Big
Bear Lake, a four-seasons resort community surrounded
by the San Bernardino National Forest, 100 miles northeast
of Los Angeles is the perfect destination for a horse vacation
and/or family getaway.
Many
of us horse owners wish we could take our horses on a relaxing
getaway and enjoy some beautiful trails but not everyone
enjoys camping and to most of
us safe horse facilities are a must. Big Bear has the perfect
solution for you.
Rent a Big Bear cabin
and bring your equine companion
with you.
You
can board them at one of the local boarding facilities and
enjoy the many trails around Big Bear Lake
Big
Bear has miles and miles of beautiful trails that let you
take in the breathtaking views of the National Forest and
the lake on your rides. Maps of all the trails are available
and the choice of trails is yours.
Besides riding your horse you will have a fun place for
you and your family. You can enjoy the village with its
unique shops and restaurant, the zoo, hiking, biking, boating,
jet skiing, parasailing and more.
We
recommend spring and fall as the perfect time to visit Big
Bear! The crowds are gone and the temperatures are mild,
the lake is still yours for swimming and boating and great
discounts can be had for your lodging
Big
Bear Vacations.com offers homes with fully equipped
kitchens, linens, towels, TV/VCR, BBQ’s and more.
Choose from slope views, lake views, lakefronts or secluded
homes. Many have of our homes have spas for your enjoyment
and we welcome your pets in most all of our homes.
FAQ:
What's
the best time to come riding in Big Bear?
Big Bear is a four season resort so anytime is a good time.
I personally like fall best for trail riding It's still
warm during the day but not as hot as it can be during the
summer. The nights are crisp so bring a light sheet for
your horse. If you want to experience riding in the snow
then you should come in the winter of course. If you plan
to come in the spring and don't want to be surprised by
snow, you may want to wait until May. We have had a last
snowstorms in April. So I personally recommend April through
October.
What
about Holiday weekends?
You might not want to bring your horse on a holiday weekend.
Too much traffic coming up the hill and too many motorcycles,
ATV's and mountain bikes on the trails. Plus the rates are
generally higher. Fall and Spring offers lodging specials
for your cabin.
Can
I bring my dog?
Yes you can bring your pets. Make sure you search
for dog friendly accommodations when booking your cabin.
Where
is the best trail riding in Big Bear?
Big Bear is surrounded by National Forest and trails. You
can check with the local Discovery Center who will equip
you with maps and trail info. Probably a good idea to call
them ahead of time. The Pacific Crest Trail also runs through
the Big Bear Valley and you have access to miles and miles
of trail from anywhere in the Valley. If you board your
horse, maybe ask the stable if they have a guide you could
take along. That way you can get to the most scenic spots.
What's
the best way to come up to Big Bear with a horse trailer?
I would avoid the 30/330 (front way). Too windy, too many
switchbacks with a lot of traffic. I would recommend the
38 (through Redlands) which brings you right to the east
end of the valley where the boarding stables are. Good passing
lanes, turnouts to let traffic by and very scenic drive.
If you come from the north, use the 18 through Victorville.
That is also an excellent choice in the winter as its closer
to the high desert.
Vaccinations:
Talk
to your vet about Strangles vaccine and if that would be
right for your horse. Big Bear, who used to have wild burros
roam our streets, has had cases of Strangles over the years
so I personally vaccinate all my horses. So check with your
vet.
Your
Boarding Options:
Rent
a Big Bear cabin and board your horse
We have several local boarding
stables that you can make arrangements with. These stables
will provide you with shelter, feeding, watering, hay and
clean the stalls for you. For
availability and prices please contact these boarding stables,
both located on the east end of the valley, approx 15 Minutes
from Big Bear Lake:
Boarding Stables (daily, weekly
or monthly boarding)
- Sonny's
Place Equestrian Center, 909.585.9397 website
- Shay
Meadow Ranch, 909.585.0512
Rental
Stables (hourly rental, guided trail rides)
- Baldwin
Lake Stables (east end of the valley) 909.584.6482
website
- Rockin'
K Riding Stables (near the Village in Big Bear
Lake) 909.878.4677
