Downhill skiing and snowboarding areas are centered around Arrowhead and Big Bear. Extensive snowmaking equipment allows Snow Summit, Bear Mountain, and Snow Valley to operate even in the driest winters. These resorts have opened as early as November and stay open as late as April. Ski Green Valley is another downhill ski area near Arrowhead.
Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are dependent on natural snow accumulation, which can vary depending on elevation and type of exposure. North-facing slopes tend to accumulate more snow.
Snow surface conditions are so changeable that waxless skis are preferred by most. There are two Nordic (cross-country) ski facilities under special use permit from the Forest Service in the Arrowhead area: Green Valley and Rim Nordic.
Snowmobiling is permitted only in designated areas and only after two feet of snow is on the ground to protect the road and terrain. A recommended area is near Heart Bar in the San Gorgonio Ranger District.
Where are you going?
What do you want to do?
