Big Bear Lake in the heart of California is a visitor’s jewel and the pride of local inhabitants. It is the perfect base for exciting summer activities when the sun comes out, rendering blue skies and glorious landscapes. Big Bear glows with life and adventure in summer. Test your endurance by hiking challenging trails while taking the views. Remember to use your binoculars to catch sight of numerous bird species. Ride the Alpine Slide in Magic Mountain and enjoy the thrill of the banked turns. Let us now dive into the natural attractions to visit this summer in and around Big Bear.
- Big Bear Lake
This fascinating attraction derives its water from melting snow in the nearby mountains. The freshwater lake sustained wildlife and was a source of livelihood for the Serrano Indian Tribe that occupied the territory over 2,000 years ago.
Families, friends, and solo travelers will have loads of fun with water activities like kayaking, boating, and canoeing. Alternatively, you can opt to soak in the sun, wade on the lakeshore and enjoy views. Six Marinas on the lake provide water sports lessons and hire out boats or equipment to visitors. Take a dip in the water or cast a line and, who knows, you might get a good catch for the evening barbeque.
- Holcomb valley
Holcomb Valley derives its popularity from what was once the gold rush spearheaded by William F. Holcomb. The mining town flourished for about a decade from 1860 before prospectors abandoned it. What remains are rustic buildings, barns, towering trees, and open meadows.
Tour its historical sites, and you can do it anyhow you wish. There are no rules that stipulate you must move from one location to the next. You can opt to go rock climbing or sit back and watch with excitement as other visitors try their hands. Become a prospector and relive the gold rush days by trying to pan for gold. Will you strike it rich? We cannot tell, but you might.
- Magic Mountain
Magic Mountain in Big Bear hosts the Alpine Slide with quarter-mile-long sled concrete tracks. Getting to the top involves a ride on a chairlift that offers fabulous views of Big Bear Lake. After that, you get on a sled, tug the control, and off you go to encounter straightway and high-banked turns.
A miniature golf course is another activity you will find most satisfying as you attempt putting on its 18 holes. The attraction features water hazards and greens just like the real ones, and you must join in the fun. Take a break while sunbathing on a deck on the spacious lawn.
- San Bernardino Forest
San Bernardino Forest is your ideal outdoor adventure spot this summer. Bear Lake and its surroundings are part of this natural resource whose recreational opportunities include fishing, picnicking, biking, hiking, and horse riding. It is a place where you pack up friends and family without hesitation.
Wilderness areas exist with eight options for you to explore, each with an abundance of panoramic views. Birdwatching is another pastime you can indulge with the possibility of catching a glimpse of peregrine falcons, bald eagles, and the endangered yellow-legged frogs. You will also appreciate its tree species variety, including pine and oak.
- Boulder Bay Park
At Boulder Bay Park, you can enjoy a weekend out fishing, kayaking, or canoeing on the Boulder Bay waters. A peaceful ambiance at the beautiful park creates a relaxing atmosphere for a picnic, plus there is a play area for kids. Family pets will love playing with the kids, and the fun goes on until you decide when to stop. The picnic tables overlook boulder island formations and the scenic Big Bear Lake.
Besides, there are walking paths and a floating dock stretching into the water, perfect for quiet immersion and reflection. Water levels go down, revealing a sunbathing beach with views. Carry a camera for snapping memorable moments that you can revisit when you get back to your vacation rental.
- Cougar Crest Trail
Cougar Crest Trail is an ideal summer trail spanning 8.5 km (5.28 mi). It is rocky terrain, so you must put on a pair of comfy hiking shoes lest you nurse sores in the evening. Bring your dog too but ensure that he stays on the leash. There is slightly heavy traffic on this trail, and you don’t want your furry friend wandering off.
While on the trail, enjoy sweeping views of surrounding mountains and Big Bear Lake. You will also notice the Western Juniper, a hardy tree with shaggy bark. Carry some water, snacks, a camera, sunglasses, a hat, and a windbreaker.
- Bluff Lake Reserve
Bluff Lake Reserve features a 20-acre (8.09 hectares) lake with towering pines and majestic rock outcrops. Discover its mountain marsh and a meadow covered with a diversity of grasses, including wiregrass, bluegrass, dandelion, and checkerbloom.
Hike along its 3.1 km (1.93 mi) loop comprising a well-maintained trail with most of it shaded by mature trees. Enjoy stunning views of the lake and meadow. The terrain is accessible such that children can tackle it making the reserve perfect for family outdoor adventure. Take photographs too from your smartphone or camera.
- Baldwin Lake Ecological Reserve
This 156-acre (63.13 hectares) attraction boasts an ice age lake, a habitat for bald eagles, and a wet meadow. Minute pincushion wildflowers dot the landscape, and you must kneel to appreciate their beauty. Small quartz rocks cover the landscape, which comprises clay soil that swells, shrinks, and cracks with weather changes.
Stand in awe at the beauty of pebble plains and the panorama of colors from the blossoming flowers. Strap on a pair of boots for the rough terrain and carry a pair of binoculars to catch glimpses of hawks, kestrels, and bald eagles.
Have a Memorable Summer in Big Bear
To enjoy these attractions in Big Bear, you will need a comfy place to stay and unwind after a day of adventure. Rent a home with Wander Rentals. Our properties are in a convenient location from where you can catch the summer excitement.