Bear Mountain Lodge is located in Silver City, New Mexico, on the edge of Gila National Forest. The establishment has a total of 13 rooms available for visitors to reserve. Breakfast is provided free of charge to those who are staying at the lodge, and dinner can be provided for an additional fee. Bear Mountain Lodge would like people to feel comfortable and relaxed during their stay. One of the buildings is pet-friendly, allowing patrons to bring their dogs with them if they would like, though the other places on the property do not allow animals inside. The establishment is also known for holding events throughout the year, with prominent activities around Christmas and a Latina festival in June.
In terms of accommodations, the lodge offers 13 rooms spread across multiple buildings. Each room boasts unique characteristics, often with views of the nearby Emory Valley or a dark-sky environment for stargazing enthusiasts. The absence of televisions in rooms can encourage guests to unwind and connect with nature and each other.
The breakfast menu changes monthly, however, some of the options that visitors can enjoy are a fruit cup with homemade granola, yogurt, coffee, tea, and juice. Breakfasts tend to alternate between sweet and savory dishes in an effort to have a variety of flavors and experiences for occupants. For guests with specific dietary requirements, it is possible for patrons to request any alterations that need to be made to the meal. In addition to breakfast, the lodge offers dinner service, with reservations required 24 hours in advance.
Beyond breakfast and outdoor activities, Bear Mountain Lodge seeks to provide a peaceful environment for relaxation. Communal spaces include porches, a Great Room with fireplaces, and balconies that offer places to unwind. The lodge also features two libraries stocked with a diverse selection of books, allowing people to sit and enjoy leisure activities such as reading. Those who are interested in exploring the natural surroundings of Bear Mountain Lodge can take advantage of three hiking trails, with personalized trail recommendations given by the owner. The lodge's 180 acres of land can provide opportunities for exploration and relaxation. Besides the three hiking trails, guests can discover two labyrinths, one constructed with locally quarried rock and another made of wood. An iconic cat bench on one of the mesas offers a spot for photographs and views of the area as well.
Bear Mountain Lodge makes an effort to provide a relaxing experience for their patrons. A few ways they try to accomplish this goal are by making their meals homemade and preparing them on-site, and there are a number of activities available, including hiking trails, outdoor art installations, and Mongolian gear. The lodge fosters a sense of community, resulting in a relatively high rate of returning guests, as observed by the owners.
Bear Mountain Lodge has several policies that can cater to the needs and preferences of its visitors. The establishment offers a pet-friendly building, complete with pet-sitting services. Children are also allowed at the business, but the owners ask that an adult supervises them, as the lodge's setting includes a pond. Guests can also bring their own horses, though they must also bring their own feed. Corrals and water are provided for horses free of charge.
Bear Mountain Lodge is involved in various events and workshops, such as pottery workshops and retreats. They also have developments on the horizon, including a cookbook that will feature stories, history, and recipes, which is expected to be released in the near future. There are also a few events that occur for holidays that are based on local traditions.
One tradition that the owner mentions is "lighting the way for baby Jesus on Christmas Eve." Unlike the modern electric displays, Bear Mountain Lodge sticks to the traditional use of candles for this special event, harking back to its roots in 1934 when the tradition began. Additionally, the lodge offers a range of activities throughout the year. Spring and summer bring the opportunity to witness the birding season migration in March, April, May, September, October, and November. Fiesta Latina, which features Latin arts with pottery, music, and horses, is celebrated in June.
There have been a variety of visitors who have spent time at Bear Mountain Lodge. One person left a review of their experience that reads, “Many animals around, both wild and ranch. We stayed three nights in Wren's Nest, which is the only room not in the main building. Breakfasts were wonderful. Staff was friendly, helpful, and well-trained.” Bear Mountain Lodge operates year-round, but its busiest seasons are March through May and September through November. The property’s location on the Continental Divide can facilitate birdwatching during these periods. Additionally, the lodge becomes a hub for butterfly enthusiasts from late July to early September, as the area typically sees an influx of these insects.
The establishment also holds a significant connection to the Gila Wilderness Area, which is said to be the oldest and largest wilderness area in the continental United States. In the coming year, Bear Mountain Lodge will celebrate the centennial anniversary of the wilderness area.
Bear Mountain Lodge, with its history and diverse range of offerings, has become a hidden gem in Santa Fe, New Mexico. While some may know the business for its paintings, the property also offers a variety of homemade products that are displayed on the premises, as guests can indulge in granola, cookies, and crackers. Additionally, the lodge boasts its own hot sauce, which originated from a twist on pickled carrots during the development of the cookbook. This unique hot sauce is likely to be more widely available in the future.
P.O. Box 1163
Silver City, New Mexico 88062
United States
Campground
