WISDOM

What Makes Big Bear Unique




Big Bear's ecosystems are special. It is home to an unchanged Ice Age habitat type called Pebble Plains. It is the only place in the world where this ecosystem occurs. Big Bear Lake is at 6,752 feet elevation, creating a exclusive mountaintop spot. 


Here are the top 5 reasons why Big Bear and the Big Bear Yoga Festival holds a special place in the hearts of many:

1. Natural Beauty:

Scenic Landscapes: Big Bear is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, featuring forests, alpine lakes, and breathtaking mountain vistas. The changing seasons bring vibrant fall foliage, snow-covered winter wonderlands, blooming spring flowers, and sunny summer days.

Wildlife Viewing: The region is home to a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, which can often be spotted soaring above the lake. Nature lovers will appreciate the opportunity to observe animals in their natural habitat.

2. Community:

Small-Town Vibe: Big Bear Village is a charming area filled with quaint shops, cozy cafes, and inviting restaurants. The friendly, laid-back atmosphere makes visitors feel right at home.

Caring People in Community: The community is full of amazing people from far and wide. They come together united in a love and appreciation of nature. The Big Bear Yoga community is looking forward to meeting you and fostering a strong sense of community and shared joy.

3. Wellness and Relaxation:

Peaceful Environment: The tranquil setting of Big Bear provides the perfect backdrop for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Big Bear Yoga Fest: Big Bear Yoga Fest highlights the area's commitment to wellness and community, attracting visitors who seek both physical and spiritual enrichment.

4. Easily Accessible and Accessibility:

Close to Major Cities: Despite its remote feel, Big Bear is conveniently located within a few hours' drive from major Southern California cities like Los Angeles, San Diego, and Palm Springs, making it an easy escape from urban life.

All Abilities Welcome: Big Bear invites everyone to explore the outdoors with multiple wheelchair accessible routes. Happy Hills Trail at Big Bear Yoga Festival is wheelchair accessible with a fully-paved path.

Accessibility Features at the Fest: Find the best teachers, locations and classes for your needs and comfort with easy to identify Accessibility Features on our map. (Find the map below!)

5. Unique Experiences:

Location: Big Bear is located within the San Bernardino National Forest, with over 100 miles of trails with diverse ecosystems. 

Big Bear Yoga Fest: From yoga to Tai Chi classes, from arts and crafts to lectures, the Big Bear Yoga Festival brings plenty of fun attractions that bring joy and learning to the yoga community of Southern California.

Big Bear is special because it offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, community warmth, and wellness opportunities. If you're looking for a place to reconnect with nature, relax and rejuvenate, Big Bear Yoga Festival is the destination for you. 

Photo Credit: Kerry Vale


10 Eco-Friendly Actions at

Big Bear Yoga Festival

  1. No Glitter, No Balloons – We skip microplastics and landfill waste; we choose natural décor like flowers, leaves, and fabric banners.
  2. Reusable Water Bottles – We encourage you to bring your own bottles and we provide refill hydration stations.
  3. Eco-Friendly Signage – We use chalkboards, fabric banners, or recycled cardboard instead of disposable posters.
  4. Carpooling & Ride Sharing – We promote carpool groups, shuttles, or biking to reduce carbon emissions.
  5. Eco-Friendly Vendor Guidelines – We require vendors to offer humane products.
  6. Waste Sorting Stations – We have set up clearly labeled bins for recycling and landfill waste.
  7. Paperless Tickets & Programs – We use digital tickets, QR codes, and apps instead of printed paper.
  8. Natural Stage & Décor – Use wood, fabric draping, plants, or potted trees for backdrops.
  9. Leave No Trace Education – We share reminders for attendees to respect the land, pack out what they pack in, and stay on designated paths.
  10. Nature Connection Practices – We offer guided mindfulness walks that highlight respecting and protecting the local environment.