TL;DR
Big Bear Mountain Resort is set for a major upgrade with a new six-pack chairlift coming to Bear Mountain next winter. This is just the beginning of potential expansions, including plans to connect Bear Mountain and Snow Summit, add new terrain, and introduce summer attractions. With its proximity to Los Angeles, Big Bear is poised for significant investment in the years ahead.
Big Bear Mountain Resort is gearing up for a ripper of an upgrade next winter. But before we dive in, let's get you sorted on the lay of the land. Big Bear Mountain Resort isn't just one mountain – it's actually three separate spots. You've got Bear Mountain and Snow Summit, which are close mates but not quite connected yet. Then there's Snow Valley, about a 21-kilometre drive from Snow Summit. Alterra, the big boss who owns the other two mountains, bought Snow Valley in 2023.Now, here's the big news: Bear Mountain's getting a new high-speed detachable six-pack chairlift. This beauty will replace the old Chair 2 and Chair 5, which were both fixed-grip lifts. The new lift will get you to Bear's terrain park network faster than ever. Plus, the new Midway chairlift will be a real treat for beginners, making it easier to get on and off near the trails. Bear Mountain is making significant improvements for the 24/25 winter season. As part of these upgrades, Chairs 2 & 5 will be replaced with a new 6-pack chairlift. Stay tuned for updates across all three locations. In the meantime, look at the new Bear Mountain winter trail map. pic.twitter.com/C3INU0nOAx— Big Bear Mountain Resort (@BigBearMtResort) August 7, 2024 But wait, there's more! This is just the start of what could be a game-changing time for Big Bear. Back in 2020, they released a Master Development Plan, which the U.S. Forest Service gave the thumbs up to. In 2023, they put forward some big ideas for approval. We're talking about new terrain pods and lifts to finally connect Bear Mountain and Snow Summit, a new beginner area at Bear Mountain, and even a snowmaking pond at the top of Snow Summit.They're not just thinking about winter either. The plan includes 12 new mountain biking trails, a mountain coaster, and a zipline network for summer fun. No word yet on when all this will happen, but it's clear Alterra's keen to keep improving Big Bear Mountain Resort in the coming years, especially with Los Angeles just down the road.
About the author
Michael Fulton
Melbourne-based skier and snowboarder with 50+ resorts across 5 continents. Specialises in Australian resorts and international resort comparisons.
