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The Big Deal About Big Bear

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Posted on February 01, 2023

Just a two-hour drive to the east of Los Angeles lies an alpine wonderland that promises a year-round escape from the heat and hurry of the city. In any season, a Big Bear timeshare offers an amazing getaway that the whole family will love.

No matter when you venture to this San Bernardino Mountains getaway you'll find that there is an endless list of things to do in Big Bear. Beautiful, peaceful and idyllic, Big Bear could become your family's favorite destination.

An Overview of Big Bear Lake

Big Bear Lake

LA is known for many things such as beaches, traffic jams and sunny days, but if you travel just two hours by car, you'll find yourself in a destination that's practically LA's polar opposite.

You'll still experience plenty of sunny days when you stay in a Big Bear timeshare, but now you're in the San Bernardino National Forest. This is an alpine village that attracts people who are hungry for outdoor adventures. Moreover, anyone who wants to escape the bustle of the city will certainly find a respite here.

Situated at an altitude of just over 6,700 feet, it's wise to go to Big Bear Lake prepared for cooler temperatures. It's also a good idea to let your first day be a restful one so you don't risk a bout of altitude sickness.

Once you're settled in, you're ready to discover the incredible things to do in Big Bear.

The Center of the Summer Action

woman on paddle board on Big Bear Lake

If you visit Big Bear in the summer, chances are good that you'll spend much of your vacation either lazing alongside the lake or playing on the water. From the spring through the fall, you can take advantage of dozens of rental outlets that provide Jet Skis, kayaks, boats, canoes, paddle boards and more.

Fishing enthusiasts can hire a charter to show them the best spots on the seven-mile freshwater lake. Other visitors choose to remain on shore, napping on a blanket and taking an occasional dip in the water.

The Peak of Winter Activity

ski lifts on Bear Mountain

Visit this area when snow lays heavy on the ground, and you'll probably spend a great deal of your time at the Big Bear Mountain Resort. It's hard to find any skiing or snowboarding in Southern California that can top what you'll find on the slopes at this resort.

The property actually consists of two resorts, with one being at Snow Summit and the other at Bear Mountain. With a total of 55 runs and 26 lifts, the 400 acres of terrain offer plenty to keep skiers of all abilities entertained for days. If your family also loves tubing, don't miss the 300-foot-long lanes at this resort.

You can visit Big Bear Mountain Resort in the summer too. Attractions and activities like a Euro bungee trampoline, nine-hole golf course, climbing wall, zip line and more keep the action going all year.

snowboarder on Bear Mountain

Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain

The daredevils in your party will want to try this attraction regardless of the season. This is one of the most kid-friendly things to do in Big Bear, so put this one on your itinerary if you're traveling with the whole family.

In the warmer months, this is the place where you can ride a chairlift to the top of the mountain and then coast down on the famous Alpine Slide. Other summer activities include go-karts, an alpine waterslide, the mountain coaster and an 18-hole mini-golf course.

The list of activities expands to include a tubing hill in the winter, which features a "magic carpet lift" to make the experience easier and more enjoyable. Don't worry if you'll be there in October or November and the snow hasn't started to accumulate yet. The resort makes its own snow at this time so that your family can get in some early season tubing.

Shop 'Til You Drop

If you love discovering one-of-a-kind boutiques and unique shops, you won't want to pass up the opportunity to spend a few afternoons strolling along Big Bear Boulevard and its cross streets. This is the perfect place to find unusual souvenirs, essentials for your home or gifts to bring back for loved ones. A variety of sporting good shops are here too so you don't have to worry about picking up gear for your outdoor adventures.

Visit the Big Bear Discovery Center

Marsh Preserve at Big Bear

A stop at this visitor center is pretty much a requirement for most people who are touring the area. Found in the town of Fawnskin just across the lake from Big Bear, the Discovery Center offers a variety of eco-tours as well as fascinating exhibits about the flora and fauna of the region. Special events occur throughout the year, so be sure to check the calendar before you arrive.

Explore the Hiking Trails

hiker looking down on Big Bear Lake

Among the best things to do while you stay in one of these California timeshares is to hit the trails. Big Bear Lake boasts dozens of trails that range from simple nature hikes that anyone can accomplish to incredibly challenging treks that aren't for the faint of heart.

You'll probably have to do some research before putting on your hiking boots as you definitely don't want to choose a trail that's more strenuous than you are used to. Some of the most popular hikes in the region include Castle Rock Trail, Bertha Peak Trail, Cougar Crest Trail and the Pine Knot Trail.

One of the most challenging, but also most rewarding, treks in the area takes hikers to the Butler Peak Fire Lookout. The views are absolutely breathtaking, and so is the ten-mile out-and-back trail thanks to its lofty elevation of over 8,500 feet. Open from Memorial Day through November, the trail frequently still has plenty of snow in July, so this is an adventure only for experienced trekkers.

Big Bear Valley Historical Museum

Open seasonally beginning with the Memorial Day weekend, this institution of the local historical society provides a fascinating glimpse into the region's colorful past. From gold rush town history to its current status as an upscale vacation destination, Big Bear Lake has a rich history that promises to delight people of all ages.

Book Your Stay in a Big Bear Timeshare

Whether your favorite things to do in Big Bear are active and outdoorsy or run more toward spa days and shopping, your itinerary in this gorgeous place is bound to be packed. With so much to do, you can rely on these California timeshares to provide you with a quiet, relaxing retreat that caters to the entire family.

Your Big Bear timeshare features all of the comforts of home in an idyllic alpine setting. Timeshares aren't like ordinary hotels. That's because they usually have more space, upgraded features and amenities. You'll typically find an entire week's worth of on-site activities to keep the family entertained.

The accommodations in a Big Bear timeshare are attractive thanks to increased square footage, private bedrooms, full kitchens, in-unit washers and dryers and many other desirable extras.

Below you’ll find the favorites timeshares in Big Bear according to the offers placed through our system by our customers.

Lagonita Lodge Resort

Big Bear Lake timeshare resort

Perched on the edge of Lagonita Point overlooking Big Bear Lake, Lagonita Lodge Resort is just over a mile from the Pineknot Trail for hikers and about nine minutes’ drive to the Snow Summit Ski Resort.

With its own beachfront on the edge of the lake, sun deck and fishing dock, it’s the perfect four-season accommodation spot. Indoor pool, indoor and outdoor heated spas and game room let you relax as you want to. Choose from one- and two-bedroom units, many with balconies overlooking the lake.  

WorldMark Big Bear

WorldMark Big Bear timeshare

The only Wyndham Destinations timeshare resort at Big Bear, WorldMark Big Bear resort sits near Stanfield Marsh Wildlife and Waterfowl Preserve. Only a seven-minute drive to the Bear Mountain Ski Resort, all of the skiing and snowboarding is close by, as are the watersports at Big Bear Lake.

Recharge in your choice of studio, one-, two- or three-bedroom units with kitchen, Balcony/Patio and in-unit washer/dryer among the many advantages. Enjoy the resort’s hot tub, tennis or basketball courts, swimming pool, children’s pool or the fitness center.

Club at Big Bear Village

Big Bear Village timeshare

This Bluegreen Vacations Club Resort is situated just above the Big Bear Marina, yet only a seven-minute ride to the Snow Summit Ski Resort. After your days of skiing, hiking or boating, retreat to Club at Big Bear Village to enjoy the hot tub, outdoor heated pool or even a game of billiards.

The resort features two-, three- and four-bedroom suites with full designer kitchens, oversized tubs, separate living and dining areas, fireplaces, in-unit washer/dryers and balconies to soak in the ambience.

Snow Lake Lodge

living room in a Big Bear timeshare

Just down the road from the shopping outlets at The Village, Snow Lake Lodge is right in town and only a half-mile to lake access at Ski Beach Park but only three minutes to Snow Summit Resort. The heated outdoor pool and hot tub along with the barbeque and picnic area give you a way to relax on the odd occasion you’re not out adventuring.

After all the snow or lake-based fun, head back to your one-bedroom apartment with king bed, sleeper sofa in the living room, full kitchen, fireplace and two bathrooms.

With a long list of things to do in Big Bear and the spacious timeshare accommodations, chances are good that your family will never want to leave the San Bernardino Mountains.

If you need more information about the resorts above, are looking to sell a timeshare or just have some questions, our licensed agents are happy to help. Call us on 877-624-6889 or leave us your questions by clicking our Contact Us page here.

WorldMark Bluegreen

Author

Author Pic
Steve Luba
Chief Communications Officer

Steve manages the public relations and content creation efforts of the company. Previously the Chief Operating Officer for Perspective Magazine, he provided oversight and contributed articles for the five regional vacation ownership trade magazines under the Perspective Magazine banner. 

A contributor for industry publications such as Resort Trades and Developments Magazine, Steve Luba has 36 years of experience in various roles in radio and television, sales and marketing, public relations, media and government liaison initiatives. 

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