On July 13, 2018, a fire –known as the Ferguson Fire– began burning on the Sierra National Forest. Currently 1 of 17 active fires burning across the state of California, the Ferguson fire is being managed by four agencies:
Between those agencies, there are over 2,000 personal actively working to control the fire, along with 202 engines, 18 water tenders, 14 helicopters, 39 crews, 5 masticators, and 33 dozers ( Inciweb, 2018). It should be noted that while the Sierra Nevada is no stranger to fires, the Ferguson Fire is now considered the largest fire in Sierra National Forest’s history. **On July 31, 2018, the fire had reached 57,846 acres with 33% containment. By August 8, 2018, the fire was 94,992 acres with 43% containment.**
For those residing or vacationing in or near Bass Lake, California, the effects of the growing Ferguson Fire can be seen on a daily basis. In fact, the skies frequently flip between visibly smoky and the beautiful, clear blue sky Bass Lake is accustomed to.
Initially closed with an expected re-open date of August 3rd, Yosemite National Park has been announced closed indefinitely Because of this, many who have made plans to visit the popular Yosemite National Park are having to make alternate plans. Or worse, cancel.
Keep your reservations at The Pines Resort. There are plenty of fun alternatives to Yosemite National Park for you to experience during the Ferguson Fire.
The Pines Resort on Bass Lake || Photo Credit: @EricArmstrongPhoto
Vacation Alternatives to Yosemite National Park While the Ferguson Fire Continues to Burn
Willow Creek & Angel Falls
Angel Falls is one of many cascading waterfalls located along Willow Creek. If you follow the trail, you’ll encounter several other exciting waterfalls pools, rock formations, moss-covered trees, and vistas.
Fishing
There is plenty of fishing to be done on Bass Lake! Home to the annual Bass Lake Fishing Derby, you’ll be happy to find Trout, Bass, Kokanee Salmon, Catfish, Crappie, Carp, and Bluegill swimming about in Bass Lake.
Hiking Bass Lake
While Yosemite National Park offers some of the best hiking in the United States, it isn’t the only place to hike. There are several trails surrounding Bass Lake, with Willow Creek, Way of the Mono, and Goat Mountain being the three most popular trails.
While hiking Way of the Mono Trail — a 1-mile loop- you’ll encounter the scenic vista known as Mono Rock. Here you’ll find yourself overlooking beautiful Bass Lake. Not only is this location a wonderful vacation spot, it’s also an easy trail for hikers of all ages and experience levels. In other words, it’s a great hike to take as a family.
Another beautiful trail to hike is Goat Mountain. A 4+ mile hike round-trip, this trail is located directly across from The Pines Resort. You’ll elevate 1,700+ ft. so make sure you’re physically and mentally prepared for this one.
Biking
Whether you decide to bike off-road or along a paved road, you’ll have plenty of options here at Bass Lake.
Around Bass Lake, you’ll find many people biking on local roads. One of the more popular roads is Beasore Road — a very steep road north of The Pines Resort– that climbs up to 7,500 ft. Beginning just across the street from The Pines Resort, the paved Beasore Road is a challenging, yet gratifying, 12.46 mile bike ride.
While Beasore Road is a paved road, there are many off-road turnoff trails along the way. A few other off-road bike trails are:
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007- This is a famous downhill mountain bike trail known around California for its flowing path and scenic mountain views. This is an advanced trail that typically requires a higher-end mountain bike with front and rear shocks, so come prepared.
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Willow Creek – A technical trail within a beautiful setting. Riding along Willow Creek, you’ll see Angel Falls and Devil’s Slide, as well as the many rock formations and trees native to Willow Creek.
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Goat Mountain – As previously mentioned, this trail is about 4+ miles round-trip and leads to a spectacular view of Yosemite.
In addition to biking, Beasore Road is a popular location for ATV four-wheeling, dirt bikes, snowmobiling during the winter months, truck excursions, and as previously mentioned– hiking.
Beer Tasting
Located just 10 miles from The Pines Resort, Southgate Brewery is a local, small-batch brewery that has won many prestigious awards for their beer. But don’t worry, you won’t just be drinking here. Southgate Brewery also offers a full menu.
Note: Southgate Beer can be found for sale at Ducey’s on the Lake, Ducey’s Bar & Grill, and The Pines Bar.
Met Cinema
You can go to the movies in just about every city, but there’s something fun about doing regular things in a new location. Should you find yourself in the mood for a good movie, visit Met Cinema and get tickets at half-price after the first ticket.
h3>Chukchansi Casino
The Chukchansi Casino is a beautiful place to go play some slots, blackjack, poker and more.
Sierra Mono Museum
The Sierra Mono Museum is home to the largest display of Mono Indian basketry in California. Inside the museum, there are several artifacts and baskets on display, on-loan by members of the Mono Tribe. Some other collections you’ll find on display include weapons, ceremonial items, tools, and beautiful beaded crafts.
As you can see, there are plenty of things to do near and around Yosemite National Park. For up-to-date information on the fire, please visit the InciWeb information site.
For questions you have about current weather conditions at Bass Lake, click on The Pines Resort “Chat” icon. Or, give us a call at 800-350-7563.
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