Big Bear Lake, California is a mountain village that sits beside an alpine lake. The charming village is 100 miles northeast of Los Angeles. The altitude in Big Bear Lake is 6,700 feet to 8,200 feet. People come to Big Bear Lake for fresh air, rest, and relaxation.

Big Bear Lake is kid-friendly and dog friendly. Lodging is affordable and plentiful. There are campgrounds, cabins, condominiums, motels, and lodges. Developed campgrounds are available with flush toilets, picnic tables, and fire pits. The Internet provides a convenient way to check availability and make reservations.

Big Bear Lake in powdered with 60 to 100 inches of snow each year. Snowboarding and skiing are popular activities from autumn to spring. The sun shines over 300 days of the year. Expert skiers can be seen wearing shorts on warm spring days.

Bear Mountain and Snow Summit are two ski resorts that are located in Big Bear Lake. These resorts offer equipment rentals, lessons, food, drinks, and free parking. They are very popular on holidays and weekends. You will spend less time in traffic and lines if you visit on a weekday

Big Bear Lake is a seven-mile long fresh water lake. Fishing, boating, and water sports are popular activities. Marinas offer boat rides and boat rentals. Fishermen can purchase bait, supplies, and a fishing license.

Summer days are warm and sunny. Swimming is allowed within 50 feet of shore. There is a swim beach in Meadow Park, along with shaded picnic tables, ball fields, horseshoe pits, and a playground. Meadow Park is off Highway 18 and Knight Avenue. Take Knight Avenue towards the lake and turn right on Park Avenue. You will see Meadow Park on your left.

Mild temperatures and abundant water make spring a pleasant time for hiking and mountain biking. Trails are available for all levels of hikers and mountain bikers. The Alpine Pedal Path is located on the north shore of Big Bear Lake and is a paved trail. Hikers, dogs, and bicyclists share the trail. Cougar Crest Trail is a more difficult trail that offers a view of the lake and forest. Maps of the trails are available at forest service stations.

There is a golf course in Big Bear Lake. Bear Mountain Resort has a nine-hole golf course that may be open from April to November, depending on the weather.

Baldwin Lake Stables is located nearby in Big Bear City. They offer a variety of scenic rides through the forest.

People who prefer indoor activities will find cinemas, great restaurants, and plenty of shopping in Big Bear Lake. Village theaters have two cinemas that play current films. You will find Mom and Pop restaurants with home style cooking. You will also find just about any type of food that you crave. There are stores everywhere in Big Bear Lake. You will be able to buy anything you forget to bring. The village has some unique shops with friendly shopkeepers.

There are so many activities and attractions in Big Bear Lake. Visitors keep returning for the recreation and the scenery.

Learn more about this author, Linda Shortell.
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