Big Bear Ski Resort

There are two ski resorts in Big Bear. The larger one, at Bear Mountain, covers more acres and has more runs. The smaller "Snow Summit" is more geared towards families, though it does have advanced trails as well. The combination of the two, and the fact that lift tickets are interchangeable should keep most ski and snowboard enthusiasts happy. Together they are Southern California's premiere winter sport resort and can get quite busy at peak season.

Lift tickets can be bought as Day, Half-Day, Night or Half-Night Passes and range from $8 for children (Half-Night) to $49 (Day) for adults. The mountain even offers a guarantee, should one be unsatisfied, providing the complaint is registered within 75 minutes of purchase. Group rates are also available, as are equipment rentals and lessons.

Super-Duper Ski Resort

While not Aspen or Vail, the skiing at Big Bear Mountain is serious. In addition to its network of trails, the mountain boasts 150 jumps of all varieties as well as a halfpipe, and it is home to Southern California's only Superpipe with a length of 580 feet, a width of 67 feet, and 17 foot walls.

Both areas offer several dining options and sport shops, so you should find everything you need in one place. Bear Mountain also has a ski school for the kids and prides itself on making skiing fun for the youngsters, as opposed to the "future Olympian breeding grounds" of other schools in the country. For those slightly older, there are also bars for when you're ready to thaw out.