Big Bear Lake: From Seafloor to Mountain, the Story of Gold

Big Bear Lake’s captivating story begins deep beneath the earth’s surface. What was once a seafloor has transformed into a majestic mountain landscape, rich with the allure of gold. Visitors can uncover this fascinating geological history as they explore the region’s abandoned mines and search for long-lost treasures. The tour guides travelers through the interplay of nature and human endeavor, revealing the area’s remarkable legacy of gold mining and the breathtaking beauty of the Big Bear Valley.

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Key Points

The tour explores an abandoned gold or fool’s gold mine, providing participants the opportunity to search for precious minerals.
The tour includes a visit to the Eye of God, an ancient monument offering panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Participants can learn about the history of the Big Bear Dam, which was the highest dam in the world at the time of its construction.
The self-drive option includes maps, directions, and stories about the transformation of the land in the Big Bear Valley.
The tour emphasizes the geological and historical significance of the Big Bear Lake region, from its seafloor origins to its current mountain landscape.

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Tour Overview and Highlights

The tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and natural wonders of Big Bear Lake, priced at SEK 365 per group of up to 8 participants.

Explore the rich history and natural wonders of Big Bear Lake for SEK 365 per group of up to 8 participants.

Participants can search for gold or fool’s gold in an abandoned mine, view the Eye of God, an ancient monument, and learn about the formation of the mountains and valleys over millions of years.

The tour also includes the history of the Big Bear Dam from 1885 to the present.

The self-drive option with maps, directions, and stories about the land’s transformation is an added convenience.

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Adventure Details

After departing from a store, the tour participants drive to the Stanfield Cutoff, where they can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk. Next, they explore a gold mine frequented by miners, scouring the area for shiny treasures. The tour then takes them on a scenic drive up a forest road to see the Eye of God and panoramic views of Big Bear Valley. The journey culminates at the highest dam in the world at its time, which holds back over 73,000 acre-feet of water.

| Activity | Location | Highlights |

| — | — | — |

| Stroll | Stanfield Cutoff | Boardwalk |

| Explore | Gold Mine | Search for Treasures |

| Drive | Forest Road | Eye of God, Big Bear Valley |

| Visit | Big Bear Dam | Highest Dam in the World |

Practical Information

For those interested in visiting the tour, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Reservations can be made using the "Reserve now & pay later" option, allowing booking without upfront payment.

Reservations can be made using the "Reserve now & pay later" option, allowing booking without upfront payment.

To explore the San Bernardino Forest, a Forest Service Adventure Pass is required at $5 per car, per day. This pass can be purchased on-site at the Big Bear Visitor Center or a local 7-Eleven.

Tour participants should note that rental vehicles are acceptable, but a personal vehicle is required. Cellphone reception should be checked before the tour.

Participant Guidelines

Not all visitors may be suitable for this adventure tour. The experience isn’t recommended for children under 7 years, individuals with mobility issues, heart problems, or altitude sickness.

Wheelchair users, the visually impaired, and drivers under 21 are also excluded. Those with low fitness levels or without a valid driver’s license shouldn’t participate.

The tour operates at high elevations over 7,000 feet, so it’s not ideal for those with breathing difficulties. Participants should be prepared for the physical demands and have a reliable personal vehicle to navigate the remote areas.

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Recommendations and Restrictions

Participants should bring comfortable shoes, a head covering, a camera, water, comfortable clothing, and a charged smartphone for the tour.

The tour operates at an elevation of 7,000 feet or more, so it isn’t recommended for those with breathing problems.

Rental vehicles are acceptable, but personal vehicles are required. Alcohol, drugs, and electric wheelchairs aren’t permitted on the tour.

To navigate the area, it’s suggested to download Google Maps and check cellphone reception before the tour begins.

Comfortable shoes, head covering, and camera are essential for the tour.
A personal vehicle is required; rental vehicles are acceptable.
Alcohol, drugs, and electric wheelchairs aren’t allowed on the tour.

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The Geological Transformation of Big Bear Lake

Millions of years ago, this region was once a vast seafloor, home to a diverse array of marine life.

Over time, tectonic forces pushed the seafloor upwards, forming the majestic mountains and valleys that define Big Bear Lake today.

Volcanic activity and erosion further sculpted the landscape, creating the distinctive Eye of God rock formation and the deep canyon that now houses the Big Bear Dam.

This geological transformation took place over millions of years, a testament to the dynamic nature of our planet.

Exploring this ancient landscape offers a window into the remarkable story of Big Bear Lake’s origins.

Uncovering the History of Gold Mining

Although the mountains and valleys of Big Bear Lake were formed over millions of years, the region’s history of gold mining dates back much more recently. Prospectors flocked to the area in the late 1800s, eager to strike it rich.

Some key facts about Big Bear’s gold mining legacy:

An abandoned gold mine located near Stanfield Cutoff has become a popular attraction, where visitors can search for glittering flakes or pyrite, also known as "fool’s gold."
The Eye of God, an ancient geological formation, offers panoramic views of the valley that were once mined for precious metals.
The construction of Big Bear Dam in 1885 was driven in part by the need to provide water for the gold mining operations in the region.

Exploring the Eye of God and Big Bear Dam

As visitors journey up the forest road, they’ll encounter the Eye of God, a unique ancient geological formation that offers panoramic views of the Big Bear Valley below.

Visitors journeying up the forest road will encounter the Eye of God, an ancient geological formation offering panoramic valley views.

This distinctive rock formation is the result of millions of years of mountain-building and erosion.

The tour then takes guests to the famous Big Bear Dam, the highest dam in the world at the time of its construction in 1885.

This impressive structure holds back over 73,000 acre-feet of water, providing a critical water source for the surrounding region.

The tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s rich history and natural wonders.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Tour Site?

The best time of year to visit the tour site is during the summer months. The weather is typically mild and dry, making it an ideal time for exploring the abandoned mine and enjoying the scenic mountain views.

Are There Any Nearby Accommodations or Restaurants Recommended?

There are several nearby accommodations and restaurants in the Big Bear area. Visitors can find hotels, cabins, and vacation rentals close to the tour site. There are also a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to fine dining establishments.

Is Photography Allowed Throughout the Entire Tour?

Photography is allowed throughout the entire tour. Participants are encouraged to capture the scenic landscapes, ancient monument, and their treasure hunting experience in the abandoned gold mine during the self-guided adventure.

Can Participants Bring Their Own Food and Snacks?

Participants are welcome to bring their own food and snacks on the tour. There are no restrictions on bringing personal provisions, as long as they don’t include alcohol or drugs, which are not permitted.

Is There Any Age Limit for the Tour Participants?

The tour is not suitable for children under 7 years old. However, there is no upper age limit, as long as participants meet the other guidelines, such as having no mobility impairments or heart problems.

The Sum Up

Big Bear Lake’s captivating story spans millions of years, from a seafloor to a gold-rich mountain landscape. Visitors can explore its abandoned mines, search for treasures, and learn about the region’s history, including the construction of the Big Bear Dam. This tour showcases the interplay of nature and human endeavor, leaving guests with a deeper appreciation for the geological and cultural legacy of this remarkable destination.

You can check availability for your dates here: