We are a Mother and Son team who love to travel and explore. We fell in love with the Big Bear Lake area of Southern California after many weekend trips up the mountain. We enjoy snow sports in the winter and the lake activities and hiking in the warmer months. This is our family cabin and we hope it brings you as much comfort and joy as it brings to our family and friends.
1.Big Bear Lake was named after the giant Grizzly Bears that used to roam the area. In 1845 Benjamin Wilson came to the area looking for Native Americans who had been raiding ranches in Riverside. He and his 22 men found and killed Grizzly Bears that used to call the valley their home. At the time, the natural water reservoir now known as Baldwin Lake was filled and Wilson named the area “Big Bear Lake.” The Serrano Indians called the area Yahaviat, or “Pine Place.” Logging became an important industry for building cabins in Big Bear Lake. Unfortunately, grizzly bears quickly became extinct, but brown bears still roam the area. In the cabin you will find a booklet on the Serrano people if you want to read more about them.
2. Gold was first discovered in the mountains in 1850, but mining in Big Bear Valley didn’t begin until 1859 at Starvation Flat and continued into the 1920’s. Bill Holcomb started Southern California’s largest gold rush in 1860 with a mining camp, increasing the area’s population to over 1,000. The first road into Holcomb Valley was completed a year later and started near Hesperia. The miners brought Donkey's with them to the area and the ancestors of these same Donkey's are now roaming wild in the forests of Big Bear Lake. Property owners who back up to the forest often find these wild Donkey's in their backyards nibbling on their flowers!
3. The population of Big Bear Lake ranges from just over 6,000 people to over 100,000 people depending on seasonal events and activities. Fourth of July is one of the most popular holiday’s. Big Bear Lake relies heavily on tourists for income, with the winter resorts being the most popular reasons to visit the area.
Here are some things to keep in mind.
1. During the winter, snow storms can happen unexpectedly. Please bring food and drink with you when you come up the mountain or stop for some along the way. Should we get snow the roads can remain difficult for a day or longer and food/grocery delivery is not reliable. We don't want you to be stuck without the provisions you need for an enjoyable stay!
2. Check the road conditions before you travel. The roads up and down the mountain may require your car to have chains. Please make sure you pack them with you. Check the Caltrans website or https://www.bigbearmountainresort.com/transportation/road-conditions
for the most up-to-date road conditions. There are three ways up the mountain so check to see which one is the best before you travel.
3. Big Bear Lake sits at an altitude of over 7000 feet. You may find that you need to adjust to the higher altitude. Please make sure to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated. The air is thinner up here and drinking extra water will help you adjust. The air can be dry so it's a good idea to pack moisturizer and lip balm. The chalet has a humidifier for your added comfort.
4. You may find this video from Big Bear Lake Tourism Management. helpful:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p-IETnK_nos&feature=youtu.be
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