San Bernardino Mountain Weekend

 San Bernidino Mountain Weekend 

Beth Glosner  | 

Ready for a dreamy mountain weekend? Whether you’re craving lakeside relaxation, pine-scented trails, or cozy small-town energy, the San Bernardino Mountains are calling. Here’s a simple 3-day itinerary to help you make the most of your adventure—without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Let’s Dig In!

Disclaimer

This post contains affiliate links to the products that I use and trust. This means that I might receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you make a purchase using any of my links below.See full disclosure here

Day 1 — Running Springs: Quiet Mountain Mornings

Start your weekend in the gentlest corner of the mountains. Running Springs is small, calm, and perfect for those who love slow mornings with a big cup of coffee.

Do:

Eat:

  • Village Market– Think mountainish version of a 7-11/convenience store for snacks

Stay:

  • Cabins & Lodges – Embrace pine-scented mornings and cozy evenings: Book here
Running Springs mornings, quiet, calm, and perfect

Day 2 — Big Bear Lake: Adventure & Lakeside Charm

Big Bear is larger, livelier, and full of activities, scenic spots, and dining options.

Do:

  • Kayaking & Boat Rentals – Glide across the lake and enjoy the reflections of pine-covered peaks.
  • Big Bear Alpine Zoo – Wildlife lovers, this one’s for you.
  • Village Shopping – Cozy mountain-town energy: Village Faire Upstairs Mall, Bear Prints and Gifts, and local boutiques.

👉 Find activities: TripAdvisor

Eat:

Stay:

  • Lakefront Stays & Cabins – Fall asleep to lake views and wake up to mountain air: Book here
Big Bear Lake; adventure, views, and cozy vibes all in one

Day 3 — Lake Arrowhead: Scenic & Classic Finale

Finish your weekend with classic mountain-lake charm. Lake Arrowhead is serene, scenic, and perfect for slow exploration.

Do:

👉 Tickets & tours: TicketNetwork

Eat:

  • Local cafés and lakeside bites round out the day.

Stay:

  • Lake Arrowhead Resort & Spa – Luxury with lake views, cozy rooms, and spa indulgence: Book here
Lake Arrowhead, slow down and savor the views.

Quick Links to Plan Your Trip

Tips for a Stress-Free Mountain Weekend

  1. Pack layers — mountain mornings are chilly, afternoons warm up fast, and winter weather can change road conditions quickly.
  2. Schedule one slow morning per day — think coffee in hand, forest trails, and lingering lake views.
  3. Choose the right home base — whether you want walkable lake vibes, cozy cabins, or budget-friendly lodges read Where to Stay in the San Bernardino Mountains to match your stay to your travel vibe.
  4. Book tours or activities in advance using my affiliate links, especially during peak weekends and holidays.
  5. Balance quiet towns with lively hubs — pair peaceful Running Springs with the energy of Big Bear or Lake Arrowhead for a weekend that feels full but not rushed.
  6. Make time to wander — some of the best mountain moments happen when you leave space for the unplanned

Stay curious, stay hungry, and keep exploring!


-Beth

Where to Stay in the San Bernardino Mountains

Where to Stay in the San Bernardino Mountains

Beth Glosner  | 

If you’re heading up into the San Bernardino Mountains, where pine trees smell like vacation and cell service is spotty, choosing the right place to stay can shape your entire trip. Whether you want lakeside luxury, cozy cabins, or a modern mountain hotel with a heated pool (yes, please), Big Bear Lake, Lake Arrowhead, and Running Springs each offer their own flavor of alpine escape.

This guide breaks down some of the best places to stay in each area, so you can spend less time scrolling and more time soaking in that mountain air.

Let’s Dig In!

Disclaimer

This post contains affiliate links to the products that I use and trust. This means that I might receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you make a purchase using any of my links below.See full disclosure here

Lake Arrowhead: Classic Mountain Charm

Lake Arrowhead feels like a storybook mountain town, quiet, wooded, and just refined enough to feel special without being stuffy.

Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa

If you want lakefront views with a side of pampering, this is your spot. The Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa offers direct lake access, a full-service spa, and cozy rooms that strike a balance between polished elegance and mountain-appropriate comfort.

Perfect for: romantic weekends, anniversaries, or anyone who wants to sip wine while watching the sun dip behind the trees.

UCLA Lake Arrowhead Lodge – Conference Center & Family Resort

Don’t let the name fool you, this place is surprisingly warm and welcoming. Set on a large, wooded property, the UCLA Lake Arrowhead Lodge feels more like a retreat than a hotel.

Perfect for: families, group trips, and travelers who want space to roam, hike, and unplug.

Arrowhead Lake Inn

Small, charming, and conveniently located near the village, Arrowhead Lake Inn is ideal for those who prefer simple, cozy accommodations. Think vintage mountain lodge vibes with modern updates.

Perfect for: budget-conscious travelers who still want character and convenience.

Big Bear Lake: Lively, Scenic, and Full of Options

Big Bear Lake is the most energetic of the three: great dining, seasonal events, lake activities, and plenty of lodging styles to match.

Sierra Blue Hotel & Swim Club

Cool, modern, and just a little playful, Sierra Blue feels like Big Bear’s stylish younger sibling. With a heated outdoor pool and clean, contemporary design, it’s perfect for travelers who want mountain vibes without the rustic look.

Perfect for: couples, friend trips, and anyone who wants a great pool year-round.

Home2 Suites by Hilton Big Bear Lake

Reliable, spacious, and great for longer stays, Home2 Suites offers kitchenettes and a layout that works well for families or road-trippers who like a little extra room.

Perfect for: families, extended stays, and travelers wanting consistency and comfort.

Lagonita Lodge

Right on the lake and full of classic Big Bear charm, Lagonita Lodge is a longtime favorite. Many rooms have lake views, and the indoor pool makes it a solid option year-round.

Perfect for: families and travelers who want to be close to the water without breaking the bank.

Chateau Big Bear Boutique Hotel (BW Signature Collection)

This lodge has a European twist. Cozy common spaces, fireplaces, and a boutique feel make Chateau Big Bear a standout for travelers who want ambiance.

Perfect for: winter trips, romantic getaways, or anyone who loves a crackling fire after a long day outside.

Running Springs: Quiet, Cozy, and Close to It All

Running Springs is often overlooked, and that’s exactly why it’s special. It’s peaceful, tucked into the trees, and perfectly positioned between Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear.

Postcard Cabins Big Bear – Outdoor Collection by Marriott Bonvoy

These thoughtfully designed cabins bring modern comfort to a true forest setting. Think minimalist interiors, big windows, fire pits, and serious unplug-and-recharge energy.

Perfect for: couples, solo travelers, and anyone craving a digital detox with style.

Choosing Your Mountain Base

  • Lake Arrowhead is best for quiet charm and lakefront relaxation
  • Big Bear Lake offers variety, energy, and activities year-round
  • Running Springs is ideal if you want seclusion without sacrificing access

No matter where you stay, the mountains have a way of slowing things down—in the best possible way.

Stay curious, stay hungry, and keep exploring!


– Beth

Things to Do in Running Springs

Things to Do in Running Springs: Your Cozy, Relaxed Mountain Escape Guide

Beth Glosner  | 

Welcome, gentle adventurers! If you’re craving a peaceful mountain getaway, tucked between Big Bear and Lake Arrowhead, Running Springs might just be your secret happy place. This quiet, forested village has charm, small-town magic, and a pace that allows you to breathe. Whether you’re an introvert needing calm or a traveler looking for authentic mountain experiences, you’re in the right place. Let’s Dig In!

This guide gathers my Northern California stories in one place—your starting point for exploring a region best experienced slowly, with curiosity, intention, and plenty of pauses along the way.

Let’s Dig In!

Disclaimer

This post contains affiliate links to the products that I use and trust. This means that I might receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you make a purchase using any of my links below.See full disclosure here

Best Things to Do in Running Springs

If you want the condensed version, here’s what makes Running Springs special:

While these are the highlights, let’s explore each in more depth so you can truly savor the Running Springs experience—gentle, fun, and perfectly stress-free.

LuluBelle’s Coffee House & Bakery — Mountain Mornings Done Right

Ah, LuluBelle’s. cozy, locally loved, and the perfect start to a mountain morning.

  • Fluffy pastries and perfectly brewed coffee
  • Breakfast sandwiches that feel like a warm hug
  • Calm, welcoming interior for solo travelers or quiet catch-ups
LuluBelle’s: start your morning in Running Springs the right wa

Private Tour from LA — Stress-Free Mountain Exploration

If you’re traveling from Los Angeles and want to skip mountain traffic, a Private Tour to Big Bear Lake & Lake Arrowhead is a dream.

  • Full-day guided experience
  • Scenic stops along the San Bernardino Mountains
  • Ideal for introverts or travelers who want to relax
Skip the stress—let someone else drive while you soak in the views.

Snow Valley Mountain Resort — Winter & Summer Adventures

Snow Valley isn’t just for winter sports. It’s also a calm, scenic place to reconnect with nature.

  • Skiing and snowboarding (for winter visitors)
  • Snow tubing
  • Summer hiking trails
  • Beginner-friendly and family-friendly

Snow Valley Mountain Resort , adventure at your own pace.

Keller Peak Fire Lookout — Quiet Views, Big Rewards

A short, easy hike leads to panoramic mountain views at the lookout. Bring binoculars, a camera, or just your thoughts.

  • Ideal for reflective, introverted travelers
  • Minimal crowds
  • Gorgeous sunrise or sunset opportunities
Keller Peak Fire Lookout , your quiet moment in the clouds.”

SkyPark at Santa’s Village — Whimsy & Fun

Perfect for families or anyone seeking a little nostalgia, Sky Park is the place.

  • Forest-themed rides and attractions
  • Seasonal events
  • Relaxed pace, kid-friendly, introvert-approved corners for quiet moments
SkyPark, a storybook escape in the mountains

Hiking & Nature Trails — Pine-Scented Therapy

Running Springs is full of trails that allow you to slow down.

  • Easy to moderate trails for all levels
  • Wildlife spotting opportunities
  • Forests that feel like your own private retreat
Forest trails — the perfect reset button.

Local Shops & Village Charm

Take a stroll through town. No schedule, no pressure—just cozy small-town energy. Running Springs has just the right mix of charm, creativity, and hidden gems for those who love unique finds.

Top Spots to Explore:

  • Artistry & Alchemy – Handmade, magical items that spark joy and curiosity
  • Shop Suey Running Springs – Eclectic finds, perfect for gifts or a little personal treasure
  • Hilltop Haus – Home décor, mountain-inspired pieces, and local charm
  • Golden Oaks Thrift Store – For the thrifters and treasure hunters looking for quirky finds
Running Springs, small-town treasures around every corner

Restaurants — Food That Feels Like a Hug

Restaurants — Food Near Running Springs

Running Springs is tiny—so “micro-town” barely scratches the surface. If you’re looking for vegetarian fare, your options are limited. But if you eat fish or just want cozy breakfast spots, there’s still some charm to enjoy.

Top Picks:

  • LuluBelle’s Coffee House & Bakery – The town’s main culinary hub. Vegan options are available, and the pastries and coffee are perfect for fueling a morning adventure.
  • Belgian Waffle Works (Lake Arrowhead) – A short drive from the center, great for fish and sweet breakfast treats.
  • Victoria’s Family Restaurant – Classic diner vibes, friendly service, and satisfying comfort food.

Pro Tip: For a wider variety, especially vegetarian or upscale options, head to Big Bear Lake (about 20–30 minutes away) where the culinary scene is bigger and more diverse.

Exploring Running Springs 

Running Springs is the kind of mountain town that lets you slow down, breathe, and feel understood. From gentle hikes to whimsical parks, small-town treats, and cozy cafés, it’s a place that honors your pace and curiosity.

Pro tip: Plan your activities with my travel partners so you can focus on enjoying the moment, not logistics. 💛

Stay curious, stay hungry, and keep exploring!


– Beth