Bear Mountain Golf Course - Image 1
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Bear Mountain Golf Course

4
·157 reviews·Big Bear Lake, United States

Experience breathtaking views and challenging play across two distinct 18-hole courses at Bear Mountain Golf Course.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall Mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Bear Mountain Golf Course - Image 1

Bear Mountain Golf Course

Best Time

Spring & Fall Mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience breathtaking views and challenging play across two distinct 18-hole courses at Bear Mountain Golf Course.

4
(157 reviews)

"Amazing views with a challenging course, what more can you ask for?"

Vertical photo
TIP

⛰️ Mountain Course is a Brute

Don't let the looks fool you; the Mountain Course is tough with tight fairways and long distances.

✅ Book Tee Times in Advance

Popular course, especially the Mountain Course. Book ahead to secure your spot.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Mountain Course's Panoramic Views

The Mountain Course's Panoramic Views

Mountain Course

Experience breathtaking vistas of eastern Vancouver Island from 1,100 feet up. A truly memorable backdrop for your game.

Challenging Elevation Changes

Challenging Elevation Changes

Mountain Course

Navigate dramatic uphill and downhill shots that test your game and reward precise play. Expect a demanding round.

The Valley Course's Strategic Play

The Valley Course's Strategic Play

Valley Course

A well-maintained course offering a classic golfing challenge with strategic bunkering and water features.

Signature Hole Fun

Signature Hole Fun

Nine Hole Course (at the base)

Enjoy a unique and fun nine-hole experience with a memorable signature hole, perfect for a quicker round.

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Planning Your Visit

Choose Your Challenge: Mountain vs. Valley

Bear Mountain offers two distinct 18-hole courses. The Mountain Course is known for its rugged terrain, challenging elevation changes, and stunning views, while the Valley Course provides a more traditional, yet still demanding, golfing experience. Consider your skill level and what kind of round you're looking for before booking.

Book Ahead for Prime Tee Times

As a popular destination, tee times at Bear Mountain Golf Course, especially for the Mountain Course, can fill up quickly. Booking in advance is highly recommended, particularly during peak season, to secure your preferred time and avoid disappointment. Check for resident or twilight rates if you're looking to save.

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall Mornings
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Summer Afternoons
Why
Warm sunshine, cool wind
Crowd
Medium
When
Twilight Rounds
Why
Reduced rates, beautiful light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Bear Mountain Golf ⛳️ #golfcourse #golfworld
vuzegolf
4.9K likes • 156.7K views

⛰️ Mountain Course is a Brute

Don't let the looks fool you; the Mountain Course is tough with tight fairways and long distances. Instagram

✅ Book Tee Times in Advance

Popular course, especially the Mountain Course. Book ahead to secure your spot. Instagram

Bear Mountain Resort Info👇 📸 via Bear Mountain Mountain Course 6820 Yards 73.5/152 Par 71 Valley Course 6807 Yards 72.9/135 Par 71 Rates: • Mountain Course: $249CAD ($184 USD) • Valley Course: $219CAD ($162 USD) • Resident, Junior, & Twilight rates available • Rates are subject to change Choose between the rugged, challenging Mountain Course or the more serene Valley Course. Bear Mountain is ...
randomgolfcourses
5.3K likes • 284.8K views
Bear Mountain - Mountain Course Tees: Combined Black/Spirit #golf #bearmountaingolfcourse #vancouverisland
tummito
28 likes • 1K views

💨 Greens Roll Fast!

The greens are well-maintained and roll very fast, so be prepared for that. Reddit

💰 Check for Special Rates

Look into resident, junior, and twilight rates for potential savings. Instagram

Golf Artist 👨‍🎨⛳️ . 📍 Bear Mountain Golf Course, Canada . By @macbouchergolf 📸 . . . #golf #golflife #golfview #longdrive #golfdesgin #beautifulgolfcourses #golfswing #golfaddicts
bucketlistgolftrips
26.4K likes • 1.1M views

Tips

from all over the internet

⛰️ Mountain Course is a Brute

Don't let the looks fool you; the Mountain Course is tough with tight fairways and long distances. Instagram

✅ Book Tee Times in Advance

Popular course, especially the Mountain Course. Book ahead to secure your spot. Instagram

💨 Greens Roll Fast!

The greens are well-maintained and roll very fast, so be prepared for that. Reddit

💰 Check for Special Rates

Look into resident, junior, and twilight rates for potential savings. Instagram

🚫 Avoid Night Golf Tourney

One reviewer called the night golf tournament a 'huge ripoff' and 'a joke' due to visibility issues.

📸 Capture the Views

The panoramic views from the Mountain Course are incredible and worth photographing. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4
(157 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Bear Mountain Golf Course offers breathtaking views, particularly from its challenging Mountain Course, and generally well-maintained greens. While some find the course design gimmicky or not in peak condition, the friendly staff and scenic beauty are consistent highlights. The Valley Course provides a more traditional challenge, and the nine-hole course is a fun, accessible option.

"Amazing views with a challenging course, what more can you ask for ? Nathan provided excellent customer service and the greens keeper Jake is awesome and passionate about his work. Will be back for another round before the fall."

Manny Fresh

"Well maintained course and greens. The greens roll so prepare for that. Friendly staff"

C. Rev

"Super fun nine hole course right at the base of Bear Mountain. It’s well-maintained with a fun signature hole and very nice staff. I’ll also give them a shout out on their merchandise. They had quite a great selection."

Cole Rutherford

What People Like

Amazing views
Well-maintained greens
Friendly staff

What People Dislike

Course design can be gimmicky
Condition sometimes inconsistent
Night golf is a ripoff

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Bear Mountain Golf Course is located on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada. Access typically involves driving. If coming from Victoria, it's a scenic drive north. Public transportation options are limited directly to the course, so a car is generally recommended for ease of access. Instagram

No, the Bear Mountain Golf Course discussed here is located in Canada. There is a separate 'Big Bear Mountain Golf Course' in Big Bear, California, which is a different destination. Ensure you are looking at the correct location for your travel plans. Instagram

From Victoria, BC, take Highway 1 North and then follow signs for Bear Mountain. The exact route may vary slightly, so using a GPS or mapping app is advised. The course is situated at a higher elevation, offering distinct views. Instagram

Yes, ample parking is typically available for golfers at the clubhouse and practice areas. It's advisable to arrive a little early, especially during busy periods, to ensure convenient parking. Instagram

While possible, it's challenging. Taxis or ride-sharing services can be used, but they may be expensive for the return trip. The course's location makes it most accessible by private vehicle. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Green fees vary between the Mountain Course and the Valley Course. The Mountain Course typically ranges around $249 CAD, while the Valley Course is around $219 CAD. Rates are subject to change and may differ based on the season and time of day. Instagram

Yes, it is highly recommended to book tee times in advance, especially for the Mountain Course, as it is a popular destination and can fill up quickly. Instagram

Bear Mountain Golf Course offers resident, junior, and twilight rates. It's always a good idea to check their official website or call ahead to inquire about any current promotions or packages. Instagram

Operating hours can vary seasonally. The golf courses typically open in the morning and close around dusk. It's best to check the official Bear Mountain Golf Course website for the most up-to-date hours of operation for both courses and the pro shop. Instagram

While carts are available and often recommended for the Mountain Course due to its terrain, walking may be permitted on certain courses or at specific times. Inquire directly with the pro shop when booking your tee time about their policies on walking the course. Instagram

🎫 ⛳ Onsite Experience

The Mountain Course is known for its rugged terrain, challenging elevation changes, and stunning panoramic views. The Valley Course offers a more traditional layout with strategic bunkering and water features, providing a different but equally engaging golfing challenge. Instagram+1

The Mountain Course is considered a brute and is quite challenging. It features tight fairways, numerous bunkers, daunting water features, and long distances from tee to green, making it a test of skill. Instagram

Yes, reviews consistently mention that the greens are well-maintained and roll very fast. Players should be prepared for this characteristic when playing. Reddit

The Mountain Course offers incredible panoramic views of eastern Vancouver Island from its elevated position. These views are a significant highlight of playing this course. Instagram+1

Typically, golf courses have a dress code. Expect to wear collared shirts and golf shorts or slacks. Denim and athletic wear are usually not permitted. It's best to confirm the specific dress code with the pro shop when booking. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are usually dining facilities available at the clubhouse, offering food and beverages for golfers. These can range from casual snacks to more formal dining experiences, depending on the specific venue. Instagram

Dining options typically include classic golf course fare such as sandwiches, salads, burgers, and appetizers. Some venues may offer more elevated dishes. It's advisable to check the current menu offerings. Instagram

Beverage carts often operate on the course during peak times, offering refreshments. You can also typically purchase drinks at the clubhouse before or after your round. Instagram

Given its location, dining options directly adjacent to the course might be limited. However, the surrounding areas and nearby towns will offer a wider variety of restaurants and cafes. Instagram

Absolutely. The clubhouse restaurant is a popular spot for golfers to relax and enjoy a meal or drinks after their round, often with views of the course. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The most photogenic spots are undoubtedly on the Mountain Course, particularly from elevated tee boxes and fairways offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and eastern Vancouver Island. Instagram+1

Yes, visitors are generally allowed to take photos on the golf course. However, it's important to be respectful of other golfers and the course itself. Avoid delaying play for extended photo sessions. Instagram

The 18th hole on the Mountain Course is a long par 5 with a downhill tee shot that offers great views. Many of the elevated holes on the Mountain Course provide excellent backdrops for memorable photos. Instagram

A camera with a good zoom lens is recommended to capture the expansive views. If you're interested in landscape photography, a wide-angle lens can also be beneficial. Don't forget your phone for quick snaps! Instagram

Drone usage policies can vary significantly. It's crucial to check with Bear Mountain Golf Course management directly regarding their regulations on drone photography before flying one on their property. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Bear Mountain Golf Course can be a fun outing for families, especially if you opt for the nine-hole course at the base of the mountain. It's described as well-maintained with a fun signature hole and very nice staff, making it more accessible for younger or less experienced golfers. Reddit While the championship courses, particularly the Mountain Course, are quite challenging and may be less suitable for young children, families can still enjoy the scenic beauty and the overall resort atmosphere. Consider packing snacks and drinks, as dining options might be more geared towards adult golfers. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious golfers, Bear Mountain offers twilight rates which can significantly reduce the green fees, especially during the longer days of summer. Instagram While the full rack rates for the championship courses can be high, exploring options like the nine-hole course or looking for resident and junior rates might provide more affordable alternatives. Instagram It's also worth checking for any package deals or off-season promotions that could make a round more accessible without compromising too much on the experience. Instagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Photographers will find the Mountain Course at Bear Mountain to be a dream location. The elevated tee boxes offer stunning panoramic views of eastern Vancouver Island, providing incredible backdrops for landscape shots. Instagram+1 The dramatic elevation changes and rugged terrain also create unique photographic opportunities. Don't miss the 18th hole on the Mountain Course for a dramatic closing shot. Instagram Remember to be mindful of other golfers and course etiquette while capturing the beauty. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Two Courses: Mountain vs. Valley

Bear Mountain Golf Course boasts two distinct 18-hole championship courses, each offering a unique golfing adventure. The Mountain Course is renowned for its dramatic elevation changes, rugged terrain, and spectacular panoramic views of eastern Vancouver Island. It's a true test of a golfer's ability to handle challenging lies, blind shots, and significant uphill and downhill lies. As one reviewer noted, 'Don’t let its (incredibly) good looks fool you — the Mountain Course at Bear Mountain Golf Club is a brute.' Instagram

The Valley Course, on the other hand, presents a more traditional parkland style of golf. While still challenging, it features strategic bunkering, water hazards, and well-manicured fairways that demand accuracy and thoughtful shot-making. It offers a different kind of strategic test compared to the raw challenge of the Mountain Course. Instagram+1

Choosing between them depends on your preference: for breathtaking scenery and a demanding physical and strategic test, opt for the Mountain Course. For a classic, well-designed challenge that still requires precision, the Valley Course is an excellent choice. Many visitors enjoy playing both to experience the full breadth of what Bear Mountain offers. Instagram

The 'Hidden Gem' Experience and Traveler Feedback

Bear Mountain Golf Course is often described as an 'incredible hidden gem' that can make golfers feel better about their game due to the favorable ball flight conditions at higher altitudes. Instagram However, traveler feedback is varied, with some finding the course 'gimmicky' and not entirely to their liking, despite acknowledging the 'best views.' Reddit The condition of the course can also be a point of discussion, with some reviews noting it as 'so so' and not in the 'greatest condition.' Reddit

Despite these mixed opinions on the course design and condition, the stunning views are almost universally praised. The well-maintained greens are also frequently highlighted, though players are warned that they 'roll so fast.' Reddit The friendly staff and excellent customer service are also recurring positives, with specific mentions of groundskeepers being passionate about their work. Reddit

It's important to note that experiences can differ significantly. While some find the course design frustrating with 'blind fading a 7-iron off the tee on a par 4,' Reddit others appreciate the 'interesting course design' and the overall memorable experience, especially during pleasant weather. Reddit The nine-hole course at the base of the mountain is also noted as a fun, well-maintained option with nice staff and merchandise. Reddit

Understanding Night Golf and Other Course Options

While Bear Mountain Golf Course is primarily known for its championship 18-hole courses, it also offers other golfing experiences. One such offering, a night golf tournament, has received significant negative feedback from at least one reviewer, who described it as a 'huge ripoff' and 'a joke.' The primary complaint was the inability to see anything, likening it to 'golfing in pitch black' with poorly marked holes and minimal lighting. Reddit

For those seeking a shorter or perhaps less intense round, Bear Mountain also features a nine-hole course located at the base of the mountain. This course is described as well-maintained, fun, and featuring a signature hole, making it a good option for a quicker game or for those who prefer a less demanding layout. Reddit

It's worth noting that the term 'Bear Mountain Ranch' also appears in some discussions, which might refer to a different location or a specific part of the resort. When planning your visit, ensure you are booking for the correct course and be cautious about special events like night golf if visibility is a concern. Reddit

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