Fox Farm, named for the actual fox farms that occupied the area in the early 1900’s (fur farming was Bear Valley’s second most important industry after cattle ranching in the 1930’s), is a centrally located, highly coveted area of Big Bear. Nestled just minutes to the ski slopes, lake, shopping centers, dining, and the National Forest, coveted Fox Farm attracts full-time residents, second homeowners, and vacation rental owners. It’s central mountain location and suburban benefits, combined with upscale homes, large lots, and nicely landscaped yards with a mountain vibe, add to the desirability of this community.
Fox Farm Big Bear Lifestyle
Fox Farm is arguably the most centrally located area of Big Bear (bordered by Moonridge and Pinewood Estates). Due to its close proximity to many of Big Bear’s delights, residents of Fox Farm can enjoy shopping, dining, outdoors activities, and attractions within minutes. Because of it’s central location, residents, second home owners, and vacation rental owners and guests can access the Big Bear Valley with ease and convenience, always just a short ride away from all of Big Bear’s attractions and beauty. It’s proximity to three of the Valley schools, medical and professional facilities, and major retail shopping areas (including Starbucks), make Fox Farm a popular area for full time residents.
The Alpine Pedal Path, an approximately 5.4 mile round trip paved lakeside path stretching from the Stanfield Cutoff to the Serrano Campground, is easy to access from Fox Farm. Popular with locals and visitors, this path offers outdoor fun, recreation, and breathtaking lake views for all ages and fitness levels (and is wheelchair and stroller accessible). This dog friendly (keep your pups leashed) path is an excellent place to exercise (walk, run, or ride your bike), meditate and relax (at the benches along the way), fish, or enjoy the outdoor barbecues located at the Juniper Point and Meadows Edge picnic areas (Adventure Pass required). You can even wander off the asphalt and head to the lake’s shore via access points along the path to get a closer look at the water. Residents and Visitors of Fox Farm also enjoy easy access to the North Shore and all of it’s attractions.
Nearby Big Bear Snow Play, located at 42825 Big Bear Blvd. is a great spot for snow play and snow tubing (even night glow tubing)! This family friendly hot spot gives an alternative to outdoor fun in the snow for those who don’t hit the slopes! Once a ski hill known as Rebel Ridge, Big Bear Snow Play offers the longest runs in Southern California. Don’t worry about trudging back uphill in the snow after tubing (whew), as you will take a Magic Carpet uphill lift. Snow play season typically runs from mid-November to Easter (weather permitting).
True to its four season destination name, you’ll find Big Bear Speedway here during the summer. Hop in one of the Sodi Kart’s RT8, mini-race cars with self-adjusting hydraulic brakes and vacuum fuel pumps and get ready, get set, GO! Be sure to visit the Big Bear Ropes Course, where you will find an attraction towering 35 feet above the ground. You’ll balance on ropes, cross bridges, and climb through obstacles (more that 42 obstacles spread over 6,400 square feet on 2 levels, 12 to 35 feet in the air) in a safety harness, of course! This self-guided excursion allows participants to go at their own pace (with an estimated 15 to 20 minute completion time). Certified instructors are stationed along the course in the event a participant requires assistance. The Sky Rail Zipline adds even more excitement for those seeking a thrilling airborne experience!
Homes in Fox Farm, sometimes referred to as the “Beverly Hills of Big Bear”, include architecture of all styles, such as Tudor, Log Style, Mountain Chalet, Traditional Ranch, A-Frame, and Contemporary. The well-treed sizable lots, underground utilities, and nicely manicured yards add to the desirability of the area. The communities of Eagle Mountain Estates (North of Fox Farm Road with newer custom homes on hilly terrain showcasing large boulders), Castle Glen Estates (North of Eagle Mountain with newer homes developed starting in the late 1990’s offering wonderful lake and mountain views on hillier terrain), and Alpine Woods Estates (on the South side with mature landscaped yards and slightly curved streets) are nestled within the Fox Farm area and exude pride of ownership. It is important to note that most of the infrastructure within Fox Farm is provided by the City of Big Bear Lake. However, some areas of Fox Farm are governed by the County of San Bernardino. The jurisdiction under which a home falls will dictate service providers, such as trash disposal, short term rental requirements and the permit process, and collection of Transient Occupancy Taxes.
