BIG BEAR LAKE, CALIFORNIA, USA - When the first non-natives arrived in Big Bear Valley in 1845, there was no Big Bear Lake. It took until 1885 to build the man-made lake, then held by a rock dam. A newer more efficient dam keeps the lake's waters in check today, but its 3000 acres of surface still provide locals and visitors alike opportunities for recreation.

Fishing is till big here, just as it was in the days when the lake was first built, but other activities now popular would have left the first settlers in Bear Valley scratching their heads. Folks can now be found racing across the lake on waverunners or jet skis, kayaking or canoeing along the lake's coves and inlets, skimming the water on skis or wakeboards, or sailing with a little help from the constant lake breezes.

The lake's two floating restrooms, the SS Relief I and II, would have really confounded Bear Valley Tourists circa 1850, but today's boaters appreciate the comfort and convenience they offer.

A good way to get an overview of the area is on the Paddlewheel Tour Boat at Pine Knot Landing, a relaxing hour and a half cruise around Big Bear Lake. Fully narrated, you'll get a feel for the area's history, flora and fauna, as well as learn about points of interest and celebrities who have homes in Big Bear.

Those wanting a more adventurous, hands on approach can try jet skiing, water skiing, wake boarding, canoeing, and kayaking.

For a bird's eye view of the water, parasailing provides a gentle adventure that allows you to soar over the lake, much like the eagles that come here to nest each winter do. But the fun isn't just ON Big Bear Lake, it's also AROUND the Big Bear Lake, on its 23 miles of shoreline.

Swim Beach is open for daily in summer and offers protected areas for children to enjoy splashing in the clear lake waters, with lifeguards keeping a careful eye on the play. Adjacent to swim beach there are play areas for volleyball, tennis and barbecues.

The Alpine Pedal Path, a scenic path that meanders along the shore for about 3 miles on the north shore, is popular with bikers, walkers, dog walkers, and joggers. You'll find scenic picnic areas along the path, as well as public boat launches.

Practicalities

The Paddlewheel Tour Boat leaves from the Pine Knot Marina. They offer individual, group and private tours. Boat Rentals and Parasailing are also offered at the Marina. For more information call 909-866-8129 or click to www.PineKnotMarina.com.

Holloway's Marina and RV Park also offers boat rentals, boat slips and a well amnitied RV park. Find them at 398 Edgemoor Rd. in Big Bear Lake. Call 909-866-5706 or click to www.BigBearBoating.com.

For more information about Big Bear in general, to book accommodations, or to request a Visitors Guide, visit the Big Bear Resort Association's website at www.bigbear.com or call 1-800-4-BIG-BEAR.

More About Big Bear

• Big Bear -- Southern California's Only 4 Season Alpine Resort
• The Big Bear Discovery Center - Gateway to Mountain Adventures
• Fun on Big Bear Lake
  
• Discovering Bear Valley History with Big Bear Off Road Adventures
• The Moonridge Animal Park -- A Zoo with a Difference and a Really Big Heart
• Golfing in Big Bear
• Hiking In Big Bear
• Fishing Big Bear Lake
• Mountain Biking in Big Bear
• Strange Happenings at the Captain's Anchorage
• Where to Eat in Big Bear
• Where to Stay in Big Bear
• Camping & RVing in Big Bear