If you’ve ever watched palm trees blur past your window on the way to snow-capped peaks, you know SoCal snow trips hit different. Whether you’re carving at Mammoth, lapping Snow Summit, or chasing your first Big Bear snowfall, here’s your all-in-one guide to make the trip smooth, safe, and fun.
 

Plan ahead & prepare

Wait— isn’t that a Leave No Trace principle? You bet. And it works just as well for winter road trips as it does for trail days. Here’s how to stay ahead of the crowds and the weather.

Get a pass

Buy early, save big. Both Big Bear Mountain Resort and Mammoth Mountain are part of the Ikon Pass, so you can ski or ride multiple mountains with one pass. Prices rise closer to peak season, so grab yours early for the best deal. Of course, we also have deals on both Mammoth and Big Bear single-day tickets, so check those out too!

Lease your gear & apparel

Kids growing faster than your ski boots can handle? Or trying snow sports for the first time? Season leases are a no-brainer. You’ll save money, skip the last-minute rental chaos, and be ready whenever a storm rolls in.

Reserve your gear through Sports Basement Snow Rentals and pick up everything in one trip: boards, boots, apparel, helmets, and more.

Keep an eye on the weather & roads

For Big Bear, check Caltrans for chain requirements on Highways 330, 18, and 38 — you’ll need to carry chains even if you have AWD.

For Mammoth, watch for closures on US-395, especially around Tom’s Place or Conway Summit. When storms hit, roads can close fast, so time your drive around the weather window.

Parking & Shuttles

Parking fills quickly at Big Bear and Snow Summit on weekends. Use town shuttles or park-and-ride lots in Moonridge and Fox Farm Road.

In Mammoth, skip the hassle entirely - hop on the Village Gondola or Eastern Sierra Transit shuttle to get to the slopes car-free.

Routes & Timing

You’ve got two main snow missions: the quick-hit weekend in Big Bear, or the long-haul adventure to Mammoth Mountain.

• LA/OC → Big Bear: ~2.5–3 hours via Highways 330, 18, or 38 (currently closed for winter).
• LA/OC → Mammoth: ~5–6 hours via US-395 - scenic, open, and dotted with great stops.

Pro tip: Head out early (4–6 AM) to beat traffic and chain checkpoints. Heading back Sunday night? Leave after dinner for an easy descent.

EV Charging Hubs (by Corridor)

Because the only thing worse than traffic is a low battery in the cold.

To Big Bear

• Redlands: EA, Tesla, and ChargePoint hubs near I-10/CA-330 - last major fast-charging stop before the climb.
• Running Springs: A couple of reliable Level 2 options if you just need a top-off.
• Big Bear Village: Tesla Superchargers + public L2 stations by the lake.

To Mammoth

• Victorville / Adelanto: Multiple fast chargers off US-395.
• Lone Pine / Bishop: EA and Tesla Superchargers every ~80 miles.
• Mammoth Lakes: Several chargers at The Village and Old Mammoth Rd - plug in overnight and hit the lifts charged.

Coffee & Food Stops We Love (by corridor)

Because coffee is snow fuel.

On the way to Big Bear:

• Redlands: Olive Avenue Market - a century-old spot with locally sourced coffee.
• Running Springs: The Old Country Coffee Shop - cozy, classic mountain diner.
• Big Bear Village: Moonridge Coffee Co. - locals swear by it.

On the way to Mammoth:

• Lone Pine: Alabama Hills Café - great breakfast stop pre-climb.
• Bishop: Black Velvet Coffee Roasters - artisan roast + Tesla chargers next door.
• Mammoth Lakes: Stellar Brew & Natural Café - pre-powder essential.

Day-Of Checklist (save or screenshot)

Before you roll out, double-check:

• Chains or traction cables (and gloves for install)
• Warm layers & extra socks
• Lift tickets or Ikon Pass
• Snacks, water, and a thermos of something hot
• Full gas tank or 80%+ EV charge
• Offline maps (service can be spotty past Redlands or Bishop)
• Backup plan (sledding, snowshoeing, or hot cocoa stops)