When the first cold front rolls over the San Bernardino Mountains, Lake Arrowhead changes character. The summer boat traffic thins out, the pines take on a dusting of white, and the village by the water swaps sunscreen and sandals for wool hats and hot cocoa. For many Southern Californians, this is the season they look forward to most: close enough to Los Angeles for a weekend escape, yet far enough up the mountain to feel like a different world.
Winter in Lake Arrowhead isn’t only about snow, either. Some years bring storm after storm, while others offer weeks of crisp, clear days with snow only on the higher peaks. The good news is that the area has plenty to fill a winter trip either way. There are holiday lights and a lake cruise, an outdoor ice rink tucked among the trees, quiet forest walks, and ski slopes and snow play areas just a short drive up Highway 18.
This guide covers the best things to do in Lake Arrowhead in winter, from festive December traditions to snowy January weekends and late-season February getaways. You’ll also find practical advice on winter driving, what to pack, how to plan a weekend, and why staying a little higher up the mountain in Running Springs can put you in the middle of it all.
What Winter Is Like in Lake Arrowhead
Lake Arrowhead sits at roughly 5,100 feet above sea level, high enough for genuine mountain winters but lower than many of the ski areas to the east. December and January are typically the coldest months, with daytime highs often in the 40s and overnight lows dipping below freezing. On a sunny afternoon, it can feel surprisingly pleasant in a light jacket. After dark, the temperature drops quickly, and you’ll want proper layers.
Snowfall varies a great deal from one winter to the next. A strong storm can blanket the village and the surrounding forest overnight, while a dry stretch may leave the lakeshore clear and the snow concentrated at higher elevations around Running Springs, Snow Valley, and Big Bear. If seeing snow is a priority, keep an eye on forecasts in the week before your trip and be flexible about which part of the mountain you spend your time in. Communities a few miles east and higher up the highway often hold snow longer than the lakeshore does.
It’s also worth knowing that Lake Arrowhead itself is a private lake. Access to the water and most of the shoreline is reserved for members of the local lake association, which is why visitors usually experience the lake from Lake Arrowhead Village, the lakeside dining spots, and the tour boat that departs from the village dock. The same goes for the trail system that follows much of the shoreline. It belongs to the Arrowhead Lake Association and is reserved for members and their registered guests, so don’t continue past the village onto the lakeside trails or docks. Lake rules are actively enforced, and non-members found on lake property will be asked to leave. In winter, when nobody is out on the water anyway, the village waterfront and the tour boat give you the best views of the lake without any of that friction.
Finally, winter weather affects schedules. Outdoor attractions may adjust hours or close temporarily during heavy storms, and some events are weather-dependent. Checking ahead the morning of any outing is simply part of a mountain winter.
The Best Things to Do in Lake Arrowhead in Winter
Take a Winter Cruise on the Lake Arrowhead Queen
The Lake Arrowhead Queen is one of the few ways for visitors to get out on the water, and it runs year-round. The tour departs from the dock at Lake Arrowhead Village, and tickets are typically sold at LeRoy’s Boardshop across from the boat landing. The cruise lasts roughly 45 minutes to an hour.
Winter is an underrated time to take the tour. The crowds are smaller than in summer, and the views of snow-dusted pines along the shoreline are something warm-weather visitors never see. The captain shares stories about the lake’s history, the grand homes along the water, and the Hollywood connections that have shaped Lake Arrowhead’s reputation over the decades. The boat’s enclosed seating offers some shelter from the wind, though a warm coat is still a good idea if you plan to step out on deck for photos.
Tours generally run on a regular schedule through the day, but times can change with the season and the weather, so check before you go. An early-afternoon departure often catches the best winter light on the water.
Wander Lake Arrowhead Village in Its Holiday Best
Lake Arrowhead Village is the social heart of the lake, and from late November through the holidays it takes on a festive glow. Lights wrap the buildings and walkways, a large Christmas tree stands near the water, and the shops fill with seasonal gifts and decorations.
A winter afternoon in the village is easy to plan. Browse the shops for gifts, stop for a warm drink, walk out toward the peninsula for views across the lake, and stay as the sun sets and the lights come on. The village is compact and walkable, which makes it a comfortable outing for families with young children and for anyone who prefers a slower pace.
Weekends between Thanksgiving and Christmas are the busiest, especially on tree-lighting weekend. If you’d like a quieter visit, aim for a weekday or an early-morning arrival. Parking fills up on peak days, so allow a little extra time.
Celebrate the Season at SkyPark at Santa’s Village
Just east of Lake Arrowhead in the small community of Skyforest, SkyPark at Santa’s Village is the area’s most beloved winter attraction. It’s often searched for as “Santa’s Village Big Bear,” but the park actually sits on Highway 18 between Lake Arrowhead and Running Springs, well before you reach Big Bear Lake.
The park originally opened in the 1950s as one of the country’s early themed attractions, closed for many years, and reopened in 2016 as SkyPark at Santa’s Village. During the holiday season, which typically runs from mid-November into early January, the grounds are decorated with lights and storybook cottages. Visitors can ride the Northwoods Express train, explore the illuminated forest trail, meet Santa, and enjoy seasonal treats from the bakery and sweet shop. Special experiences such as Breakfast with Santa and Tea with Mrs. Claus have been ticketed separately in past seasons and tend to sell out close to Christmas, so book early if they’re on your list.
After the holidays, the park has shifted into a winter program in recent years, with ice skating and evening light experiences on select dates. We cover everything you need to know about SkyPark at Santa’s Village in a separate guide, including what to expect in other seasons.
Go Ice Skating at Silver Bells Arena
Silver Bells Arena, the outdoor rink inside SkyPark at Santa’s Village, is the mountain’s only ice rink. Skating outdoors under tall pines, especially when snow is falling, is one of the most memorable winter experiences in the area.
In early 2026, the park introduced Fantasy Forest Nights, an evening skating series on Fridays and Saturdays from January into late February. Tickets included skate rentals, access to the illuminated Fantasy Forest trail, and parking. Guests were asked to bring their own socks for the rental skates, and helmets were provided for young children. Skating was open to guests ages two and up who can walk confidently.
Whether the evening series returns in the same format for the coming season is worth confirming before you plan around it. Either way, dress in warm layers, since the rink is fully outdoors and temperatures fall quickly once the sun goes down. Sessions can also be adjusted or canceled during bad weather.
Find Snow for Sledding and Snow Play
For many families, the whole point of a winter mountain trip is a few hours of sledding. Lake Arrowhead itself doesn’t have a dedicated snow play park, but several options are a short drive east toward Running Springs, where the elevation is higher and snow tends to stick around longer.
Snow Valley Mountain Resort has offered a tubing and snow play area in past seasons. There are also commercial tubing parks in the Running Springs area and Forest Service snow play zones along Highway 18 when conditions allow. Commercial parks have the advantage of groomed runs, set hours, and lift or conveyor access on some hills, while open forest areas are more informal and depend entirely on natural snow.
A few guidelines keep snow play safe and respectful. Never sled toward roads, trees, or parked cars. Never pull over on a highway shoulder to play in roadside snow, and never wander into private yards or driveways. Parking restrictions along Highways 18 and 330 are enforced during snow season, and illegally parked cars can be ticketed and towed. Roadside snow play is also one of the quickest ways to frustrate the people who live here year-round. If you park in a National Forest recreation area, check whether an Adventure Pass or day pass is required. Our full guide to sledding near LA covers specific locations, age rules, gear, and how to avoid the worst of the crowds.
Ski or Snowboard at Snow Valley
Lake Arrowhead doesn’t have its own ski area, but Snow Valley Mountain Resort in Running Springs is the closest one. It’s typically about a 25 to 30 minute drive from Lake Arrowhead Village when the roads are clear. Snow Valley has a long history in the San Bernardino Mountains and a reputation for being more relaxed than the larger Big Bear resorts, which makes it appealing for families and newer skiers.
Since 2023, Snow Valley has been owned by Alterra Mountain Company and operates alongside Snow Summit and Bear Mountain as part of the Big Bear Mountain Resort family. That means Ikon Pass and Big Bear Mountain Resort season passes have been accepted here, a real advantage if you already hold one. Benefits and blackout dates vary by pass type and season, so confirm the details for your pass before you go.
Opening dates depend on weather and snowmaking, so check the resort’s current conditions before you plan a ski day. Weekends and holiday periods are always the busiest. Buying lift tickets and lessons in advance can save time at the window and sometimes money as well.
If you’re new to skiing or snowboarding, a lesson on your first day makes a real difference. We’ve compared the ski resorts for beginners near Los Angeles, including how Snow Valley stacks up against the Big Bear resorts for first-timers.
Try Snowshoeing or Cross-Country Skiing at Rim Nordic
For a quieter way to enjoy fresh snow, Rim Nordic Ski Area sits on Highway 18 across from Snow Valley, a few miles past Running Springs. It’s Southern California’s only dedicated cross-country ski area, with a trail system for classic and skate skiing and separate routes for snowshoeing through the forest.
Rim Nordic depends on natural snow, so it only opens after a decent storm and may stay closed through drier winters. When it is open, it’s a peaceful alternative to the downhill slopes, with fewer people and plenty of quiet time among the trees. Rentals and lessons have been available on site in past seasons, and snowshoeing is easy to pick up even if you’ve never tried it.
Because operations vary so much with conditions, check the latest status before you drive up. Dogs are not allowed on the trails.
Walk Among Giant Sequoias at Heaps Peak Arboretum
Heaps Peak Arboretum is a small treasure on Highway 18 between Lake Arrowhead and Running Springs, about half a mile east of SkyPark. The arboretum’s Sequoia Trail is an easy loop of under a mile that winds through native pines, cedars, and oaks to a grove of giant sequoias. The sequoias aren’t native to Southern California; they were planted here in the 1930s, and they’re impressive all the same.
Winter is a lovely time to visit. The wildflowers that fill the gardens in spring and summer are dormant, but the evergreens stand out against a dusting of snow, and the trail is usually quiet. Interpretive signs explain the forest’s history, including its recovery after a major fire in the 1920s. The arboretum is managed by the Rim of the World Interpretive Association and is generally open daily from dawn to dusk.
Wear shoes with good grip, since sections of the trail can be icy after a storm, and check whether a National Forest Adventure Pass is needed for parking. The arboretum is not a snow play area, so leave the sleds in the car.
Take a Quiet Lakeside Walk at Lake Gregory
While Lake Arrowhead’s shoreline is mostly private, nearby Lake Gregory in Crestline is a public regional park with open lakeside space. In summer, it’s busy with swimmers, paddlers, and water-slide fans. In winter, it becomes a quiet spot for a walk along the water, a picnic on a sunny day, or a little fishing for those who don’t mind the cold.
The drive from Lake Arrowhead to Lake Gregory takes about 20 minutes, which makes it an easy half-day outing. Summer facilities such as the swim beach and water park are seasonal, so expect a calmer, simpler experience in the colder months. You’ll find more on trails, fishing, and seasonal activities in our guide to Lake Gregory Regional Park.
Meet the Animals at Wildhaven Ranch
Wildhaven Ranch in Cedar Glen, just east of Lake Arrowhead Village, is a wildlife sanctuary that cares for injured and non-releasable native animals. In recent years, it has opened to the public on Saturdays for guided educational programs, weather permitting, including during the winter months.
A visit is a gentle, meaningful outing for families. Children can learn about the animals that share the mountains with us, from birds of prey to bobcats, and hear the stories of how each resident came to the sanctuary. Visits are by advance reservation only. There are no walk-in visits or tickets sold at the gate, so book before you drive to Cedar Glen, and check the current program schedule at the same time. Our guide to Wildhaven Ranch has more on what to expect.
Warm Up with Comfort Food and Coffee
Few things feel better after a cold morning outdoors than a hot drink and a hearty meal. Lake Arrowhead Village, Blue Jay, Cedar Glen, and Skyforest all have cafés, bakeries, and casual restaurants that are perfect for warming up between activities. Look for spots with fireplaces or lake views on cold days, and plan for longer waits around holiday weekends.
For a full rundown of local favorites, from breakfast spots to dinner with a view, see our guide to the best places to eat in Lake Arrowhead.
Stargaze on Clear Winter Nights
Winter nights are long, and when the skies clear after a storm, the air in the mountains can be remarkably crisp. Away from the lights of the village, the stars are far brighter than anything you’ll see from the city. Winter constellations such as Orion are easy to find, and on moonless nights the view can be spectacular.
You don’t need special equipment to enjoy it. A clear night, a warm blanket, a thermos of something hot, and a dark spot away from streetlights are enough. A cabin deck or backyard is often the most comfortable place to watch, especially with a fire pit nearby.
Spend a Snow Day at the Cabin
Sometimes the best thing to do on a stormy winter day is stay put. When the snow is falling and the roads are slow, a day at the cabin can be the highlight of the trip. Build a fire, cook a big breakfast, play board games, watch the snow from the window, and step outside to build a snowman when the storm eases.
Planning for a possible snow day takes the pressure off a winter itinerary. Stock up on groceries and essentials before a storm arrives, keep a few indoor activities on hand, and treat a slower day as part of the experience rather than a disruption.
Holiday Events in Lake Arrowhead and Nearby
The holiday season brings a series of community traditions to the mountain, and many visitors plan their winter trips around them. Exact dates and times change each year, so confirm details closer to your visit. In recent years, the season has looked something like this.
Lake Arrowhead Village Christmas Tree Lighting. The village has traditionally kicked off the season around Thanksgiving weekend with the arrival of Santa and the lighting of a large tree near the water on the village peninsula. Santa has typically returned for photos on weekends leading up to Christmas.
Running Springs Tree Lighting. The small downtown area of Running Springs has hosted its own tree lighting in early December, a cozy, community-focused evening with photos with Santa and warm drinks. It’s a nice alternative to the larger crowds elsewhere on the mountain.
Crestline Family Christmas. Crestline has celebrated with a family Christmas event at Lake Gregory, featuring a tree lighting, a bonfire, live music, and Santa.
SkyPark at Santa’s Village Holiday Season. From mid-November into early January, the park offers its full holiday program with lights, train rides, and visits with Santa.
Big Bear Holiday Lights. About 30 minutes east of Running Springs, Big Bear Lake’s village holds a tree lighting the day after Thanksgiving, along with seasonal decorations and a Grand Menorah lighting during Chanukah.
Holiday weekends are busy across the mountain. If you’re visiting between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day, book accommodations, special event tickets, and dinner reservations early.
Things to Do in Lake Arrowhead by Winter Month
Each part of winter has its own rhythm. Here’s a quick look at what to expect and what to prioritize, depending on when you visit.
| Month | What to Expect | Best Things to Do |
| December | Holiday lights, festive events, the start of the snow season, busy weekends | SkyPark holiday season, village tree lighting and Santa visits, Lake Arrowhead Queen, holiday shopping |
| January | Often the coldest month, a good chance of snow, quieter after New Year’s | Skiing at Snow Valley, sledding and tubing, ice skating, snowshoeing when snow allows |
| February | Snowpack often at its deepest, crisp clear days between storms, Valentine’s getaways | Snow sports, Heaps Peak Arboretum in the snow, cozy cabin weekends, stargazing |
December is all about the holidays. Days are short, evenings feel festive, and the village and SkyPark are at their most decorated. Snow is possible but not guaranteed early in the month. Expect crowds on weekends, particularly the week between Christmas and New Year’s.
January tends to be quieter once the holiday rush passes, especially midweek. It’s often a good month for snow sports, and the post-holiday calm makes it easier to find availability for lessons, tickets, and accommodations.
February frequently brings some of the best snow of the season. It’s a popular time for romantic getaways around Valentine’s Day, and Presidents’ Day weekend is one of the busiest snow weekends of the year. Book ahead if you’re planning around either.
A Sample Winter Weekend in Lake Arrowhead
If you’re not sure how to fit everything into a short trip, this itinerary balances festive outings with time outdoors and time to relax. Adjust it around the weather and your group’s energy.
Friday evening. Arrive before dark if you can, especially if a storm is forecast. Settle into your cabin, light the fire, and pick up groceries for the weekend. If the sky is clear, spend a few minutes outside looking at the stars.
Saturday morning. Head to Snow Valley for a ski lesson or a few hours of tubing and snow play. Arrive early to beat the crowds and the parking rush. If snow sports aren’t your thing, walk the Sequoia Trail at Heaps Peak Arboretum instead.
Saturday afternoon. Warm up with lunch, then visit SkyPark at Santa’s Village for the holiday program or an ice-skating session at Silver Bells Arena. Stay into the evening to see the lights.
Sunday morning. Drive down to Lake Arrowhead Village for breakfast, then take a cruise on the Lake Arrowhead Queen. Spend an hour browsing the shops for gifts or souvenirs.
Sunday afternoon. Before heading home, check road conditions and give yourself plenty of time. If you’re returning to Los Angeles, leaving by early afternoon helps you avoid the worst of the Sunday traffic down the mountain.
For a longer stay, add a half-day at Lake Gregory, a Saturday program at Wildhaven Ranch, or a day trip to Big Bear.
Things to Do in Lake Arrowhead with Kids in Winter
Lake Arrowhead is one of the easiest winter destinations in Southern California for families, largely because so many activities are close together and suited to a range of ages.
SkyPark at Santa’s Village is the obvious highlight for younger children, especially during the holiday season. Visiting Santa, riding the train, and wandering the decorated forest feel genuinely magical at that age. Older kids often enjoy ice skating at Silver Bells Arena, which is open to children who can walk confidently.
Snow play and tubing are a must if there’s snow on the ground. Many tubing parks have minimum age or height rules, so check before you go, and bring dry gloves and a change of clothes for the drive back. Shorter outdoor sessions with warm-up breaks work better than one long stretch in the cold.
The Lake Arrowhead Queen is a nice low-effort outing for young children, and Wildhaven Ranch offers a fun, educational way to see native animals up close. Heaps Peak Arboretum’s short loop is manageable for little legs, though strollers may struggle after snowfall.
Build in downtime, too. Kids tire faster at altitude and in the cold, and an afternoon of hot cocoa and board games at the cabin can be just as memorable as a full day of activities.
Driving to Lake Arrowhead in Winter
Winter driving is the part of a mountain trip that catches many first-time visitors off guard. A little preparation makes the journey safer and far less stressful.
Know your routes. Most visitors from the Los Angeles area reach Lake Arrowhead via Highway 18 from San Bernardino, which climbs to the Rim of the World Highway. Highway 330 from Highland leads directly to Running Springs, and Highway 138 serves Crestline and Lake Gregory. Highway 173 connects Highway 18 to Lake Arrowhead itself. Storms and accidents can close individual routes, so it helps to know your alternatives.
Carry chains. California uses chain control levels during winter storms. Depending on the level, chains may be required on all vehicles or only on those without four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive and snow tires. Even if you drive an all-wheel-drive vehicle, carry chains that fit your tires and practice putting them on at home before your trip. Learning in the snow on the side of a mountain highway is no fun.
Check conditions before you leave. Caltrans posts real-time road conditions, chain controls, and closures. Check before you leave home and again before any drive on the mountain during a storm.
Drive for the conditions. Slow down, leave plenty of space between vehicles, and use turnouts to let faster traffic pass. Black ice is common on shaded curves in the early morning and after sunset, even when the road looks dry.
Fill up and stock up. Fill your gas tank before heading up and keep water, snacks, warm clothing, a flashlight, and a phone charger in the car in case of delays.
Plan your parking. Many trailheads and recreation areas in the San Bernardino National Forest require an Adventure Pass or day pass to park. Never stop on a highway shoulder to play in the snow or pull into private driveways. Parking restrictions are enforced during snow season, and illegally parked cars can be ticketed and towed.
What to Pack for a Winter Trip to Lake Arrowhead
A well-packed bag makes winter outings more comfortable and keeps the whole group happy.
- Layers. A base layer, a warm mid-layer such as fleece or wool, and a waterproof outer jacket.
- Waterproof boots. Insulated boots with good traction are essential for snow and icy paths.
- Hats, gloves, and scarves. Bring spare gloves for kids, since wet gloves end snow play quickly.
- Waterproof pants. Especially useful for sledding and snow play.
- Warm socks. Pack extras, and bring a pair for ice skating if you plan to rent skates.
- Sun protection. Sunglasses and sunscreen matter at elevation, where sunlight reflects off the snow.
- Tire chains. Even if you don’t expect to need them.
- Thermos and snacks. Handy for long days outdoors and for traffic delays.
- Indoor entertainment. Books, games, and movies for a snow day at the cabin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Lake Arrowhead get snow in winter?
Yes, Lake Arrowhead usually sees snow in winter, but the amount varies widely from year to year. Some winters bring frequent storms and plenty of snow, while others are relatively dry. Higher areas to the east, such as Running Springs and Snow Valley, often hold snow longer than the lakeshore.
What is there to do in Lake Arrowhead in December?
December is the most festive month on the mountain. Popular activities include the holiday season at SkyPark at Santa’s Village, the Lake Arrowhead Village tree lighting and Santa visits, holiday shopping in the village, cruises on the Lake Arrowhead Queen, and early-season skiing or tubing when there’s enough snow.
Is the Lake Arrowhead Queen open in winter?
Yes, the Lake Arrowhead Queen operates year-round from the dock at Lake Arrowhead Village. Schedules can change with the season and the weather, so it’s best to check departure times before you go.
Can you go ice skating in Lake Arrowhead?
The closest ice rink is Silver Bells Arena at SkyPark at Santa’s Village in Skyforest, just a few minutes east of Lake Arrowhead on Highway 18. It’s an outdoor rink set among the pines and is open on select dates during the winter season.
Is there a ski resort in Lake Arrowhead?
There’s no ski resort in Lake Arrowhead itself. The closest is Snow Valley Mountain Resort in Running Springs, roughly 25 to 30 minutes away in good conditions. It’s part of the Big Bear Mountain Resort family and has accepted the Ikon Pass. The Big Bear resorts are farther east.
Where can you go sledding near Lake Arrowhead?
The best sledding options are east of the lake around Running Springs, where the elevation is higher. These include commercial tubing parks, the snow play area at Snow Valley, and Forest Service snow play zones along Highway 18 when conditions allow.
Can you walk around Lake Arrowhead?
Lake Arrowhead is a private lake. Most of the shoreline, including the trail system around the lake, is reserved for Arrowhead Lake Association members and their registered guests. Visitors can enjoy the waterfront at Lake Arrowhead Village and see the lake from the water aboard the Lake Arrowhead Queen. For a public lakeside walk, nearby Lake Gregory in Crestline is a good option.
Is Santa’s Village in Big Bear?
No. SkyPark at Santa’s Village is in Skyforest, on Highway 18 between Lake Arrowhead and Running Springs. It’s much closer to Lake Arrowhead than to Big Bear Lake, which is roughly 30 minutes farther east from Running Springs.
Do I need snow chains to drive to Lake Arrowhead?
During and after winter storms, chain controls are often in effect on mountain highways. It’s wise to carry chains whenever you visit in winter, even if you drive an all-wheel-drive vehicle, and to check Caltrans road conditions before you leave.
How far is Running Springs from Lake Arrowhead?
Running Springs is roughly 15 minutes east of Lake Arrowhead by car in normal conditions, and closer still to SkyPark at Santa’s Village and Snow Valley. Allow extra time when roads are snowy or icy.
Make Running Springs Your Winter Base
Many visitors searching for Lake Arrowhead cabin rentals find that staying a little farther up the mountain suits a winter trip especially well. Running Springs sits at a higher elevation than the lake, which often means more snow and a quieter, more wooded setting. It also places you in the middle of the winter action: around 15 minutes from Lake Arrowhead Village, minutes from SkyPark at Santa’s Village and Heaps Peak Arboretum, close to Snow Valley, and roughly 30 minutes from Big Bear.
Wild Olive Cabins offers two cabins in Running Springs, each designed for slow, comfortable mountain stays.
Wild Olive Den is a two-bedroom cabin for up to five guests, set high above the surrounding mountains with three decks and sweeping views. On winter evenings, guests can gather around the gas fireplace in the living room, soak in the private hot tub, or warm up by the fire pit outside.
Wild Olive Lodge is a three-bedroom A-frame-style cabin for up to seven guests, with a vaulted loft, a wood-burning fireplace, and a downstairs movie room with a 100-inch screen. It’s a natural fit for families and small groups who want room to spread out on a snow day, along with a private hot tub and fire pit for cold, starry nights.
Both cabins are well suited to winter weekends, whether you spend your days skating, skiing, and touring the village or simply watching the snow fall from the window. Book early for December holidays and peak snow weekends, pack your chains, and get ready to enjoy the mountains at their most peaceful.
