By Jeff Wysaski
Just 2 hours to the east of
Los Angeles, Big Bear Lake is an outdoor oasis of mountains, water and wildlife. No matter what time of year, the sprawling
resort has something unique and original to offer to visitors. From skiing and snowboarding to fishing and camping, find it all at Big Bear Lake.
Activities on the Water
Big Bear Lake itself is 7 miles long and 2.5 miles wide. Needless to say, there are plenty of ways to enjoy that much water. Fishing is one of the most popular things to do in Big Bear Lake. The water is routinely planted with rainbow trout, and largemouth and smallmouth bass are also both plentiful. Spring and summer months also bring out boaters in droves. Canoes, kayaks, jetskis and motor boats are all welcome at the lake. Swimming, wakeboarding and parasailing are other ways to enjoy the water.
Skiing and Snowboarding
In the winter months, Big Bear Lake is a top destination for skiing and snowboarding. The lake is bordered by two premier snow mountains: Snow Summit and Bear Mountain. Snow Summit offers a wide variety of terrain for skiers and riders of all abilities. Bear Mountain is more oriented toward park snowboarding. One lift ticket gets you access to both mountains. A good number of snow-making machines on both mountains allow the lifts to keep running well into spring.
Hiking and Biking
A series of hiking and biking trails surround Big Bear Lake. Each one offers a varying degree of difficulty, and all offer dazzling viewpoints and serene outdoor environments. Easier trails that are kid-friendly include the Champion Lodgepole Pine Trail and the Alpine Pedal Bike Path. More difficult routes include Cougar Crest Trail and Grout Bay Bike Trail. In the winter, strap on some snowshoes and go trekking in the backcountry of the woods.
Discovery Center
The Discover Center serves as the outpost and information center for Bog Bear Lake. The Center offers a wide range of educational and outdoor events throughout the year. Nature walks and Big Bear Lake tours are offered much of the year. During the winter months, guests can witness bald eagles, which fly to the area for the winter. Numerous campsites can also be accessed via the Discovery Center.
About the Author:
Based in Los Angeles, Jeff Wysaski has been a professional writer since 2005. He has written for such varied online publications as AOL Travel, Autotropolis, RadioShack and Manolith. Wysaski earned a Bachelor of Arts in marketing from the University of North Texas in 2004.
