California Spring Road Trip: Ikon Pass Edition

Spring season is upon us! While many people associate the Golden State with sunny skies and beaches, California also has some of the country’s most ripping terrain when it comes to skiing & snowboarding. The best way to hit as much of it as you can is with an Ikon Pass, which is on sale for the upcoming 25-26 season. Another Ikon Pass bonus? Get free spring skiing access at all California destinations.

Mountain I: Big Bear Mountain Resort

Three Mountain Resorts: Snow Valley, Snow Summit, and Bear Mountain
Days to Spend: 3
Getting Here: Surf to Snow in Under 2 Hours

Few places in the world offer as much proximity to the mountains, ocean, and cityscapes as Southern California (SoCal). If you are starting your Spring Road Trip in SoCal, you have the opportunity to experience all three and complete the California Trifecta – surfing, skateboarding, and skiing or snowboarding – between sunrise and happy hour, and there’s no better place to start or finish your trip than this three-day itinerary at Big Bear Mountain Resort.

Closest Airports:

Big Bear Airport (4 miles / 6 km)*

Ontario International Airport (58 miles / 93 km)

Palm Springs International Airport (85 miles / 136 km)

John Wayne Airport, Orange County (92 miles / 148 km)

Palmdale Regional Airport (100 miles / 161 km)

Los Angeles International Airport (118 miles / 190 km)

*Private and charter aircraft only.

Where To Stay: Big Bear has a wide selection of lodging options, from full-service hotels and luxury home rentals to more budget-friendly motels and private cabins. For a full list of lodging properties, go to BigBear.com.* Tip: Lodging rates and availability are usually better Monday-Thursday and non-holiday dates.

Day One at Snow Valley

Your journey begins here. From scenic views and steep peaks to family fun and snow play activities, start your alpine adventure by enjoying Snow Valley located at 35100 CA-18 in Running Springs. Grab a coffee and quick bite to eat from a local favorite, LuluBelle’s Coffee House and Bakery. From there, head to the hill, throw on your gear, and step up to the chairlifts that start spinning around 8:30AM/9AM. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, this resort has trails for all skillsets. Our beginner terrain offers a comfortable entry point for those wanting to earn their turns. For the more seasoned riders, hit Snow Valley Express as the options are endless. Find your way to The EDGE to hit jibs and jumps in one of our terrain parks, cruise down the hill via Mambo Alley to get back to the main lodge, or traverse across to the iconic Slide Peak zone for more lifts and difficult terrain. Tip: BBMR lift tickets are valid for same-day use at all three BBMR resorts. Take advantage of the soft snow this spring by riding all resorts in one day if you’re feeling up to the challenge.

Slope side eats on the deck. Refuel your body after a long morning on-hill by stopping by the base area of the resort where you will find an array of dining options from tacos, pasta, burgers, and more. Order a bite to eat from the Chalet Marketplace, grab a frosty beverage from Last Run Lounge, then sprawl out on the sun deck while taking in the views. With front row seats, you’ll be able to eat and sip away while skiers and snowboarders cruise down the slopes.

Excitement for all ages. You don’t have to be a skier or snowboarder to enjoy a fun-filled day on hill. With the new and improved Coyote Creek Tube Park and Snow Play area, adventure seekers of all ages have a chance to play in the snow. From sliding down one of our six tube lanes to enjoying a day making snowballs, there are enough alpine good times to go around so smile big and have fun.

Day Two at Snow Summit

Your trail starts here. Begin your day at SoCal’s premier family-friendly resort, Snow Summit (located at 880 Summit Blvd in Big Bear Lake), with a fresh cup of Starbucks® coffee and breakfast items from Ironwood Coffee. Chairlifts start spinning around 8:30AM/9AM and depending on your skill level, you’ll want to either head to Chair 1 to start on Summit Run or head up to Chair 2 to drop in to Westridge’s famed terrain parks. If you consider yourself a beginner or want to take some warm-up laps, head over to Chair 4 and look for beginner trails that are denoted with a green circle on all trail maps and on-hill directional signage. Tip: On select dates, Ikon Pass holders get early-ups starting at 8AM to access First Tracks. This event is hosted monthly typically beginning in January, though is subject to change based on snow conditions.

High-altitude dining. Snow Summit has 15 on-site dining venues ranging from breakfast and lunch to après. When it’s time to fuel up, swing by a few notable options like Bighorn Smokehouse in the base area to enjoy barbecue with outdoor seating near a fire pit, fresh pizza from Timber + Dough, or Garden of Vegan which offers animal-free fare food options. If you’re looking for a liquid pick-me-up, check out Tommi’s on the upper floor of the Main Lodge or the Slopeside Speakeasy next to the base of Chair 2. Tip: Download the BBMR mobile app and use the way finding feature to locate dining venues, walking paths, restrooms, and more. BBMR, Snow Valley, and Ikon Pass holders receive 10-15% off in-resort dining (excluding alcohol).

Laid back family fun. Looking for an outdoor activity this winter that’s fun for the whole family? While at Snow Summit, hit the Grizzly Ridge Tube Park to experience the thrill of gliding down the hill as fast as you can in a high-speed snow tube. Restrictions apply.

If you’re traveling with little shredders, read these 10 time-saving tips to make sure your next trip to SoCal’s snow capital is filled with alpine good times from first chair to last laps.

Day Three at Bear Mountain

Grab some local goodies and hit the slopes. Located approximately 2-miles from Snow Summit, Bear Mountain is SoCal’s epicenter for progression and development in snow sports, featuring award-winning terrain parks and 748 permitted acres. For a tasty meal before you hit the slopes, check out a cozy, locally owned sit-down spot, the Grizzly Manor Cafe for your breakfast needs. Once en route to Bear Mountain located at 43101 Goldmine Drive in Big Bear Lake, swing by Dank Donuts for an assortment of hand-made specialty donuts, breakfast burritos, and tasty treats for your four-legged fur companions.

Have fun in the sun (deck). Taking laps and hitting the park makes a body go hungry so when you’re ready for a meal break, hit the sun-deck and chow down on a giant baked potato at Spuds or grab a hot dog, or even a hot pretzel, from Hot Dawgs & Hand Rails. As the day winds down, end your day with some can’t-miss après inside the lodge at Methods or at Laybacks Bar on the 13,000 square-foot sun-deck while watching park-goers throw down in The Scene terrain park at the base of the hill. It’s the perfect place to recap the day with your crew while enjoying your favorite beverage.

Hit the town. After you’ve had your fill of fun on the slopes, stop by the Big Bear Village for some shopping, dining, live music, and more! Explore a full list of local attractions and be sure to swing by the BBMR Visitors Center Station on your way out of town to purchase some merch to represent your favorite SoCal mountain resorts. Tip: Check out this Instagram-worthy photo opt spots blog to capture the popular backdrops in Big Bear Lake.

Want to Learn More About Everything Big Bear Lake Has to Offer? Check out the 2026/2027 Visitors Center Magazine.

Recommended Route

CA-18 to Big Bear Lake

CA-247 South/Barstow Road

I-15 North

CA-58 East

US-395 South

Approximate Drive Time: 5 hours and 15 minutes

Have Some Time to Spare on the Way Up?

On your way out of Big Bear Lake, stop by Café 247, a one-of-a-kind cafe in Lucerne Valley is known for having the best BBQ in the High Desert and all-day breakfast menu. If your body could use the benefits of a quick mineral soak before continuing your quest, plan a stop at Keough’s Hot Springs just outside of Bishop. Looking for a lunch locale? When you pass through Bishop be sure to check out the Mountain Rambler Brewery, known for its artisan ales, or Erick Schat’s Bakery — home of The Original Sheepherder Bread

Scenic Spots & Stopping Points

Lone Pine
Popular town for outdoor enthusiasts heading to/from Mount Whitney, aka the tallest mountain in the contiguous United States (elev. 14,505 feet). The site of numerous Western films, Lone Pine is home to the Museum of Western Film History and hosts an annual film festival for cinephiles that celebrate the old west.

US-395 Statues
Check out this eclectic art installation by Jael Hoffman
Location: Olancha, CA (approx. 80 miles south of Bishop)

Mountain II: Mammoth Mountain

Days to Spend: 2
Closest Airport: Mammoth Yosemite Airport (MMH) or Bishop Airport (BIH)
Where to Stay: The Mammoth Mountain Inn puts you closest to all the action. Located across from Main Lodge, you are steps away from the slopes with convenient dining options and easy access to skier services. If you like more deluxe digs check out their Luxury Homes Collection properties and get ready to get lavish. Save on your splurge with up to 20% off luxury home rentals.

Tip: Book early and/or use your Ikon Pass holder lodging discount for the best price.

Day One at Mammoth Mountain

Take full advantage of what Mammoth calls their Second Season whereby you can not only enjoy awesome spring conditions on the slopes but you can also start dipping into summer activities like biking and golf. If you’re looking to shred a whole new way try out a SNO-GO bike tour where you can experience riding a bike / ski hybrid for a seriously good time.

For a well-deserved refuel, stop by Yodler Restaurant & Bar, steps from Main Lodge and the Mammoth Mountain Inn with a great view of the slopes and daily specials.

Snag an afternoon time slot a Woolly’s Adventure Summit to round out your day of snow play. Take as many laps as you can on our lift-assisted snow tube lanes or try out the new mountain coaster. Then enjoy the large snow play area and heated deck at Soaring Pines Mountain Café.

Venture down to The Village in the evening for shopping and dinner. Stop by Mammoth Sports where you’ll find the latest equipment, apparel, and accessories, then cap off your perfect mountain day with the perfect meal at The Patty Shack or Vulcania.

Day Two at Mammoth Mountain

Head down the hill to grab breakfast in town. Local favorites include The Stove and The Warming Hut. Depending on your mood you might want to head back up to the mountain for a relaxing scenic ride or catch some thrills in the world-class Unbound Terrain Parks. If your trip falls later in the spring, you’ll have the option of exploring the area on two wheels (find the perfect bike rentals at The Mountain Center in The Village) or plan a beautiful round of high-altitude golf (get ready to watch your ball soar).

Grab some burgers and shakes to-go from The Patty Shack and head out to the hot springs in the evening to experience the healing power of natural resources backed by a famous Eastern Sierra sunset.

Chase Sapphire Activation

Driving from Mammoth Mountain to June Mountain

Take Mammoth Scenic Loop OR CA-203 to US-395 North

Exit CA-128

Approximate Drive Time: 35 minutes

Mountain III: June Mountain

Days to Spend: 1

Closest Airport: Mammoth Yosemite Airport (MMH) or Bishop Airport (BIH)

Where to Stay: The Double Eagle Resort is a quick five-minute drive away from June Mountain and provides both the rustic charm of 2-bedroom cabins or luxury rooms that overlook a gorgeous fishing pond. If you are looking for accommodations centrally located in the village of June Lake the June Lake Motel is not only affordable but also within walking distance from restaurants, shops, and galleries.

Day One at June Mountain

For the quintessential small town breakfast experience look no further than Silver Lake Resort’s Cafe which is sure to fill not just your belly but your soul. Spend the day fishing on Gull Lake or walking the pebbly shores at June Lake. Check out the family-run businesses downtown and ask locals for recommendations on their favorite hike.

When you’re ready to kick back and celebrate the day June Lake Brewing will be waiting for you. Famous for their West Coast IPAs, Blonde Ale, and award-winning Deer Beer Brown Ale, this locally owned and operated spot is perfect for everyone from single travelers to families. With plenty of local color, frequent live music, and a great food truck meal you’ll never want to leave

Driving from June Mountain to Palisades Tahoe Resort

RECOMMENDED ROUTE:

US-395 North

US-50 West

SR-28

Highway 89

The drive between June and Palisades Tahoe via Highway 395 is one of the most beautiful drives in the country. You’ll cross from California into Nevada near Topaz Lake, and we recommend fueling up your car in Gardnerville or Minden to get a better gas price.

Approximate Drive Time: 3 hours 20 minutes

Mountain IV: Palisades Tahoe

Days to Spend: Three – and you’ll want one of them to be a Thursday!

Closest Airport: Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO) The resort does not offer a shuttle service, but recommends booking with North Tahoe Express for seamless transportation.

Where to Stay: The Village at Palisades Tahoe Hotel. Ikon Pass holders save up to 25%.

Book Lodging

What makes Palisades Tahoe so special? Beyond the 6,000 skiable acres and sunshine nearly 300 days a year, the resort is nestled right by one of Northern California’s most spectacular places: Lake Tahoe. Sweeping views of the stunningly blue lake make for a one-of-a-kind experience! In spring, you can get the best of both worlds: skiing in the morning and hanging out lakeside in the afternoon. Multi-sport days are just one of many reasons Palisades Tahoe is known as the Spring Skiing Capital.

Day One + Two: The Village at Palisades Tahoe

When you leave your room in The Village at Palisades Tahoe, you’ll be right in the heart of all the shopping and dining, and just a few steps from the slopes. Enjoy a coffee and pastry from Little Bear Cafe, which is new this season. Special tip, if you dine before 11:30am, save up to 30% off at select locations. Check out Wildflour for a breakfast burrito or EM bomb, and prep for the day by checking out our blog, where we post weekly operations reports. (If you go to Wildflour, you’ll probably also want to grab a few of their famous chocolate chip cookies for later!)

If it is your first time visiting, you can book a private lesson to get better acquainted with our mountain. No matter your skill level, there are always more ways to improve, and our terrain can be overwhelming to manage on your own. This experience helps get a locals’ insight to the mountain while upping your technique.

Is it Thursday? If so, don’t miss all the great deals we have for Ikon Pass holders on Thursdays. Plus, enjoy perks like a free hot wax, discounts at retail shops and restaurants.

Spring Pro Tips for Palisades:

In spring, the bike path along the Truckee River is usually clear of snow. You can rent bikes and bike between The Village at Palisades Tahoe and Tahoe City. Along the river, the path is totally flat and paved the whole way.

Check our Events Calendar for signature spring events at Palisades like Cushing Crossing, Tahoe Truckee Earth Day, and Made in Tahoe.

Finally, grab a cozy dinner at one of the restaurants in The Village at Palisades Tahoe. Check out Rocker, arguably the best spot to get loaded nachos in Tahoe, and named for the ski design invented by Palisades Tahoe icon Shane McConkey.

Day Three: Truckee & Lake Tahoe

The historic town of Truckee is a can’t-miss spot if you’re in the North Lake Tahoe region. For breakfast, visit The Cornerstone Bakery for warm drinks, delicate desserts, and scrumptious baked goods. Then, coffees in hand, you’ll want to just walk around the town to enjoy old western architecture and one-of-a-kind artisan boutiques. Plus, both the Truckee River and the train tracks run right through the center of town, so you’re likely to see a Union Pacific or Amtrak train chug on by. If you’d like to walk along the river for longer, you can also get to the paved Legacy Trail from downtown.

If Reno, Nevada is your final destination, take the scenic route along the lake when you drive out. Follow Highway 89 past Palisades Tahoe resort to Highway 28, which goes around Lake Tahoe. If you want to get a little beach time in, Commons Beach is right in Tahoe City, or you can check out Kings Beach State Recreation Area, which also has a playground, ice cream, and all sorts of restaurants and shops right nearby.

Once you’ve passed Kings Beach, you’ll cross state lines and be in Nevada. Head up Highway 431, also known as Mt Rose Highway, for epic views of both the Lake and the high Sierra. There are multiple places to turn out, and you could also stop for a hike. There are several hikes that leave from the Meadows, including Chickadee Ridge, Incline Peak, and the Tahoe Meadows Trail. You’ll know when you get there: The mountains open up into a wide-open, grassy area and other cars will be parked along the side of the road. Snowshoes usually aren’t required in springtime.

Photo courtesy of VisitRenoTahoe.com

In Reno, you can see the famous Reno Arch, and if you want to add another sport to your roster, you can actually climb the climbing wall above the arch. That’s right: The Whitney Peak hotel has a huge outdoor climbing wall that towers above downtown Reno, making for great photo opportunities. For food and shopping suggestions in Reno, you’ll want the full scoop, and you can read Palisades Tahoe’s Visitor’s Guide for Reno, Nevada blog here.