Amidst the challenges posed by the recent winter storms, mountain communities in Southern California have emerged with a silver lining: overflowing lakes. Big Bear Lake and Lake Arrowhead, once facing record-low levels due to prolonged drought, have witnessed a remarkable recovery thanks to back-to-back heavy precipitation.
Travis Scott, CEO of Visit Big Bear, expressed his delight, stating, “We have the highest water levels since May of 2011. Currently, we are only 3 feet 10 inches from being completely full.” This 14-foot surge in water levels since December 2022 has led to numerous benefits, including reduced algae blooms, improved water clarity throughout the summer season, and enhanced fishing opportunities for both land and boat anglers.
Lake Arrowhead, situated at a lower elevation, is also brimming with water. Recent observations have shown waves spilling onto the pedestrian walkway along the Village store fronts. “We’re actually a little bit over full, so it’s just about the most ideal setting you can have for having a great summer season here,” said Mike Pate, general manager of the Arrowhead Lake Association.
As the summer season is poised to begin, the Memorial Day holiday will mark the official launch of lake activities. “Usually, we go out on the boat or we go out kayaking because everybody comes from down the hill up here,” said Big Bear Lake resident, Paul Mendoza.
While Big Bear Lake is open to the public for recreational purposes, Lake Arrowhead remains a private lake exclusively for members of the Arrowhead Lake Association. Tom and Wendy Braun, who recently acquired a home on the lakefront, are eagerly anticipating their first holiday weekend at their new abode. “It’s beautiful; the community is wonderful and very embracing of us,” shared Wendy Braun.
Non-homeowners and non-association members can still revel in the beauty of Lake Arrowhead through various activities. According to Pate, “Well, you can still enjoy the surroundings. The context of the lake is absolutely beautiful, and there is shopping up here, the Village is up here, there’s hotels on the water.”
