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Living Here · Getting Around

Getting to Big Bear: Roads, Routes & Transit

Big Bear is reached by three mountain highways from the valley below, about 90 minutes to two hours from much of Southern California — with public transit down the hill and a seasonal trolley in town.

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The Drive Up

How to Get To & Around Big Bear

The drive is part of mountain living. Knowing your routes — and how winter changes them — makes a big difference whether you're visiting or moving up.

The Three Highways

Three state highways climb to Big Bear: Highway 330 (the fastest from the Inland Empire, via Running Springs), Highway 18 (the scenic “Rim of the World” route), and Highway 38 (the longer, gentler grade many locals prefer in bad weather). From the Ontario area it's roughly an hour and 15 minutes up Highway 330.

Winter & Snow Driving

In winter, mountain highways can require tire chains or 4WD, and roads occasionally close during heavy storms. Locals watch conditions, keep chains in the car and often favor the gentler Highway 38 grade when it's snowing. It's the single biggest adjustment for newcomers — and very manageable once you learn the rhythm.

Public Transit & In Town

Mountain Transit (the Mountain Area Regional Transit Authority, or MARTA) runs local routes around the valley plus an “Off-the-Mountain” service to San Bernardino on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, connecting to Metrolink, Omnitrans and Greyhound. In the busy season a Big Bear Trolley links The Village, the ski resorts and attractions.

  • Hwy 330 (fastest), Hwy 18 (scenic Rim of the World), Hwy 38 (gentler grade)
  • ~1h15m from Ontario; ~2 hours from much of LA/OC
  • Winter: carry chains; roads can require chains/4WD or close in storms
  • Mountain Transit/MARTA buses + seasonal in-town trolley

The Commute Question

Some owners split time or commute part-week. Understanding the routes helps you pick the right side of the valley. Working remotely from Big Bear →

Getting to Big Bear: Roads, Routes & Transit — Frequently Asked Questions

Straight answers from a local Big Bear Broker Associate. This is general information; verify time-sensitive details (hours, prices, schedules) with the venue or provider directly.

How do you get to Big Bear Lake?
Three mountain highways lead up from the valley: Highway 330 (the fastest route from the Inland Empire), Highway 18 (the scenic Rim of the World Drive) and Highway 38 (a longer but gentler grade favored in bad weather). From the Ontario area it's about an hour and 15 minutes.
How long is the drive to Big Bear from Los Angeles?
Plan on roughly two hours from much of Los Angeles and Orange County, and about an hour and 15 minutes from the Ontario/Inland Empire area — longer in heavy weekend or holiday traffic.
Do you need chains to drive to Big Bear in winter?
Often, yes. During winter storms the mountain highways can require tire chains or 4WD, and roads occasionally close. Locals keep chains in the car from late fall through spring and check conditions before heading up.
Is there public transportation in Big Bear?
Yes — Mountain Transit (MARTA) runs local valley routes plus an Off-the-Mountain service to San Bernardino on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays that connects to Metrolink, Omnitrans and Greyhound. A seasonal Big Bear Trolley links The Village, ski resorts and attractions in peak months.
Which route is best for a full-time resident?
It depends where you live and the weather. Highway 330 is fastest in good conditions; many locals prefer Highway 38's gentler grade when it's snowing. Rachael can help you weigh commute and access when choosing a neighborhood; call or text 909.744.2190.

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