
Big Bear Solar Observatory
Big Bear Lake, CA
By Simir Shah
★★★★★4.4(212 Google reviews)
This working research observatory juts out on a causeway into the lake, half a mile west of the Discovery Center, studying the sun using the steady lakeside air. Even without a tour it's a striking free photo stop from the shore. Summer tours are limited and book up fast, involving a gravel walk and stairs, so best for kids 5 and up.
40386 N Shore Ln, Big Bear, CA 92314, USA
Free (donations encouraged); tours by reservation
Map
What visitors say
- Brooke Spickelmier★★★★★
Not a dynamic stop as there is a locked gate around the perimeter to keep people out, but I did appreciate the signage that shared more about the telescope and how it works, as well as a link to the website to see recent photos taken. And, being honest, even if there were tours, I'm not sure there would be much to be seen, so I was content with the stop and what I learned. It's a very short drive from downtown to the viewing site, although the walking path by the lake also allows for good, distant views as well. If you're a science/space enthusiast, I say it's worth the stop.
4 months ago
- Juan Cardenas★★★★★
Great place and amazing views, I couldn't stay long in the area but I did enjoy every minute of it. Also a very cold area, so bring plenty of jacket's. Will come back, don't know when... But I will.
8 years ago
- Phae’s Phaves★★★★★
I finally fulfilled one of my childhood dreams by getting up close and personal with a big bear lake solar observatory. My fascination with it in my youth maybe one of the reasons why astronomy has always been one of my favorite hobbies, not to mention my strong interest in science in general,
5 years ago
- Queli★★★★★
I wish it had been open, but we enjoyed the private setting where it’s located ! We were able to walk to it and enjoy a coffee with lake views.
4 years ago
- Hans Alvarez★★★★★
I couldn't get in. I just walked around it. The water level is so low you can actually do that. Great views from both the observatory and the lake .
5 years ago
Reviews from Google · See more on Google Maps
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