Parking at Snow Summit and Bear Mountain: Navigating the Parking Spots for a Perfect Ski Trip for Winter Season 2023/2024
If you’re headed up to Snow Summit and Bear Mountain for a day trip or looking to stay over the weekend, you’ll probably run into traffic as you head up the hill and into the main village area. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the best parking spots, tips, and tricks to make your ski trip hassle-free and enjoyable. Continue reading this blog for the learn more about parking at Snow Summit and parking at Bear Mountain Resorts.
Local businesses and residents complained last year about the traffic that the mountain resorts were causing. For the 2023-2024 season, the operators of Snow Summit and Bear Mountain have updated their shuttle and parking services to ease everyone’s pain. The primary parking lots are now Sandalwood and Fox Farm, both are accessible off Big Bear Blvd and Fox Farm Road.
Snow Summit: A Skier's Paradise
Parking Options at Snow Summit
- Main Parking Lot: Located right at the base, this is the most convenient spot but fills up quickly. Arrive early to secure a spot.
- Remote Parking: On busy days, additional parking is available at remote lots with free shuttle service to the base.
- VIP Parking: For a fee, you can reserve a spot close to the lifts. This is ideal for those who prefer convenience over cost. Go here to view the rates for the day.
Tips for Snow Summit Parking
- Arrive Early: The early bird gets the parking spot! Aim to arrive before 9 AM, especially on weekends and holidays.
- Consider Carpooling: Not only is it eco-friendly, but it also reduces the hassle of finding multiple parking spots for a group.
- Check Online Updates: Snow Summit’s website and social media often provide real-time parking updates.
Bear Mountain: The Snowboarder's Haven
Parking Options at Bear Mountain
- Main Lot: Close to the action, this lot offers easy access to the slopes but is limited in space.
- Off-Site Parking: Additional parking is available off-site with shuttle services to Bear Mountain.
- Preferred Parking: Available at a premium, these spots are closest to the lifts and often come with other perks.
Tips for Bear Mountain Parking
- Utilize the Shuttle Service: The free shuttle service is a convenient way to reach the slopes without the parking stress.
- Explore Off-Peak Hours: Consider skiing during weekdays or non-holiday periods for better parking availability.
- Stay Updated: Like Snow Summit, Bear Mountain also provides parking updates online.
General Tips for Both Locations
- Parking Apps: Use parking apps to find and reserve spots in advance.
- Follow Parking Rules: Adhere to the parking signs and instructions to avoid fines or towing.
- Pack Smartly: Have your gear ready to go to minimize time spent in the parking lot.
Remote Parking Lots: Your Best Bet
Sandalwood Lot
The Sandalwood dirt lot is east of Vons / Starbucks shopping square off of Big Bear Blvd and Fox Farm Road. The lot is huge and can handle thousands of cars with multiple shuttle buses, located at the east end of the lot, going to Snow Summit and Bear Mountain. It’s about 10 minutes to Snow Summit and 20 minutes to Bear Mountain however the wait time for Snow Summit is considerably longer than to Bear.
Fox Farm Lot
The Fox Farm lot is located near Sandalwood lot, just down the street on Fox Farm Rd.
Brownie Lot - Summit only
The Brownie Lot behind Big Bear Blvd is exclusively reserved for skiiers and snowboarders going to Snow Summit. This lot is the closet to Summit but only opens once Sandalwood and Fox Farm are filled up.
Moonridge Lot
The Moonridge Lot is the closet parking spot to Bear Mt. This lot is primarily used for Bear Mountain and sometimes they open up shuttles to Snow Summit depending on demand. From this lot, it’s a 5 min bus ride to the mountain.
Whichever lot you end up parking in, make sure you remember the lot name or number! Shuttles from the mountain going back to the lot only stop at the designated lots. They do not make stops at other lots!
Conclusion
While finding the perfect parking spot at Snow Summit and Bear Mountain can be a bit of a puzzle, with these tips and a bit of planning, you can spend less time worrying about parking and more time enjoying the slopes. Remember, the key is to arrive early, stay informed, and be prepared. Happy skiing! Contact Us if you have any questions!
Parking FAQ for Snow Summit and Bear Mountain Resort
Welcome to our comprehensive FAQ guide designed to address all your parking concerns at Snow Summit and Bear Mountain Resort. Whether you’re a first-timer or a frequent visitor, understanding the parking logistics is essential for a smooth and enjoyable trip to these popular skiing destinations.
1. Is parking available at Snow Summit and Bear Mountain Resort? Yes, both Snow Summit and Bear Mountain Resort offer parking facilities. There are several lots available for guests, including those close to the base lodges.
2. What is the cost of parking at the resorts? At both resorts, parking fees may vary. There are typically free parking areas, paid parking lots closer to the base, and sometimes premium parking options for added convenience. For the most current pricing, it’s recommended to check the resorts’ official websites or contact them directly.
3. Can I reserve parking in advance? Yes, both Snow Summit and Bear Mountain Resort offer the option to reserve parking in advance through their websites. This is highly recommended, especially during peak season, to ensure a hassle-free experience.
4. Is there a shuttle service available between the parking areas and the resorts? Yes, shuttle services are typically available, especially from the farther parking areas to the resort bases. This service helps guests and their equipment get to the slopes with ease.
5. Are there any restrictions on vehicle size or type for parking? Standard parking spaces are available for regular-sized vehicles. However, oversized vehicles such as RVs may have limited options and may not be permitted in certain lots. It’s best to check with the resorts for specific policies.
6. Is there accessible parking available? Yes, both Snow Summit and Bear Mountain Resort provide accessible parking close to the main lodges for guests with disabilities. A valid disabled parking permit is required to use these spaces.
7. How early should I arrive to find parking? During peak times, such as weekends and holidays, it’s advisable to arrive early in the morning to secure a parking spot, as the lots can fill up quickly.
8. Can I leave my car overnight at the resort parking lots? Generally, overnight parking is not allowed in the resort parking lots. If you need to park overnight, it’s best to contact the resorts for specific guidelines or alternative options.
9. Are there any electric vehicle charging stations available? Both resorts have been expanding their amenities, and this may include electric vehicle charging stations. For the most current information, please check their websites or contact them directly.
10. Is tailgating allowed in the parking lots? Policies on tailgating can vary, and it’s best to check the current resort guidelines. Generally, responsible tailgating may be allowed in certain areas, but it’s important to respect the resort’s rules and the comfort of all guests.
Remember, parking policies and availability can change based on the season and specific events. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official websites of Snow Summit and Bear Mountain Resort before your visit.