When it comes to snowboarding, nothing is more important than finding the perfect mountain. But with so many options available, how can you be sure which one is right for you? In Southern California, two popular destinations stand out: Snow Summit and Bear Mountain. Both offer unique experiences and have their own loyal fan bases. But which one is truly the best for snowboarding? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at each mountain and compare them in several key areas to help you make an informed decision.
Snow Summit and Bear Mountain are both owned by the same company, so you might think that they’re very similar. However, each mountain has its own distinct personality and offers a different snowboarding experience. At Snow Summit, you’ll find wide-open runs with stunning views of Big Bear Lake. Meanwhile, Bear Mountain is known for its terrain parks and freestyle features, making it a favorite among trick riders.
So which mountain reigns supreme? The answer will depend on your personal preferences and what you’re looking for in a snowboarding trip. But by examining factors like terrain, amenities, and snow quality, we can help you determine which one is the best fit for you.
Read on to discover the ultimate winner in the Snow Summit vs Bear Mountain showdown. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-time snowboarder, we’ll give you all the information you need to make the most of your next trip to the slopes.
Table of Contents
Comparing Terrain: Snow Summit vs Bear Mountain
When it comes to choosing between Snow Summit and Bear Mountain for your next snowboarding adventure, one of the most important factors to consider is the terrain. Both mountains offer unique experiences and challenges, but which one is right for you? Let’s take a closer look.
Snow Summit Terrain
- Snowmaking: With over 560 snow guns, Snow Summit is able to provide consistently good snow conditions throughout the season.
- Runs: Snow Summit offers 31 runs with a good mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced trails.
- Parks: The mountain has a great terrain park with a variety of features to keep snowboarders of all skill levels entertained.
Bear Mountain Terrain
Bear Mountain is known for its freestyle terrain and attracts snowboarders from all over the world. Here’s what you can expect:
- Parks: Bear Mountain is home to four parks, including the famous “The Scene” park, which features some of the best freestyle terrain in the country.
- Runs: Bear Mountain has 34 runs, with a focus on intermediate and advanced terrain.
- Snowmaking: While the mountain has snowmaking capabilities, it’s not as extensive as Snow Summit’s.
Which Mountain is Right for You?
Ultimately, the decision between Snow Summit and Bear Mountain comes down to your personal preferences and skill level. If you’re looking for a variety of runs and reliable snow conditions, Snow Summit may be the better choice. But if you’re a freestyle rider looking for challenging terrain parks, Bear Mountain is the way to go. Both mountains offer unique experiences, so why not try them both and see which one reigns supreme for you?
On-Site Amenities: Snow Summit vs Bear Mountain
If you’re planning a snowboarding trip to Southern California, choosing the right resort can make all the difference. In addition to the terrain, the amenities can also be a deciding factor. When it comes to on-site amenities, Snow Summit and Bear Mountain both offer a variety of options to enhance your experience.
At Snow Summit, you’ll find a range of dining options, including the Slopeside Speakeasy and the View Haus. The resort also offers equipment rentals, ski and snowboard lessons, and a mountain shuttle service. On the other hand, Bear Mountain boasts the Bear Mountain Golf Course, as well as the Adventure Academy, where you can take lessons in skiing, snowboarding, and other outdoor activities.
Dining
- Summit Smokehouse: Offering a range of BBQ dishes and drinks, this is the perfect spot for a post-ride meal.
- BBQ in the Base Area: If you’re looking for a more casual dining experience, head to the base area for classic BBQ dishes.
- Big Bear Mountain Brewery: This brewery offers a range of beers, as well as a pub-style menu featuring burgers, sandwiches, and more.
Equipment Rentals and Lessons
If you’re new to snowboarding or simply need to rent equipment, both Snow Summit and Bear Mountain offer rental options. Additionally, both resorts offer lessons for all levels, from beginner to advanced.
Other Amenities
- Bear Mountain Golf Course: If you’re looking for a break from the slopes, head to Bear Mountain Golf Course, where you can enjoy 9 or 18 holes.
- Adventure Academy: Bear Mountain’s Adventure Academy offers lessons in skiing, snowboarding, and other outdoor activities, as well as a climbing wall and zip line.
- Mtn. Kids: This program at Snow Summit is designed for kids aged 4-12 and offers a variety of activities, including crafts, games, and snow play.
Whether you’re looking for dining options, equipment rentals and lessons, or other on-site amenities, both Snow Summit and Bear Mountain have plenty to offer. When planning your trip, consider which amenities are most important to you and choose the resort that best meets your needs.
Crowd Levels: Snow Summit vs Bear Mountain
If you’re planning a ski or snowboarding trip, it’s important to consider the crowd levels at the mountain. Here’s a comparison of the crowd levels at Snow Summit and Bear Mountain:
Snow Summit: Snow Summit tends to be less crowded than Bear Mountain. The mountain has a maximum capacity of 18,000 skiers and snowboarders, but rarely reaches that number. The best times to avoid crowds are weekdays and non-holiday periods. However, be prepared for long lift lines on weekends and holidays.
Bear Mountain: Bear Mountain can get quite crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. The mountain has a maximum capacity of 19,000 skiers and snowboarders and can reach capacity on busy days. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, weekdays and non-holiday periods are your best bet.
Snow Summit Crowd Levels Tips
- Visit on weekdays for the best chance of avoiding crowds.
- Avoid weekends and holidays if possible.
- Arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds.
Bear Mountain Crowd Levels Tips
- Avoid weekends and holidays if possible.
- Visit on weekdays for a better chance of avoiding crowds.
- Arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds.
The Verdict
When it comes to crowd levels, Snow Summit is the better choice if you’re looking for a less crowded mountain. However, both mountains can get crowded on weekends and holidays, so it’s important to plan your trip accordingly.
Snow Quality: Snow Summit vs Bear Mountain
If you’re a skier or snowboarder, you know that snow quality is essential to a great day on the slopes. When comparing Snow Summit and Bear Mountain, the two resorts in Big Bear Lake, California, it’s important to consider the snow quality at each.
Both Snow Summit and Bear Mountain are known for their excellent snow quality, but there are some differences to note.
Altitude
- One of the main factors affecting snow quality is altitude. Snow Summit sits at a higher elevation than Bear Mountain, with a base of 7,000 feet compared to Bear Mountain’s 7,140 feet. This higher altitude often means that Snow Summit gets more snow and has better quality snow throughout the season.
- However, it’s important to note that altitude isn’t the only factor in snow quality, and other weather conditions can also play a role.
Snowmaking
Snowmaking is another essential aspect of snow quality, especially in warmer months when natural snowfall may be scarce. Both Snow Summit and Bear Mountain have state-of-the-art snowmaking systems that allow them to cover a vast amount of terrain with snow, regardless of natural snowfall.
- Snow Summit’s snowmaking system is particularly robust, covering 240 acres of skiable terrain. This allows the resort to provide excellent snow quality throughout the season, even when natural snowfall is limited.
- Bear Mountain’s snowmaking system covers 198 acres of skiable terrain, slightly less than Snow Summit. However, the resort still has an impressive ability to make snow and maintain good quality conditions throughout the winter season.
Terrain
Finally, it’s important to consider the terrain at each resort when thinking about snow quality. Both Snow Summit and Bear Mountain have a wide variety of terrain for all skill levels, but there are some differences to note.
- Snow Summit is known for its wide-open runs and groomed terrain, making it an excellent choice for beginner and intermediate skiers and snowboarders.
- Bear Mountain, on the other hand, is known for its more challenging terrain, including its famous terrain park. While the resort still maintains excellent snow quality throughout, the conditions may be more suited to advanced skiers and snowboarders.
Ultimately, both Snow Summit and Bear Mountain are known for their excellent snow quality, thanks to their high altitude, robust snowmaking systems, and varied terrain. However, there are some differences to consider when choosing between the two resorts, depending on your skill level and preferences.
Price Comparison: Snow Summit vs Bear Mountain
When planning a ski trip, it’s important to factor in the cost of lift tickets and other expenses to your budget. Let’s take a look at the price comparison between Snow Summit and Bear Mountain.
Peak Pricing: Both Snow Summit and Bear Mountain offer peak pricing during holidays and weekends. The price for a full day lift ticket can range from $79 to $129 depending on the season and demand.
Discounts and Deals
- Early Bird Deals: Both resorts offer discounted lift tickets when purchased in advance. Snow Summit’s early bird tickets can save you up to 20%, while Bear Mountain’s can save you up to 35%.
- Midweek Deals: If you’re flexible with your schedule, both resorts offer discounted lift tickets for midweek skiing. Snow Summit’s midweek lift tickets start at $59, while Bear Mountain’s start at $49.
Additional Costs
Rental Equipment: If you need to rent skis or snowboards, both resorts offer rental equipment at an additional cost. Snow Summit’s rental prices start at $35 for skis or snowboards, while Bear Mountain’s start at $40.
Parking: Both resorts charge for parking, but Snow Summit’s parking is slightly cheaper at $10 compared to Bear Mountain’s $20.
Overall, when it comes to price comparison between Snow Summit and Bear Mountain, there isn’t a significant difference in the cost of lift tickets. However, if you’re looking for discounts and deals, both resorts offer options to help you save. Make sure to factor in additional expenses such as rental equipment and parking to your budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which mountain has better snow quality, Snow Summit or Bear Mountain?
Both mountains have excellent snow quality, but it depends on what you’re looking for. Snow Summit has more groomed runs and is better for beginner to intermediate riders, while Bear Mountain has more challenging terrain and is better for advanced riders looking for fresh powder.
How do ticket prices compare between Snow Summit and Bear Mountain?
Ticket prices are generally similar between the two mountains, but Snow Summit tends to be slightly cheaper. However, Bear Mountain often has more deals and discounts available, so it’s worth checking their website for specials.
Are there any differences in amenities between Snow Summit and Bear Mountain?
Both mountains offer similar amenities, such as rental shops, food and drink options, and ski schools. However, Snow Summit has a more family-friendly atmosphere and a larger base lodge, while Bear Mountain has a more lively après ski scene and a terrain park that is considered one of the best in the country.
Which mountain is less crowded, Snow Summit or Bear Mountain?
Snow Summit tends to be less crowded on weekdays, while Bear Mountain is generally less crowded on weekends. However, both mountains can get quite busy during peak season, so it’s best to arrive early to avoid long lines.
What is the best time of year to go snowboarding at Snow Summit and Bear Mountain?
The best time to go snowboarding at both mountains is typically from late December through early April, when there is usually plenty of snow on the ground. However, if you prefer warmer weather and smaller crowds, late March through early April is a good time to go.
Is it possible to ski at both Snow Summit and Bear Mountain in the same day?
Yes, it is possible to ski at both mountains in the same day, as they are located just a few miles apart. However, you will need to purchase separate lift tickets for each mountain, and it may be difficult to fit in a full day of skiing at both locations.