BASSLAKE
2004
Casting for fun in California's
High Sierra
It's
rarely too hot or too cold here, The fishing's great, golfing is
just around the corner, and Yosemite National Park is almost at your
doorstep. That's what you can expect when you set your sights on
Bass Lake Recreation Resort in the foothills of the western slope of
California's High Sierra.
During
spring, summer and fall, this year round 5 star Resort attracts water
sports enthusiasts. Anglers and water skiers can bring their own
boats or rent one at the nearby marina to explore the lake, which stretches
more than 4 miles into the valley behind the dam. If you're after a
fish dinner, you might cast your line for the bass that gave the lake its
name ( a fourteen pound lunker was caught here), or catfish, crappie,
rainbow trout or kokanee salmon. If you prefer simply to enjoy the
scenery, rent a party barge or sign up for a narrated one-hour cruise.
At 3,500
feet, the Bass Lake area is above the searing heat of California's Central
Valley and low enough to enjoy four seasons without the heavy snowfall
found in the higher mountains. In spring the oak trees come alive
with green leaves that turn to crimson and gold as autumn approaches.
Spend a
day at the resort and choose from hiking, playing shuffleboard, swimming
in the outdoor pool are participating in planned activities at the
clubhouse. The year-round schedule includes theme parties, luaus and
special events for major holidays.
Right
next door is Pines Village, where you'll find eating establishments, movie
theaters and stores. Drive 7 miles to the little mountain community
of Oakhurst to catch an old fashioned melodrama, shoot a round of golf,
shop for antiques or simply enjoy some good grub.
Hiking
and biking are both popular activities hereabouts, with mountain biking
ranging from easy to challenging on a network of trails, fire roads and
old railroad beds. Try the half-mile Way of Mono Trail for great
views of the lake and insight into the lives of the Western Mono Indians.
Bass
Lake is just 14 miles from the south entrance to Yosemite National Park
and about an hour from the spectacular sights of Yosemite Valley.
Anybody who has visited the park, especially in the summer, realizes that
campgrounds and other accommodations are limited and usually full.
At the end of an active day in the shadow of Half Dome, it's nice to know
that comfortable accommodations are waiting for you back at Bass Lake
Recreation Resort.
For
members, park-model trailers rent for $55, 65 and $70 and sleep from four to
six people. For groups there's a unit that can accommodate as many
as 10 guests from $100 a night. Call 559-642-3145 or email us by
going to the reservation page.