Lake Arrowhead, CA
County: San Bernardino
History
Lake Arrowhead, located in the San Bernardino Mountains of Southern California, has a rich history that dates back centuries. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, primarily the Serrano and Cahuilla tribes, who lived off the land and used the mountains as a place of spiritual significance.
In the mid-19th century, European settlers arrived in the region during the California Gold Rush. The surrounding area was known for its abundant natural resources, including timber, and was subsequently developed as a lumber camp. The area's first sawmill, the "Little Bear Mill," was established in 1842. However, it was not until the early 20th century that Lake Arrowhead began to take shape as a recreational destination.
In 1891, the Arrowhead Reservoir Company was formed to build a dam and create a reliable water source for the growing cities of San Bernardino and Los Angeles. Construction of the dam began in 1892, and by 1893, Arrowhead Dam was completed. The reservoir, now known as Lake Arrowhead, began to fill up, and the surrounding area began to transform.
By the early 1900s, Lake Arrowhead had become a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. People flocked to the lake for fishing, boating, and camping. The first resort, the "Old Tavern," was built in 1895 and provided accommodations for visitors.
In 1922, the Arrowhead Lake Company was formed to develop the area further and capitalize on its natural beauty. They constructed the iconic Lake Arrowhead Village, which included shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The village became a hub of activity, attracting tourists and locals alike.
In the 1930s, Lake Arrowhead gained further recognition when it became a favorite getaway for Hollywood celebrities seeking respite from the bustling city. Many stars built vacation homes in the area, further contributing to its reputation as a glamorous and exclusive destination.
Throughout the years, Lake Arrowhead continued to grow and evolve. It became a popular spot for winter sports enthusiasts, offering skiing and snowboarding opportunities. Additionally, the lake played a vital role in providing water to surrounding communities.
Today, Lake Arrowhead remains a popular vacation spot, known for its picturesque scenery and recreational activities. It is home to a thriving community, with residents ranging from full-time homeowners to weekend visitors. The area's rich history and natural beauty continue to make it a unique destination for tourists and locals alike.
Attractions
Lake Arrowhead Village
A charming alpine-style village with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. It offers stunning lake views, a scenic walking path, and a carousel.
Lake Arrowhead Queen Boat Tours
Take a relaxing boat tour around the lake, enjoying the beautiful surroundings and learning about the area's history.
SkyPark at Santa's Village
A Christmas-themed adventure park that offers activities like mountain biking, zip-lining, ice skating, and a summer water park.
Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa
A luxurious resort offering spa treatments, fine dining, and a lakeside pool. It's a great place to relax and soak in the scenic beauty.
Deep Creek Hot Springs
Located nearby, this natural hot springs area is a popular spot for hiking, camping, and soaking in hot mineral springs.
Arrowhead Queen Paddlewheel Boat Tours
Another boat tour option, this tour takes you on a guided journey of the lake's shoreline, providing interesting facts about the area.
Hiking and outdoor activities
Lake Arrowhead offers numerous hiking trails, including the Pacific Crest Trail. Visitors can explore the San Bernardino National Forest, enjoy picnicking, fishing, and camping.
Arrowhead Arts Association
This non-profit organization presents a diverse lineup of high-quality music, dance, and theater performances throughout the year in various venues in the Lake Arrowhead area.
The Tudor House
A historic landmark in Lake Arrowhead, The Tudor House is a historic inn and restaurant that hosts live music events, comedy shows, and murder mystery dinners.
Golfing
Lake Arrowhead has several golf courses, including Lake Arrowhead Country Club and Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa's golf course. Enjoy a round of golf amidst the picturesque mountain scenery.
Climate
Lake Arrowhead, California, has a Mediterranean climate. It is characterized by warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The area experiences four distinct seasons throughout the year.
Summer in Lake Arrowhead is generally warm and dry, with daytime temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (24-29 degrees Celsius). However, temperatures can occasionally reach the 90s Fahrenheit (32 degrees Celsius). The nights are cooler, often dropping into the 50s Fahrenheit (10-15 degrees Celsius). Rainfall is rare during the summer months.
Fall brings cooler temperatures to Lake Arrowhead, with daytime highs ranging from the mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit (18-23 degrees Celsius). Nights become even colder, with temperatures dropping into the 40s Fahrenheit (4-9 degrees Celsius) and even lower. The region experiences some rainfall during this season, which helps maintain the lush vegetation around the lake.
Winter in Lake Arrowhead is mild compared to many other areas of California, but it still sees snowfall. Daytime temperatures range from the 40s to 50s Fahrenheit (4-13 degrees Celsius), and nights can drop below freezing. Snowfall usually occurs from December to February, with an average of 35 inches (89 cm) of snowfall annually. It creates a picturesque winter wonderland around the lake.
Spring in Lake Arrowhead is a transitional season, with temperatures slowly warming up. Daytime highs range from the 50s to 60s Fahrenheit (10-16 degrees Celsius). Nights remain cool but gradually become milder, with temperatures ranging from the 40s to 50s Fahrenheit (4-13 degrees Celsius). Spring is another wet season in Lake Arrowhead, with occasional showers and thunderstorms.
Overall, the climate of Lake Arrowhead offers a pleasant environment with mild seasons, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities and nature enthusiasts throughout the year.
Neighborhoods
Lake Arrowhead is a stunning mountain resort community located in the San Bernardino Mountains of Southern California. It is known for its picturesque beauty, serene surroundings, and outdoor recreational activities. The area is divided into several different neighborhoods, each with its own unique characteristics and amenities. Here are some of the well-known neighborhoods of Lake Arrowhead:
Lake Arrowhead Village
This neighborhood is the heart of the community and features a charming alpine-style village that offers shopping, dining, and entertainment options. The village also boasts a waterfront area with Lake Arrowhead as its backdrop, making it a popular spot for tourists and residents alike.
Arrowhead Woods
Arrowhead Woods is a gated community surrounding Lake Arrowhead. It is home to the majority of the lakefront residences and offers a mix of stunning lake views and forested surroundings. Many homes in this neighborhood have private docks and access to various lake-based activities.
Blue Jay
Located just south of Lake Arrowhead Village, Blue Jay is a small, quaint neighborhood that offers a range of amenities including shopping, restaurants, and a movie theater. It is known for its charming downtown area and its proximity to beautiful hiking trails and outdoor recreational areas.
Cedar Glen
Situated on the western side of the lake, Cedar Glen is a cozy neighborhood known for its rustic charm. It is surrounded by towering pine trees and offers amenities such as a post office, shops, and dining options. Cedar Glen is ideal for those seeking a peaceful mountain retreat.
Twin Peaks
Located further uphill from Lake Arrowhead, Twin Peaks is a mountain community that offers scenic views and a quieter atmosphere. It is known for its rural charm and access to hiking trails and nature. Twin Peaks is a great choice for those who prefer a more secluded and serene setting.
Rimforest
Situated at a higher elevation, Rimforest is known for its panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and trees. This neighborhood offers a mix of single-family homes and cabins, and it is a popular choice for those seeking a mountain getaway.
Each of these neighborhoods in Lake Arrowhead offers its own distinctive charm and appeal, ensuring that residents and visitors can find the perfect setting to enjoy the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that this mountain retreat has to offer.