Couple’s Guide to Big Bear Lake
Location: Big Bear Lake, California
Wedding Photographer & Videographer: Mike Federis Photography
Big Bear Lake is small city located in the mountains of San Bernardino National Forest and well-known for its winter slopes such as Snow Summit Ski Resort. Big Bear Lake is beautiful year round for forms of activities such as hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and especially for engagement photos.
Best Locations:
Here are my favorite locations in Big Bear Lake for the best settings for engagement photos.
JUNIPER POINT PICNIC AREA:
Location: 41365 N Shore Dr, Big Bear, CA 92314
One of my favorite spots in Big Bear Lake, it’s located on the North Shore and pretty secluded. There is plenty of parking since it’s not one of the most popular spots in the area, but I guarantee you its has beautiful views of the mountains. You will need to purchase an Adventure Pass at the Ranger Station or you can buy one at REI or Big 5 Sporting Goods. It’s pretty inexpensive for $5 a day, but I usually recommend purchasing the annual pass since its a mere $30 for the entire year. You can also use the America Beautiful National Park Pass. Make sure you display these permits on your car, or you may receive a pricey ticket from the Rangers
Cell signal is pretty sketchy up there, so make sure you share the GPS location to your client before you meet. I highly recommend carpooling to the location to ensure both you the photographer and client are on-time and arrive at the correct location.
There are plenty of spots to take photos here. I mix it up by using all aspects of the area. There is a pathway lined with these gorgeous wooden fence, and I use this as leading lines to frame my couples. There are also tons of meadows which create a natural scenic environment for wider angle shots. Last, but not least, go down to the lake and just snap away. You can’t go wrong here, every view is amazing.
Winter: The parking lot is commonly closed during the winter months. However, you can park on the main road as long as you display an Adventure Pass.
SOLAR OBSERVATORY:
Also known as BBSO, it stands at 1.6-meter clear aperture Goode Solar Telescope.
Another cool backdrop that will make your photos unique!
STANFIELD PRESERVE BOARDWALK:
Approximately .5 mile in length, a must destination in Big Bear Lake.
Parking is available along Stanfield Cut-off.
The boardwalk may be closed during winter season.
ALPINE PEDAL PATH:
This beautifully paved path runs along the north shore of lake. It’s approximately 3 miles in length running from Serrano Campground all the way to Stanfield Cut-off.
Best Time of the Year:
Spring & Fall: These are the best times to come and avoid the crowds since these are off season months.
Winter: Winter months between October through February can get pretty crowded. We do not recommend visiting during snow months due to the traffic jams on the roads. Driving to the lake during fresh snow creates traffic jams on all major roads leading to Big Bear Lake. In some instances, driving from Riverside to Big Bear Lake can take upwards of 4-5 hours. However, if you are able to make it in time, it is truly magical during snow season at Big Bear Lake.
Planning your trip:
Always check weather reports the day before.
Alway check road conditions and closures. Falling rocks are pretty common on the major roads and roads can be shutdown for hours.
Travel Time:
From Los Angeles: Driving from Los Angeles to Big Bear Lake is about 100 miles and can take up to 2 hours.
From San Diego: Driving from San Diego to Big Bear Lake is approximately 145 miles and can take up to 3 hours.
From Orange County: Driving from Orange County (Anaheim) is approximately 90 miles and can take up to 2 hours.
What to Wear:
Be prepared for all weather conditions. These are some the items I keep in my vehicle: rain jacket, umbrella, cold weather jacket, and water.
What is NOT allowed at Big Bear Lake:
Smoke Bombs and all personal fire works is illegal in Big Bear.
