Snow Way!

Thanks to El Niño, things are oh snow good in California’s Outdoor Playground (aka San Bernardino County). Here are some of the best ways to adventure outdoors this winter.

Big Bear Tracks: Take advantage of mother nature’s big dump of snow this year and explore Big Bear’s wooded backcountry by snowshoe. Rent gear in town and do it yourself, or go on a guided snowshoe tour for an easygoing chance to experience scenic winter landscapes and get a good workout. (Tip: Sunsets at the lake are absolutely gorgeous in winter, a tangerine glow sinking behind the mountains and melting over the crystal water.)

The #1 Park in the Nation: Bear Mountain in Big Bear has been voted “best park” in the nation! From smooth, groomed runs friendly for beginners to more challenging steeps and canyons, Bear Mountain’s also got the Red Bull Plaza and the super cool Summit Nights: Ski under the lights and starry night from 3:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Fly Like an Eagle: It’s not an Olympic event (yet), but high speed ziplining above a wintry landscape is perhaps the closest you’ll get to soaring high above the ground like a ski jumper. Make it happen in Big Bear Lake on an a 9-run course over a mountain slope and through snow-dusted pine trees.

Rim Nordic: It’s the only cross-country ski area in Southern California with machined-groomed trails for skiing or snowshoeing. The rental lodge is right at the parking lot, too, and lessons are available too.

Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa: Located at 5,106 feet along the shores of sparkling Lake Arrowhead, the elegant yet rustically styled Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa lets you enjoy a breath of fresh mountain air, not to mention a hot stone massage and dinner overlooking the lake at Bin 189.

These winter adventures and more are all in the San Bernardino Mountains, just a short drive from LA and San Diego. Plan your affordable weekend fun.