Big Bear is mainly known as a resort destination for people who love the outdoors and have a bit of a sense of adventure. However, what truly established Big Bear was not the beautiful scenery, but rather the promise of gold in the surrounding mountains. Prospectors migrated west to try and strike rich during the infamous Gold Rush in the mid-1800’s. Learn about the history of this time period and have a little adventure of your own by trying your luck with Big Bear gold mining!
Big Bear Off Road Adventures
Big Bear Off Road Adventures is one of the most popular off-road tour companies in Big Bear. They are unique because they offer off-road tours all year long, while most other companies only offer their tours during the summer season. Tour Big Bear from a high clearance 4X4 and explore all the sites that are off the beaten path! They offer two different tours that allow you to take in the history of mining culture in Big Bear. The Jacoby Gulch tour is a 2-hour adventure following a meandering stream that allows you to explore different mining relics. The Mountain Mines tour is for the serious explorer. This 3.5-mile tour takes you to Tip-Top Mountain and Mine. Either way, you won’t forget your mining adventure in Big Bear!
Big Bear Discovery Center
Visitors and local residents alike flock to the Big Bear Discovery Center to explore the history and nature of the area. Learn through interpretive displays, classes, and the brand-new Nature Discovery Zone, designed to engage 2-7-year-olds and their families with nature. They offer guided tours of the National Forest and canoe and kayak tours of Big Bear Lake. In addition to these programs, learn about the prospecting history in Big Bear and even find evidence of early gold miner settlements!
Gold Rush Mining Adventures
For those who truly want to experience the thrill of mining and finding treasure while in Big Bear, then you must visit Gold Rush Mining Adventures! Experience their geode breaking or participate in their gemstone and fossil panning activities. Everyone is guaranteed to go home with a real gem, fossil, or geode! Experience mining at their water-wheel and sluice. Some gems can be polished and made into jewelry, or kept raw to show off their natural beauty. Go home with the best souvenir in Big Bear!
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