3 Misleading Facts from Big Bear | March 2023

Big Bear Roads Closed from the Big Bear Grizzly News

Maybe you’ve heard a bit about this crazy weather we’ve had up here, but if not, let’s just say, it’s a winter’s dream!  Although for some, it’s been a nightmare. But with all this snow on the mountain, there has been sooo much confusion & misinformation.  So we want to help clear a few things up for you…

Here’s 3 misleading facts from Big Bear, CA as of today, Saturday, March 11, 2023:

1. The roads are not all closed to visitors!

As of today, 2 out of 3 of our main roads into town (the 18 via Lucerne Valley & the 38 via Redlands) are completely open, clear, and MOST IMPORTANTLY, safe to travel on! Chains are not required to be put on, but they are required to be in your vehicle.

There have been so many varying reports, but while this was a doozy of a winter storm, the road closure was only temporary, with gradual openings.  But for now, visitors are definitely welcome!

Other neighboring areas associated with Big Bear were hit quite a bit harder than us.  And many of THOSE areas, still remain closed, but this is not to be confused for the Big Bear City & Big Bear Lake neighborhoods.

For more up-to-date info, or when in doubt, check out our Big Bear Road Condition information page. OR, just ask us by messaging us HERE!

2. The town is NOT closed!

Not only are the roads open, but the town is NOT closed.  The businesses actually need us!  If you’ve ever been up to Big Bear & have visited The Village down town, you know how wonderful & fun it is. Due to the recent closures & misinformation about re-opening, these businesses have been hurting & they would love your company just about now.

Above all else, unlike the winter rush, you can enjoy the town & even enjoy the slopes without all the chaos & long wait times!  Book your stay today & come support & enjoy the town!

Again, there is so much confusion between the town of Big Bear & other neighboring towns in the San Bernardino mountains.  Unfortunately, many of these other towns were a lot harder than us.

3. The media death toll reports are misleading.

There have been multiple news reports about “13 recent deaths in the San Bernardino Mountains,” but there is so much misleading information going on here.  Yes, there were 13 recent deaths reported on the mountain over the past couple weeks, but only 1 was a reported snow related accident.  Per the Coroner’s Office Report, the remaining incidents did not appear to be weather related, or due to lack of food or struggle because of the storm. Many were elderly, and died of presumed natural causes.   

And again, the majority of these cases were not in the Big Bear area.  The Big Bear City & Big Bear Lake areas have been open & operating. And while crews still work tirelessly (so grateful to all of them) to widen & clean up the streets, the main travel routes around town are open. And if using the proper precautions (using chains if/when required & following road signs & speed limits), you will be absolutely fine!

Big bear is open and welcoming visitors & we hope to see you up here soon!

❤️ Alex & Laurie Castillo

Owners at Castillo Landing Cabin

Photo credit: The Big Bear Grizzly