Big Bear California

Big Bear, California is a mountain resort located 100 miles northeast of Los Angeles and surrounded by the San Bernardino National Forest. It comprises the town of Big Bear Lake, Big Bear Town, and the surrounding areas, contained by forest on all sides. All told, about 25,000 people call Big Bear home.

The lake for which the town is named is fresh water, is home to a successful trout fishery, and measures seven miles long with an average width of 1/2 mile. The surrounding forests are primarily pine and oak. The original Serrano Indian name for the area, "Yahaviat," in fact, meant "Pine Place." The area also provides a natural habitat for approximately 30 wintering bald eagles.

The Turning Point

Big Bear was discovered by whites in the 19th century. Decades of gold mining and logging followed and drastically altered the landscape. By the turn of the century, however, Big Bear was on its way to becoming a tourist destination. A dam was put in by developers in 1884 making it accessible by train and later by car. The first hotel opened in 1888. And the first ski resort came some 60 years later.

Today Big Bear, California is renowned for its pristine beauty and excellent fishing, skiing and camping opportunities. Its woodsy climate offers four distinct seasons, and the region's activities correspond accordingly. It is also home to one of the nation's only alpine solar observatories.