If you’re staring at a screen trying to figure out the Big Bear weather forecast 14 day outlook, I’ve got some good news and some "keep it real" news. Honestly, planning a trip to 6,750 feet isn't like checking the weather in Los Angeles or San Diego. Up here, the sky does whatever it wants, and the apps usually struggle to keep up.
Right now, as of mid-January 2026, we are looking at a weirdly warm stretch. You’ve probably noticed the temps hitting the mid-50s or even the low 60s in some spots. It feels like spring, but don’t let that fool you. The mountains are moody.
The Two-Week Reality Check
Basically, if you’re looking at the next 14 days, you’re seeing two distinct chapters. The first week—roughly through January 19th—is looking incredibly dry and sunny. Highs are hanging out between 54°F and 60°F. It’s gorgeous for walking around the Village, but it's "slushy" weather for the slopes.
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Then, things shift. Around January 22nd and 23rd, the forecast starts hinting at a pattern change. We're seeing a jump in humidity and a dip in temperatures. We might see some sprinkles or light snow flurries by that Friday.
The biggest mistake people make? They see a high of 55°F and pack like they’re going to a backyard BBQ. Big Bear is a desert mountain. The moment the sun dips behind the ridge, the temperature falls off a cliff. You can go from 55°F at 3:00 PM to 30°F by 6:00 PM. That’s a 25-degree drop in three hours.
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What the "Experts" Won't Tell You About Snow
People obsess over the "chance of snow" percentage. If you see a 10% chance of snow on January 23rd, does that mean it won't snow? Not necessarily. In the San Bernardino Mountains, orographic lift (wind hitting the mountains and rising) can turn a "cloudy day" into a localized dusting in minutes.
- Snow Summit and Bear Mountain are currently relying on their snowmaking systems.
- Even if the 14-day forecast looks "dry," the resorts can blow snow as long as the wet-bulb temperature is low enough at night.
- Check the "overnight lows." If it's hitting 25°F to 30°F at night, the conditions for skiing stay decent because the base freezes back up.
Road Conditions: The Highway 38 Headache
Let’s talk about getting here. This is huge for anyone coming up in the next two weeks. Highway 38 is currently under a major construction nightmare. Because of storm damage from "Tropical Storm Mario" (yeah, that happened), the road is basically closed Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
If you try to take the "back way" through Redlands on a Tuesday morning, you’re going to be staring at a barricade. Use Highway 18 through Lucerne Valley or Highway 330 through Running Springs instead. Honestly, Highway 18 is the "desert route" and it's way less curvy. Your passengers with motion sickness will thank you.
Your 14-Day Packing List (The Non-Obvious Stuff)
Since the Big Bear weather forecast 14 day report shows a mix of "fake spring" and "actual winter," your suitcase needs to be a hybrid.
- Sunscreen. I’m serious. At this altitude, the UV index is way higher, and the sun reflects off the snow (or the lake) and fries your face.
- Layers, not just a parka. You need a base layer, a hoodie, and a shell. If you wear a massive down jacket while walking the lakefront in 58-degree weather, you’ll be sweating buckets.
- Lip balm. The air up here is bone-dry. Your lips will crack by day two if you don't prep.
- Chains. Even if the forecast says 60 degrees. California law requires you to carry them from November through April. If a random storm blows in and you don't have them in your trunk, the CHP will turn you around. It happens every year.
The Verdict on January 2026
We are currently in a "warmer and drier than average" cycle. The Old Farmer's Almanac predicted this for our region, and so far, it's hitting the nail on the head. But don't let the lack of a "megastorm" in the 14-day outlook keep you away. The hiking is actually better when it's 50 degrees than when it's 20, and the crowds are a lot thinner during these "dry" spells.
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If you’re coming up for MLK Weekend (Jan 16-19), expect peak crowds and sunny skies. It’s going to be packed, so get to the resorts by 7:30 AM or you won't find a parking spot.
Actionable Steps for Your Trip
- Download the Caltrans QuickMap app. Don't trust Google Maps for road closures; it's often 20 minutes behind.
- Check the "Wind" forecast. A 50-degree day with 20mph winds feels like 35 degrees. If the wind is coming from the North/Northeast, it's going to be biting.
- Book dinner reservations now. When the weather is nice, everyone stays out late and the Village restaurants get slammed.
- Watch the lows. If the 14-day forecast shows overnight lows above 35°F, the snow quality will degrade fast. If they stay in the 20s, the skiing remains solid.
The mountains are unpredictable, but that's kinda the point of going to them, right? Stay flexible, keep an eye on the Highway 38 schedule, and enjoy the California sunshine while it lasts.