As soon as the first prediction of snow is forecast, the excitement builds across the Valley. Many of us choose to live in Big Bear because of the variety of recreational opportunities. Both Bear Mountain and Snow Summit lead the industry in snowmaking. That means plenty of snow, even when the afternoon temperatures hit 60 degrees. Bear Mountain caters to snowboarders. There is free public internet access everywhere. We recommend you start at Red Bull Plaza. The Park at Bear Mountain is devoted to free-style … [Read more...]
Nuances of Mountain Living
Purchasing a Big Bear mountain home is a different decision than purchasing one “down the hill.” You’ll want to be prepared for the change from urban living to our mountaintop lifestyle. Expect changes in trash pickup, mail delivery and even grocery shopping. Trash pickup is determined by your neighborhood. Big Bear Lake and parts of Big Bear City have regular trash pickup. Once you get out to the east Valley, like Baldwin Lake, you have to take your trash to the dump (as a resident, there is no charge). Big Bear … [Read more...]
Big Bear Real Estate Neighborhoods
Spotlight on Boulder Bay Big Bear real estate is comprised of many unique neighborhoods and Boulder Bay is one of the most iconic places in the Big Bear Valley. Towering pine trees, massive rock formations, and tranquil lake views are the dominant features of this classic neighborhood. The rock formations that seem to float in the waters off Boulder Bay are some of the most photographed images in Big Bear. Boulder Bay is located on the south-west shore of Big Bear Lake and is one of the first neighborhoods you … [Read more...]
Big Bear Rescue Zoo
Located in Moonridge next to the golf course, the “Big Bear Rescue Zoo” is open daily from 10AM to 5PM (weather permitting, Memorial Day to Labor Day). It was formerly known as the “Moonridge Zoo”, but changed its name last month. The Zoo was created in response to the devastating 1959 fire which left injured animals. The Zoo now rehabilitates and cares for animals that can’t be released back into the wild. They have used some of the animals to create educational outreach programs, visiting schools and youth … [Read more...]
Big Bear City
On Big Bear Blvd. within 4 blocks of the traffic light at Division, there are 4 restaurants, a pizza parlor, a liquor store, and a produce stand. If you haven't investigated, what are you waiting for? Just past 'Twin Bears Equipment Rentals', is the tiniest Mexican restaurant, 'La Paws'. This little place is one of the nicest secrets of dining outside of the Village. 'La Paws' has been open a very long time and are sure to please your taste buds with their authentic hand made food. Right past them is a great … [Read more...]
Big Bear Real Estate – Tour Moonridge
The Moonridge area is comprised of Lower Moonridge, Upper Moonridge and High Timber Ranch. It backs up to the San Bernardino National Forest and was one of the first areas settled in Big Bear Lake. Today it's home to the Moonridge Zoo, the Bear Mountain Golf Course, and Bear Mountain Resort. The area is loaded with hiking trails and is a perfect location if you love mountain biking. Aside from activities there are shops and great places for lunch. Lower Moonridge The lower section of Moonridge has all of the … [Read more...]
Real Estate – Female Buyers
The National Association of Realtors estimates that 18% of all new homes bought are by single women, representing the fastest growing segment in the real estate market. The Joint Center for Housing says the reason for this is; the desire to own a home, a need to change the home size, or to be closer to family, job or school. Three out of four new home purchases are under $200,000, and single women are looking for two or more bedrooms. While location and quality of neighborhoods takes on a higher priority, single … [Read more...]
The Big Bear Gourmet
Restaurants in the mountains have long been known for their piles of pancakes and American cuisine. But recently, new Big Bear Lake restaurants serve a variety of ethnic flavors and gourmet ingredients to this community. When we first moved to Big Bear from Los Angeles sixteen years ago, we used to joke about the lack of restaurant ambience. At that time, few restaurants even used linen service. The Iron Squirrel, Fred & Marys, Madlons and Stillwells at Northwoods were among the best choices. While Madlons (Big … [Read more...]
Big Bear Real Estate – Finding a Place in Big Bear To Call Your Own, Part 3
The local Big Bear real estate market holds many potential opportunities. The correction in the market has opened up several exclusive neighborhoods to the average home buyer. Here’s a closer look at two of Big Bear’s upscale areas and why they’re great investments. The neighborhoods that make up Eagle Point are some of the most popular in Big Bear. Homes in this area include small cabins and homes located close to Meadow Park for the entry level buyer, custom lakefront and lake view homes for upper-end property … [Read more...]
Big Bear Real Estate – Finding A Place In Big Bear To Call Your Own, Part 1
Finding A Place In Big Bear To Call Your Own, Part One Once you’ve decided to look for a piece of Big Bear to call your own, the big question is “where”. Our valley has many different neighborhoods to choose from, each with their own unique look and feel. What may be a perfect area for one person might not work for someone else. It really depends on where you are in your life and what your goals are. For a first time buyer or a young family looking to purchase a home in Big Bear there are several great areas to … [Read more...]