Big Bear Lake, CA
Sumitted By Marc Lee

Pilot: Marc Lee

Destination Details

• Destination: Big Bear Lake, CA
• State/Province: California
• Website: http://www.bigbearcityairport.com/
• Airport ID (Check airport ID here): L35
• Activities: Big Bear Lake has great fishing, awesome camping (especially on the North side of the lake) and lots of restaurants and lodging. Skiing in the winter is among the best in Southern California. Some great little-known must-see spots include the Moonridge zoo, the solar observatory tour and Big Bear off-road adventures.
• About Your Plane: A 1976 factory-built Great Lakes biplane. 180 hp Lycoming with inverted fuel and oil systems.
• Flying Tips: Beware of density altitude during the summer. It can reach well into the 10,000- to 11,000-foot range during July and August. Summer afternoon thunderstorms and frequent winds mean you have to be on your toes. These are big mountains and not for the faint of heart. Brush up on mountain flying skills before you come. One of the main tips is that in-coming aircraft must not approach over the dam. Approaches should be at 9,500 feet over the south ridgeline, over tiny Bluff Lake. Outbound aircraft should depart over the lake and toward the dam during normal westerly wind days. Consult www.bigbearcityairport.com/images/flightrules_zoom.jpg for documented procedures. Remember to lean mixture for max power prior to takeoff, especially during the hot summer months.
• Best Season: Spring
• What To Bring: Camera. Skis in the winter, fishing and camping gear in the summer.

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