Stargazing at Big Bear

Big Bear's elevation and distance from major urban centers make it one of the best stargazing locations in Southern California. At nearly 6,750 feet, the thin mountain air and low light pollution reveal a night sky filled with stars, planets, and the Milky Way — the valley rates Bortle 4.5 to 5.5 on the dark-sky scale, a striking contrast to the washed-out skies most visitors are accustomed to.

The Big Bear Solar Observatory, operated by the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT), sits on the north shore of the lake and conducts solar research using some of the most advanced telescopes in the world. Its location was chosen for the stabilizing influence of the deep lake combined with Southern California's low humidity and cloud cover — a combination that makes Big Bear one of the best sites in the world for solar observation. While the observatory is primarily a research facility, it occasionally hosts public events and open houses.

For casual stargazing, step outside your cabin on any clear evening. The best viewing is on moonless nights between late spring and early fall, when the core of the Milky Way arcs overhead. Many of our properties feature hot tubs and outdoor seating areas perfect for settling in and watching the sky. Binoculars or a small telescope can reveal star clusters, nebulae, and the rings of Saturn. For a guided experience, the Big Bear Valley Astronomical Society occasionally hosts public star parties.