If you’re interested in trying your skiing or snowboarding chops on the slopes of one of Southern California’s premiere resorts, you won’t want to miss Bear Mountain.
Bear Mountain, formerly known as Goldmine Mountain, was listed among the top 10 parks in Transworld Snowboarding Magazine in the early 2000’s, and the popularity has continued to grow.
Located in the San Bernardino Mountains, three primary peaks make up Bear Mountain. These are Bear Peak, Silver Mountain, and Goldmine Mountain. Of the three, Bear Peak is the highest peak in SoCal that can be reached by lift.
Bear Mountain is a virtual 200-acre jungle gym for skiers and snowboarders. With over 100 freestyle features spread over 85% of the mountain, there’s no end to the adventures.
History of “The Park”
Bear Mountain was bought by its neighbor, Snow Summit, in 2002. The two together were now called Big Bear Mountain Resorts.
Bear Mountain earned the moniker, “The Park” due to its “irregular terrain” or areas specifically designed for skiers and snowboarders to perform tricks.
The mountain is also home to one of the few Superpipes (a giant half-pipe) in Southern California.
Bear Mountain was integral in establishing freestyle skiing and snowboarding with the creation of the first freestyle park in the 1990’s.
One of Bear Mountain’s most famous visitors was Shaun White, who regularly patronized The Park in his younger years.
Bear Mountain Stats
- Bear Mountain is located in Big Bear Lake, California.
- The top elevation of the mountain is 8,805 feet.
- The mountain boasts 748 acres of skiable area and a total of 24 runs.
- The longest ski run on Bear Mountain is 1.5 miles and was given the name, “Geronimo.”
- The ski lift can accommodate 16,590 skiers per hour.
- The (largely artificial) snow accumulation is approximately 100 inches.
Location
Big Bear Mountain Resorts is a quick drive from Tom Wohrman Sports.
- Head Northeast on Big Bear Boulevard toward Bonanza Trail.
- Turn right onto Summit Boulevard.
- Turn right onto Forest Trail.
- Arrive at Big Bear Mountain Resorts.
Activities in the Bear Mountain Area
Even if skiing and snowboarding aren’t your things, or you just want a different activity for the day, there is plenty of stuff to keep you busy!
Big Bear Discovery Center
With informative displays and walking paths of varying lengths, Big Bear Discovery Center is the perfect place to spend a few hours or even a whole day. The Discovery Center is located on the North Shore of Big Bear Lake, at 40971 North Shore Drive, Highway 38, Fawnskin, California.
Big Bear Historical Museum
This museum is a delightful surprise of period-authentic buildings, live Blacksmith demonstrations, and artifacts from the different movies that were filmed in the area. Kids can even enjoy panning for gold in a gold mining center. Other attractions include an authentic Serrano Indian hut, a log cabin, and a 1906 schoolhouse. The museum is located at 630 Bartlett Road, Big Bear Lake, California.
Village Sweet Shoppe
Who doesn’t enjoy indulging their sweet tooth every once in a while? The Village Sweet Shoppe is the perfect place to do just that! A candy lover’s dream come true, the Village Sweet Shoppe offers all the tasty treats you can think of, from caramel corn, fudge, and Jelly Bellys, to gourmet sodas and gelato. In addition to the delicious chocolates and salt water taffy, the atmosphere really makes the Sweet Shoppe unique. Jellybean mosaic wall, anyone? The Village Sweet Shoppe is located at 40736 Village Dr., Big Bear Lake, California.
Pine Knot Village
Charming and quaint, Pine Knot Village is the place to go when you’re in the mood for popping into some shops for souvenirs. You’ll also find a variety of restaurants and specialty shops, all within walking distance of each other. One of the fun perks of the village is its friendliness toward your four-legged friends! Your pooch is welcome to stroll the streets with you.
Big Bear Alpine Zoo at Moonridge
This is a little bit of a different zoo experience. The animals are unique to the area and are there because they cannot be returned to the wild for some reason. The zoo is small, and you don’t need a large chunk of time to take it all in. It is well worth the visit. If possible, plan your visit in the afternoon, when the animals are being fed. The Big Bear Alpine Zoo is located at 43285 Goldmine Drive, Big Bear Lake, CA.
Bear Mountain Ski Resort has something for everyone, from your little ones to your not-so-little ones! A visit in any season of the year comes with plenty of activities, not to mention some of the most beautiful surroundings in the country.