Planning a day escape from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles to explore California’s mountain gems? This private tour to Big Bear Lake and Lake Arrowhead promises a full day of scenic beauty, charming villages, and flexible activities tailored to your interests. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with a small group, this experience offers an intimate and customizable way to enjoy some of California’s most picturesque mountain scenery.
What we particularly like about this tour is its personalized touch. The private guide ensures you’re not just part of a crowd, but rather experiencing these mountain villages at your own pace. Plus, the flexibility for activity choices—from boat rentals to hikes—means you can craft your perfect mountain day. The only thing to consider is the price point, which is fair for a private, full-day experience, but you’ll want to weigh that against the personalized service and the value of seeing two distinct towns in one day.
This tour is best suited for travelers who love nature, authentic small-town atmospheres, and easy access to striking mountain views. If you’re looking for a day of relaxation, outdoor activities, and scenic sightseeing without the hassle of planning each step, it could be a great fit.
Key Points
- Private, customizable experience for 1-4 people.
- Includes pick-up and drop-off, making logistics simple.
- Flexible activities like boating, kayaking, hiking, and scenic rides.
- Stunning mountain views en route and in both villages.
- Ideal for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful escape.
- Fairly priced considering the personalized, all-day nature of the tour.
A Scenic Escape from Los Angeles
This private tour is essentially a curated day trip designed for small groups, offering the rare chance to visit two of California’s most charming mountain villages—Big Bear Lake and Lake Arrowhead—without the stress of self-driving or coordinating multiple rentals. The 12-hour duration allows plenty of time to enjoy each location without feeling rushed, and the pick-up and drop-off service makes it all very convenient.
From the moment you leave LA, you’ll start to notice how the landscape transforms. As you ascend into the mountains, the sprawling city fades behind you and breathtaking mountain vistas come into view. The road itself is part of the charm—twisting through forested hillsides, with plenty of opportunities for photo stops.
Exploring Big Bear Lake
Your first stop is Big Bear Lake, a favorite for both summer and winter. The lake itself is a shimmering focal point, surrounded by pine forests and mountain trails. While the tour doesn’t include boat rentals or tickets, it’s easy to rent a boat, kayak, or even take a ferry on-site if you’re interested in water activities. We loved the idea of combining a leisurely boat ride with the scenery—perfect for getting a different perspective on the lake’s natural beauty.
The village of Big Bear is lively but not overwhelming, with cozy cafes, boutique shops, and eateries. If you’re up for a walk, the lakeside paths offer peaceful views and chances to spot local wildlife. For a more active experience, there’s the option to do some short hikes or even take a scenic sky chair ride, which provides panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Lake Arrowhead’s Quaint Charm
Next, the tour takes you to Lake Arrowhead, often called “The Alps of Southern California” thanks to its alpine architecture and winding mountain roads. This village feels a bit more upscale, with a lovely village center featuring quaint shops and inviting restaurants. You’ll love the views of the lake from various vantage points, and if you’re visiting in warmer months, renting a bicycle or just strolling along the water’s edge is highly recommended.
While not included in the tour price, the opportunity to rent kayaks or boats here is worth considering if you want to spend more time on the water. The mood in Lake Arrowhead is a bit more serene compared to Big Bear, making it perfect for a relaxed lunch or a quiet walk.
Customizable Activities and Flexibility
What makes this tour stand out is the ability to customize your experience. The guide is open to adjusting the itinerary depending on your preferences—perhaps a quick hike, a scenic drive, or more time by the water. You’ll be able to discuss your interests in advance, ensuring your day matches what you’re looking for.
Plus, the guide speaks both English and Russian, which could be helpful if you or someone in your group prefers that language. The tour operates with a private group policy, so you won’t be sharing the experience with strangers—just your chosen company.
More Great Tours NearbyPractical Details and Value
For $520, the cost covers the private transportation and guide service for up to four people. Considering the entire day and the personalized service, this can be quite a good deal—especially if you’re traveling with a small group. You’ll get the convenience of door-to-door pickup and drop-off, plus the flexibility to tailor the day.
Keep in mind, meals and activity tickets are not included, so budget accordingly if you want to rent watercraft or do other paid activities. The tour’s emphasis is on sightseeing, the stunning vistas, and enjoying the relaxed mountain atmosphere.
Experience Reviews and Real-World Insights
While specific reviews aren’t available here, based on the offering, travelers can expect a well-paced, personalized experience that allows for spontaneous activities or quiet enjoyment. The fact that the tour can be adjusted “if you have some preferences” suggests a flexible and accommodating approach.
The highlight for many will be the stunning mountain views and the chance to experience two distinct villages in one day—each with its own vibe. Whether you’re into outdoor adventures, scenic drives, or just soaking in mountain air, this tour packs a lot into a single day.
Who Would Love This Tour?
If you’re someone who appreciates nature’s beauty and prefers a private, flexible experience, this tour is ideal. It’s perfect if you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy personalized attention, especially with a small group. It suits travelers who want to see two different mountain towns, explore at their own pace, and perhaps do some water-based activities or hikes.
It’s also a good choice if you’re short on time but want to get a taste of California’s mountain wilderness without the hassle of planning every detail.
The Sum Up
This private tour to Big Bear Lake and Lake Arrowhead offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, small-town charm, and flexibility that many travelers cherish. It’s especially well-suited for those who value personalized service and want to avoid the crowds while still experiencing the highlights of these mountain villages. The inclusion of pick-up and drop-off, along with the ability to customize your day, makes it a convenient, stress-free option for a memorable mountain escape.
For travelers who love stunning views and authentic local atmospheres, this trip delivers on all fronts. While it’s priced higher than some group tours, the private, flexible experience and the opportunity to explore two different towns make it a standout choice for a special day out from LA.
FAQ
What is included in the tour price?
The price covers private transportation, a live guide (English/Russian), and pick-up/drop-off at your location in Los Angeles. Activities like boating, kayaking, or hiking are not included but can be arranged or paid for separately.
Can the tour be customized?
Yes, the guide is happy to adjust the itinerary based on your preferences. Feel free to message beforehand to discuss specific places or activities you’re interested in.
How many people can join the tour?
The tour is designed for groups of 1 to 4 people, making it ideal for small groups or families seeking a personalized experience.
Is there a certain time the tour starts?
Check the availability for starting times, as the tour runs for about 12 hours. You’ll receive details when you book and can coordinate a time that suits your schedule.
What activities can I do in the villages?
You can rent boats or kayaks, take scenic rides, hike, or enjoy the charming local shops and cafes. These activities are optional and not included in the tour price.
Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. You’ll need to budget for lunch or snacks during the day.
Is this tour suitable in winter or summer?
Yes, the tour is flexible year-round. In summer, outdoor activities like biking or boating are popular, while winter visitors can enjoy snow sports or cozy village strolls.
How do I book or get a discount?
Contact the guide directly to inquire about discounts and to customize your trip. Booking is flexible with a pay-later option and full cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
This private day trip offers a wonderfully flexible way to experience California’s mountain scenery, small-town charm, and outdoor activities—all in one memorable, personalized package.
You can check availability for your dates here: