Bear Valley, CA
Homes for Sale in Bear Valley CA
What is living in Bear Valley CA like?
Living in Bear Valley offers a unique mountain lifestyle at an elevation of about 7,100 feet. Bear Valley is surrounded by the Stanislaus National Forest, close to Lake Alpine, and ideal for the outdoor enthusiast for activities such as:
- Winter: Skiing, snowboarding, and cross-country skiing at Bear Valley Resort.
- Summer: Hiking, mountain biking, fishing, kayaking, camping, and rock climbing.
The population is relatively small year-round. During the winter season, the area becomes busier due to tourism and ski enthusiasts. Housing in Bear Valley primarily consists of cabins, chalets, and condos — many being vacation properties as some residents only live there part-time. The cost of living can be higher than average due to its remote location, but many find the investment worth it for the quality of life.
Due to its high altitude, snowfall is significant. Heavy snowfall can isolate the area, and residents must be equipped to handle snowstorms and road closures.



Bear Valley Mountain Resort
Bear Valley is best known for its ski resort, which is a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
In winter you will enjoy skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. The resort features over 75 ski trails, offering something for all skill levels, and a family-friendly atmosphere. You will enjoy the convenience of on-site restaurants, a cozy coffee shop, and a general store.
Above images via their instagram page.
Bear Valley CA school Information
Families in Bear Valley often send children to schools in the nearby Vallecito Union School District for elementary and middle school or Bret Harte Union High School District for high school. The small population means fewer local educational facilities.