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Snowboarding might have been born on the East Coast, but one could make a solid argument that the sport came into its own on the West Coast, in California specifically. It's not entirely clear why, but we'd guess that it has something to do with the region's frequent dumps of deep, heavy snow—conditions for which a snowboard is the ideal vehicle. Whatever the reason, snowboarding has flourished in the state, attracting everyone from Jeremy Jones to Shaun White.
Snowboarding in California also produced what some view as one-plankers' greatest gift to snowsports in general: The first terrain parks, formerly called snowboard parks. The first was built in 1989, and since then they've become ubiquitous around the globe. California will always be ground-zero for freestyle snowboarding, though, and for good reason: The state is home to some of the world's finest terrain parks, such as those at Big Bear Mountain Resort, located a mere two hours from Los Angeles.
The whole thing is one big terrain park. Big Bear map.
Bear Mountain isn't the biggest resort in the world, covering a modest 198 developed acres, but it packs a lot into that space. Featuring a staggering 14 terrain parks and three pipes, it's a jump-and-jibber's paradise. We're aware that 14 is a big number, at least when it comes to terrain parks, so we've put together a list of our favorites:
1. The Scene
You couldn't miss this one if you tried. Located right in front of the base area's sundeck, this park is purpose-built for long rail sessions interrupted by regular visits to the bar. Aptly named, the Scene attracts a rowdy crew always ready to howl when someone greases something sick. It's also a great place to show off in front of people eating lunch or enjoying the après scene.
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2. Red Bull Plaza
Offering jumps and jibs for advanced and expert park riders, the Red Bull Plaza has features reminiscent of those one might see in the X Games or on the Dew Tour. If you're looking to go huge like your favorite pro, this is the spot to be.
3. Skill Builder Parks
Maybe you're not the world's biggest park rat. Maybe you've never even seen a down-flat-down rail, or maybe you're seven. Regardless of the reason, terrain parks can be intimidating; full of hard surfaces and people waiting to watch you eat snow. Luckily, Big Bear's Skill Builder Parks are the perfect spot to grease your first box. Scattered across the mountain, they offer beginners a perfect intro to park riding.
