Big Bear has long been a favorite for outdoor lovers, but it also has a rich history that often flies under the radar. Long before snowboards and summer kayaks made their mark, this mountain town was shaped by Native American traditions, mining booms, movie sets and early tourism. A historical journey through Big Bear isn’t just about reading plaques or walking through museums. It’s about standing in the same spots where the past left its mark and learning Big Bear history about how this quiet, beautiful place came to be what it is today.
Start at the Big Bear History Museum
If you’re looking to get the full story of Big Bear’s past in one place, the Big Bear Valley Historical Museum is where to begin. Run by the local historical society, this museum is tucked away in Big Bear City and filled with artifacts and exhibits that cover everything from Native American heritage to early pioneer life.
One of the most engaging parts of the museum is its outdoor exhibit area, which features restored cabins, mining equipment, and blacksmith demos. Volunteers often dress in period clothing and offer hands-on explanations of how things worked back then. You’ll find gold panning stations, antique tools, and detailed models of old town sites. It’s a great stop for families, history buffs, and anyone who wants to put real images to the stories of early Big Bear life.
Back in the 1860s, Big Bear had its own gold rush, and you can still follow the trail today. The Gold Fever Trail is a self-guided driving tour through Holcomb Valley that leads you to former mining camps, old wagon roads and historic landmarks. It’s about twelve miles long and takes you deep into the forest north of the lake where the original gold strikes happened.
Highlights include Two Gun Bill’s Saloon site, Belleville’s ghost town remnants and an old arrastra used to crush ore. Though little remains of the buildings, interpretive signs give you enough backstory to picture what life looked like in the wild days of the mining boom. The route is best with a vehicle that can handle dirt roads, and it’s a great way to combine sightseeing with local history. Be sure to bring a map, or download directions in advance as service is limited in the backcountry.
Explore Big Bear History at the Serrano Heritage
Before settlers and miners arrived, the Serrano people lived in the Big Bear Valley for thousands of years. Their influence can still be felt, especially around the lake and surrounding wilderness. While there’s no single site dedicated solely to Serrano history, you’ll find interpretive signage in various parks, including the Stanfield Marsh Wildlife and Waterfowl Preserve and the Woodland Interpretive Trail.
The trail signs often describe how the Serrano used local plants for food and medicine, and where they settled in seasonal villages. These cultural insights add another layer to the natural beauty of the area and help paint a more complete picture of Big Bear’s roots. Taking the time to understand the Indigenous perspective gives your visit a deeper meaning beyond the surface.
Historic Big Bear Village
The Village may now be full of restaurants, shops, and modern life, but it still holds historical weight. Some of the buildings date back to the 1920s and 30s, when Big Bear was becoming a weekend getaway for early Hollywood stars and Los Angeles families. Walking through the Village with a historical lens helps you appreciate just how much the town has evolved over the past century.
There are plaques and signs scattered throughout that tell the story of the Village’s development, fires and rebuilds, and how tourism started to shape the town in the mid-1900s. If you stop into a few of the local businesses, especially the older ones, you’ll often find vintage photos or even staff who can share bits of town lore. A casual stroll can easily become a mini history tour if you know what to look for.
Book Your Stay with Big Bear Vacations
After a day exploring mines, museums, and trails, having the right place to unwind makes all the difference. Big Bear Vacations offers over 300 cabins and homes throughout the Big Bear Lake area. From charming historic-style cabins to luxurious modern retreats, there’s something for every kind of traveler.
Choose from properties close to the Village for easy access to local restaurants and landmarks or opt for a quieter retreat tucked into the trees near trailheads and scenic viewpoints. Many homes come with hot tubs, fireplaces, game rooms and pet friendly features. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or planning a longer historical deep dive, Big Bear Vacations makes it easy to find a place that feels like home. We also offer weekly and monthly rental options for travelers looking to take their time exploring the past and present of the area.
Step Into the Story of Big Bear
A historical journey through Big Bear adds context and richness to everything else you do here. You’re not just hiking trails or driving scenic roads. You’re walking through the layers of time that shaped this mountain town into what it is today. Book your stay with Big Bear Vacations and experience Big Bear’s story for yourself!
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