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Big Bear Lake, CA, USA to South Lake Tahoe, CA, USA from $70: 10 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Big Bear Lake, United States of America
to
South Lake Tahoe, United States of America

How to Get from Big Bear Lake to South Lake Tahoe: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$70 - Bus, Train, Fly, BusBest price
710 kmDistance
7h 17m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Big Bear Lake to South Lake Tahoe with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
Various
Drive
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
7h  17m
Estimated price
$0-0
Recommended
Company
Various
Bus
Train
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
10h  51m
Estimated price
$70-443
Cheapest
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
8h  19m
Estimated price
$80-120
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route map
Distance: 710 km
Duration: 7h 17m

See more options

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Various
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Plane
Bus
Average Duration
9h  47m
Estimated price
$0-0
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Various
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Train
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
17h  20m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
Various
Bus
Average Duration
17h  42m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
Various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
22h  21m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
Various
Bus
Train
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
9h  47m
Estimated price
$74-372
Company
Various
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Train
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
10h  50m
Estimated price
$80-351
Company
Various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
18h  29m
Estimated price
$160-277

Traveling From Big Bear Lake to South Lake Tahoe

Embarking on the journey from Big Bear Lake's serene mountain setting to South Lake Tahoe's vibrant lakeside scene promises a refreshing shift in scenery and activities.

Best Neighbourhoods in South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe offers diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm.

Stateline
• Close to gaming and nightlife options.
• Access to stunning views of the lake.
Heavenly Valley
• Ski slopes and outdoor adventures nearby.
• Vibrant atmosphere with dining and shopping.
South Lake Tahoe City
• Variety of restaurants and local shops.
• Beautiful beaches and parks for relaxation.

Best Times To Visit South Lake Tahoe's Attractions

Planning your trip around peak times can enhance your South Lake Tahoe experience.

Heavenly Ski Resort
Visit mid-week in January for fewer crowds and great snow.
Emerald Bay State Park
Early morning in spring offers stunning views and peaceful hikes.
South Lake Tahoe Beaches
Late afternoon in summer gives you a quieter, more relaxing vibe.

South Lake Tahoe Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

South Lake Tahoe experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers ideal for outdoor adventures and snowy winters attracting ski enthusiasts. Understanding the climate helps you plan your visit to maximize enjoyment, whether you're hiking in the sun or hitting the slopes.

Dining Recommendation

For a taste of South Lake Tahoe, try the fresh trout at The Red Hut Cafe, where local ingredients shine through in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. This dining experience stands in contrast to Big Bear Lake's hearty mountain fare, offering lighter, flavorful options that highlight the region's lake-side culinary scene.

Big Bear Lake - South Lake Tahoe operators

Explore transport companies operating between Big Bear Lake and South Lake Tahoe, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus
Contact phone
+1 909-878-5200
Website
https://mountaintransit.org

Bus from Big Bear Blvd & Knickerbocker Rd - Veterans Park to Metrolink Station

Average Duration
1h 13m
Estimated price
$3728-3729

Bus from Big Bear Blvd & Knickerbocker Rd - Veterans Park to Rialto & F St - Transit Center

Average Duration
1h 28m
Estimated price
$3728-749
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Bus from Sacramento to South Lake Tahoe Amtrak Bus Stop

Average Duration
2h 20m
Estimated price
0-0

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to Bakersfield Train Station

Average Duration
2h 10m
Estimated price
0-0
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to Sacramento Bus Station

Average Duration
8h 45m
Estimated price
$742-7490
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://flixbus.com

Bus from San Bernardino Downtown Transit Center to Los Angeles Union Station

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
$3721-742

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to Sacramento Bus Station

Average Duration
9h 25m
Estimated price
$4437-7440
Train
Website
https://metrolinktrains.com

Train from San Bernardino Depot station to L. A. Union Station station

Average Duration
1h 38m
Estimated price
$744-4435

Train from San Bernardino Depot station to Tustin station

Average Duration
1h 19m
Estimated price
$749-4435
Plane
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Indio/Palm Springs (PSP) to Sacramento (SMF)

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
$700-701

Plane from Los Angeles (LAX) to Reno (RNO)

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
$704-705

Plane from Ontario/San Bernardino (ONT) to Sacramento (SMF)

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
$708-709
Other Show other routes
Contact phone
866-898-2463
Website
https://southtahoeairporter.com

Other from Reno-Tahoe International Airport to Ltrh

Average Duration
1h 36m
Estimated price
$800-4435
Contact phone
+1 925-382-8320
Website
http://tahoeskitrips.net

Other from San Jose Park and Ride to Heavenly Valley Ski Lodge

Average Duration
5h
Estimated price
7489-0

Big Bear Lake to South Lake Tahoe: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Big Bear Lake and South Lake Tahoe offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic road trip from Big Bear Lake to South Lake Tahoe spanning 441 miles, offering breathtaking views of California's diverse landscapes along the way. 💰 Budget-friendly travelers can expect to spend between $80 to $120 on fuel and tolls for the journey, making it an affordable adventure for those seeking a fun and cost-effective road trip. 🌲 Arrive in South Lake Tahoe after approximately 8 hours and 19 minutes of driving, ready to explore the stunning natural beauty, outdoor activities, and charming towns that await in this beloved destination.
Average price
$80 - $120
🛫 Start your journey in Big Bear Lake by taking a short flight to Indio/Palm Springs Airport where you can catch a direct 1 hour and 30-minute flight to Sacramento Airport. Southwest Airlines is a convenient option for this route. ✈️ Upon reaching Sacramento, you can either rent a car and enjoy a scenic drive to South Lake Tahoe which takes around 2.5 hours, or you can opt for a connecting flight to Reno-Tahoe International Airport which is closer to the final destination.
Departure Point
Indio/Palm Springs Airport
Arrival Point
Sacramento Airport
🚌 While there is no direct bus from Big Bear Lake to South Lake Tahoe, you can still reach your destination via a series of transfers through different stations. The journey will take approximately 17 hours and 42 minutes. 🌲 The route options offer different transfer points and timings, with distances ranging from 593 miles to 728 miles. Each route involves multiple transfers, including stops in San Bernardino, Las Vegas, Reno, and Carson City, before finally arriving at South Lake Tahoe.
Departure Point
Big Bear Blvd & Knickerbocker Rd - Veterans Park station
Arrival Point
South Lake Tahoe Amtrak Bus Stop station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Big Bear Lake to South Lake Tahoe.

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The distance between Big Bear Lake and South Lake Tahoe is approximately 368 miles by road. The typical travel time by car is around 8 hours and 19 minutes. However, if flying is preferred, it takes about 7 hours and 12 minutes by driving to Indio/Palm Springs and then flying to Sacramento.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Big Bear Lake to South Lake Tahoe is to drive. It takes approximately 8 hours and 19 minutes to drive the 441 miles between the two destinations. This option is also the quickest way to reach South Lake Tahoe from Big Bear Lake. It is recommended to budget around $80-$120 for fuel and other expenses for the trip.
To travel from Big Bear Lake to South Lake Tahoe without using public transportation, the most convenient option is to drive. The driving distance is approximately 441 miles, and it takes around 8 hours and 19 minutes to complete the journey by car. The prices for this mode of transportation range from $80 to $120, depending on factors such as gas prices and vehicle type.
If you wish to travel from Big Bear Lake to South Lake Tahoe without a car, the best way is to take a combination of bus and train via Los Angeles. This journey takes approximately 16 hours and 52 minutes. However, keep in mind that the cost may vary depending on the specific bus and train options available at the time of travel.
The flight between Big Bear Lake and South Lake Tahoe typically takes 1 hour and 25 minutes. However, it is important to note that there are no direct flights between these two destinations. The quickest route would involve a transfer at Indio/Palm Springs Airport. As for the cost, airfare prices can vary depending on several factors such as the time of year, airline, and availability. It is recommended to check with airlines or travel websites for the most accurate and up-to-date information on ticket prices.
There are numerous options for accommodation near South Lake Tahoe. There are over 640 hotels available, offering a wide range of choices for all budgets. Prices for hotels in the area start at around $35 per night. Whether you are looking for luxury resorts, cozy cabins, or budget-friendly options, you can find a suitable place to stay near South Lake Tahoe.

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