Lake Arrowhead offers year-round fun, but in the wintertime its best qualities come out. It serves as a hub for a bevy of fun winter activities located both within the village and in neighboring areas. It’s hard to imagine a more charming and family-friendly destination, and with each passing year, more visitors are discovering the joy of spending time in one of the most beautiful villages in the United States.
Skypark at Santa’s Village
Every year, one of the most popular destination for visitors is the Skypark at Santa’s Village. It is perhaps the most popular local destination for guests and offers activates for both the adventure seeker and the laid-back vacationer.
When Santa gets tired of the North Pole, he has a second home in Skypark, and gladly welcomes visitors of all ages. Within his village are a number of fun activities, from the Silver Bells skating rink to the Frozen Falls climbing towers. Guests spend days bouncing from activity to activity, and never seem to get tired of the fun.
The Tudor House
If you exit Skypark and walk several minutes down the road, you will come across a tall, white home, nestled into the surrounding forest. This is the Tudor House, a legendary local house that was built in the 1920s and served as a speakeasy for thirsty locals and travelers during the prohibition era.
Nowadays it’s been converted into an entertainment venue that hosts comedy nights, bottomless champagne brunches, and a variety of other mountain shows. Across the street is the Bracken Fern Manor, another home (rumored to be haunted) that features 10 bedrooms, 10 baths, and a sauna—yes, it accepts reservations!
Snow Valley Mountain Resort
For visitors who are itching to hit the slopes, the nearby town of Running Springs features one of the oldest and most popular ski-resorts in all of California. There are runs designed for skiers and boarders of every skill level, and beginners can sign up for lessons offered by top-notch instructors.
It’s perhaps the main factor that attracts visitors from all across Southern California (and the world) and shouldn’t be missed during your time at Lake Arrowhead.
Lake Arrowhead Queen Boat Tour
Lake Arrowhead is majestic, and the best vantage point to take in the sights is from the lake itself. Year-round, the Arrowhead Queen offers guests the opportunity to travel in a circuit around the lake for 45 to 50 minutes. The boat itself is a local legend; an enclosed paddlewheel that is spacious enough for several families.
While touring the lake, knowledgeable guides will discuss some of the famous local villas, which have been used as sets for many popular films.
Wildhaven Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary
Located on the east side of the lake, the Wildhaven Ranch is a popular local wildlife sanctuary. Not to be confused with a zoo, which keeps animals for display, the wildlife sanctuary is operated by the San Bernardino Mountains Wildlife Society, a nonprofit that tries to maintain the sanctity of the local fauna.
If you want to visit the sanctuary, make sure you book reservations ahead of time. They don’t accept walk-ons—and self-guided tours are certainly prohibited—but with the guidance of experts, visitors can experience a wide range of indigenous wildlife.
Lollipop Park
As charming as the name would suggest, Lollipop Park is located in the village and offers a range of kid-oriented activities. It’s been in operation for over 30 years, and features several high-quality children’s amusement park rides.
It’s a great location to host parties for your little ones. Go-karts, mini golf, and a kiddie ferris wheel – all fun activities that can be enjoyed while surrounded by the natural beauty of the lake.
Mountain Arts Network Gallery
The Mountain Arts Network gallery is arguably the most respected gallery in the San Bernardino Mountains. It features gorgeous art by locals and visiting artists, and attempts to thematically capture the essence of mountain life with imaginative and engaging works.
The Mountain Arts Network gallery is open to the public, and frequently features artists and shows that attract visitors from all over the area. They also offer art classes taught by laudable professional artists, which can serve as the perfect way to spend a cold wintry day when you don’t want to brave the inclement weather.
No matter how you choose to spend your time in Lake Arrowhead this winter, you’re sure to have a good time. While many towns shut down in the wintertime, our special village opens up, and becomes one of the most gorgeous destinations in the entire San Bernardino mountain range. Plan ahead, prepare for fun, and bring the entire family!
