This past weekend, I embarked on a motorcycle trip to Big Bear Lake in California. The adventure kicked off on a Saturday morning as I headed out from Ventura County, meeting up with two fellow riders in Thousand Oaks and then we headed to Valencia, CA.
From Valencia, we took the scenic, winding roads towards Big Bear, passing through charming towns like Crestline, Bluejay, and Sky Forest, each turn offering breathtaking views before finally arriving at our destination.
In Big Bear, our group of 12 people and 8 motorbikes settled into a cozy Airbnb. Despite the near-freezing weather, we eagerly hopped into the hot tub, a perfect way to unwind after the ride and enjoy the crisp mountain air.
Sunday’s ride was shorter but equally adventurous. It led us to Apple Valley, a place I likely wouldn’t have visited if not for the back roads our motorbikes took us on. We discovered a fantastic Mexican restaurant there called “Chil a Kiles,” which served up some truly delicious food.
Monday marked our return journey. My girlfriend and I decided to take a detour to Lake Arrowhead. However, before reaching our destination, an unexpected incident occurred which one of the other motorbikes hit a rock, bending its rim and puncturing the tire. Thankfully, the rider was able to safely save his bike, and they managed to load it into a van for the remainder of the trip.
Traveling with the group, known as “The Gallos” (though I consider myself a lone wolf who enjoys joining them for rides), was an absolute blast. The camaraderie and shared love for motorbiking made the entire experience packed with adventure. The weather was on the colder side, but it was nothing we couldn’t handle.
We attempted to take Route 2 through Wrightwood, but unfortunately, some sections were closed due to the heavy rains we’d experienced recently. Despite the minor setbacks and chilly weather, everyone was chill and had a blast inside the house. It was a weekend full of great rides, good company, and memorable moments.
