Eleven Minutes Above Big Bear: A Starter Flight That Packs a Punch
11 Minute Big Bear Fun-Packed Starter Ride
You step out onto the tarmac and the mountain air is cool enough to make you pull your jacket a little tighter. The airplane is small—intimate enough that you can see the pilot’s hands on the yoke—and when its door opens, the world stretches wide. Below, Big Bear Lake gathers sunlight into a bright, hard blue; above, the ridgelines of the San Bernardino Mountains cut a serrated silhouette against a sky that feels close enough to touch. This is the promise of Tour Juliet: a fun-packed, 11-minute flight that turns a quick weekend into an appointment with perspective.
Trail Wisdom
Arrive Early
Check in at Big Bear Airport using the main door to the left of Barnstorm Cafe at least 20 minutes before your scheduled flight.
Dress in Layers
Bring a jacket—elevation and open windows can make the cabin chillier than the village.
Secure Your Camera
Use wrist straps and avoid bulky lenses; small cameras and phones work best in small cabins.
Weight & Group Limits
Per FAA rules, max 300 lbs per passenger and contact the operator if your combined group weight exceeds 500 lbs.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Barnstorm Cafe—grab a coffee and watch arrivals from the tarmac
- •Aerial viewpoint: ask the pilot to angle over Boulder Bay for unique photos
Wildlife
Mule deer, Red-tailed hawk
Conservation Note
Operators minimize flights over sensitive wildlife areas and encourage guests to limit noise and litter; approach routes are planned to balance views with environmental considerations.
Big Bear’s basin has been a seasonal home for indigenous Serrano people and later a lumber and resort hub; the lake and valley developed as recreation sites in the early 20th century.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Wildflower views, Clear air for photos, Mild temperatures
Challenges: Unpredictable late-season storms, Variable runway conditions early season
Spring brings melting snow and fresh greening in the basin—great for contrasty aerial shots, but check weather as late storms can roll through.
summer
Best for: Clear visibility, Quick getaways from L.A., Warm village life
Challenges: Afternoon haze on hot days, Higher weekend crowds
Summer offers long, clear days and excellent visibility; morning flights beat the haze and crowds.
fall
Best for: Fall color, Crisp air, Stable weather
Challenges: Cooler temps at altitude, Shorter daylight hours
Autumn is the best balance: colorful aspens, crisp visibility, and calm flying conditions most days.
winter
Best for: Snow-capped vistas, Ski area views, Dramatic light
Challenges: Possible delays from storms, Colder preflight and taxi times
Winter delivers dramatic snowy panoramas; plan for winter driving to the airport and potential weather delays.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Light jacketEssential
Blocks wind chill during taxi, takeoff, and landing.
Camera or phone with wrist strapEssential
Capture quick, stable shots without risking a dropped device.
Sunglasses
Reduces glare and improves visibility through windows.
Closed-toe shoesEssential
Easy to get in and out of small aircraft and meet safety guidance.
Common Questions
How long is the flight?
The advertised flight time is 11 minutes; plan for additional time for check-in and preflight procedures.
Where do I check in?
Check in at Big Bear Airport, 501 Valley Blvd—enter through the main door to the left of Barnstorm Cafe.
Are children allowed?
Yes—children under two may lap-sit under certain conditions; ages 2 and up must have their own seat and be secured.
What if our combined weight exceeds limits?
If total passenger weight exceeds 500 lbs, contact the operator before booking so they can plan for load and balance.
Is photography allowed?
Yes—bring a compact camera or phone and secure it with a wrist strap; pilots can sometimes adjust routes for better shots.
Are pets allowed?
Pets are not permitted unless specific arrangements are made; check with the operator ahead of time.
What to Pack
Light jacket for altitude chill, Camera/phone with wrist strap for photos, Sunglasses to cut glare, Comfortable closed-toe shoes for safe boarding
Did You Know
Big Bear Lake sits at roughly 6,750 feet (about 2,057 meters) above sea level—making it one of Southern California’s higher-elevation alpine lakes.
Quick Travel Tips
Book morning flights to avoid haze; confirm weight and group details before arrival; plan for winter road conditions if visiting November–March; bring a small daypack for layers and camera
Local Flavor
After landing, warm up with coffee at Barnstorm Cafe, then head to Big Bear Lake Village for breweries like Big Bear Lake Brewing Co. and lakeside dining—perfect for stretching the sky-high feeling back down to earth.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest major airport: Ontario International (ONT) ~65 miles (1.5–2 hours). Meeting point: Big Bear Airport, 501 Valley Blvd. Driving distance from Los Angeles: ~2 hours. Cell service: generally good in village and airport; patchy over ridgelines. Permits: none required for this flight.
Sustainability Note
Operators strive to minimize environmental impact by following designated routes and discouraging low overflights of wildlife habitat—pack out trash and respect airport and mountain wildlife.
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