Two worlds come together at Southern California's premier mountain retreat, Big Bear Lake.  The summer brings a lake and mountain lover's paradise where fishing duels with hiking, mountain biking, water-skiing and parasailing to fill the days.  The winter brings quality snow sports by day, and romantic walks through snow drenched streets at night.  Big Bear Lake has been Southern California's favorite mountain getaway since 1949 and it continues to please today.

Part of Big Bear Lake's magic is that it is only a couple of hour's drive from the Los Angeles Basin, making it easily accessible.  But so much of the attraction is Big Bear's peerless vistas and the vibrant energy of her community, nestled within the rugged San Bernardino mountains and around the lake.  When the first dam was set up for flood control in 1884, the first hotel quickly set up in 1888 and the secret was out.

Summertime in Big Bear Lake comes early and stays late - dazzling with sunshine and bright, star-splashed skies that are shot with frequent meteor shows. Be careful!  Up here in the mountains the fierceness of the summer sun is much more intense than at sea level.  The clean, light air at 7000 feet, and the low humidity support 80- to 90-degree daytime highs, and sunscreen is a must!  And while you swim, fish, hike and jet-ski, leave a little time for some quality golf, you might want to take in some tours, especially exploring the impressive gold-mining pedigree of the area. My favorite activity is exploring the extensive net of hiking trails that spread from the town.

There is a load of history in Big Bear and Hollywood is no stranger. Since the filming of "The Call of the North" in 1914, so many motion pictures have been shot in Big Bear Valley that it has been called "Hollywood's back lot."  "Paint Your Wagon," "The Parent Trap," "Bonanza," "Kissin' Cousins," "Yukon Gold" and "Dr. Dolittle" are just a few of the memorable films that have been shot on location in Big Bear Valley.  Community leaders also keep the calendar stock full with a long list of special events  from rowdy Octoberfests to fishing contests and cool Jazz festivals.

Yet, the turning of the seasons brings Big Bear Lake into its full glory as winter envelops her in a white, snowy embrace.  The first ski resort opened in 1888 and there are lots of winter activities to keep everyone engaged, from snow-boarding to skiing to whatever your mind can demand can be had at two world-class ski resorts.  At the end of the day, exhausted from having fun, the town also has a strong club scene to warm the insides and usher you to a warm bed for another day of excitement.

So winter or summer, Big Bear Lake never disappoints, even if you want to disdain the active life and simply chill with a good book!  A short drive from almost any Southern California location, Big Bear attracts people for the array of recreation activities that appeal to all ages and skill levels.

This guide to Big Bear in every season was brought to you by Richard Evans.