Bear Mountain 101
— Location, Architecture, Golf Environment —
The Bear Mountain neighborhood on Lake Chelan’s south shore offers a convenient location, timeless southwest architecture, and golf fairway views. Learn more about this pristine neighborhood tucked above Lake Chelan.
History
Like its adjacent neighbor, Clos CheValle, the creators of Bear Mountain Ranch had the long game in mind. The first parcels were purchased in 1970’s and over the coming two decades planning steadily refined the vision that would eventually become Bear Mountain Ranch.
In 2006, residential development and sales began following the completion of the golf course. The first phase centered around the newly created Bandera and Paintbrush Ways. A year later, additional home sites were added with the creation of Sabio Way.
Bandera and Paintbrush hug the fairways of the front nine of Bear Mountain Golf Course. Sabio perches atop a knoll offering comanding views of both fairways and Lake Chelan.
A third phase, Noche Vista, begins development in 2026.
Location
Bear Mountain enjoys a coveted south shore location with “quick in, quick out” access. South shore living reduces the travel time to a home or a getaway cabin by fifteen to thirty minutes when compared to a north shore property. This may not seem like much, but after repeated weekend trips from Seattle or mid-week trips to Wenatchee, it begins to add up.
Bear Mountain also enjoys a softer summer sun than the north shore while still receiving ample rays in the winter. The neighborhood is located at a higher elevation than many other Lake Chelan neighborhoods. This brings slightly moderated tempatures in the summer and also extends winter into March.
Architecture & Covenants
Bear Mountain is known for its clearly defined architectural identity. The homes incorporate Southwest-inspired elements—stucco exteriors, Corten roofs, arches, and earthy tones—that give the neighborhood a cohesive, intentional feel. This is not a “mix-and-match” subdivision. From the start, Bear Mountain was designed to feel curated, and that vision has held up over time.
The neighborhood began with nine sample home designs and a robust set of Architectural Guidelines to offer guidance in all dimensions of design. Owners building a home will save money working with an architect who has experience working with the Guidelines.
What is not coded into the Guidelines is outlined in the Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CCRs) and subsequent amendments. The HOA operates with efficiency and professionalism over general operations as well as architectural review.
Given the sloping topography of Bear Mountain, many homes incorporate a significant quantity of stairs, both inside and outside the home. This can be a barrier to aging in place. Buyers are encouraged to consider this perspective as they tour various homes for sale.
Golf Environment
Lastly, Bear Mountain is known for its amazing golf course. Homes surrounding the course enjoy grand lake vistas along with views overlooking fairways and greens. The combination of lake, fairways, and surrounding hills gives Bear Mountain a sense of openness that’s especially striking at sunrise and sunset.
For the right buyer, Bear Mountain offers something special: strong architectural character, expansive views, proximity to golf and town, and a neighborhood identity that feels intentional rather than accidental. This is a unique combination that will only continue to increase in value.
