Moonridge is a centrally located, hillside Big Bear community South of Big Bear Lake, bordered by dense National Forest land on three sides. Well known for its close proximity to Bear Mountain and Snow Summit ski resorts and showcasing expansive views of ski slopes and Big Bear Lake, Moonridge is where many people find themselves searching for their dream “cabin in the mountains”. The quintessential mountain environment, rugged topography, winding roads, and views galore make Moonridge a high-demand area for both full-time residents and vacation home owners.
Moonridge Lifestyle
Coveted Moonridge (initially developed as “Moonridge Mountain Estates”) includes Lower Moonridge, Upper Moonridge, and High Timber Ranch. Lower Moonridge, comprised of the area between Moonridge Road and Bear Mountain, is a more “level” area with tree views and abundant pines and oaks, and has a denser population. Upper Moonridge is known for its more secluded atmosphere and higher than average snowfall. High Timber Ranch, where you will find privacy, nearby open space, and spacious curbed streets, is situated at the top of the Moonridge community.
Home design in Moonridge varies greatly and includes Log Cabins, A-Frames, Gambrels, Tudors, Craftsmans, Sierra Style Homes, and more. You will find a wide range of home prices in Moonridge as well, offering options for most budgets, from modest to luxury. Large, expansive decks, ample windows, and an emphasis on indoor/outdoor living and views are common within this community, as homeowners and vacation rental guests soak in the mountain environment year-round.
It is important to note that Moonridge consists of property within the City of Big Bear Lake and the unincorporated areas of San Bernardino County. Where a property is located and under which jurisdiction it falls will dictate many important aspects of homeownership, including: utility providers, trash collection, short term rental vacation permit rules and requirements, and Transient Occupancy Taxes collection and payment.
The Big Bear Alpine Zoo, a fun and informative venue for all ages, is also located in Moonridge, at 43285 Goldmine Drive across from Bear Mountain. This zoo serves as a rehabilitation center for wildlife and is home to animals and birds representing over 85 species. The main objective of the zoo is to rehabilitate and release wild animals, although the zoo will serve as a permanent home for animals who are too injured or imprinted by their human caretakers to survive in the wild. You’ll learn about animals from the Big Bear Valley as well as a few others (such as grizzly bears and wolves) that respond favorably to the mountain environment. Parking is free (be sure to get a parking pass for your car). If you visit during the winter months, parking can be reduced due to the proximity to the ski resort.
Moonridge offers numerous shopping and dining options, many of which can be found on Moonridge Road. Support local businesses and grab a java at Moonridge Coffee Company located at 42646 Moonridge Road (where you will find hot or iced creations for all seasons, including delicious seasonal specialty drinks such as , “Carm-Cocoa Americano”, “Butterscotch Latte”, and “Nutella Latte”). Head to Dank Donuts located at 42612 Moonridge Road for your favorite donuts, bear claws, and fritters (vegan and gluten-free menu options are available). Don’t miss their Donut Happy Hour and they even serve spiked seltzer, wine, and beer! Grind and Grill Cafe, located at 42011 Big Bear Blvd, is an awesome spot for hearty, home-style breakfast and lunch! Or, swing by Mountain Bar and Grill, located at 42164 for Happy Hour or Taco Tuesday! Cheers!
Ski and Snowboard
When it comes to proximity to Big Bear’s ski areas, Moonridge is perfectly positioned close to both Bear Mountain and Snow Summit. Often dubbed “Big Bear’s Playground”, Moonridge offers residents and visitors easy access to the slopes, which is especially important during inclement winter weather. Although Big Bear itself is considered a “small mountain community”, an influx of visitors combined with winter storms can add much time and stress to commute times to and from the ski areas and can present parking challenges. This makes Moonridge a popular location for ski and snowboard enthusiasts as well as vacation home and second home owners who recognize convenience to the slopes is key.
Big Bear boasts Big Bear Mountain Resort, home to twin properties, Bear Mountain and Snow Summit. Both are owned and operated by Alterra Mountain Company, and lift tickets can be used at both properties interchangeably.
Snow Summit offers night sessions (a real mountain treat under the stars); lessons for all ages (including private sessions, group sessions, night sessions, and an adaptive ski school); and equipment rentals (packages available according to your needs and skill level). You can even opt for the Concierge Service, where you will be personally fitted at your lodging property and will find your equipment waiting for you in a designated locker upon arrival.
Bear Mountain, or “Bear” boasts the only halfpipes in Southern California, terrain parks for all interests, over 748 permitted acres of land, the largest learning area in SoCal (backed by professionally certified instructors), and a state of the art snow making system.
Summer Season
Not only is Moonridge a mecca for winter sports, ski, and snowboard enthusiasts, it’s location also caters to those who enjoy outdoor summer activities as well, adding additional demand to its central location. This makes Moonridge a highly desirable area for vacation home owners, as their investment and second home properties appeal to guests during all four seasons.
Snow Summit is open and operating during the summer season, offering scenic getaways and high-energy outdoor experiences. Snow Summit is a mountain biker’s paradise, where you will find plentiful jumps, berms, and man-made features throughout their gravity-fed park. Grab a Bike Pass and take a chairlift ride to gain access to over 60 miles of professionally built and maintained trails and terrain (for all ages and skill levels). Enjoy unmatched views, including Mt. San Gorgonio (elevation 11,500 feet), Southern California’s tallest mountain, while cruising through the mountain terrain. For additional details about Snow Summit’s Downhill Bike Park, click here.
For a more tranquil and relaxing ride through the mountains, Snow Summit offers a Scenic Sky Chair Lift experience. Take in the panoramic views and mountain air during the mile long ascent through the San Bernardino National Forest to your final mountain top destination (elevation 8,200 feet).
Big Bear truly offers outdoors activities for everyone during all four seasons. If you enjoy a game of golf, head to Bear Mountain Golf Course, to play a 9 hole, par 35, course showcasing rolling hills and tree-lined fairways. Put your golf game to the test at an elevation of 7,000 feet while surrounded by Ponderosa pines and the San Bernardino Mountains. Bear Mountain Golf Course is usually open to the public from May through October (weather depending) and features a driving range, pro shop, and lessons in a true alpine setting. Bear Mountain Golf Course offers Season Passes or you can book a tee time (it is recommended to do so as far in advance as possible).
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