Big Bear, CA, April 26, 2014 - The first road into the San Bernardino Mountains, which was really just a trail, was built by the Mormons in 1852 and ascended Waterman Canyon. Big Bear Lake was created in 1885 and the only way up, other than a pack trail up Santa Ana Canyon, was a long arduous trip up Cushenbury Grade. To get to the Grade, visitors first had to travel over Cajon … [Read more...] about The Road to Big Bear
San Bernardino National Forest
Pebble Plain Habitat… Only in Big Bear
Big Bear Valley, CA, April 12, 2014 - When the glaciers receded during the Pleistocene Age, they created unique open areas covered with miniature rare plants found only in Big Bear. These areas are known as pebble plains and have a soil composition of quartzite pebbles, deposited over eons, which prevent conifers from taking seed, thus preserving this ancient habitat for many … [Read more...] about Pebble Plain Habitat… Only in Big Bear
There’s Gold in Them Thar Hills!
Big Bear, CA, March 15, 2014 - In 1848, gold was discovered in northern California which brought thousands of people to the state from all over the world. One of these people was Bill Holcomb who tried his luck up north, but quickly decided to head to southern California. He heard rumors of gold in Big Bear Valley, but wasn't sure how to get there. He and his … [Read more...] about There’s Gold in Them Thar Hills!
Bald Eagles Return to Big Bear Year After Year
Big Bear Lake, CA, March 8, 2014 - Migrating bald eagles love to winter in the San Bernardino Mountains with most of them choosing Big Bear Lake as their winter home. They're usually found near water because their diet is primarily made up of fish and ducks. Sometimes during particularly cold nights, Coots, a breed of bird on our lake, will get stuck in the ice which make them … [Read more...] about Bald Eagles Return to Big Bear Year After Year
Hollywood Loves Big Bear
Big Bear, CA, February 22, 2014 - In July of 1911, a movie company from back east arrived at the new Pine Knot Lodge in Big Bear and began filming. That began a love affair between Hollywood and Big Bear that still continues. At about the same time, tourism started taking off in the valley, but only in the summer. During the winter, Big Bear sat empty. However, … [Read more...] about Hollywood Loves Big Bear