The Line Fire that ignited in the San Bernardino Mountains on September 5, 2024, created a wave of uncertainty and hardship for the Big Bear community. Known for its breathtaking scenery, outdoor recreation, and tourism-dependent economy, Big Bear faced not just an environmental crisis but an economic one as well. While the fire ravaged large areas of the surrounding forest, the community has rallied together to overcome these challenges, and local businesses are gradually recovering.
The Immediate Impact of the Line Fire
The Line Fire quickly spread due to dry conditions, threatening homes, wildlife, and businesses alike. Many areas were evacuated, including parts of Big Bear Valley, as residents and tourists were forced to flee. For weeks, the community was on edge, with many businesses temporarily closing due to safety concerns, road closures, and poor air quality.
The fire disrupted Big Bear’s peak late-summer and early-fall tourism season, which is a critical time for local businesses. Visitors flock to the area in the fall to enjoy outdoor activities like boating, hiking, and fishing, while others look to book vacation rentals for peaceful mountain getaways. The evacuation orders and road closures, including portions of Highway 38 and Highway 18, made it impossible for businesses to operate normally.
Local Businesses Rebuilding and Adapting
Despite the devastating impact of the fire, many local businesses are showing resilience and adapting to the situation. Business owners are working tirelessly to recover, and many are reopening as evacuation orders are lifted.
Vacation Rentals: A Path to Recovery
One of the hardest-hit sectors was the vacation rental market. Big Bear relies heavily on visitors booking cabins, lodges, and vacation homes, especially during the peak fall season. Emily Davis, a vacation rental owner, explained how the fire caused cancellations and loss of income:
"We had to cancel all of our bookings during the fire, which was tough. But now that we’re reopening, we’re offering special discounts to encourage people to come back and enjoy the fall season."
Many vacation rental owners have taken similar steps, offering promotions and ensuring that their properties are safe for guests. The community has also banded together by using social media and online platforms to communicate with prospective visitors and share updates on reopening.
Restaurants and Retail: Fighting to Stay Afloat
Restaurants and shops in Big Bear Village also faced closures and reduced foot traffic due to the fire. Local restaurant owner John Martinez shared how his business was affected:
"We had to shut down for nearly two weeks, which is tough when you rely on tourism for most of your income. But as soon as we reopened, the community came out to support us. It’s been incredible to see everyone rally together."
Some businesses, like Big Bear Brewing Company, pivoted to offering takeout and delivery services to serve both residents and emergency responders during the evacuation period. As tourists start to return, many restaurants and shops are offering special deals and promotions to help boost their recovery.
Outdoor Adventure Companies: Returning to the Mountains
Big Bear’s outdoor adventure businesses—like mountain bike rentals, kayaking tours, and fishing charters—were also significantly impacted. Jeff Simmons, who runs a mountain biking tour service, explained:
"We lost a lot of revenue when the trails were closed, but now that many have reopened, we’re seeing visitors again. It’s slow, but we’re getting there. The best thing people can do to help is come out and enjoy the outdoors."
Though some trails and recreational areas remain off-limits due to safety concerns and ongoing fire containment, many popular activities have resumed, providing tourists with opportunities to explore Big Bear’s natural beauty.
Volunteer Efforts: The Heart of Big Bear’s Recovery
The Big Bear community has shown incredible resilience in the face of the Line Fire. Volunteers have played a vital role in helping businesses and residents recover, from assisting with clean-up efforts to organizing donations for those displaced by the fire.
Community-Led Clean-Up and Support
As evacuation orders were lifted, volunteers mobilized to help clear debris and restore damaged properties. Organizations like Team Rubicon, a veteran-led disaster response group, partnered with local residents to clean up affected areas. Sarah Kim, a local volunteer, reflected on the experience:
"We all came together to help our neighbors. It’s been amazing to see how much people care. Everyone just wants to help Big Bear get back on its feet."
Local businesses also contributed to the relief effort. Many restaurants and cafes provided meals to first responders, firefighters, and residents who were unable to return to their homes. The Big Bear Chamber of Commerce played a central role in coordinating relief efforts and offering resources to help businesses apply for recovery grants and marketing support.
Looking Ahead: The Path to Full Recovery
As Big Bear continues its road to recovery, the outlook is positive. With the fire more than 50% contained and evacuation orders being lifted, the community is optimistic about the fall and winter tourism seasons. While some parts of the area are still restricted, many outdoor activities are available, and businesses are eager to welcome visitors back.
How You Can Help Big Bear Recover
The best way to support Big Bear’s recovery is by planning a visit and enjoying all that the area has to offer. Here are a few ways you can make a difference:
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Book Your Stay: Whether for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, booking a stay in Big Bear supports the local economy and helps businesses recover from lost revenue.
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Shop and Dine Locally: Support local restaurants, cafes, and shops by choosing to spend your money at independently owned businesses in Big Bear Village and beyond.
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Spread the Word: Share your experiences on social media and encourage friends and family to visit Big Bear. Every visitor helps the community get closer to full recovery.
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Donate or Volunteer: If you’re unable to visit, consider donating to local relief efforts or volunteering for community clean-up initiatives.
Thank You to Our Firefighters and Volunteers
The road to recovery wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible efforts of the 3,400+ firefighters and emergency responders who worked tirelessly to contain the fire. Their bravery and dedication have allowed Big Bear to begin the rebuilding process. To the volunteers who’ve given their time and energy to help, the community owes a deep debt of gratitude.
As Big Bear bounces back, visitors and locals alike will continue to play an essential role in helping this resilient community thrive once again. Whether you’re looking to explore the great outdoors or support local businesses, now is the perfect time to be part of Big Bear’s recovery story.