From horses and off-road vehicles to pirate ships and paddlewheel boats, you can see all the area has to offer with a wide variety of guided tours near cabin rentals in Big Bear. Whether you want to explore by land, water or air you'll find plenty of options to choose from.
By Land
Discover the rolling hills and peaceful valleys of the San Bernardino Mountains by horseback with knowledgeable guides and gentle horses at Baldwin Lake Stables. Offering several trails with a variety of terrain, rides are customized to suit the rider's ability and experience. Enjoy fresh mountain air on a relaxing 3 hour or half day ride on Pacific Crest Trail, with spectacular views of the Mojave Desert. Take in the sunset from a secluded spot where you can watch the sun disappear behind majestic mountains. For kids too young to hit the trail, Baldwin offers hand-led pony rides for their enjoyment. Reservations are recommended for tours by calling (909) 585-6482.
Venture out from Big Bear rentals to take a bumpy ride on a high clearance 4WD vehicle with Big Bear Off-Road Adventures. Explore historic Rose Mine or travel along old steep routes that challenged wagons and pioneers seeking access to Bear Valley at Canyon of the Santa Ana River. Take a trip through rugged Balky Horse Canyon and ford a stream to arrive at your final destination overlooking the vast Mojave Desert. Check out their website for more information.
Free 30 minute guided nature walks are offered at the Big Bear Discovery Center, where you can learn about local flora and fauna amid interesting historical facts. Located at 40971 North Shore Drive, walks are Saturdays at 1 and 2pm; Sundays 11am and 12pm.
By Water
You'll feel as though you traveled back to the 1800s on the Miss Liberty Paddlewheel boat at Pine Knot Marina. Learn about the amazing 2,500 mile journey she made to arrive on Big Bear Lake. With a 125-seat capacity, 90-minute narrated tours are offered Monday to Sunday at 2pm and Saturday at 12, 2 and 4pm. For reservations and ticket pricing call (909) 866-8129.
Avast ye hearties, and set sail aboard Time Bandit, a refurbished Spanish Galleon replica that cruises the lake with the skull and crossbones flying high atop her mast. Plundering pirates entertain guests on 90-minute tours that change course depending on the ship's captain. Berthed at Holloway's Marina, a guaranteed tour is daily at 2pm with others available as the captain sees fit. For rates call (909) 878-4040.
By Air
Spectacular panoramic views are sky high with Big Bear Air. Soar above the peaks of the San Bernardino Mountains and gaze upon the beauty below from the comfort of a Piper Cherokee 180. Be awed by the brilliant blue hues of Lake Arrowhead, be wowed by the aerial view of Seven Oaks and Big Bear Lake Damns and the vastness of Holcomb Valley. If love is in the air, take a romantic sunset flight over Big Bear Lake. Scenic personalized 60-minute flights can be arranged by calling (951) 529-3410.
Check out Vamoose.com to sort through cabin rentals by location, size, amenities and price to find exactly what you want.