Snow Summit Scenic Sky Chair
Glide a mile up Snow Summit for breathtaking panoramic views of the San Bernardino National Forest and Big Bear Lake.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, shorter waits
Snow Summit Scenic Sky Chair
Best Time
Fewer crowds, shorter waits
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Glide a mile up Snow Summit for breathtaking panoramic views of the San Bernardino National Forest and Big Bear Lake.
"It was quiet and relaxing! The experience and the view are totally worth it."
🎟️ Book in Advance
Consider Costco deals for savings! Tickets are valid for a long time, so plan ahead.
⛰️ Summit Bites
Grab a meal or drink at the top. Some areas might be closed, but the views are always open.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Mountain Views
Summit of Snow Summit
Glide a mile up for breathtaking, sweeping vistas of the San Bernardino National Forest and Big Bear Lake.
Summit Activities
Top of Snow Summit
Enjoy hiking trails, grab a bite at the summit restaurant, or visit the taproom after your scenic ride.
Mountain Biking Access
Snow Summit Bike Park
Take your mountain bike up the lifts during summer to access downhill trails for an adrenaline rush.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Cost-Saving Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book in Advance
Consider Costco deals for savings! Tickets are valid for a long time, so plan ahead.
⛰️ Summit Bites
Grab a meal or drink at the top. Some areas might be closed, but the views are always open.
🚴 Summer Bike Park
Bring your mountain bike in summer to ride the trails accessed by the chairlift. 
🚶 No Riding Down
You generally cannot ride the lift back down if you decide not to ski or hike.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book in Advance
Consider Costco deals for savings! Tickets are valid for a long time, so plan ahead.
⛰️ Summit Bites
Grab a meal or drink at the top. Some areas might be closed, but the views are always open.
🚴 Summer Bike Park
Bring your mountain bike in summer to ride the trails accessed by the chairlift.
🚶 No Riding Down
You generally cannot ride the lift back down if you decide not to ski or hike.
📸 Capture the Views
The mile-long ascent offers stunning photo opportunities of the forest and lake.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Snow Summit Scenic Sky Chair for its breathtaking panoramic views and relaxing ride. Many find the experience well worth the cost, especially when taking advantage of package deals. Some note that summit activities can be limited unless utilizing the bike park or dining facilities.
"Fun place to see a scenic aerial view from top of Bear Mtn. You can also take your mountain bike up the lifts and ride down in the summertime. He said the same Mountain that is covered in snow for skiers in the highly recommended"
Diane
"Really nice ride and view of the lake. There are some closed off areas at the top so we didn't see much else to do unless you're using the bike park or going to the tap room/restaurant. Still had a great time though 👍🏻"
Katy
"it was quiet and relaxing!"
Chris & Julie
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Snow Summit is located in Big Bear Lake, California. Driving is the most common way to access it. Parking is available at the base of the mountain.
While direct public transport to the chairlift is limited, Big Bear Lake has local shuttle services that may connect to the resort area. Check local transit schedules for options.
Road conditions can vary, especially in winter. Always check Caltrans for road closures and chain requirements before driving.
Typically, pets are not allowed on the Scenic Sky Chair or within the resort facilities, except for service animals. Confirm with the resort directly.
The Scenic Sky Chair itself may have limitations for wheelchairs. It's best to contact Snow Summit directly to inquire about accessibility for the chairlift and summit facilities.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary. Look for deals like the Costco package which includes a meal voucher for around $115 for four people.
Tickets can be purchased online through the Big Bear Mountain Resort website, at the ticket window on-site, or through third-party retailers like Costco.
Yes, look for package deals like the Costco offer.
Operating hours vary by season and day. It's crucial to check the official Big Bear Mountain Resort website for the most up-to-date schedule before your visit.
Scenic Sky Chair rides are typically a separate ticket from skiing or snowboarding lift tickets, though sometimes packages may include both. Confirm when purchasing.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
At the summit, you can enjoy panoramic views, access hiking trails, and visit the taproom or restaurant.
While possible, it's not recommended for beginners. The resort generally does not allow guests to ride the lift back down.
The Scenic Sky Chair typically operates during the warmer months for scenic rides and in winter for skiers and snowboarders. Check the resort's schedule.
Expect stunning, mile-long views of the San Bernardino National Forest and Big Bear Lake.
Yes, during the summer season, you can take your mountain bike up the chairlift to access the Summit Bike Park trails.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a taproom and restaurant at the summit offering food and drinks with scenic views.
Outside food and beverages may be restricted in certain areas, especially at the summit facilities. It's best to check the resort's policy.
Some special packages, like the Costco deal, include a meal voucher.
Expect typical mountain resort fare, including snacks, meals, and beverages.
Dining options can vary. It's advisable to check the current menu or inquire at the restaurant for specific dietary accommodations.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire ride up on the Scenic Sky Chair offers incredible photo opportunities. The summit also provides panoramic vistas.
Yes, winter offers a beautiful snow-covered landscape, but ensure your camera is protected from the cold and moisture.
Drone usage is typically restricted at ski resorts and national forest areas for safety and privacy reasons. Check with the resort and local regulations.
Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) can offer beautiful lighting, but daytime offers clear views of the landscape.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Consider purchasing tickets in advance, especially if you find a family package deal. While the ride itself is the main attraction, the summit provides a safe and scenic environment for children to explore. Ensure you check the resort's website for any age or height restrictions for the chairlift, though generally, it's very family-friendly.
🚴 Adventure Seekers
+1Even if you're not biking, the chairlift ride itself offers a unique perspective of the mountain terrain. Once at the summit, you can explore hiking trails that offer a more rugged experience of the San Bernardino National Forest. Remember to wear appropriate gear and stay hydrated for your mountain adventures.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Capture sweeping landscapes, unique perspectives of the ski slopes (in winter), and the vibrant colors of the changing seasons. The summit itself offers elevated vantage points for wider shots. Remember to protect your gear from the elements, especially during winter visits.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Scenic Sky Chair Experience
During the summer months, the Scenic Sky Chair transforms into a gateway for outdoor enthusiasts. Mountain bikers can transport their bikes to the summit, accessing a network of downhill trails that make up the renowned Summit Bike Park. This integration of scenic transport with adventure sports is a key draw for many visitors.
+1While the ride itself is a highlight, the summit offers further engagement. Visitors can explore hiking trails, enjoy a meal or drinks at the summit's taproom and restaurant, or simply relax and soak in the expansive mountain vistas. It's a versatile experience catering to sightseers, families, and adventure seekers alike.
Seasonal Activities and Considerations
During the warmer months, the focus shifts to summer recreation. The Summit Bike Park becomes a major attraction, with the chairlift providing access to challenging downhill trails. Beyond biking, visitors can enjoy hiking, scenic walks, and lake views from the summit. The resort also promotes other activities like kayaking and paddleboarding on Big Bear Lake.
+1It's important for visitors to check operating schedules as they can vary significantly based on the season, weather conditions, and any unforeseen events like wildfires. For instance, operations were confirmed to continue during a past wildfire event, highlighting the need for up-to-date information.
Planning your visit around these seasonal offerings will ensure you make the most of your trip to Snow Summit.Cost and Value Considerations
+1Savvy travelers often look for ways to maximize value. Purchasing tickets in advance, especially through package deals, can lead to savings. A notable example is the Costco package, which offers a 4-pack of Scenic Sky Chair tickets along with a meal voucher for a competitive price.
These tickets often have a long validity period, allowing visitors to plan their trip without immediate time pressure. When considering the value, weigh the cost against the unique experience offered. For many, the panoramic vistas and the relaxing, scenic journey are memorable highlights of a Big Bear Lake visit, making it a worthwhile investment for the right traveler.
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