The mountain air is getting cooler, the leaves are changing, and everyone is getting ready for one of the most festive times of the year. If you’re heading to the cabin this weekend, Blauer Board Shop has your guide to celebrating Halloween on the Hill.
Halloween in The Village
Big Bear’s main family-friendly celebration takes place in The Village on Saturday, October 31, from 4:00 PM to 7:30 PM. The streets become a safe trick-or-treating area from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, and right after, there’s a free live concert with the 80s cover band The Spazmatics from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM.
Haunts and Fright Nights
If you like real scares more than candy, check out Nightmare Mountain in Fawnskin. It’s an interactive haunted outdoor tour on Friday and Saturday nights from 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM. Nearby, the Big Bear Moose Lodge hosts the annual Fawnskin Mystery Maze from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, with a spooky walkthrough and live music.
Community Fests and Fall Vibes
Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest is holding its Halloween Spooktacular Weekend from October 30 to November 1, with spooky beer tasting and a big adult costume contest on Saturday night with cash prizes. For family fun during the day, Boo at the Zoo lets kids trick-or-treat with the animals at the Big Bear Alpine Zoo on October 31. Or, visit the Starlight Equestrian Ranch for a large Fall Festival with hay mazes, pumpkin painting, and pony rides.
Cabin Weekend Essentials
If you’re staying at a cabin for the holiday weekend, it’s important to be prepared. Late October nights in Big Bear can get very cold, so make sure your costumes include warm layers and comfortable shoes. After a busy day of events, relaxing on a cozy cabin deck under the stars is a great way to end the night. If you need extra warm clothes, stop by Blauer Board Shop in town before heading out to the haunted trails.
What are the best scenic fall hiking trails to explore near Big Bear Lake?
The San Bernardino Mountains have many great hiking trails where you can enjoy fall colors and beautiful views around Big Bear Lake.
- Castle Rock Trail: This two-mile hike for intermediate hikers goes through pine and oak forests that turn golden in the fall. It ends with a steep climb over boulders and offers wide views of the lake.
- Towne Trail: This easy three-mile round trip sits between The Village and Snow Summit. You’ll see patches of amber leaves along the way, making it great for relaxed walks, dog walking, or mountain biking.
- Alpine Pedal Path: On the north shore, this flat, paved trail is perfect for families who want to enjoy clear lake views and fall colors without any steep climbs.
- Pineknot Trail: Starting at Aspen Glen Picnic Area, this six-mile, challenging trail takes you deep into the mountain forest among oak trees. You’ll need an Adventure Pass to park here.
- Mountain Top Loop: You can reach this easy one-mile loop by hiking up the Bobsled Trail or riding the Scenic Sky Chair. It offers high-up views of the changing trees.
What are the best fall activities for families with young children in Big Bear?
Big Bear has many fun fall activities that are great for families with young children.
- Big Bear Alpine Zoo: Kids can learn about wildlife conservation and see animals like bears, wolves, eagles, and snow leopards at this rehabilitation center.
- Big Bear Discovery Center: This spot is perfect for curious kids, with hands-on exhibits, nature walks, crafts, and educational talks.
- Alpine Pedal Path: This paved, 5.7-mile out-and-back trail is stroller-friendly and offers nice lake views. You might even spot nesting bald eagles along the way.
- Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain: Families can enjoy a chairlift ride to the top before navigating a sled down a winding, bobsled-style alpine slide track or riding the Mineshaft Coaster.
- Pirate Ship Tour: Enjoy a special cruise on Big Bear Lake with pirate stories and real pirate characters to entertain younger kids.
What are the best kid-friendly restaurants in Big Bear?
Big Bear has many family-friendly restaurants with welcoming atmospheres and menus kids will enjoy.
- Teddy Bear Restaurant: Located in the heart of The Village, this casual 1944 classic serves hearty homestyle comfort food and is famous for its homemade pies.
- Saucy Mama's Pizzeria: This lively local favorite serves hand-tossed New York-style pizzas, garlic knots, and big portions perfect for sharing with family.
- Nottingham’s Tavern: This relaxed pub-style restaurant has a fun medieval theme to entertain kids and a big menu with burgers, pasta, and fish and chips.
- Grizzly Manor Cafe: This popular breakfast spot is famous for its huge portions, including oversized pancakes and classic American diner food that will fill you up.
- The Bowling Barn: Families can have dinner and fun together here, with pizza and hot dogs available while you bowl and play arcade games.