Nestled in the San Bernardino Mountains of Southern California, this lakeside resort community provides fun and beauty. The rustic and natural area boasts year-round activities from boating to skiing. Big Bear Lake's dog-friendly community offers off-leash hikes, great restaurants, and hotels that welcome dogs.

What To Do
Big Bear Marina
The marina offers mountain-lake fishing and water sports. Dogs are welcome to join in the fun on rental boats. (909) 866-3218.

Cougar Crest Trail
This two-mile hiking trail winds through a mixed conifer section of San Bernardino National Forest. Park rangers prefer on-leash dogs, especially in crowded areas.

Where To Stay
Cozy Hollow Lodge
40409 Big Bear Blvd.
Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
$79 to $169
(909) 866-8886
http://www.cozyhollowlodge.com/
All dogs allowed; $10 daily pet fee

Shore Acres Lodge
40090 Lakeview Dr.
Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
$85 to $245
(909) 866-8200
All dogs allowed; no pet fee

Timberline Lodge
39921 Big Bear Blvd.
Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
$71 to $240
(909) 866-4141;
http://www.thetimberlinelodge.com/
All dogs allowed; $10 daily pet fee

Information
Big Bear Chamber of Commerce
P.O. Box 2860
Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
(909) 866-4607; www.bigbear.com
Big Bear Forest Service Office
(909) 866-3437

Source: The California Dog Lover's Companion (Foghorn Press, 1998, $20.95) by Maria Goodavage.