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Black Bear Inn

4.9 (58 reviews)

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Wine and cheese in our gorgeous room. Cheers.
Clarabelle W.

Bruce is fantastic. Breakfast was wonderful! Beds were super comfortable and the inn is very clean. Bruce made a delicious dinner for a special birthday and it was decedent. Can't wait to come back.

Angelique O.

I had the loveliest wedding at this venue, absolute magic. We stayed the night as well, cold outside, a nice fireplace in our room and we even had a tub with jets!! Lovely couple, kind and inviting, and breakfast was

Every evening we enjoy wine and cheese served by the hosts Bruce & Wendi.
Lorie A.

We choose the Black Bear Inn when we stay in the area and every stay is 5 star plus! The best venue to relax and be pampered! The inn is beautiful, the rooms are well appointed and spacious, the beds are comfortable and cozy, the grounds are inviting and relaxing. So many areas to relax or enjoy chatting with other guests. This weekend was BBQ Weekend and Bruce spent the day smoking and preparing our dinner, WOW! Delicious and topped off with Wendi home made brownies that were so moist and choco-scrumptious! A little red wine compliments of the chef to top off the perfect meal on a perfect evening surrounded by trees! This Inn is a must stay when visiting the are. Central to all of the adventures and the best spot to rest before your day of play! Enjoy! And let them know Lorie sent you! Haha.

Valentines Day Chocolate covered strawberries in the room waiting for us upon arrival...
Joel M.

My wife and I have been coming to the Black Bear Inn regularly for the past few years. We would absolutely be there more if life provided more time. Credibility: We have stayed at world class locations all over the globe and have experienced the finest service and accommodations the hospitality industry has to offer and the Black Bear Inn does not disappoint. Quite frankly Bruce and Wendi operate the paradigm of an Inn. They are kind, gracious and welcoming. The inn feels like all the best parts of home while being operated and maintained as what you would expect at a fine hotel. Like the best adults only resorts, serenity is promoted and protected through maintenance of a no-children, no pets policy that is very much appreciated by all patrons who stay looking to escape daily life. The rooms are all well appointed with super comfortable luxurious beds, large open bathrooms with heated floors and jacuzzi tubs, comfy robes for two in the closet. Plenty of dinning options can be arranged with appropriate notice. In my honest opinion, The Black Bear Inn is one of the best places the the Sierra Nevada region has to offer and anyone staying there is fortunate to experience Inn-keeping at its finest all thanks to attention to detail by Bruce and Wendi. There is so much to do and see in the area: hot tubbing, skiing, fishing, hiking, golfing, wine tasting, antiquing, gold panning, snowshoeing and my occasional preference, the art of doing nothing but relaxing and getting off the grid. Most recently we enjoyed a Valentine weekend hike through the big trees and followed it up with wine and cheese hour back at the Inn. Yes that's right, as a guest you are treated to wine and cheese hour each night you are staying, personalized selections just for you...need I say more? We were fortunate to stumble upon and stay at the Black Bear Inn years back and have been returning and singing its praises ever since. Hopefully you too can enjoy this slice of heaven in little old Arnold Ca! Lastly, anyone that writes a bad review of this place has a serious screw loose and should be banned from social media.

Intimate Reception Dinner in the Gathering Place 10/21/17
Kelsey F.

My husband and I got married here 10-21-17 and it was the perfect place to have our wedding. We booked the wedding package and came a day early (Thursday) to set up. I highly recommend this venue as well as booking an additional night and arriving a day early. Our wedding was very intimate with just 16 people. The inn owners Wendi and Bruce are so warm and welcoming. You can feel the pride they have for their beautiful home. The grounds are beautifully maintained and the inside of the inn is immaculate with gorgeous high ceilings. Our ceremony was held outside and was stunning with the fall leaves in the background. With such a small group we were lucky enough to be able to have Chef Bruce cater our reception dinner inside the inn. We had the most amazing prime rib dinner. It was excellently prepared. The first course was a butternut squash bisque that is so good that I would make the trip back just for that! The 5 rooms were perfect for us with our closest family. We were able to take our time setting up which was so easy with Wendi's help. Throughout the entire wedding planning process Wendi was just an email away. She was so helpful, I am sure I could not have planned this wedding without her.

The front of the Inn
Tracey Lee D.

This place is outstanding. I stayed here for one night with my mom, sister and brother-in-law. We stayed on a Tuesday night, and we were the only people staying in this 5-room bed and breakfast. How we lucked out and got this place to ourselves, I do not know, for this is a GEM of an inn! Check in is at 3 PM, and we got there early, at about 2:15. There was a sign on the door that said they would be back at 3 PM. We were exploring the grounds, when one of the inn keepers drove up and cheerfully let us check in early. The Black Bear Inn is on a lush plot of land with tons of great vegetation: grass, trees, flowers shrubs... It is green and beautiful. I just wanted to hang out outside the whole time. But the inside is just as inviting. There are Black Bear decorations EVERYwhere, so be prepared, but it is quaint and charming and not obnoxious in the slightest. All rooms have nice big king beds topped with quilts, and furnished with wood-burning stoves, arm chairs, a table and a TV. The bathrooms all have jacuzzi tubs (with a frog and rubber ducky!) and large walk -in showers. The "backyard" has a nice lawn, chairs and tables and a hot tub. All rooms have a "backdoor" that either open to the front garden or the back yard, with keys that work the front door to the B&B, your front door and your back door. There is a wine and cheese hour in the afternoon, and they make up individual plates for each room. Our plates had 3 types of crackers, a brie sitting in a yummy raspberry sauce, and green grapes. They also had homemade chocolate chip cookies which were basically the yummiest cookies I have had in ages. I wanted to eat the whole plate! There were two wines to choose from (a red and a white), and I enjoyed them both. They also had cider, tea and hot chocolate available, as well. They had a number of menus from local restaurants around, which made it easy for us to choose The Snowshoe Brewing Company for dinner. The next morning we had super yummy nut crusted french toast with fresh fruit. When my mom made our reservations, they were nice enough to ask if we had any dietary restrictions, so when our breakfasts came out, there were two plates with no meat on them. It was so nice to not even have to say anything and have them know not only that two people at the table didn't eat meat, but they even knew who wanted what. It was a great personal touch. We met both Kirk and Doreen (the owners and inn keepers), as well as two more of their staff, and they were all incredibly friendly. They even knew all of our names without us having to tell them who we were, which granted probably wasn't too hard to figure out, but it was still another great personal touch. I felt immediately relaxed and at home there. I would HIGHLY recommend this place if you are looking for a little mountain getaway. It is peaceful, beautiful and friendly. Absolutely charming, and would definitely stay here again!

Awesome local wines and a great selection of cheeses!
Shari Z.

Seriously as good as it gets! The Black Bear Inn is the perfect place to unwind. It's location is perfect - so close to many beautiful lakes and lots of great mountain roads to explore. We were able to spend a half day in Big Trees and get back within minutes to enjoy our nice relaxing accommodations. The Inn itself is meticulously kept, both inside and out. The same care is taken in providing a personal experience, and exceptional food. Bruce and Wendi are such awesome hosts, and really help make the experience all it can be. While dining down the road the power went out due to lightening, and when we got back to the Inn, we realized we were in the best place in the world to be during a power outage. Bruce and Wendi had set lanterns and beautiful candles everywhere, and the ambiance was amazing. We played Scrabble by candle light and sipped on some yummy local wine. Bruce and Wendi were fully equipped with a generator, but we kept insisting not to fire it up on our behalf. Which reminds me, we were lucky enough to have the entire property to ourselves both nights we stayed. I'm not sure how we got so lucky! We enjoyed every single moment at Black Bear Inn. I would adopt Wendi and Bruce into the family if I could! We loved our stay so much that I easily convinced my sister to have her birthday weekend there, and we booked the entire Inn for a weekend next May. CANNOT WAIT!! Thank you Bruce and Wendi, you have truly upped the bar for Innkeepers globally!

Beautiful wedding location! I highly recommend! -photo credit: still memories photography
Leslie D.

My husband and I got married at Black Bear Inn on 6/3/17 and the wedding was everything we could have dreamed of. The property was beautiful and easily accommodated having the ceremony, cocktail hour and reception all in one location. The pictures come out beautiful because of the surrounding trees and greenery. Wendi and Bruce are great hosts and were helpful with any requests I had. It was nice to be able to have my entire wedding party stay at the inn for the weekend, it made it a wonderful intimate experience. Our family and friends are still talking about how beautiful the place was. I recommend Black Bear Inn to anyone looking to have their wedding in one location and beautiful forest surroundings. We couldn't have been happier with our wedding!!

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Review Highlights - Black Bear Inn

Wendy and Bruce go above and beyond, treating their guests to delightful breakfasts, and "happy hour" treats!.

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Meadowmont Lodge - Arnold - Queen suite

Meadowmont Lodge - Arnold

(86 reviews)

$$

I've been a guest at the Meadowmont Lodge in Arnold CA several times over the last several years…read more I've neglected to review this little jewel. This inn has that reminiscent motor court vibe. And has been there for years. The current owners have lovingly updated the facility to provide comfortable and stylish accommodations. This is not a "fancy" place. But it is a very comfortable warm little piece of Arnold history. The folks that run the lodge are awesome. Almost like family and your just visiting... There's just a comfort there. And there is Bear.. the black lab who greets anyone who will let him... adorable. The facility is spotless. Much cleaner than many "fancy" places I have stayed by far. The location is perfect if you want an amazing get away to nature in the Sierra 2 hours from the Bay Area. Big Trees state park is 5 minutes away and is mind blowing.. largest Sequoias in the world. Alpine lake and big bear 1/2 hour. The Sawgrass campground and river access on the Stanislaus River is 10 minutes. The quaint town of Murphys is 15 minutes. Mercer caverns, the largest cave adventure on the west coast is 15 minutes. There is a grocery store within walking distance, and several outstanding eateries within 10 minutes. Be sure to check out the "Lube Room Bar & Grill" in Dorington, just up the road. Best burgers in Calaveras County and a wonderful outdoor area with a stage - music on the weekends.. This little Inn is a hidden gem.. and the vibe is wonderful. You will be very comfortable and it won't break the bank!!! Highly reccomend!!! Charlie

The woman running the lodge is delightful. She made sure we had the options for fire pits, and…read moreextra towels. The Lodge is clean, well-run and warm!

Mountain Retreat Resort - Unit 1

Mountain Retreat Resort

(25 reviews)

$$

Location nestled around nature's Big Trees and soothing sounds of babbling brooks on the property…read more If you are looking for a peaceful, restful location to get away from any Big City you might live or work in, this is the place for you. Unit is simply kept, but has all that you would need. If there is something additional needed, the staff is very accessible and ready to aid. Don't expect the newest of technology presay, but there is enough to keep the modern day mindset still entertained. There was much to see within short and long distances that would satisfy most visitors. From local mini hikes in the Big Trees forest, to a plethora of vineyards/wineries, spa and shopping...to longer treks to Yosemite and stop at the Sacramento Zoo before flying back home. All in all the R&R that was called for when booking this vacation location was achieved.

WHAT a hidden gem! Went here for the weekend with my family of 4 and stayed in Unit 1, right next…read moreto the club house. The unit was clean and had everything we needed. 2 bedrooms both with King size beds, 3 bathrooms, a fully stocked kitchen and lovely living space with a fire place. The club house has a very nice heated pool and hot tub, along with a sauna and gym. The place had lots of snow in mid march and you can walk to the Sequoia Woods country club restaurant. (also amazing but make reservations). The staff was kind and very helpful. Check in was a breeze and all our questions were answered. They provide games, movies, puzzles and firewood up front. Looking forward to booking another stay in the summer so we can take advantage of all the hiking around the facility.

Avery Hotel

Avery Hotel

(4 reviews)

Have you ever wanted to rent an entire hotel? Complete with a very private outdoor venue, a real…read morebar (saloon?) and a fully equipped commercial kitchen... We were looking for a safe and fun place for a family reunion. Somewhere I could actually bring all of our extended family.. (even those country ones you can't be seen in public with, lol) Found this amazing hotel online and can't say enough great things about it. Karl, our host disappeared after showing us all the amenities. He lives nearby and showed up swiftly when I had trouble lighting a fire in the living room. We had 6 kids that had their own suite area away from the adults. Thankfully there was wifi internet for them when they tired of playing outside. We had such a stellar time there at the historical wild west Avery hotel with no one looking over our shoulders ;) The big trees nearby were awesome too. My skiing fam hit the mountains not far away. Plus an Italian restaurant, a live entertainment bar, and cute lil coffee shop all in walking distance. The town of Murphy's was super cool also. I'm guessing they book up fast with the weddings and stuff. Don't hesitate!

I am currently writing my review while spending our last day here on our wedding weekend. We were…read morelucky to have found this place by just pure searching for unique wedding venues and when we saw this place... we knew it was special. This venue has beautiful charm and good bones. It just feels like you stepped back in time and we really enjoyed that. Carl and all the staff connected with Avery Hotel have been nothing but accommodating to us. They were always willing to listen to any questions we had and were always checking in along the way. The freedom of the venue really pulls you in because it offered that blank canvas of possibilities and that is what we wanted because I love a challenge and had a very clear image of how I wanted my wedding to look like. They have extra decorations for you to use, endless linens, all shapes/sizes of plates, cups and bowls. You do need to clean up after yourself but that's the easy part. Now Carl, deserving of his own paragraph... he really takes care of you and checks up on you especially when it is week of. He was kind enough to let us come in earlier on check in day and greeted us as we pulled up ready to help in any way we needed. He gave us a quick tour and stepped away to let us have our special private weekend! We did have to text him a few times and was always quick to respond. Again, thank you Carl and staff for a beautiful and memorable venue.

Bear's Lair

Bear's Lair

(7 reviews)

$$

We are so thrilled we found this newly opened boutique inn on Booking.com that's located behind the…read moreEbbetts Pass Visitors Center right in between Sarafina's and Giant Burger. This charming "home away from home" has two private suites that will comfortably accommodate a family or two couples. Only my husband & I were here, so we weren't given a key to the smaller suite, but it's only $25 extra per person should you need the other room. The kitchen has a dining table for 4 and comes fully stocked with a full-size fridge, sink, microwave, pots & pans, silverware, plates, & everything else you could need to cook (the only thing they don't have is the food!). There's also a comfy living room with an electric fireplace, couches, games, books, & a bar. There's even a covered porch that overlooks a private wooded half-acre complete with 4 chairs to enjoy the serenity and beautiful trees. It's essentially your own private cabin to relax in & take in the gorgeous scenery. If you don't feel like cooking, there's plenty of nearby restaurants to choose from; Sequoia Woods Country Club & Big Trees State Park are 5-minute drives, with Bear Valley Ski Resort & Lake Alpine 30-minute drives. The personal touches & details that have been added make this feel "homey" and not at all like a normal hotel stay. This is most definitely our new go-to spot to stay when we're in the area. I'm so happy to spread the word about this gem! :)

This is a nearly perfect place to stay when visiting the Big Trees. As a family of three, we are…read morebudget conscious, and enjoy being able to stay in a condo-style hotel so that we can cook & eat "at home." Not only does this save money (which can then be used for activities, souvenirs, etc.), but it also ensures that we can avoid trying to find a family friendly restaurant that will meet all of our needs. (Eating out with a 4 year old boy is not always the easiest task!) The owners, Sid & Kate, were hospitable to the extreme without being AT ALL intrusive. We saw them once or twice (walking their dog, working the little gift shop) and never felt "watched" or uncomfortable at all. I believe they genuinely would have done just about anything to make our stay wonderful. They definitely add a nice, homey touch to the experience. BUT... even without the wonderful customer service, the Bear's Lair would still be a great deal!! The cost is right, the accommodations terrific (great atmosphere, great ambiance, very clean), and the amenities were perfect. There was not a single thing that could have been done to make our stay more comfortable. When we booked the suite, they contacted us to confirm our reservation, provide us with the rental agreement & asked our son's age so that they could ensure there were age-appropriate games and toys for him. The owners were also extremely helpful when it came to recommending various restaurants for the one or two times we ate out, and they made some suggestions when I asked for nearby toy stores. Overall, it was very nice & we will definitely stay there again. In fact, next time we will probably invite friends and take advantage of the fact that the suite is perfectly set up for two couples / small families! *** Only "caution" - while the wi-fi is free (with the provided password), there is NO phone service if you are an AT&T customer. This did prove challenging for me as a small business owner because it was impossible to receive or return phone calls. Thankfully, I was able to keep in contact w/our business via email. Thanks for a great stay, Sid & Kate!! The Taylor Family

Bear Valley Lodge - Sky High Pizza & Pub located within the complex is perfect for families, watching local sports or for some fun nightlife after 9pm.

Bear Valley Lodge

(98 reviews)

The Lodge is a cabin style stay. It shows tattered worn out signs of accommodations and old simple…read morecharm it once served. Although in need of a face lift it served its purpose. Don't pay more than 150 a night then you will feel that you were greatly taking advantage of. The hotel provide the shuttle service to the mountain. There's absolutely nothing in the area as far as convenience stores or shops. The Lodge 'convenience store sold some small, very expensive package goods and T-shirts but it smelt like Grandma's armpits. Bring cases of water and your favorite beverages and a cooler!!! Maybe you could bring your own little small barbecue for outside your car if you wanted ! We also brought a coffee maker of our own, which was recommended to us. Best thing we did. Don't forget to bring your favorite treats and snacks up and instant soups and oatmeal. We decided to have wine last night by the fire pit, and it was gas lit very loud and no warmth We went to the grizzly lounge. We had a few cocktails and appetizers that were Mid. You come here to ski, but when you rest your head, you want some convenience and comfort Have a great season ! Pray for snow!

Just got back spending 2 days in Bear Valley. The Bear Valley lodge is a wonderful place but oh…read morethese guys are stuck in the 60s! The overall lodge and the rooms are dated and could definitely use a refresh. They have janky & clunky keys to open doors, old heaters to heat rooms & the world's oldest elevator. Not only that they don't provide coffee machines or an iron in the rooms, forget a microwave or a fridge. For the hefty price they charge, they don't even refresh your rooms or offer turndown service if you stay more than a night. I saw several active leaks in the common areas on the 4th floor and at the check-in desk. The staff literally had a paper cup to catch the leaking water. Plus the restaurant options they have are terrible. If I had another option in BV, I'd definitely avoid this place. But they will continue to have customers as there isn't too many other options for people.

Black Bear Inn - hotels - Updated May 2026

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