Bear Valley

Conveniently located on National Scenic Byway Highway 4 in the central Sierra Nevada mountain range of California, Bear Valley Mountain is the premier year-round family skiing and boarding location. The area boasts 1,280 acres of varied terrain, more than 67 runs, 2 terrain parks, 1,900 vertical feet, and 30 feet of average annual snowfall.

The new terrain park on Westworld is geared toward intermediate to advanced riders and a new beginner progression park will be added near the base of the mountain.

Bear Valley’s new Back-country Snowcat Tours will transport a select few to untouched terrain. This program is for advanced and expert skiers and riders only! The “Bear Tracker” will also shuttle guests to mountain activities like Easter Sunday services atop Koala.

Bear Valley Facts

• Open daily 9:00 – 4pm Weekend hours 8:30 – 4pm
• 67 trails: 17 beginner, 27 intermediate, 23 advanced
• 10 lifts (1 high-speed quad, 2 triple chairs, 6 double chairs, 1 carpet lift)

The Snow-Play program for 3-6 year olds introduces kids to the fun of snow sports in a safe and active environment. Program leaders keep the kids busy both in the playroom and outdoors in a private area on the snow where they get to experience the excitement of playing in the snow while being gently introduced to ski equipment, safety and having fun with kids their own age. Half-day and all-day options available. More information is available at www.bearvalley.com or call (209) 753-2301.

For current conditions information, check our Daily Snow Report listing for Bear Valley.

For rentals and other costs: visit their web site.

History

According to information from the Ebbetts Pass Historical Association, Bruce Orvis (1927-2010) acquired 400 acres of Forest Service land in 1963 through a land exchange to start a winter sports complex. Orvis put together a ski package for Mt. Reba under a Forest Service permit, and helped convince the state to extend Highway 4 so that there is access to Bear Valley.

The Bear Valley Lodge and other amenities were built in the mid-sixties, and in the winter of 1967, the ski resort fired up its lifts for the first time. By 1968 there were 125 winter-summer homes and thousands of skiers were visiting on the weekends.

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