Big Bear in December
December is when Big Bear turns into a snow town — the start of ski season and the busiest, most festive stretch of the year. Here's what to expect and how to plan around the crowds.
2026–27 opening update — checked September 30, 2026. BBMR’s earliest possible opening is November 21, not a confirmed opening day. Check the resort’s current schedule. Opening dates and available terrain depend on conditions. Check resort opening information and Caltrans QuickMap before you travel. A season label is not a live operating report.
December weather at a glance
Averages vary year to year — check the forecast before you pack.
What's open in December
- Skiing & snowboarding: Check whether Snow Summit and Bear Mountain are operating for your dates; opening, lifts and terrain depend on conditions even after ticket sales begin. Sort ski parking →
- Snow tubing & sledding: tube parks open with the snow; free snow-play areas fill in after storms. Snow play guide →
- The Village: shops, restaurants, and holiday lights are in full swing — the go-to for a cozy, walkable evening.
🎄 The December vibe (and the catch)
Expect a festive, holiday-lit Village and a real winter-wonderland feel — plus the biggest crowds and highest lodging rates of the year, especially the weeks around Christmas and New Year's.
- Book lodging and ski parking early — holiday weekends sell out well in advance.
- Go mid-week if you can; weekends and holiday periods are shoulder-to-shoulder.
- Check your parking reservation’s arrival instructions; a lift ticket does not include a paid upper-lot parking reservation.
What to pack & know before you drive
Waterproof layers, gloves, and traction footwear are essential at 6,750+ ft. And carry tire chains all winter, even on a clear day — chain control can go up within the hour, and once it's active you must have chains in the car. Read the chain-requirements guide →
Comparing months? See Big Bear in January → (colder, snowier, often the best conditions).
Where to stay
Staying overnight?
Choose your side of the lake, then check parking, arrival time and cancellation terms with the property. Snow and resort opening dates can change.
The compare-stays button is an affiliate link; it does not change our beach, trail, or lodging recommendations.