ONLY FIVE MILES DIFFERENCE

Motorists Traveling to Big Bear from I-210 Take Hwy. 18 at Waterman Avenue      

Big Bear Lake, Calif. January 6, 2011 – Motorists traveling to Big Bear Lake from San Gabriel Valley, San Fernando Valley, and other Los Angeles communities near Interstate 210 (I-210) are advised to use Hwy. 18 at Waterman Avenue in San Bernardino. According to Google Maps Hwy. 18 (through Crestline) is only five miles difference from the recently closed Hwy. 330 (through Highland).

“It’s much more convenient for anyone traveling on Interstate 210 to take Highway 18. There’s little difference in travel time to take Highway 18 when Highway 330 is down for repairs,” said Big Bear Lake Resort Association CEO Rick Shoup. “We’re only talking five miles and less than 10 minutes difference to exit at Waterman Avenue in San Bernardino.”

Hwy. 18 (through Crestline) is one of three routes open to Big Bear. The two other routes open to Big Bear are Hwy. 38 (through Redlands) and Hwy. 18 (through Lucerne Valley). Motorists traveling to Big Bear from Orange County, South Los Angeles County, The Inland Empire and San Diego County are urged to take Hwy. 38 (through Redlands). Motorists traveling to Big Bear from the low and high deserts, North Los Angeles County or Las Vegas are advised to take Hwy. 18 (through Lucerne Valley).

The most popular route to Big Bear is Highway 330 (through Highland), which closed two weeks ago to repair damages in the road caused by heavy rain. Hwy. 330 remains closed, and it is undetermined when it will re-open.

“No matter what direction our guests come from there is a way up to Big Bear,” added Shoup. “We’re open for business, and strongly urge the media to get the word out that three roads to Big Bear are indeed open!” 

Routes to Big Bear Lake:

Take Hwy. 38 & Hwy. 18 to Big Bear                                                          

Motorists are advised to always carry tire chains in their vehicle when traveling to the mountains during winter months. For updated road conditions, directions, snow reports or to book lodging accommodations in Big Bear call 800-424-4232 or log onto www.bigbear.com. 

Routes to Big Bear Lake:

Hwy. 18 (through Crestline) also known as the Rim of the World Highway offers views of the inland valleys. This route is especially beautiful at night when all the city lights are shining below. Directions – Take Interstate 210 east to Waterman exit in San Bernardino. Take Waterman north to Highway 18. Continue on Hwy. 18 through Crestline. Stay on Hwy. 18 to Big Bear Lake. 

Hwy. 38 (through Redlands) is a relaxing route that meanders through the national forest. This route has the least amount of curves and turns and beautiful backcountry scenery. Directions – Take Interstate 10 east to Redlands. Exit at Orange Street. Take Orange Street north to Lugonia Ave. Turn right at Lugonia Ave. to Hwy. 38. Stay on Hwy. 38 to Big Bear Lake.