scenic views
  • Frequency: Seasonal retreats & regular classes
  • Focus: Mind-body connection, fitness, peace

Meditation Spots

Meditation is a harmonious fit for the tranquil environment of Big Bear. Reflective spots by the lake, quiet nooks in the forest, or even designated areas in local wellness centers serve as perfect settings for meditation. Whether individuals seek guided sessions or solitary peace, they can find a space conducive to mindfulness and relaxation.

  • Highlights: Lakeside views, forest retreats
  • Offerings: Guided meditations, silent spaces

Accommodation Tips

When visiting Big Bear during the fall, securing the right accommodation is key to enhancing your experience. One should consider the type of lodging that suits their needs, whether it be the privacy of a cabin or the convenience of a hotel.

Cabin Rentals

Cabin rentals in Big Bear offer a cozy and often rustic experience that can enhance the mountain getaway vibe. They range from small, intimate settings perfect for couples to larger properties that can accommodate families and groups. Availability can vary, but booking in advance, especially for weekends, is recommended as fall is a popular season due to the changing foliage.

  • Benefits of Cabin Rentals:
    • Privacy: Generally more secluded than hotels.
    • Space: More room for larger groups and families.
    • Amenities: Many cabins come equipped with kitchens, fireplaces, and hot tubs.
  • Booking Tips:
    • Check for Deals: Some rentals offer discounts, such as 10% off when booked online.
    • Location: Consider proximity to fall activities like hiking trails or the village.

Hotel Advice

Hotels in Big Bear can vary from luxury offerings to budget-friendly options. They provide amenities such as daily housekeeping, on-site dining, and sometimes recreational facilities like pools or fitness centers. When selecting a hotel, considering its location is important, as staying close to Big Bear Lake or in the village can be beneficial for accessing events like Oktoberfest or nearby dining options.

  • What to Look for in a Hotel:
    • Ratings & Reviews: Look for highly-rated hotels to ensure a pleasant stay.
    • Cancellation Policy: Fall weather can be unpredictable, making flexible booking essential.
  • What to Consider:
    • Weather-readiness: Hotels with good heating systems are a must in the cooler fall climate.
    • Event Accessibility: Some hotels are closer to key events like the longstanding Big Bear Oktoberfest.

Frequently Asked Questions

Big Bear offers a variety of fall activities that cater to all preferences, whether it’s taking in the stunning fall foliage, enjoying free outdoor adventures, or participating in unique seasonal events.

What are the best activities to experience fall foliage in Big Bear?

Visitors can experience the vibrant fall colors in Big Bear through zip-lining or hiking. The action tours provide a dynamic perspective of the autumn scenery while gliding through the trees.

Which trails offer the most scenic views of Big Bear’s autumn colors?

The Castle Rock Trail is a popular 2.5-mile hike offering panoramic views of Big Bear Lake and its surrounds, particularly stunning with fall colors.

What can visitors do for free in Big Bear during the fall season?

Families can enjoy hiking or biking on the numerous trails around Big Bear. These activities require no fees and provide opportunities to see wildlife and the changing leaves.

How does the weather in Big Bear affect outdoor activities in October?

October sees cooler temperatures and visitors should prepare for a range of conditions including possible flash floods; it is advisable to bring warm clothing, a raincoat, and waterproof shoes for outdoor activities.

Are there any special events or festivals in Big Bear during the fall?

Big Bear hosts various events during the fall, including seasonal festivals and special holiday events that celebrate the local culture and the changing environment.

What are some recommended things to do in Big Bear in November?

As the fall season progresses, visitors can still enjoy hiking and sightseeing, as well as early winter activities such as visiting cozy cafes or pre-winter season shopping in the village.

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