VisitBigBear Archives

Head for the Hills: It’s Ski Season

This season, ski local. California’s snowpack is outpacing the highest year on record, and our regional mountains are blanketed in fresh new show. Great news for Circa ski enthusiasts, Southern California boasts some of the best skiing and snowboarding around, and many resorts are just a few hours away from home. For more information, visit Ski California, a non-profit trade association representing 35 ski resorts in California and Nevada. The website covers everything from runs to lift systems, terrain parks, and live weather reports. Be sure to check road conditions before you go.

Mount Waterman Ski Resort skiing near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Mt. Waterman Ski Resort California 2 La Cañada Flintridge, CA 93553

Deemed a national monument, Mt. Waterman is the closest ski lift area to the L.A basin. You can escape the crowds at larger resorts and really get the most out of a powder day at this day ski and snowboard area. With three chair lifts and 25 runs, 65% of the hill is advanced while offering beginner and intermediate runs at the top of the mountain. Ride the lifts up to 8,030 feet, drop into the Upper Bowl, and then carve down tree-lined trails all the way to the base area. Lessons for skiing and snowboarding are also available.

Mountain High skiing near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Mountain High 24510 CA-2 Wrightwood, CA 92397

Mountain High is Southern California’s closest winter resort with three great mountains and a world class terrain park only an hour and a half from downtown Los Angeles. Situated in the San Gabriel mountains along State Route 2 west of Wrightwood, Mountain High is one of the region’s most visited resorts. With an elevation of 6,600 feet to 8,200 feet for the Mountain High East Resort, 7,000 feet to 8,000 feet for the West Resort, and 7,200 feet to 7,800 feet for the North Resort, you can explore all three mountains with a single lift ticket.

Big Bear Mountain Resort skiing near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Big Bear Mountain Resort 880 Summit Blvd. Big Bear Lake CA 92315

Located just 100 miles northeast of Los Angeles, Big Bear boasts one resort, two mountains, and endless options. With Snow Summit (peak 8,200 feet) and Bear Mountain (peak 8,805 feet), Big Bear Mountain Resort is the premier destination to experience the best snow conditions, longest season, and most rideable terrain in Southern California. All lift tickets are valid for same-day use at both mountains, which means access to over 400 skiable acres, 26 lifts, and more than 55 runs.

Snow Summit’s Night Sessions 880 Summit Blvd. Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

Whether you want to extend your ski day, or simply enjoy the adventure of riding under the stars, you’ll find plenty of thrills at Snow Summit’s Night Sessions. Boasting loads of jumps and jibs to get your adrenaline pumping, skiers and riders will find features to suit their style as they ride through the often less crowded terrain park. As if that wasn’t enough, Westridge undergoes a full evening groom during Night Sessions, giving riders the freshest terrain since first chair.

Mt Baldy Resort skiing near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Mt. Baldy Resort 8401 Mt Baldy Rd. Mt Baldy, CA 91759

Mt. Baldy Resort has been known for decades as hosting Southern California’s best natural skiing and snowboarding terrain. With over 800 acres of skiable and rideable terrain, Mt. Baldy Resort has the most vertical drop in Southern California at 2,100 vertical feet. To compliment the world class alpine terrain, Mt. Baldy Resort also has a state of the art Terrain Based Learning Center and Snow Tubing Park for an introduction to those new to the snow.

Snow Valley Mountain Resort skiing near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Snow Valley Mountain Resort 35100 State Hwy. 18 Running Springs, CA. 92382

Snow Valley Mountain Resort is the oldest continually operating ski resort in Southern California and is also one of four ski resorts in the San Bernardino Mountains. Opening to the public in 1924, Snow Valley featured one of the first overhead cable ski lifts. Riders visiting and skiing Snow Valley have 14 lifts to choose from that rise from the base of the resort to offer access to 32 marked trails which cover a total rideable area of 240 acres. Spread out over two mountains, the base area is best for beginners, the middle of the resort is a great options for intermediate riders, and the summit region on Slide Peak is the best for advanced and expert riders.

Mammoth Mountain Ski Area 10001 Minaret Rd. Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546

Boasting the highest lift-served summit in California at 11,053 feet, Mammoth is the leading four-season mountain resort in the state offering year-round lodging and endless outdoor recreation. Winters are long and legendary – known for some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the United States. You can also explore the scenic Lakes Basin on Nordic skis or snowshoes, ride a gondola to Mammoth’s summit, or try some tubing at Woolly’s Tube Park.

Heavenly Mountain Ski Resort at Lake Tahoe

Ski Lake Tahoe

Record storms have deposited over 20 inches of additional snow on the peaks of the Tahoe basin, which is great news for skiers. If you’re planning a Lake Tahoe trip, Ski Lake Tahoe is a good resource, with detailed information for six major resorts including Sierra at Tahoe, Heavenly, Kirkwood, Squaw Valley / Alpine Meadows, Northstar, and Mt. Rose. You can check snow and weather conditions, trail maps, tickets and passes, lessons, rentals, and lodging / dining options.

Photo Credits:

Photo #1: Big Bear Mountain Resort

Photo #2: Mt. Waterman Ski Resort

Photo #3: Mountain High

Photo #4: Big Bear Mountain Resort

Photo #5: Big Bear Mountain Resort

Photo #6: Mt. Baldy Resort

Photo #7: Snow Valley Mountain Resort

Photo #8: Mammoth Mountain Ski Area

Photo #9: Heavenly Mountain

Winter Getaway: Discover Local Mountain Resorts

Thanks to all the recent snow, our local mountains have been transformed into a winter wonderland, perfect for skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and communing with nature. Many popular destinations are just a few hours away from Circa, where along with outdoor sports, you can explore mountain villages offering cozy restaurants, eclectic shops, and plenty of alpine charm. Be sure to check websites for snow reports, road safety, and health guidelines.

Big Bear Mountain Resort near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Big Bear 40824 Big Bear Blvd. Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

Located just 100 miles northeast of Los Angeles, Big Bear is Southern California’s premier destination for relaxation and adventure. Big Bear might be known for its stellar skiing and snowboarding at Snow Summit and Bear Mountain Resort, but there’s so much more to explore. Take in the Valley’s serene and snowy landscape on snowshoes, or go snow tubing at Big Bear Snowplay and Alpine Slide. Stroll through the neighborhood to discover local restaurants, shops, and other attractions.

UCLA Lake Arrowhead Lodge Conference Center mountain resorts near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Lake Arrowhead Lake Arrowhead Village 28200 CA-189 Lake Arrowhead, CA 92352

If you’re looking for a real Alpine experience, Lake Arrowhead can’t be beat. Situated in the majestic mountains of the San Bernardino National Forest, widely known as “The Alps of Southern California,” Lake Arrowhead Village is a cozy and quaint mountain retreat modeled after an authentic waterfront Alpine Village, with over 250 shops and restaurants. If you want to take in some skiing, Snow Valley is five miles east of Running Springs on Highway 18, with 13 lifts and 240 acres of powdery terrain.

Mountain High mountain resorts near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Mountain High 24510 CA-2 Wrightwood, CA 92397

Now open for skiing and snowboarding, Mountain High is one of Southern California’s closest winter resorts with three great mountains and a world class terrain park only an hour and a half from downtown Los Angeles. Aside from snow skiing, snowboarding and hiking, Wrightwood is also known for its relaxed downtown village, comprised of a varied collection of shops, restaurants, and lodging choices.

Experience Idyllwild mountain resorts near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Idyllwild 25225 Highway 243, Idyllwild, CA 92549

Nestled in the San Jacinto mountains and set among tall pines, sweet smelling cedars, and legendary rocks, Idyllwild is known for its friendly small town atmosphere and dramatic scenery. If you’re ready to escape from noisy city life, this is the town for you. Idyllwild has day hikes for the quick weekend getaway, as well as high country treks for longer overnight hiking journeys. After an exhilarating day in the woods, explore the town’s locally owned shops and restaurants.

Mt. Baldy Resort mountain resorts near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Mt. Baldy Resort 8401 Mt Baldy Rd. Mt Baldy, CA 91759

Mount Waterman mountain resorts near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Mt. Waterman Ski Resort California 2 La Cañada Flintridge, CA 93553

Deemed a national monument, Mt. Waterman is the closest ski lift area to the L.A basin. You can escape the crowds at larger resorts and really get the most out of a powder day at this day ski and snowboard area. With three chair lifts and 25 runs, 65% of the hill is advanced while offering beginner and intermediate runs at the top of the mountain. Ride the lifts up to 8,030 ft, drop into the Upper Bowl, and then carve down tree-lined trails all the way to the base area. Lessons for skiing and snowboarding are also available.

Crestline Lake Gregory mountain resorts near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Crestline and Lake Gregory

Crestline is the closest mountain resort town to the major cities of Southern California. At scenic Lake Gregory in the San Bernardino Mountains, visitors may hike on a state-of-the-art fitness trail with exercise stations. Shoppers will find unique stores in the historic Old Town area and along Lake Drive in Crestline. The hungry have many great choices for dining. Those who would like to stay for more than a day can find excellent accommodations at the local inns or lodging in rental cabins that are offered throughout the town. Crestline map HERE

Mammoth Mountain mountain resorts near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Mammoth Mountain Ski Area 10001 Minaret Rd. Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546

Photo Credits:

Photo #1: Big Bear Mountain Resort

Photo #2: Big Bear Mountain Resort

Photo #3: UCLA Lake Arrowhead Lodge

Photo #4: Mountain High

Photo #5: Experience Idyllwild

Photo #6: Mt. Baldy Resort

Photo #7: Mt. Waterman Ski Resort

Photo #8: City of Crestline

Photo #9: Mammoth Mountain

Where to See the Fall Colors Around LA

November is here, with a riot of fall colors and the sweet scent of autumn. If you’re ready to go leaf peeping, some of the most beautiful spots are just a few hours from Circa. The San Bernardino National Forest is alive with breathtaking fall foliage as far as the eye can see. Nearby, Oak Glen is another destination to take in the seasonal hues and get in some apple picking as well. If you’re looking for something closer to home, LA Arboretum and Descanso Gardens are bursting with fall flair. No matter where you point your compass, you’ll discover a feast of fall colors all around LA.

LA Arboretum fall colors near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

LA County Arboretum & Botanic Garden 301 North Baldwin Ave. Arcadia, CA 91006

The Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden is a unique 127-acre botanical garden and historical site located in what was once the heart of the historic Rancho Santa Anita in the city of Arcadia. Visitors will enjoy natural landscapes, wildlife and historic buildings, as well as plants and trees from around the world. You’ll also see a variety of birds, including the famous peacocks, in this official wildlife sanctuary. Meadowbrook Garden presents trees bathed in glorious fall colors with breathtaking views of the San Gabriel Mountains.

Descanso Gardens fall colors near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Descanso Gardens 1418 Descanso Dr. La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011

Descanso Gardens is a gorgeous place to visit any time during the year; however, during autumn it becomes a fall foliage wonderland. Plan a day to explore at a leisurely pace and take in all the Gardens have to offer, including internationally renowned botanical collections and spectacular seasonal horticultural displays. During the autumn months you’ll find roses, camellias, ginkgo, toyon berries, and more in bloom.

Big Bear Lake fall colors near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Big Bear Lake 40824 Big Bear Blvd. Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

Autumn in Big Bear Lake – the self-proclaimed Fall-tacular Season – is a truly magical time in the grassy expanse known as Bear Valley. The breathtaking fall foliage is the highlight of the season, with aspens, maples, oaks, and elms proudly displaying crimson, yellow, and orange hues against the evergreen forest. Discover numerous ways to take it all in, from guided Segway tours to horseback riding, mountain biking, and even a simple walk through the neighborhood.

Lake Arrowhead Village fall colors near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Lake Arrowhead Lake Arrowhead Village 28200 CA-189 Lake Arrowhead, CA 92352

If you’re looking for a real Alpine experience, Lake Arrowhead can’t be beat. Situated in the majestic mountains of the San Bernardino National Forest, widely known as “The Alps of Southern California,” Lake Arrowhead is a cozy and quaint mountain retreat featuring countless outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, backpacking, bicycling, and much more. When you’re ready for a break, visit Lake Arrowhead Village, a replica of an authentic waterfront Alpine Village, with over 250 shops and restaurants.

Stone Soup Farm & Heritage Orchard fall colors near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Apple Picking in Oak Glen 12261 Oak Glen Rd. Yucaipa, CA 92399

One of the most scenic spots in Southern California, Oak Glen is nestled in the heart of Apple Country, located in the foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains. Fall harvest is underway and most orchards are open for you to pick your own mountain tree fresh apples, berries and pumpkins. Explore and hike the vast and beautiful offerings of nature at The Wildlands Conservancy and marvel at fall colors as brilliant as those of New England. Afterwards, enjoy homemade cider, hot apple pie, and other fresh baked apple treats at one of the family restaurants.

Experience Idyllwild fall colors near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Idyllwild Nature Center 25225 Highway 243, Idyllwild, CA 92549

Town of Julian fall colors near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Town of Julian 2129 Main St. Julian, CA 92036

Located in the beautiful Cuyamaca mountains, Julian is a premier mountain getaway, just an hour east of San Diego. Fresh air and beautiful scenery abound in the area, criss-crossed with hiking trails, parks and old-fashioned buildings. Take a step back in time to the days of Julian’s beginning rooted in the 1870’s gold rush. Shop stores housed in historic buildings dating back to the 1870s. Sleep in a romantic B&B or historic hotel, and sample Julian’s famous apple pie.

South Coast Botanic Garden fall colors near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

South Coast Botanic Garden 26300 Crenshaw Blvd. Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA 90274

South Coast Botanic Garden is one of the world’s first botanical gardens to be developed as a masterpiece of creative land reclamation and environment improvement. Take a stroll through the garden’s meandering roads and enjoy the beautiful fall colors. For the month of November, you can also experience SOAR Monarch Migration and discover the journey of the mighty monarch butterfly family. This immersive pavilion will showcase monarchs and mimics (other butterflies that may look like a monarch but aren’t actually) and SOAR guides will help you become a real butterfly detective.

Photo Credits:

Photo #1: Lake Arrowhead Village

Photo #2: LA County Arboretum & Botanic Garden

Photo #3: Descanso Gardens

Photo #4: Visit Big Bear

Photo #5: Lake Arrowhead Village

Photo #6: Stone Soup Farm & Heritage Orchard

Photo #7: Experience Idyllwild

Photo #8: Visit Julian

Photo #9: South Coast Botanic Garden

Where to Celebrate the Fourth of July Around LA

Get ready for a star spangled Fourth of July weekend! Independence Day events are opening up all around LA and the sky’s the limit. The Hollywood Bowl and Rose Bowl celebrations are back, along with festivities at Universal Studios, Hollywood Forever Cemetery, Marina del Rey, and more. If you’re planning an out-of-town getaway this holiday weekend, head for the hills. Big Bear Lake and Lake Arrowhead are hosting Fireworks Spectaculars, with great food and entertainment at local establishments.

Circa Pool Deck Fourth of July at Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Fourth of July Kick Off Celebration at Circa

July 3 Kick off the 4th of July weekend at Circa’s 8th Floor Pool Deck & Courtyard Areas from 1-5 pm. Savor grilled burgers, hot dogs and BBQ while listening to summer sounds, sipping on specialty cocktails, and frozen drinks.

Hollywood Bowl Fireworks Fourth of July near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

July 4th Fireworks Spectacular Hollywood Bowl 2301 N Highland Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90068

July 3 & 4 Celebrate good times—and Independence Day—with the ultimate hitmakers, Kool & the Gang. The disco-funk greats bring the party to the Bowl for their annual Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular, while Thomas Wilkins and the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra perform patriotic favorites. Get ready to get down on it!

Rose Bowl Stadium Fourth of July near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Rose Bowl July 4th AmericaFest & Fireworks 1001 Rose Bowl Dr. Pasadena, CA 91103

The Rose Bowl Stadium will host its 95th Annual AmericaFest Celebration themed “Celebrating America’s Perseverance,” in recognition of our ability to come together and stand stronger over this past year. The Rose Bowl Stadium is excited to partner with Jet Propulsion Laboratory to highlight their recent accomplishment in landing NASA’s Perseverance rover on Mars, as well as their dedication to earth sciences and the future explorations of the world’s solar systems.

Universal Studios Hollywood Fourth of July near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Fourth of July Fireworks Universal Studios Hollywood 100 Universal City Plz. Universal City, CA 91608

Universal Studios Hollywood invites guests to experience its annual July 4th fireworks celebration with a dazzling burst of colors against the night sky from multiple locations within the theme park. This exciting fireworks spectacular is included with theme park admission. The exhilarating energy of Independence Day will permeate the park as guests enjoy musical performances, along with popular rides and attractions. At 9 pm, the holiday will be capped off with the extravagant fireworks display synchronized to a score of Universal-themed music and patriotic favorites.

Cinespia at Hollywood Forever Cemetery Fourth of July near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Hollywood Forever Cemetery 6000 Santa Monica Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90038

July 3 & 4 Hollywood Forever Cemetery is celebrating Independence Day with a weekend of movies and fireworks. July 3: Dazed and Confused, the classic coming-of-age movie directed by Richard Linklater. July 4: Dirty Dancing, Daddy’s girl Baby catches a glimpse of bad boy dancer Johnny Castle. Stick around after the films for a panorama of fireworks magic in honor of the national holiday. The free photo booth is back and DJ sets will continue the celebration through the night. The movies are part of the Cinespia summer movie series at Hollywood Forever.

Marina del Rey Fourth of July near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

July 4th at Marina del Rey 4701 Admiralty Way Marina del Rey, CA 90292

There’s no better place in Los Angeles to see 4th of July fireworks than at L.A.’s Marina. Enjoy the fireworks show with synchronized music played over loudspeakers at either Burton Chace Park or Fisherman’s Village. The fireworks will be shot from a barge off the Marina’s south jetty. You can view the show from virtually anywhere in Marina del Rey, Venice Pier, Playa Vista and Dockweiler Beach.

Big Bear Lake Fourth of July near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular 40824 Big Bear Blvd. Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

The Fireworks Spectacular explodes at 7,000 feet over Big Bear Lake this July 4th. Show time begins around 8:45 pm and runs approximately 30-40 mins, and is free to spectators. The Fireworks Spectacular consistently ranks top 5 in California and can be viewed from the water, the shore, and some trail points. Local restaurants are offering everything from great food to live entertainment, arts & crafts, and fireworks viewing areas.

Lake Arrowhead Fourth of July near Circa residences in Downtown Los Angeles

July 4th Concert & Fireworks Spectacular 28200 Highway 189 Lake Arrowhead Village, CA 92352

Celebrate Independence Day at Lake Arrowhead. The Arrowhead Lake Association’s 2021 Lake Arrowhead Fireworks Show will be held on Sunday, July 4th at 9pm. Thrill to a vintage aircraft flyover show before the fireworks. The Riverside Philharmonic will be performing at Tavern Bay Beach Club from 7-8:30 pm.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: MLB

Photo #2: Circa

Photo #3: Hollywood Bowl

Photo #4: Rose Bowl Stadium

Photo #5: Universal Studios Hollywood

Photo #6: Cinespia

Photo #7: Visit Marina del Rey

Photo #8: Visit Big Bear

Photo #9: Lake Arrowhead COC