Winter Sports
The San Bernardino National Forest offers many recreational opportunities in the winter! Unlike some of the wildlife that live within them, America’s public land recreation areas do not hibernate for the winter. Rather, many of these areas are open to a host of recreational opportunities unique to the season.
Skiing/Snowboarding
The San Bernardino National Forest offers four resorts under permit, for you to enjoy cross-country and downhill skiing and snowboarding.
Sledding/Tubing
Sledding and tobogganing are great fun! Select safe locations for these activities, well away from roads and highways and without nearby obstructions like rocks and trees. Many visitors are injured every year when playing in the snow. Throwing snowballs is a traditional play activity. Please be careful. An “ice-ball” in the face can ruin the outing, not to mention someone’s eyesight! Throwing snowballs at motor vehicles is against the law.
Snowmobiling
Snowmobilers must ride on designated routes - no open travel is permitted. Snowmobiles must have current green/red sticker registration from the California Department of Motor Vehicles. They also must be equipped with a functioning and United States Forest Service approved Spark Arrester. Haul vehicles and trailers must not block gates or roadways. Call ahead to the Big Bear Discovery Center to check on snow conditions before you go.
- Be "Avalanche Aware" – Learn the basics at the Forest Service Avalanche Center.
XC Skiing/Snowshoeing
The following partners offers snowshoeing programs:
Southern California Mountains Foundation
Search for Winter Sports Opportunities
Barton Flats - San Gorgonio Recreation Area
Bear Mountain Ski Resort
Big Bear Lake Recreation Area
Coon Creek Snowmobile Route 1N02
Keller Peak Snowmobile Route 1N96
Lake Arrowhead - Green Valley Lake Recreation Area
Rim Nordic Ski Area
Snow Summit Ski Resort
Snow Valley Mountain Resort