Big Bear Heats Up As Temperatures Drop

Big Bear is abuzz.  Every year, there is always excitement about winter’s arrival in our beloved mountain resort… but this year it’s different.  Things are happening.

El Niño – Winter Storms

Winter is here.  The weather predictions are becoming reality.  Weather forecasters have been predicting an El Niño that will bring higher than average precipitation this year.  We have already had several winter storms – prior to Thanksgiving.

Lake Level

This is encouraging news for people concerned about the current low lake level.  Lake levels rise and fall.  In 2004, the lake was down 17 feet, and by May 2015 it was almost completely replenished.  The lake is currently 14 feet below full and precipitation this winter could change that dramatically.

Bear Mountain Resorts

Thanks to early season snow and cold temperatures, Snow Summit and Bear Mountain opened mid-November.  According to Big Bear Mountain Resorts officials, the Thanksgiving holiday was their best since 2004.  “The season is off to a great start with record attendance, five weather events and an incredible snowmaking run,” said CEO Dave Likens in the Big Bear Grizzly.  “All of our advanced bookings point to a great holiday this year.”

Capital Improvements

The new owners of Bear Mountain Resorts, Mammoth Resorts, are moving forward with capital improvements at Snow Summit.  An estimated $2 million is being spent on two areas of operation at the resort.  The base area will be updated to more easily facilitate ski school and equipment rentals.  There are also plans to feature a tubing hill.  Restaurants and bars will be updated at the base area and at the top of the mountain.

Real Estate Activity

It is no surprise that the real estate market is hot in Big Bear.  Property values have been steadily on the rise.  Demand is high and we are seeing multiple offers on many listings.  There is an anticipation that property values will continue to increase due to several factors, including the influence of the Mammoth acquisition of Bear Mountain Resorts.  *Find your Big Bear cabin here.

Vacation Rentals

The vacation rental market is also hot.  Nick Lanza, owner of Big Bear Vacations, said advanced bookings of their vacation rental cabins for the holidays are already nearly sold out, which usually doesn’t happen until the week before Christmas.  “There is a lot of momentum as we move into the holidays and the busy winter season,” Lanza said.  “Big Bear visitors are hungry for a great winter season.”