Big Bear Driving Directions

There are three ways to get to Big Bear.  Please be advised that the most common way via Highway 330 is is closed due to storm damage.  

Two major roads circle the lake: Highway 38 becomes North Shore on the north edge of the lake, passes through Fawnskin and takes you past the observatory. The south shore Main Street is called Big Bear Boulevard,  heads through the village, past ski resorts, golf course and Moonridge heading out of town.

Highway 38 via the I-10 through Redlands
53.3 miles from the Orange Street / CA-38 exit
This is the most used of the alternate routes and is usually the preferred route from San Diego and Orange County. While there are some sections with curves and turns they are generally only for a few miles followed by straight sections with beautiful scenery. In stormy weather chains will be required on this road first as it tops out at 8,400 feet as it enters the east end of Big Bear Valley. It will be the most congested on busy days, especially leaving Big Bear. .

Highway 18 via I-210 through San Bernardino
44 miles from the Waterman Avenue/CA-18 exit
A four lane highway moves you up Waterman Canyon very quickly. The road then turns east and passes near Lake Arrowhead and Running Springs. It is the shortest of the alternate routes from the greater L.A. and Valley areas, but has the most mountain driving. It also will be less congested than Hwy 38, especially when leaving Big Bear.

Big Bear Driving Map - Click for a large view

Highway 18 via I-15 through Victorville & Lucerne Valley
47 miles from the D Street exit
This route is mostly in the desert and is least affected by weather. It is generally the last route to require chains and has the least mountain driving. The 18 desert route is the longest route from the greater L.A./O.C./I.E./S.D. areas. In spite of its distance the route may be the best way to leave Big Bear in bad weather or to avoid congestion on the other routes.

Alternate: Highway 18 via the I-10/62/247 through Yucca Valley
82 miles from junction of the I-10 and EXIT 117 CA-62)
This alternate desert route from the Palm Springs area and points east of Palm Springs is least affected by weather and generally the last route to require chains. This option also requires the least amount of mountain driving. It is not affected by Hwy 330 closure.

Big Bear Driving Map
Big Bear Lake Map