5 surprising reasons to visit Big Bear Lake in winter

According to locals, people are often surprised when they come to Big Bear Lake and see bald eagles flying around. But the majestic birds of prey are a fairly common sight here during winter; the San Bernardino Mountains actually has the largest wintering population of bald eagles  in Southern California. To learn more about them, visit the Big Bear Discovery Center, in San Bernardino, or the Big Bear Alpine Zoo at Moonridge, which houses two rescued bald eagles, Alaska and Valentine. The zoo doubles as a rehabilitation facility that offers injured, orphaned, and human-imprinted wild animals a safe haven temporarily or permanently, on a per-case basis.

If you really like the idea of seeing eagles, consider joining the San Bernardino Winter Bald Eagle Count, an annual volunteer-supported effort that’s been held at Big Bear Lake and other San Bernardino locations since 1978. Volunteers are stationed at select vantage points in proximity to five lakes, for one-hour stints, over a period of four months, from December to March. No registration is needed; orientation is the morning of the day you’d like to participate. Then just show up at the designated location at the start time with a pair of binoculars and a way to keep track of time. You’ll be able to help out by recording bird sightings and any observations about the birds’ behavior, and be richer from the experience; see a bald eagle dive for fish in a snowy wonderland, and you’ll never forget it.

Insider tip: If participating in the Winter Bald Eagle Count, remember you’ll be standing still, outdoors, in winter weather. Be sure to dress appropriately.

Put yourself in the midst of snow-covered nature with a tranquil snowshoe trek in Big Bear Lake. Pack a picnic lunch (think hearty sandwiches and hot chocolate in a thermos) and trek on snowshoes over Big Bear’s network of beautiful trails—the easy Town Trail at the Snow Summit Ski Resort at Big Bear is a local favorite. (Try Goldsmith’s Ski and Board Rentals, Potter’s Mountain Sports or Blauer Rentals for gear rentals, maps, and trail recommendations.)

Other local spots include Rim Nordic, which has groomed trails for both snowshoeing and cross-country skiing as well as rental equipment. From Lake Arrowhead, east toward Fawnskin, on the banks of Big Bear Lake, Blue Diamonds mark routes that are part of the Forest Service road system. This means they are closed to vehicles during the winter season, and thus make for a great snowshoe experience if you prefer wider paths free of underbrush and trees. The San Gorgonio Wilderness lends itself well to snowshoe trekking, and for ease of access, it’s hard to beat the well-marked trails on the north side of Highway 38. The staff at the Big Bear Discovery Center will be able to offer additional tips on places to go; while there, check out the exhibits, weekly programs offered, and calendar of events held at their outdoor amphitheater.

If you’re new to the sport or you would just like to explore with an experienced guide, consider joining a trek with Action Tours Big Bear. Three-hour snowshoeing tours, best for ages 10 and older, are customized to match your interests and abilities. All gear is provided. 

Mountain cuisine of the highest order is served up at Himalayan Restaurant, one of the most inviting and popular restaurants in Big Bear Lake. Tables fill up fast in the longtime standby, and little wonder: dishes from the Nepalese and Indian Himalayan regions such as palak aaloo (silky pureed spinach leaves and bite-size potatoes sautéed with onions, ginger, garlic, and homemade spices) and lamb makhni (tandoor-cooked lamb prepared with tomato-saffron and a curry cream sauce) are outstanding and come in rapid fire out of the small kitchen. It's a homey, relaxed setting—ski parkas and snow boots are welcome—and the staff is friendly and will happily guide you through the menu and suggest dishes. If you or members of your group are vegetarian or vegan, this is the perfect alternative to the burger and pizza places in Big Bear Village, as many of the dishes are vegan- and vegetarian-friendly.

Be sure to order a selection of naans (garlic, onion, cheese, and more), which receive especially enthusiastic reviews, and don’t miss the mo-mo, Tibetan flour dumplings stuffed with meat of vegetables and served with homemade achar dipping sauce and chutney. The house lemonade is also not to be missed—made with ginger for an extra flavor twist, it’s perfect for imbibing on the outdoor patio in the summer. Indian beers and mango lassis (yogurt shakes) are also offered, which round out the authentic Himalayan vibe. And do strike up a conversation with your server; some of the staff has summited Everest.