Faster ride when you double up!

  An hour was really enough for us (3 adults, kids probably would want more time). 

We went down the runs facing forward, backward, even all 3 of us at once!  It is so easy as you get to ride up the magic carpet in a covered tunnel.  Not much exercise compared to snow sledding, but one of the most fun outdoor activities in Big Bear!

In-cabin couples massage

After your massages, just slip into your cozy robes, and relax with a bottle of complimentary champagne.  Start a fire in the fireplace, put on some nice music,  and look out at the beautiful mountain scenery.  

 This deal is good Sun – Thursday, up until December 14, 2011, for a 2 night stay in either cabin 14 or 20.  You can see the details under “Discounts” on our website. The package can be reserved on-line or by phone.

Lucky is ready for a swim!

Our dog Lucky loves to swim, and last night we found the perfect lake spot!  It is Boulder Bay, located on the southwest end of the lake near the dam, just off Big Bear Blvd.  This area has been converted to a park with picnic tables, benches, rest rooms, and nice lake access areas.

There are several spots with a little sandy shore and paved access  off the path.  Lucky could come and go in the water without getting muddy (and getting us muddy).  Dogs are supposed to be kept on-leash, but no one complained about Lucky, and a few folks wanted to throw the ball for him.  Some of the shore does have a lot of lake weed, but you can avoid this by walking on to an open area.

A Fun Swim in the Lake!

The setting is beautiful, with big boulders in the water, and very pet friendly.  There were about 10 dogs there off and on during our visit.  We brought happy hour food and beverages, and had a wonderful time.  This is also a great spot to launch a kayak or canoe, or go fishing off the pier.

If you are a guest at Pine Knot Guest Ranch, we will provide you with a dog towel.  And we have a water hose if you want to give your dog a bath after the swim.

Dolly llama

guests, all you need to do is set up an appointment.  We will halter our two llamas, Dolly and Willow, and go on the walk with you.  Youngsters will need to partner with an adult to lead their llama.

Willow llama

But the first step is to get acquainted with your  llama.  This involves some petting, and a llama kiss for those more adventuresome! We do a short walk on the grounds, and up the street.  There are numerous photo opportunities, and generally a good story to pass on to friends, family, or even a school report.  This is one of many great summer outdoor activities in Big Bear.

Big Bear is Dog Friendly!

Calling all dogs who are ready to get out and run, sniff spring smells, and lay in the sun!  Get your humans to take you to Big Bear for a Spring break.  You can’t beat the discounts between now and the end of June.

My humans have been taking me for picnics, hikes, and they even let me dig (my personal favorite).  Restaurants are opening up their outdoor dinning for lunch, so I get to come along and get petting from all the tourists who think I look cute.

If you stay at a Pine Knot Guest Ranch cabin, you can be off  leash on 2 acres of mostly open space.  Some of us who can’t resist chasing rabbits and squirrels get put on the leash.

Hiking in Big Bear

You will also get more of Big Bear to yourself, as the Winter crowds are gone.  Be spontaneous picking your outdoor activities like zip lining, jet boating, parasailing,  and biking.

Don’t hesitate to bring your dog, as she will love to hike our many beautiful trails with you.  Take along a picnic with locally made goodies from The Copper Q.  No problem leaving your pooch in the cabin when you are out on other adventures (as long as he doesn’t bark when left).

Romance by the fire

The cabins also have a kitchen or kitchenette, so you can have breakfast in bed with our complimentary coffee, tea, and hot chocolate.  Soft robes and champagne are available upon request.

For an extra special stay, you can arrange for in-cabin massage.  Elevations Day Spa offers a special rate for our guests, only $75 per hour, per person, plus tip.

Little Green House will decorate your cabin with silk rose petals, special occasion balloons, flowers, or a gift basket with tasty treats.

So if you are looking for a romantic getaway in Big Bear, Pine Knot Guest Ranch is the place!

snow shoeing

At Pine Knot Guest Ranch, you can go sledding and snow play.  Just bring your own sled, or buy them in Big Bear for about $15.  It’s nice to have your cabin close by to get warmed up, have a hot chocolate, or change into dry gloves.

Most dogs love to play in the snow, and we are pet friendly, so you are welcome to bring your doggies.  My golden gets snow balls between his toes.  To help with that, I spray them with Pam.  Some dogs wear boots.

There is an old ski resort just a 5 minute walk away that has more room for sledding, and you can also pick up a hiking trail there.

Happy snow days!

Dog Friendly Dinning in Big Bear!

If you like to dine with your dog when traveling,  check out this Google Map for dog friendly restaurants in Big Bear Lake.  Keep in mind that outdoor dinning is seasonal here, and evenings can get chilly even in the Summer.

The map will give you restaurant descriptions with our impressions, such as better for dinner or lunch, etc.

Happy dog friendly dinning!

Big Bear Lake Boating Fun!

For excitement and a great workout, try water skiing, jet skiing, and wake boarding.  Get a pontoon boat to explore the lake on your own, find a quiet cove, and have a picnic or happy hour.  A fishing boat gets you to the best spots to relax with a gorgeous view.  Kayaking  is good exercise, and a peaceful experience that can allow you to glide by baby ducks.

There are several marinas that offer boat rentals and lake activities.  We recommend Big Bear Marina, because it offers all of the above options, and is conveniently located.  If you stay at Pine Knot Guest Ranch, you can get 20% discounts on their pontoon and fishing boats – even on weekends!

If you want to relax and get a great guided tour, go on the Miss Liberty or Big Bear Queen tour boats.  The Pirate Ship tour is great fun.  Lap dogs are allowed on all 3 tour boats.  However, on the Pirate Ship, all other passengers must give their OK.

Swim Beach is the best spot for swimming.  It has a sandy beach, life guards, a water slide, and snack bar.  Unfortunately dogs are not allowed.

But we do have a dog beach next to B’s Backyard BBQ.  There is an outdoor bar called The Boat House.  Servers will get your food and drink orders while you are watching your pooch.  Guests at Pine Knot Guest Ranch get a dog towel for the beach, and back at the cabin, you can clean up with a hose as the beach can be muddy.

So come up, cool off, and enjoy Big Bear Lake!