Every summer, Big Bear Lake transforms into a cyclist’s dream. Surrounded by alpine forests and clean mountain air, Tour de Big Bear 2025 is set to be the most exciting edition yet. With a full weekend of rides; on road, gravel, and mountain bike, along with a buzzing cycling expo, live music, VIP perks, and family-friendly events, it’s more than a race. It’s an experience.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know before rolling up to the start line, from new event additions to insider tips on altitude training, where to eat, and the best places to stay.
📍 When and Where
🗓 Dates: August 1–3, 2025
📌 Location: Bear Mountain, 43101 Goldmine Dr, Big Bear Lake, CA
🚴♂️ Ride Options at Tour de Big Bear 2025
Tour de Big Bear isn’t a one-size-fits-all event. It offers a range of rides to match every skill level and adventure appetite.
Friday, August 1, 2025
The Poker Ride
- 20-mile fun ride to help riders acclimate before the main event
- Free to enter
- Sign-up required at the Cycling Expo (limited space – first come, first served)
- Runs from 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM
The Glow Ride
- Evening ride through town featuring lights and costumes
- Open to all ages and free to join
- Costume and lighting contest with awards after the ride
- Ride starts at 8:00 PM
Saturday, August 2, 2025
Tour de Big Bear Road Rides (Registration Required)
- 25 Mile Route
- Starts at Bear Mountain
- Travels through Stanfield Cutoff, North Shore Drive, and Greenway Drive
- Scenic and beginner-friendly
- 50 Mile – Big Bear Valley Tour
- Follows the 25-mile route and continues to Snow Valley
- Includes a loop around Baldwin Lake
- Moderate difficulty
- 70 Mile – Grand Tour
- Follows the 50-mile route
- Adds a climb to Onyx Summit on Hwy 38
- Designed for experienced riders
- 100 Mile – The Climb
- Follows the 70-mile course
- Extends beyond Onyx Summit to Jenks Lake
- Most physically demanding ride of the weekend
- All road rides start from Bear Mountain
- Aid stations available along all routes with snacks, hydration, and electrolyte drinks
- E-bikes allowed only on road rides (not eligible for awards or segments)
- Final course closure is at 5 PM
Gravel Rides (No E-Bikes Permitted)
- Dirty Cub – 25 Mile Gravel Ride
- Off-road route with moderate terrain challenges
- Dirty Bear – 50 Mile Gravel Ride
- Long gravel course for experienced off-road cyclists
NEW! Dirty Burro Mountain Bike Race – 50K
- Cross-country mountain biking race
- Features a mix of single and doubletrack trails
- Showcases Big Bear’s mountain terrain
- Competitive and scenic
Sunday, August 3, 2025
The Recovery Ride
- Casual post-event ride to wind down
- Free breakfast at 8:30 AM at Copper Q in The Village
- Options to loop around one or both lakes
- Ride begins at 9:00 AM
- Great for light spinning and socializing after race day
🌟 Golden Bear VIP Pass – Go for the Gold
Looking to elevate your weekend?
The Golden Bear VIP Pass ($200) includes:
- Reserved upper-lot parking
- Bear’s Den Rider Lounge access
- 2025 Tour Jersey
- $25 meal voucher
- Bikes & Brews tasting experience (10 tickets + collector glass)
🍴 Where to Eat in Big Bear During Tour Weekend
Cycling at altitude burns serious calories. Whether you’re carb-loading before the race or celebrating after, Big Bear’s food scene delivers.
Pre-Ride Fuel:
- Grizzly Manor Café – A local icon serving giant pancakes, eggs, and friendly vibes. Get there early.
- Teddy Bear Restaurant – Reliable diner-style breakfasts with hearty portions.
- Dank Donuts – Grab house-made donuts and coffee before you roll out.
Post-Ride Refuel:
- 572 Social – Burgers, tacos, and cocktails with outdoor seating and live music.
- Maggio’s Pizza – Great for big groups craving cheesy carbs.
- Oakside – A modern lodge with craft beer, tri-tip sandwiches, and a relaxing vibe.
Recovery Smoothies & Coffee:
- Moonridge Coffee Company – Local favorite near Bear Mountain with espresso, pastries, and patio space.
- Amangela’s Sandwich & Bagel House – Smoothies, bagels, and sandwiches made fresh in The Village.
🧬 How to Train for Altitude in Big Bear
Big Bear sits at an elevation of 6,752 feet. The thinner air can shock riders who aren’t prepared. Here’s how to get your lungs race-ready.
✅ 1. Acclimate if Possible
Arrive 2–3 days before your event. Your body will begin to adjust to lower oxygen levels naturally. Go for a light spin, but save your energy for race day.
✅ 2. Hydrate Aggressively
Dehydration happens faster at high altitudes. Drink more water than usual, starting two days before arrival.
✅ 3. Eat Clean, Sleep Deep
Your muscles need fuel to perform in altitude. Focus on whole foods and rest. Avoid alcohol and junk food the night before.
✅ 4. Use Altitude Masks or Hypoxic Training (Advanced)
If you’re serious about performance, consider altitude simulation gear before the event. It won’t replace the real thing, but it can help prepare your cardiovascular system.
🛏 Where to Stay: Book Lakefront for the Ultimate Experience
Avoid the noise of crowded hotels. Enjoy peace, space, and direct access to nature by booking with Big Bear Lakefront Cabins.
🏡 Why Choose Big Bear Lakefront Cabins?
- Lakefront views & private docks
- Pet-friendly properties
- Hot tubs, fire pits, BBQs
- Fully equipped kitchens
- Walking distance to trails & The Village
Cabins range from cozy one-bed retreats to luxury estates that sleep up to 16 guests—perfect for cycling teams or large groups.
📞 Call (909) 547-6015 to reserve your spot or book online.
💪 Recovery Tips After the Ride
Tour weekend pushes your limits. Here’s how to bounce back:
🧖♀️ Soak in a Hot Tub
Many Big Bear Lakefront Cabins include private hot tubs—ideal for muscle recovery and stargazing.
🍽 Refuel with Protein & Carbs
Grilled chicken, brown rice, and veggies help muscles rebuild. Don’t skip your post-ride meal.
💤 Sleep Like a Pro
Altitude increases sleep needs. Aim for 9+ hours the night after the race.
🧘♂️ Light Movement
Join Sunday’s Recovery Ride (road & gravel) at 9 AM starting from Copper Q in The Village. Gentle movement helps prevent soreness.
🧑🦽 Adaptive Riders & E-Bikes Welcome
Tour de Big Bear proudly supports adaptive cyclists and welcomes riders of all abilities. E-bikes are allowed on road routes, but not eligible for awards or Strava segments.
📝 Final Tips for Tour de Big Bear 2025
- ✅ Register early online to reserve your ride
- 🧤 Bring layers—mountain mornings are cold, even in August
- 🛠 Make sure your bike is tuned up before arrival
- 📷 Pack a GoPro or phone mount for the ride
- 📍 Stay lakefront to relax and recover in style
Book Your Summer Adventure with Big Bear Lakefront Cabins
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Choose from 50+ Ski or Lake Rentals for your Big Bear vacation! There’s a rental for everyone with pet-friendly options and lakefront cabins. Every couple and family are sure to find their perfect vacation retreat with homes ranging from one to six bedrooms. Enjoy different rentals with feature amenities such as private hot tubs, spacious kitchens and fabulous locations.