Snowshoeing Adventures
Snowshoeing Adventures in Big Bear Lake
Guided winter experiences through snow-covered forest trails
Snowshoeing is one of the most peaceful ways to experience winter in Big Bear Lake. When fresh snow transforms the forest, snowshoes allow you to explore mountain trails safely and comfortably while enjoying the quiet beauty of the season. Big Bear Hiking Adventures offers guided snowshoeing adventures designed to remove the guesswork from winter travel so you can focus on the experience.
Experience Level
No prior snowshoeing experience is required. Our tours are welcoming, well-paced, and thoughtfully guided, making them ideal for both first-timers and experienced hikers.
Snowshoeing adventures are suitable for a wide range of fitness and experience levels. Many guests are trying snowshoes for the first time, and our guide provides instruction and support throughout the hike. Most routes are easy to navigate, with plenty of opportunities to pause, take photos, and enjoy the surroundings.
Why Snowshoe With Big Bear Hiking Adventures?
Local Expert Guide Snowshoeing with an expert local guide is essential because winter conditions in Big Bear can change quickly, affecting trail safety, snow depth, and route accessibility. A knowledgeable guide understands how to read the terrain and weather, choosing routes that are both safe and enjoyable while avoiding hidden hazards beneath the snow. This expertise allows you to focus on the experience itself, confident that every detail has been thoughtfully handled.
Small Group Experience Small group experiences allow for a relaxed pace, personalized guidance, and the flexibility to adjust the route based on conditions and group comfort. Keeping groups small also creates a quieter, more immersive experience on the trail, without the rushed or crowded feel of larger tours.
Safety-First Winter Planning Snowshoe safety is especially important in winter, when snow can hide uneven terrain, icy patches, and changing trail conditions. Guided snowshoeing helps ensure proper route selection, pacing, and awareness so the experience remains safe and enjoyable.
Calm Scenic Routes Calm, scenic routes are chosen to highlight the quiet beauty of Big Bear’s winter landscape, where snow-covered trees and still mountain air create a peaceful atmosphere. These trails are selected to minimize crowds and distractions, allowing you to fully experience the sights and sounds of the season. The result is a more mindful, unhurried snowshoeing experience that feels connected to the natural surroundings.
What to Expect
Trail Environment
Pace and Group Size
Expert, Reliable Guide
Mental Recharge
Snow Conditions and Flexibility
Snowshoeing adventures are dependent on current snow and weather conditions, which can change quickly in the mountains. Big Bear Hiking Adventures closely monitors conditions and may adjust routes or transition a snowshoe tour into a winter hike if snow depth or safety requires it. Any changes are communicated clearly in advance so guests know exactly what to expect and can enjoy a safe, well-planned experience.
If snow conditions are not suitable for snowshoes, select tours may transition into winter hikes on the same scenic trails. Guests are notified in advance if any adjustments are needed.
What to Wear
- Waterproof, insulated boots: Snow and slush are common on the trails, so boots should keep your feet warm, dry, and stable on uneven terrain.
- Layered clothing: Dressing in layers allows you to adjust as your body warms up while snowshoeing and as weather conditions change.
- Warm, moisture-wicking base layer: A good base layer helps keep sweat off your skin, preventing chills once you stop moving.
- Insulating mid-layer: Fleece or lightweight insulated jackets provide warmth without restricting movement.
- Waterproof outer layer: A weatherproof jacket helps block wind and snow, especially during colder or stormy conditions.
- Gloves or mittens: Hands can get cold quickly in winter conditions, and insulated gloves help maintain comfort throughout the tour.
- Warm hat or beanie: A hat helps retain body heat and protects against cold mountain air.
- Sun protection: Snow reflects sunlight, so sunglasses and sunscreen help protect your eyes and skin even on cloudy days.
What to Bring
- Water: Even in cold weather, staying hydrated is important, especially while walking in snow, which can be more physically demanding than it looks.
- Small backpack: A backpack makes it easy to carry extra layers, water, and personal items while keeping your hands free.
- Snacks: Cold temperatures and physical activity burn energy quickly, so bringing easy-to-eat snacks helps maintain energy levels.
- Extra layers: Weather can change quickly in the mountains, and having an additional warm layer ensures comfort during breaks or cooler conditions.
- Sunscreen and sunglasses: Sun glare off the snow can be intense, even on overcast days, making eye and skin protection essential.
- Camera or phone: Snow-covered trails and winter scenery make for great photo opportunities, and many guests enjoy capturing the experience.
- Personal medications or essentials: Any medications, inhalers, or personal items you may need should be kept easily accessible during the tour.
Renting Snowshoes
Option 1: Rent snowshoes from Big Bear Hiking Adventures
BBHA has a limited supply of snowshoes for rent for $23. They include walking poles for balance and our guide will show you how to adjust the bindings so that they are a unique fit for your size.
You will receive your snowshoes and poles at the tour meeting place, and they will be fitted at the same time. Return them to the guide immediately following the tour.
Option 2: Rent snowshoes elsewhere.
We suggest Goldsmith’s here in Big Bear. They rent snowshoes for $23 and also include walking poles. Goldsmith’s staff will likely show you how to adjust your bindings. If you need additional assistance at the trailhead, please arrive early. Contact Goldsmith’s for more details.
Note: Big Bear Hiking Adventures does not receive any compensation, referral fees, or incentives for recommending Goldsmith’s for snowshoe rentals. Our recommendations are based solely on quality, reliability, and guest experience, with the goal of helping participants prepare for a safe and enjoyable outing.
