Big Bear Lake

Big Bear Lake is a city in San Bernardino County in southern California, located about 100 miles (160 kilometers) northeast of Los Angeles. The community stretches along a lake at over 6700 feet (2000 meters) elevation, surrounded by pine forests and snow-covered peaks during winter months.

Prospectors arrived in the valley during the 1860s and established permanent settlements. Construction of a major dam between 1911 and 1913 created the current artificial lake, turning the site into a recreational area.

The city takes its name from grizzly bears that once roamed the valley before they disappeared. Visitors notice the influence of Alpine architecture in many buildings designed to resemble European mountain lodges.

The road climbing from the lowlands can close during winter snowfall, so checking conditions before driving is helpful. Free shuttle buses operate within the city and connect hotels, restaurants and winter sports areas.

Wildlife officials brought black bears from Yosemite National Park to the forests around the city during the 1930s. These animals replaced the earlier grizzly bears that vanished from the area in the early 1900s.

Location: San Bernardino County

Elevation above the sea: 2,058 m

Shares border with: Big Bear City, Fawnskin, Sugarloaf

Website: http://citybigbearlake.com

GPS coordinates: 34.24139,-116.90333

Latest update: December 12, 2025 21:15