Big Bear Info
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Activities
When you are not inside enjoying your cabin explore and enjoy all
of the amazing adventures Big Bear Lake has to offer at 7,000 feet
above sea level. As Southern California’s preferred and convenient
mountain destination, Big Bear Lake has unlimited outdoor activities!
With our two well known winter resorts, Snow Summit and Bear Mountain,
you can ski and snowboard over 438 acres with 26 lifts and 55 runs.
They offer unparalleled learning programs for beginners and terrain
and parks for all levels. You can also go sledding and tubing at
Alpine Slide or Big Bear Snow Play!
The lake’s water is at a record level and has over 20 miles
of shoreline! Make memories while fishing, boating, parasailing,
jet skiing, testing the cable park, water skiing, wake boarding,
canoeing, kayaking, paddle boarding and more! Hit some balls at
the golf course or driving range, take a ride up the sky chair and
either ride, bike or hike down. From car shows to carriage rides,
The Big Bear Lake Village is also a wonderful area for shopping,
dining, bowling, lazer tag and movies. You’ll find entertainment
year round!
Our world renowned trails offer amazing hiking, biking, horseback
riding and off- roading. Explore the forest and history of our valley
by visiting the Discovery Center, Zoo and our museum. Big Bear also
has special events throughout the year and don’t forget our
famous Oktoberfest in the fall!
Click here to view the activity guide: http://www.bigbear.com/assets/content/docs/pdf/activitiesguide.pdf
Click here to view our "100 Things to Do" and learn how
to win Free goodies just by taking photos doing the "things"
on the list: http://www.bigbearvacations.com/thingstodo.htm
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Calendar of Events
AUGUST
Farmer’s Market
Date: August 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd, 30th,
Stop by and join us from 8:30 Am – 1:00 PM for the weekly Farmer’s
Market in Big Bear Lake every Tuesday. Enjoy fresh fruits,
vegetables and flowers all summer long. Located at the Big Bear Lake
Convention Center.
Cycling Rides
Date: August 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th, 15th, 16th,
17th, 18th, 22nd, 23rd, 24th, 25th, 29th, 30th, 31st
Hosted by the Big Bear Cycling Association, this event draws
together riders to enjoy their sport. Dawn Patrol Mountain Bike
meets at Bear Valley Bikes at 6:30 AM and is 15 mile course. The
Time Training Ride is a 10 mile Road and Mountain Course which
starts at Polique Canyon and North Shore Drive at 5:30 PM. For more
info please visit bigbearcycling.com
Friday Nights in the Village
Date: August 5th, 12th, 19th, 26th
Enjoy live music, outdoor vendors, local arts and crafts and food
from 5 PM to 8 PM located in the downtown Big Bear Lake Village
every Friday night of this month.
“On Golden Pond” at the Performing Arts Center
Date: August 5th, 6th, 7th
Come view a popular play presented by the Bear Valley Healthcare
District later made into a feature film. Celebrating its 30th
Anniversary, they will be presenting the original play. Tickets are
$20.00 and are available through 909-866-8670.
Tour de Big Bear
Date: August 6th
Amateur Cycling Tour. Visit openairbigbear.com for sign-up and
event/vendor details.
The Big Bear Air Faire
Date: August 6th
Celebrate Transportation Then to Now from 9 AM to 4 PM at the
exciting Big Bear Air Fair at the Big Bear City Airport.
The 2nd Annual Blues for the Zoo Concert
Date: August 6th
Music fest featuring Blues and Jazz tunes held on Big Bear Lake
itself. This fundraiser benefits the Moonridge Zoo. Tickets are
$35.00. Please call 909-878-4200 for more information on this great
event.
Antique Car Club Fun Run
Date: August 12th, 13th, 14th
Celebrating the vehicles of our past, the Fun Run offers 500
different old school cars to view and celebrate over this popular
weekend. Activities include posing for photos, vendors,
entertainment, food and the popular drive around the lake for all to
watch. Call 909-866-3938 for more information.
Big Bear Summer Theatre Festival Presents “Clarence Darrow”
Date: August 12th, 13th, 19th, 20th
The Festival is proud to present a popular play for any age, about
the story of one man during emerging America during the battle for
civil rights. Tickets range from $5.00-$10.00 depending on age. Play
will be performed at the Discovery Center Amphitheater.
The 10th Annual Big Bear Renaissance Faire
Date: August 13th, 14th, 20th, 21st
During the times of 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM on these special weekends,
come take part in the Ole Renaissance merriment and entertainment in
gorgeous downtown Fawnskin in Big Bear Lake. Try a Turkey leg, shoot
a bow and arrow, enjoy the jugglers and watch the Knights joust!
Tickets are $15.00 for Adults, $26.00 for a weekend pass, Seniors
are $12.00 and Kids 6-12 years old are $15.00.
“Reunion” Live in Concert
Date: August 13th
“Reunion” features members of the 1960’s group ‘The Letterman’ will
play a show at The Performing Arts Center. Proceeds will benefit
Meals on Wheels, St Joseph Food Pantry and Believer's Chapel Food
Pantry. Tickets are $50.00 and are available at the door.
Big Bear Film Society Presents “Earthworks”
Date: August 13th
From 7:00-9:00 PM The Big Bear Film Society presents the film
“Earthworks” with writer director Chris Ordal. The premiere
screening allows attendees to meet the filmmakers, ask questions and
learn how the film was born. Tickets are $7.00 at the door.
Music at the Mansion
Date: August 14th
Concert will feature an assorted mix of classical and contemporary
performances from 4 to 6 PM. Tickets to the Concert are $20.00 with
a Dinner served after for an additional $20.00. Reservations are
required. Please call (909) 585-5916 to secure your reservation.
CATS Presents “Old Tyme Silent Movies” at The Broadway Cafe
Date: August 14th
From 7 to 10 PM enjoy the summer evening of old-time silent movie
shorts with the incredible Bob Salisbury on the theatre organ. Adult
tickets are $15 and $10 for kids under 18. The all inclusive price
includes the movies and entertainment, and either a yummy
cheeseburger combo or hot dog special, both with delicious fries and
a soft drink - plus all the popcorn you can eat!
Big Bear Cowboy Gathering
Date: August 18th, 18th, 20th, 21st
Enjoy a slew of cowboy themes, poetry, events, music food and games
in honor of Big Bear’s Cowboy heritage. Starts Thursday night with a
Ranch Dinner featuring many of the performers. The evening shows are
scheduled at the PAC on Friday and Saturday Night. An outdoor
mercantile and entertainment for the whole family feature Saturday
afternoon and Sunday. Plus on Sunday, you'll find Cowboy Breakfast
and Cowboy Church. Call (909) 709-0449 for event information.
The 12th Annual Art on the Lake
Date: August 19th, 20th, 21st
Come welcome over 50 artists which starts Friday evening with an
opening night reception to take place from 7 PM to 9 PM. Wine and
appetizers will be served. The event on Saturday and Sunday will be
from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Artists will be selling their work. The
event will take place under the tent at the Marina Resort on the
lake. For more details call (909) 585-5916.
The Antique Wooden Boat Show
Date: August 20th
Taking place at B’s Backyard BBQ Restaurant from 10 AM to 4 PM you
can drop by and view the gorgeous old school watercraft on display.
For more info please call (909) 844-5337.
Big Bear Adventure Weekend
Date: August 25th, 26th, 27th, 28th, 29th
A fun filled and party-style event bringing together thousands of
men from around the world to enjoy the spectacular Big Bear Lake
area. For more information please visit bbaweekend.com.
Wrangler Weekend
Date: August 26th, 27th, 28th
Come up to Big Bear Lake and Spend an evening riding and learning
about horses. There will also be swimming, arts and craft. Introduce
camping to your family and experience it with your child! Fun for
all. For more details please call (909) 866-3000 Ext 241 at their
YMCA Camp Whittle base.
Sizzling Summer Soiree
Date: August 26th
The Big Bear Association of Realtors Committee is presenting a
“Sizzling Summer Soiree and Auction" at the Marina Resort with
Cocktails, Dinner, Dancing and an Auction. All proceeds benefit
Meals on Wheels, St. Joseph’s and Believers Chapel Food Pantries.
The event takes place from 5 to 11 PM. Tickets are $25.00 and for
more information please call (909) 556-1515.
SEPTEMBER
Farmer’s Market
Date: September 6th, 13th, 20th, 27th
Stop by and join us from 8:30 Am – 1:00 PM for the weekly Farmer’s
Market in Big Bear Lake every Tuesday. Enjoy fresh fruits,
vegetables and flowers all summer long. Located at the Big Bear Lake
Convention Center.
Cycling Rides
Date: September 1st, 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, 12th, 13th, 14th, 15th,
19th, 20th, 21st, 22nd, 26th, 27th, 28th, 29th,
Hosted by the Big Bear Cycling Association, this event draws
together riders to enjoy their sport. Dawn Patrol Mountain Bike
meets at Bear Valley Bikes at 6:30 AM and is 15 mile course. The
Time Training Ride is a 10 mile Road and Mountain Course which
starts at Polique Canyon and North Shore Drive at 5:30 PM. For more
info please visit bigbearcycling.com
Friday Nights in the Village
Date: September 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd, 30th
Enjoy live music, outdoor vendors, local arts and crafts and food
from 5 PM to 8 PM located in the downtown Big Bear Lake Village
every Friday night of this month.
Canoe Tours
Date: September 1st, 2nd,
Learn how to canoe on a tour across beautiful Big Bear Lake. Tours
are limited to 20 guests and reservations are recommended to secure
a spot. Call (909) 382-2790 for reservations. The cost is $25 per
adult and $15 for children 6-12 years.
Campfire
Date: September 2nd
Learn about conservation through the eyes of our youth leaders.
Donations welcome.
Family Mystery Clue Weekend at Camp Whittle
Date: September 2nd, 3rd, 4th
Families can enjoy a weekend of mystery and fun at the YMCA Camp
Whittle. For more details please call (909) 866-3000 Ext 241 for
pricing and information.
Fall Festival
Date: September 3rd, 4th
At the Big Bear Lake Convention Center you’ll find awesome handmade
crafts, art, entertainment and food over the Labor Day Weekend. Call
(909) 585-3000 for entry information to this popular Big Bear event.
Ice Cream Safari
Date: September 3rd
Starting at 11 AM, guests of the Moonridge Zoo can purchase tickets
for the ice cream safari – buy one or more tickets for $5.00 each
and get 5 scoops of ice cream. Five Ice Cream Stations, each
different, are located throughout the Zoo.
Music in the Mountains – Jim Curry’s Tribute to John De
Date: September 3rd
Enjoy the tunes of John Denver from 5:30 to 9 PM at the popular
Discovery Center Amphitheater sung by Jim Curry. Call the Ticket
Hotline at (909) 382-2790 to reserve your spaces.
Endure the Bear
Date: September 10th
The popular trail run starts in The Big Bear Village and into the
gorgeous National Forest. Features routes compiled of 50K, 30K and
15K as well as a 5k Family Fun Run. Registration is from 7 to 9 AM.
The 50K starts at 8 AM, 30K at 9 AM, 15K at 10 AM and 5K at 10:15
AM. Check out the details at openairbigbear.com or call (909)
224-9315.
Geocaching at the Discovery Center
Date: September 10th
From 9 to 11 AM you can get involved in the world wide scavenger
hunt know as geocaching! You will learn how to navigate websites
online to find caches and how to use a GPS unit to locate the items.
You and your family will also learn about environmental ethics. No
experience necessary and all tools are provided. Please call to
sign-up at (909) 382-2790.
Holcomb Valley Off Road Tours
Date: September 10th, 17th, 18th
Come out and experience 4x4 off road tours through Holcomb Valley
hosted by the Big Bear Lake Discovery Center. Visit the historical
sites of Bellville and learn about Bear Valley’s gold rush days.
Reservations are required and spaces are limited. Please call (909)
382-2790 to inquire further.
Nature Walks
Date: September 10th, 17, 18th, 24th, 25th
Hosted by the Discovery Center, nature Walks are free! Local
guides draw upon their knowledge to give you a great tour of the
forest. Please call (909) 382-2790 to inquire further and for start
times.
Run for the Grizzlies!
Date: September 10th
Come out and enjoy the 15th Annual Harley Bike Run fundraiser for
the Grizzly Bears! Everyone is welcome! Starts Saturday September
18th from 9:30 AM to 5 PM. Events include a poker ride, prizes,
vendors, BBQ and live music from local bands. Register at Chad’s
Place in the Big Bear Village.
Big Bear Lake International Film Festival
Date: September 15th, 16th, 17th, 18th
Ambitious and experienced filmmakers alike showcase their short and
feature length films in Big Bear’s favorite film fest and
competition. For more information please call (909) 866-3433 or
visit bigbearlakefilmfestival.com.
The 41st Annual Oktoberfest
Date: September 17th, 18th, 24th, 25th,
The Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest runs for seven weekends, September
17th through October 29th at the Big Bear Lake Convention Center.
Tickets can be purchased through (909) 585-3000. The times are
Saturdays from 12 noon to 12 midnight and Sundays 12 noon to 5:30
PM.
The Wine Walk in the Big Bear Village
Date: September 17th
For more information, please contact Cheri at (909) 878-8044 or
visit bigbearlakevillage.com. The event takes place 3 to 8 PM.
Participants can stroll the Village area and shops while sampling
wines and hors d'oeuvres.
Jared M Landaker Memorial Run
Date: September 24th
This is a 5K, 10K and 15K Race at Snow Summit honoring Jared
Landaker and comrades. For more information please contact Mark at
(530) 559-4845. Vendors, food and entertainment will also be
present.
National Public Lands Day
Date: September 24th
National Public Lands Day hosted at the Discovery Center. For
specific details please call (909) 382-2790 for information.
Koncert for the Kids
Date: September 24th
From 5:30 to 9 PM kids can enjoy the Phat Kat Swingers Jazz Group at
the Swim Beach Outdoor Amphitheater. Tickets are $5 at the gate.
The 3rd Annual Horro-Fi Film Festival
Date: September 30th
The Big Bear Horro-Fi Film Festival will take place at the
Performing Arts Center on Friday, September 30th through Sunday
October 2nd. For more information please call (323) 604-9874 for
ticket and screening information.
OCTOBER
Farmer’s Market
Date: October 4th, 11th, 18th, 25th
Stop by and join us from 8:30 Am – 1:00 PM for the weekly Farmer’s
Market in Big Bear Lake every Tuesday. Enjoy fresh fruits,
vegetables and flowers all summer long. Located at the Big Bear Lake
Convention Center.
Friday Nights in the Village
Date: October 7th,
Enjoy live music, outdoor vendors, local arts and crafts and food
from 5 PM to 8 PM located in the downtown Big Bear Lake Village
every Friday night of this month.
Nature Walks
Date: October 1st, 2nd, 9th, 15th, 16th, 22nd, 23rd, 29th, 30th
Hosted by the Discovery Center, nature Walks are free! Local
guides draw upon their knowledge to give you a great tour of the
forest. Please call (909) 382-2790 to inquire further and for start
times.
The 3rd Annual Horro-Fi Film Festival
Date: October 1st, 2nd
The Big Bear Horro-Fi Film Festival will take place at the
Performing Arts Center on Friday, September 30th through Sunday
October 2nd. For more information please call (323) 604-9874 for
ticket and screening information.
Troutfest
Date: October 1st, 2nd
Enjoy fishing and the mountain air at Big Bear’s Lake during the
Troutfest! Please visit the website wonews.com for more information
or call Western Outdoor News at (949) 366-0030.
Wolf Awareness Day
Date: October 15th
From 11 AM to 3 PM your family can learn about the precious lives
of wolves and their importance in the wild. For more information,
please call (909) 878-4200.
D.O.V.E.S. Starry, Starry Night Dinner and Dance
Date: October 15th
Taking place from 5:50 to 10:30 PM at Northwood Resort in Big Bear
Lake, guests can partake in dinner, dancing, no-host bar, great
items for a silent auction, raffles and fun - all to benefit the
DOVES program and their goals in the valley. To inquire about
reservations, please call (909) 866-1546.
Feast of the Harvest Moon
Date: October 22nd
Celebrate the traditions of the Native Americans at the Discovery
Center. Events will include exhibits, food, dancing and activities
for all. Free Admission. Starts at 10 AM.
Boo in the Zoo!
Date: October 29th
The children will definitely enjoy the Big Bear Zoo’s special Trick
or treat filled night – visit The Graveyard, Pumpkin Patch, Electric
Dungeon of Doom, Witches Brew, Scarecrow Land, Witches Lair and
Goblins throughout the park. The park animals receive their
Halloween treats too! For more information call (909) 878-4200. Runs
from 1 to 5 PM.
Halloween in the Village
Date: October 31st
From 5 to 8 PM kids and adults can scour the Big Bear Village for
treats from the local shops and restaurants. Wear your best costume!
The streets will be closed to traffic to create a fun and safe
environment for everyone.
NOVEMBER
The Christmas Carol at The Performing Arts Center
Date: November 18th, 19th, 20th, 22nd, 23rd, 25th, 26th, 27th,
30th
Big Bear’s C.A.T.S. presents their original stage adaptation of “A
Christmas Carol” at the Big Bear Lake Performing Arts Center during
several shows throughout November and December. For ticket costs and
times, please visit bigbeartheater.org for information.
Nature Walks
Date: November 5th, 6th, 12th, 13th, 19th, 20th, 26th, 27th
Hosted by the Discovery Center, nature Walks are free! Local
guides draw upon their knowledge to give you a great tour of the
forest. Please call (909) 382-2790 to inquire further and for start
times.
The Mountain Christmas Boutique
Date: November 25th, 26th, 27th
Come by and start the holiday season early in November at this
popular outdoor and indoor boutique where you can purchase various
holiday-themed crafts and decorations. Doors open at 10 AM each day
and the shopping continue until 5 PM. Event closes Sunday at 3 PM.
Admission is $3.00 for adults while children 12 and under are free.
For more information please call (909) 585-3000.
Santa’s Grand Entrance and Tree Lighting Ceremony
Date: November 25th
The Big Bear Village hosts the grand entrance of Santa Clause and
the popular tree lighting ceremony from 4 to 6 PM. Bring the whole
family, young and old!
The Big Bear City Fire Department Tree Lighting Ceremony
Date: November 26th
The 18th Annual Big Bear City Fire Department Christmas Tree
Lighting held at the Big Bear City Fire Department on Big Bear Blvd
takes place at 5 PM. For more information please call (909)
585-2362.
DECEMBER
The Christmas Carol at The Performing Arts Center
Date: December 2nd, 3rd, 4th
Big Bear’s C.A.T.S. presents their original stage adaptation of “A
Christmas Carol” at the Big Bear Lake Performing Arts Center during
several shows throughout November and December. For ticket costs and
times, please visit bigbeartheater.org for information.
Nature Walks
Date: December 3rd, 4th, 10th, 11th, 17th, 18th, 24th, 25th, 31st
Hosted by the Discovery Center, nature Walks are free! Local
guides draw upon their knowledge to give you a great tour of the
forest. Please call (909) 382-2790 to inquire further and for start
times.
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Directions
View Larger Map
HWY 38 Through Redlands
From The Los Angeles Area:
Take Interstate 10 East, past Interstate 210, to the Orange Street exit (Hwy
38). There will be a stop sign at the bottom of the off ramp, continue straight
1 block to Orange Street, turn left. After approximately 1 mile turn right on
East Lugonia Ave (Hwy 38). Follow Hwy 38 through Mentone to Big Bear City. Hwy
38 will turn left onto Big Bear Blvd. At the first stoplight (Greenway Drive),
Hwy 38 turns right. Stay straight on Big Bear Blvd which is now Hwy 18.
From Orange County Or The South Bay Area:
Take the 91 East (or the 55 North to the 91 East), to the 215
North, to Interstate 10 East, past Interstate 210, to the Orange
Street exit (Hwy 38). There will be a stop sign at the bottom of the
off ramp, continue straight 1 block to Orange Street, turn left.
After approximately 1 mile turn right on East Lugonia Ave (Hwy 38).
Follow Hwy 38 through Mentone to Big Bear City. Hwy 38 will turn
left onto Big Bear Blvd. At the first stoplight (Greenway Drive),
Hwy 38 turns right. Stay straight on Big Bear Blvd which is now Hwy
18.
From The San Diego Area:
Take Interstate 15 North, to the 215 North, to Interstate 10
East, past Interstate 210, to the Orange Street exit (Hwy 38). There
will be a stop sign at the bottom of the off ramp, continue straight
1 block to Orange Street, turn left. After approximately 1 mile turn
right on East Lugonia Ave (Hwy 38). Follow Hwy 38 through Mentone to
Big Bear City. Hwy 38 will turn left onto Big Bear Blvd. At the
first stoplight (Greenway Drive), Hwy 38 turns right. Stay straight
on Big Bear Blvd which is now Hwy 18.
From The Palm Springs
Area:
Take Interstate 10 West to Yucaipa. Take the County Line Road
off-ramp. Turn right. Follow County Line Road to Bryant St. Turn
left. Follow Bryant St. to Highway 38. Turn right onto Highway 38,
which turns into Highway 18, which turns into Big Bear Blvd.
HWY 18 Through LucerneValley
The Los Angeles and
San Fernando Valley Areas:
Take the 210 Freeway North or Interstate 10 East to Interstate 15
North. Follow the 15 North over the Cajon Pass towards Victorville
and take the Bear Valley Road exit. Turn right (East) at Hwy 18
through the Lucerne Valley. Hwy 18 will take you into the Big Bear
Valley. Follow this road along the North Shore of Big Bear Lake to
the Stanfield Cut off, turn left and proceed over the bridge. At the
stop light turn right and follow Big Bear Blvd past the shopping
centers.
From The San Diego
Area:
Take the 15 North to the 215 North, which merges into the 15
North. Follow the 15 North over the Cajon Pass towards Victorville
and take the Bear Valley Road exit. Turn right (East) at Hwy 18
towards Lucerne Valley. In Lucerne Valley Hwy 18 bears to the right
taking you into the Big Bear Valley. Follow this road along the
North Shore of Big Bear Lake to the Standfield Cut off, turn left
and proceed over the bridge. At the stop light turn right and follow
Big Bear Blvd past the shopping centers.
From the OrangeCounty
or the SouthBay
Area:
Take the 91 East (or the 55 North to the 91 East) to the 215
North. The 215 North merges into the 15 North. Follow the 15 North
over the Cajon Pass towards Victorville and take the Bear Valley
Road exit. Turn right (East) at Hwy 18 towards Lucerne Valley. In
Lucerne Valley Hwy 18 bears to the right taking you into the Big
Bear Valley. Follow this road along the North Shore of Big Bear Lake
to the Standfield Cut off, turn left and proceed over the bridge. At
the stop light turn right and follow Big Bear Blvd past the shopping
centers.
From The Las Vegas
Area:
Take the Interstate 15 South, to Hwy 247 South. This will bring
you to the Lucerne Valley. Go past two stop signs and turn left onto
Hwy 18, which leads up the mountain to the Big Bear Valley. Follow
Hwy 18 approximately 6 miles to Stanfield Cutoff. Turn left, drive
across the lake. Turn right at the stop sign onto Big Bear Blvd.
HWY 330/HWY 18 THROUGH RUNNING SPRINGS
From The Los Angeles
Area:
Take Interstate 10 East, to Interstate 210 North, to Hwy. 330
East. Hwy. 330 goes through Running Springs and turns into Hwy. 18.
Follow Hwy. 18 East and turn right across the Big Bear Lake dam.
Stay on Big Bear Blvd. through the Big Bear Village or turn left on
Paine Rd., which turns into Big Bear Blvd.
From OrangeCounty
Or The SouthBay
Area:
Take the 91 East (or the 55 North to the 91 East), to the 215
North, to Interstate 10 East, to Interstate 210 North, to Hwy. 330
East. Hwy. 330 goes through Running Springs and turns into Hwy. 18.
Follow Hwy. 18 East and turn right across the Big Bear Lake dam.
Stay on Big Bear Blvd. through the Big Bear Village or turn left on
Paine Rd., which turns into Big Bear Blvd.
From The San Diego Area:
Take Interstate 15 North, to the 215 North, to Interstate 10
East, to Interstate 210 North, to Hwy. 330 East, which will take you
up into the mountains. Hwy. 330 goes through Running Springs and
turns into Hwy. 18. Follow Hwy. 18 East and turn right across the
Big Bear Lake dam. Stay on Big Bear Blvd. through the Big Bear
Village or turn left on Paine Rd., which turns into Big Bear Blvd.
From The San Fernando Valley Area:
Take the 101 East, to the 134 East, to the 210 East, to
Interstate 10 East, to Interstate 210 North, to Hwy. 330 East which
will take you up into the mountains. Hwy. 330 goes through Running
Springs and turns into Hwy. 18. Follow Hwy. 18 East and turn right
across the Big Bear Lake dam. Stay on Big Bear Blvd. through the Big
Bear Village or turn left on Paine Rd., which turns into Big Bear
Blvd.
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Weather
With over 300 days of sunshine each year, Big Bear Lake has the perfect
weather in every season. Summer time temperatures average 80 degrees during the
day and 50 degrees at night. Make sure to bring your sunscreen in all four
beautiful seasons! Winters can average 50 degrees during the day and closer to
the teens and 20's at night. We receives an average of 68 inches of snow during
the winter months. Be sure to pack appropriately with layers, chains, ice
scrapers, matches, boots, gloves and sunglasses!
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Big Bear History
Big Bear Lake's best kept secret is Shore Acres Lodge & Vacation Rentals.
"Lot #1, Tract #2575, Gibraltar/Tract, which abuts Fisher Road. (The high
water line of the lake)." This is the description of the two acres of land
currently know as Shore Acres Lodge. The history of this lakefront property and
number of owners is endless.
Originally known in the 1900’s as Potters Camp, the property was established
as a “Gentleman’s” fishing and hunting camp in 1907. Twenty –three years after
the original dam was built to collect snow to irrigate the citrus groves in
Redlands. This was a time when Grizzly’s roamed the valley until they were
hunted to extinction in 1922. The land was purchased in 1938 by the Bear Valley
Development Company until sold to Clair and Phyllis Rogers in 1952 for $200,000,
(a lot of money, even by today’s standards. The Rogers were the first to develop
the property into what it is today, converting one of the original structures (a
horse stable) into he cabin currently called Lakeview. The Rogers held the
property until 1965 at which time they sold it to George and Wilma Meyer.
The Meyer’s continued to develop the property adding a swimming pool and more
cabins.
During this time the two person rate was $13.00 to $18.00 and maxed out at
$35.00 to $50.00 per night. The Meyer’s brochure at this time listed the hunting
of deer, pheasant, Quail, jackrabbits, and other game as a “winter Sport” in
addition to skiing and ice-skating on the lake. It was during this time that the
Meyer’s started a tradition that still exists to this day, the Monday night
barbeque. The lodge would provide the basics and guests were encouraged to bring
a side dish. This was a way for people to meet each other and form some lasting
friendships.
Many guests have made friends here and plan their vacations to include a
Monday so their kids can do the chicken dance with Ernie who has been a mainstay
at the barbeque for many years. During the Meyers tenure in 1977 they found
themselves in a battle with the city. While dredging Mallard Lagoon and
Canvasback Cove to a depth of 58 feet, the City decided to dump the residue from
this project into the cove off Fisher Road to create additional tourist parking.
The Meyers hired a lawyer and narrowly averted the city covering up one of Big
Bear’s hottest fishing spots.
The Myers held onto the property until 1980 when they sold it to Bob and
Michelle MacDonald. The Mac Donald’s, in addition to raising a family on the
property, continued to build on the legacy. Aggressive marketing efforts and
hard work paid off for them making Shore Acres a Big Bear favorite. In addition
the Mac Donald’s added a new layer to the business. The vacation rental (renting
out a property when the owners are not using it) was anew addition to the Big
Bear Valley. The Mac Donald’s added sixty-five private homes to the business
allowing added occupancy when the Lodge was full. Shore Acres lodge to this day
is a family owned business. The Lanza family, Tom, Candy, and son Nick purchased
the lodge and vacation rental business from the MacDonald’s in 1997. They
incorporated the business and still run it with many of the same traditions the
previous owners created.
Big Bear Vacations, the parent company that owns the lodge, currently manages
over 200 private homes and is one of the largest property management companies
in the Big Bear Valley. Lot #1, Tract #2575, Gibraltar tract has come a long way
since the early 1800’s. There is one thing that has never and will never change.
It will always be a place where families can build memories that will last a
lifetime.
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