Big Bear, California is known to its visitors for three things: Snowboarding, skiing and boating. However, as a resident of this beautiful little city, I know that there is much more to this town than meets the eye. Below I will uncover 6 of my favorite spots on this mountain top so that maybe this coming weekend, you can enjoy them too…
1. Big Bear Solar Observatory: This observatory was built in 1969 on Big Bear Lake for two reasons: The clarity of the sky and the presence of a body of water. Because the lake’s surface is a whopping 6,742 feet above sea level, a significant portion of it is above the atmosphere; this lends to those clear skies.
The main building of the observatory originally could only be accessed by boat, but eventually, a causeway was added. This doesn’t take away from its charm though, as Big Bear Solar Observatory still provides one of the most stunning sites of L.A. than any aerial vision yet…
2. Jenks Lake: Jenks Lake is day use only, but it is a quite, secluded place for some fishing. It is accessible only by trail, and boasts several fishing pads so that you can fish in private. Picnic tables are scattered around the lake so that you can enjoy a bite or two before you get back to it!
1. Big Bear Solar Observatory: This observatory was built in 1969 on Big Bear Lake for two reasons: The clarity of the sky and the presence of a body of water. Because the lake’s surface is a whopping 6,742 feet above sea level, a significant portion of it is above the atmosphere; this lends to those clear skies.
The main building of the observatory originally could only be accessed by boat, but eventually, a causeway was added. This doesn’t take away from its charm though, as Big Bear Solar Observatory still provides one of the most stunning sites of L.A. than any aerial vision yet…
2. Jenks Lake: Jenks Lake is day use only, but it is a quite, secluded place for some fishing. It is accessible only by trail, and boasts several fishing pads so that you can fish in private. Picnic tables are scattered around the lake so that you can enjoy a bite or two before you get back to it!
3. Holcomb Valley: Now, I’d have to say that this is my favorite by far, mostly because of what it’s famous for: Gold. Holcomb Valley is the site of the most gold mined in California. It was named after William F. Holcomb, who discovered gold in the valley accidentally—while tracking a bear. Soon, what used to be “Bear Valley,” Holcomb Valley was bursting to the seams with miners, and the area eventually became the largest town in San Bernardino County. The town was named “Belleville,” in honor of Holcomb’s first child, Belle.
Not only is Holcomb Valley home the wealthiest mining district in Southern California, but it also boasts less desirable aspects of history, such as Hangman’s Tree. I think the name pretty much says it all…
4. Swimming Holes: There are two swimming holes in Lake Arrowhead, a mere 20-minute drive from Big Bear. They are Devil’s Hole and Aztec Falls. Now, everyone enjoys a good swimming hole or two, so I couldn’t help but put these two on here. However, while both swimming holes are surrounded by sandy beaches and look like great family fun, access to them is not recommended for everyone. To get to both, you need to enter a trail that loops around for 6 miles before it ends, and deter from the trail for 10 minutes or so for each hole. Getting to them is definitely worth the hike, but if you’re not outdoorsy, I’d recommend China Island…
Not only is Holcomb Valley home the wealthiest mining district in Southern California, but it also boasts less desirable aspects of history, such as Hangman’s Tree. I think the name pretty much says it all…
4. Swimming Holes: There are two swimming holes in Lake Arrowhead, a mere 20-minute drive from Big Bear. They are Devil’s Hole and Aztec Falls. Now, everyone enjoys a good swimming hole or two, so I couldn’t help but put these two on here. However, while both swimming holes are surrounded by sandy beaches and look like great family fun, access to them is not recommended for everyone. To get to both, you need to enter a trail that loops around for 6 miles before it ends, and deter from the trail for 10 minutes or so for each hole. Getting to them is definitely worth the hike, but if you’re not outdoorsy, I’d recommend China Island…
5. China Island: China Island has been dubbed “the best place to swim” on Big Bear Lake for several years, and by several sources. This island is made of granite boulders and actually goes by several names: Garstin Island, because of the granite; Treasure Island, because, well, it looks like it should be a Treasure Island; and China Island, because of the huts built right into the granite that were used by the Chinese during the building of the dam over 100 years ago.
China Island is actually a huge player in the history of Big Bear Lake, for without the building of that dam, Big Bear Lake wouldn’t be there. When the original dam was completed in 1884, Big Bear Lake was, at the time, the largest man-made lake in the world! How cool is that?! The source of Big Bear Lake’s water is strictly snow-melt, so during those hot Southern California summers, it’s perfect!
China Island is a pretty popular destination during the summer, and the parking lot can only accommodate 6-8 cars, so, if you don’t want to hike there, you need to get there early on a summer weekend.
China Island is actually a huge player in the history of Big Bear Lake, for without the building of that dam, Big Bear Lake wouldn’t be there. When the original dam was completed in 1884, Big Bear Lake was, at the time, the largest man-made lake in the world! How cool is that?! The source of Big Bear Lake’s water is strictly snow-melt, so during those hot Southern California summers, it’s perfect!
China Island is a pretty popular destination during the summer, and the parking lot can only accommodate 6-8 cars, so, if you don’t want to hike there, you need to get there early on a summer weekend.
6. Castle Rock Trail: Castle Rock Trail is the perfect trail for those with a short amount of time, or those who are looking to get out for a bit but who are not looking to over-exert themselves on their vacation. This 1.5 mile trail that offers incredible views of the lake and much-needed silence.
However, don’t be fooled by the short length of the trail. The trail itself is steep, and you gain 600’ in just half a mile! Getting to the top is a challenge, so I wouldn’t recommend for the faint of heart.
There you have it – 6 great places to visit on your visit to Big Bear Lake. If you hadn’t noticed, each of these 6 places gets you away from the hustle and bustle of life, if even for just an hour or two, so that you can reconnect with nature, yourself and your family.
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However, don’t be fooled by the short length of the trail. The trail itself is steep, and you gain 600’ in just half a mile! Getting to the top is a challenge, so I wouldn’t recommend for the faint of heart.
There you have it – 6 great places to visit on your visit to Big Bear Lake. If you hadn’t noticed, each of these 6 places gets you away from the hustle and bustle of life, if even for just an hour or two, so that you can reconnect with nature, yourself and your family.
Don’t miss out on Memorial Day Weekend fun! Book now for a cheap holiday at Big Bear Lake! http://ccordova789.wix.com/memorialdayspecials
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