Whether you’re seeking cozy lakeside vibes, upscale ski resorts, or endless outdoor trails, here’s how to decide which peak destination fits your travel style.
California mountain towns are a magical sort of place where sunny summer days turn into colorful autumn afternoons, which transition into epic winter weeks. It’s the best of all worlds. But much like any other type of destination, each mountain town has its own flavor and flair. If you’re trying to decide between a few of the Golden State’s most prominent “peak” places, here are some insider insights comparing a few of the crowd favorites—Big Bear, Lake Tahoe, and Mammoth Lakes.
Big Bear Lake
Big Bear Lake is located about a two-hour drive from Los Angeles, nestled into the peaks of the scenic San Bernardino National Forest. This four-season mountain getaway offers everything from summer mountain biking to boating on the 7-mile Big Bear Lake to multiple winter ski resorts to explore.
With an adorable and walkable downtown village area featuring plenty of opportunities to sip, shop, and dine, there’s something here for everyone. I’ve been fortunate to spend a good amount of time in Big Bear, and I can tell you that what sets this town apart is how it feels like a down-to-Earth alternative to some of the more elite mountain towns in SoCal. That said, if it’s luxury you’re after, don’t fret; there are plenty of upscale accommodations in Big Bear where you can feel like royalty, such as the recently reopened and revitalized property, Hotel Marina Riviera, which feels like a dreamy Nordic escape.
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However, in this destination with a population of just around 5,000 year-round residents, you won’t ever be judged for going to dinner in jeans and a flannel—”adventure status” overtakes “attire” in priority. Grab a local brew at Big Bear Lake Brewing Company in the heart of Big Bear Village, or a bite at Amangela’s Sandwich & Bagel House with generous portion sizes that will leave you feeling satisfied for hours of afternoon quests. Whether you’re embarking on an epic Jeep Tour, a Pontoon Boat Rental at Pleasure Point Marina, or hitting the slopes at Big Bear Mountain Resort, it’ll be an unforgettable, laid-back mountain vacation.
Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe is impressive in the way the region strikes a balance between “poise” with a potential for enjoyable and organized pandemonium. This destination is larger than most other California mountain town destinations, such as Big Bear Lake—with a regular, local population of roughly 55,000. But based on the enclave you’re in, it can feel like a small and intimate mountain village.
Depending on the season, there are plenty of on-lake activities and adventures to be had, from boating, to stand up paddleboarding, and kayaking, among others. For an elevated experience, head to Palisades Tahoe, which balances energizing outdoor activities like the Tahoe Via Ferrata in the summer and snow sports in the winter with relaxing amenities at the stunning Everline Resort & Spa Lake Tahoe. Here, you can feel as pampered as a monarch and wander around the local village for everything you need to enjoy a cushy, luxurious vacation. Or, head over to Kings Beach to admire the best of both worlds: scenic snowcapped mountains from a sandy, sunny perch on the beach (depending on the season) and shopping for souvenirs in a more funky and eclectic feeling area of town.
And just down the lake, South Lake Tahoe straddles the California and Nevada border on the South side of the water and features awesome hiking and mountain biking opportunities. But you don’t have to break a sweat for the view: Just hop on the Heavenly Gondola for a rewarding vista and then head to the walkable village area for a brewery stop or a bite.
Mammoth Lakes
Mammoth Lakes is located in the Eastern Sierra Nevada Mountain range, in Mono County—flanked by fairytale status forests, near the Ansel Adams and John Muir Wilderness Areas. This town serves as a laid-back destination for mountain adventures, year-round. Whether you’re biking through the region to admire the fall foliage taking over the trees, strapping in for a ski run down Mammoth Mountain, or kayaking or SUPping on one of the local lakes under sunny skies, Mammoth feels like a no-frills destination made for folks who want to enjoy the outdoors—-while also knowing there are ample opportunities to indulge in a luxurious glass of wine or a steak dinner.
There are practically unparalleled hiking and snowshoeing opportunities in Mammoth Lakes, making it a paradise for active individuals during every season—even those who aren’t downhill skiers or snowboarders (but Mammoth Mountain Ski Area is indeed legendary, with some of the best terrain in the U.S., in my experience).
Take the free local shuttle to the walkable downtown village area for food and drink, and head a little further afield for dozens more dining destinations sprinkled around the area. I love starting my day with a morning brew at Mammoth Coffee Roasting Co. and finishing with an evening brew at Mammoth Brewing Company to complete a successful outdoors encounter enjoying the crisp, fresh mountain air.
Which Destination Is the Spot for Me?
Depending on your interests, these three mountain towns can offer various opportunities for indoor and outdoor exploits during every season. While Big Bear Lake is a laid-back oasis just outside Los Angeles, Tahoe feels like a city with unlimited opportunities for adventure. And Mammoth’s snow sports, sunshine, and lake scene offers year-round fun. Luckily, no matter what spot you choose, it’s bound to be an epic alpine getaway.
