Getting to Big Bear
There are only three main roads to get to Big Bear Lake.
The Front Way (330)
The Back Way (18)
The Side Way (38)
Depending on where you are driving from the Front Way 330/18 is the primary road to get to Big Bear and the most convenient way to get to Alcove as we are only about 8minutes from the dam and right before you get to the village.
Coming up this route you will turn left on Forest, there is a sign on the corner that says Wheelers. After that you will be turning right on Sierra Trail. This street turns into the driveway and the cabin is at the end.
Turn outs:
When you’re driving up the mountain there are turn outs to allow for slower traffic to let other people by. If you have a few cars behind you, even if you think you’re going fast enough, it’s a good idea to turn out and let them pass bye. Some people are more used to the roads and drive at higher speeds and it’s better for everyone to just let them pass. If you do you’ll likely see them turn on their hazard lights as a thank you. Remember that some people have never driven on these types of roads and it can be dangerous to pressure them, as difficult as it may be!
Chains?
During the winter and especially when it’s snowing or snow is expected Cal trans may require you to travel with chains. This doesn’t mean you need to put the chains on but that you need to have them with you in your vehicle just in case. If you have an AWD / 4x4 you may be exempt. It can be tricky to know when to use chains as the main roads are usually cleared enough that you don’t need them but then the side roads may still require them. Typically you want to have chains on when you can’t see the road due to ice and snow. Chains are not good for your vehicle so you want to remove them as soon as you can and never go above 30mph when you have them installed.
There are Three Levels of Chain Requirements in California:
Requirement 1 (R1): Chains are required on all vehicles except passenger vehicles and light-duty trucks under 6,000 pounds gross weight and equipped with snow tires on at least two drive wheels. Chains must be carried by vehicles using snow tires. All vehicles towing trailers must have chains on one drive axle. Trailers with brakes must have chains on at least one axle.
Requirement 2 (R2): Chains or traction devices are required on all vehicles except four wheel/all wheel drive vehicles with snow-tread tires on all four wheels. NOTE: (Four wheel/all wheel drive vehicles must carry traction devices in chain control areas.)
Requirement 3 (R3): Chains or traction devices are required on all vehicles, no exceptions.
