Big Bear Today Magazine January 2021

Volume 32, No. 7 January 2021
www.bigbeartodaymag.com
The Mountain’s Monthly Lifestyle Magazine
Sled, Snow,
Soar at Slide!
• Skating Away Outdoors at Bowling Barn
• Filet Mignon at Community Market
• Learn to Ski, Snowboard at Resorts
• Snowshoe to Explore Big Bear Backcountry

Page 2—January 2021
From the Publisher
People say they
love the snow, till
it actually falls
Snow is an enigma, something everyone
wishes for but no one actually
wants. Unless you run a ski area or
snow play hill, that is.
We beg for it to come and when it
does, complain that it’s cold, hard to drive
on, a pain to shovel. Too little snow and
business shuts down; too much as we found
out during the five-foot dump several years
ago and the same thing happens.
Skiers and snowboarders clamor for
it during sunny days but on stormy ones
spend the duration in the lodge, at least
before the virus, cuddled in front of the
fireplace and drinking hot toddies. That’s
if they show up at all. Many opt to just
stay home till roads are clear and then make
a mad dash for the mountains days after
powder has long since been tracked out.
Snow can be downright painful too.
It doesn’t always fall as the pretty individualized
snowflakes people think it does.
Since by definition snow is just water ice
it falls in a variety of forms, from pellets
called graupel to even hail, and these
hardly dance from the sky. Rather they
make straight beelines down and when they
clank off your forehead and nose they hurt.
I know because I’ve skied in both through
the years. Snow is even known to fall on
Mars, albeit not something you’d ski.
On television snow is portrayed as
magic and romantic, a staple of holiday ads
and Christmas movies alike (my wife has
just finished watching barrages of both in
the last month, me able to answer only with
bowl games). It always falls at just that
perfect time when the guy is about to kiss
the girl or the daughter finally learns who
her real father is, never when you’re just
going to the store or running a few errands
and flakes falling can be a real hassle.
Of course, on TV snow never sticks
to the roads, and must not be that cold either,
because people out in it invariably
aren’t wearing gloves or hats and their teeth
never chatter. It piles up nice and deep on
roadsides but cars zoom unimpeded along
highways without chains, as Santa ho-hohos
in the background or some local yokel
implores “Follow me!” up steeps impassable
even for snowcats, let alone cars.
Actually, watch carefully and you’ll
see flakes are now digitized on most ads,
adding a whole new dimension to the concept
of man-made snow. It’s just computer
pixels swirling around the screen created
by whatever video’s answer to Photoshop
is, not clinging or sticking or cold because
they’re not really there.
Faking snow has come a long way.
Several years ago a major car company
booked a photo shoot at Snow Summit
looking for a Winter Wonderland. Instead
it got beautiful spring days with no snow
on the resort’s roofs. No problem—it just
stapled tons of cotton atop the beams and
on the decks in the background, good
enough. Now they just Photoshop snow in.
There was wasn’t much natural snow
around prior to the recent holidays, mostly
only in north facing shaded areas, the remnants
of a November storm. Not really
enough to play in unless it had been subsidized
by snowmaking like at the ski resorts
and tubing hills at Big Bear Snow
Play and Alpine Slide, where depths are
feet high.
A little one-inch taste on Christmas
Eve was followed a couple days later by a
sizeable foot-plus dump. Which in turn
sparked a mad dash to the mountains, social
media lighting up with questions about
whether chains were required even as
plows were doing their thing. For the
record, California law requires that people
carry chains whenever they travel to the
mountains, an edict that’s ignored as
widely as cellphone use while driving.
Snow Summit and Bear Mountain
have been faking snow for decades. At least
theirs is real, even though some people still
think it’s artificial. Man-made snow not
drawn out of pixels is actually just pure
powder as water is atomized by cold, compressed
air and turned into snow. Nothing
added, no preservatives, it’s just snow that
comes from a gun or, more recently, fan
machines that blast jet streams of white
stuff and even high-tech wands.
Really, what most people want anyway
is snow on the slopes but not the roads,
which falls on sunny days when it’s not
cold. Snowmaking comes close to fitting
that description, real snow falling only
where it needs to and never in your driveway.
You don’t need to chain up to get to it
and if the weather is dry enough they can
make it at 45 degrees or higher, which beats
32 or less any day. When technology gets
to the point it can be made at 70 they’ll
really have something!
Since the resorts have a virtually unlimited
water supply for snowmaking courtesy
of Big Bear Lake, they can make just
about as much snow as they want. Which
was a lot before nature’s bounty arrived.
To which I say, keep it coming!
Have a good one.
Marcus
ON THE COVER: Sled, snow, soar at Alpine Slide, where bobsleds, the Soaring Eagle and
snow play hill offer unique adventures. Not to mention the new Mineshaft Coaster!
Volume 32, Number 7 January 2021
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5
8
10
16
Publisher
Marcus G. Dietz
Associate Publisher
Sandra L. Dietz
Publishing Consultant
Bret Colson
Technical Consultant
Charles Dietz
Photography/Distribution
Steve Dietz
John Daskam
Mark Gauger
In This Issue...
Big Bear Today
Satisfy Inner Olympian at Alpine Slide
Lean into banked turns, tuck through straightaways, and
experience some of the same gravitational forces Olympians
do on the Alpine Slide bobsleds, which never need snow and
always deliver Go Pro-worthy moments. Then take a flight on
the Soaring Eagle and a slide on the family favorite inner
tubing hill. Unique experiences all, only at Alpine Slide!
Skating Away on New Outdoor Rink
The ice is synthetic but the experience is very real on the new
outdoor skating rink at the Bowling Barn. Lace up a pair of real
skates or even bring your own and get ready to slide in style
with Big Bear’s latest winter activity. The rink just opened but
it’s already been a hit as we found on a recent visit.
Market’s To-Go Food That’s To-Die-For
If you have a microwave or grill then Community Market in Big
Bear City has the meal for you. This is to-go that’s to-die-for,
luscious enchiladas, triangle tip and kahlua pork among others
that’s just a zap from gourmet goodness. Not to mention filet
mignon steaks just begging for the BBQ.
Stanfield Cutoff Trail Flanked by Beauty
On one side there’s the lake, the other Stanfield Marsh.
Finishing touches have been applied to Stanfield Cutoff Trail
including decorative railing and park amenities and folks are
loving it. The short paved route connects to Alpine Pedal Path
for longer adventures and more trail stuff is in the news too.
Get Off the Beaten Path with Snowshoes
The holiday snowstorm brought plenty of white stuff which
means it’s time to social distance on snowshoes. Get away
from resort crowds and discover Big Bear backcountry where
there’s scenery and solitude. Head out on your own or join a
guided trek with Action Tours. In color, on The Back Page.
From the guns or from the sky, keep the
white stuff coming! Story this page.
DEPARTMENTS
2
3
13
14
From the Publisher
Potpourri
Area Map/
Calendar of Events
The Almanac
Big Bear's most complete
listings for recreation,
dining, and more.
Big Bear Today is a monthly magazine covering recreation,
dining, nightlife, and events in Big Bear. Reproduction of any
material, without the express written consent of the Publisher,
is prohibited. Advertising/editorial, call Big Bear Today at (909)
585-5533. Mailing address: PO Box 3180, Big Bear City, CA,
92314. E-Mail: bigbeartoday@verizon.net. Member, Visit Big
Bear and Big Bear Chamber of Commerce. Internet Address:
bigbeartodaymag.com
Production: Offset printing by G.W. Reed Printing, Inc.
Color prepress by 2-Bit Studio.
Manuscripts and Art: Contributions are welcome. Big
Bear Today is not responsible nor liable for unsolicited
manuscripts or art. Materials received will not be returned.
© Copyright 2021 Big Bear Today

Big Bear Today January 2021—Page 3

Page 4—January 2021
Alpine Slide satisfies inner Olympian
Unique ride serves up a bobsled-type slide!
Big Bear Today
L
ean into the banked turns and get
almost perpendicular to the ground.
Go into a tuck through the straightaways
to reduce wind resistance. Guide the
sled over undulations as snow-covered—
or not—slopes blur by.
A scene from the Winter Olympic
Games? Actually these visuals play out every
day at Alpine Slide, home of the only
authentic bobsled ride of its kind in Southern
California.
While most of us will get no closer to
experiencing the thrills of Olympic
bobsledding, luge or skeleton than we will
to flying in outer space, Alpine Slide brings
much of the excitement and gravitational
forces of the sport down to Earth as part of
a ride that never needs snow and always
delivers thrills galore. Riders control how
fast—or slow—they go down the track in
the most unique ride around.
Unleash your inner Olympian while
navigating sleds you control down two
quarter-mile long cement tracks. The sleds
sport ball-bearing wheels and teflon runners
so snow and ice aren’t necessary, but
otherwise the ride is the same as drivers
whip through turns and down long straightaways.
It’s a ride so real bobsledders could
train at Alpine Slide and lets everyday folks
get a taste of the Games’ exciting event.
Each sled carries one or two riders—
typically parent with a young child. Pulling
the control handle toward you applies
brake and slows the sled down; pushing
forward releases it and allows the sled to
roll freely. Far from an amusement park
attraction where there’s little or no guest
interaction, Alpine Slide offers an experience
that’s different every time down, since
riders control their own speed.
Skill is the main factor in determining
what kind of experience guests have: when
to brake and when to go faster, how to lean
into and out of each turn and more. Watching
experienced drivers negotiate the track
really brings home images of the Olympics,
especially as they shoot through
banked turns at high speed.
Each trip down starts with a scenic ride
up the chairlift, where there’s stunning
views of Big Bear Lake along the way.
Don’t let the lake views distract on the way
down though, for this is a real ride where
each driver controls their own destiny and
while some streak, many crawl.
The Olympics were the furthest thing
from the mind of seven-year-old Ellie
Thomson during a recent visit. The San
Diego resident was visiting Alpine Slide
with father Ramon as part of a YMCA Adventure
Guide weekend and the pair got
all the adventure they could handle.
“You start slow then whoop! whoop!
you press forward and go faster,” Ellie said.
“Yeah I’m excited! Lean forward into the
turns to go faster.” Even five-year-old
friend Frida Colas, also from San Diego,
got in on the fun. She rode with dad Alex
but he let her control the sled, much to his
daughter’s delight.
“Mine couldn’t go that fast till we did
the bumps (track undulations),” she said.
“Then we went really fast!”
While similar tracks are found worldwide
and at a couple dozen locations in
the country, mostly at prominent ski resorts,
the closest other one is in Park City,
Utah. Each ride serves up the ultimate Go
Pro moment as drivers with cameras
donned shoot through the turns. Some try
to video with cellphones or selfie sticks in
hand but that’s a difficult task that leads to
more distracted driving. Bobsled rides cost
just $7 each, or $30 for a five-ride book.
There’s more Go Pro moments on Alpine
Slide’s inner tubing hill, a family favorite
for years. Alpine Slide’s ski resort
quality Lenko snowguns have made an
amazing amount of snow despite the challenging
winter with depths of 15 feet or
more already.
The enclosed 210-foot long Magic
Carpet uphill lift to take guests and their
tubes to the top of all that snow—just step
on and step off, no uphill climb to tucker
parents and kids out means they save all
their energy for downhill fun and get all
Even non-Olympians enjoy bobsled-like rides at Alpine Slide
the rides they can handle.
Nightly grooming just like at the ski
resorts ensures smooth tubing on perfect
corduroy seach morning with a nice run
out at the bottom built forr the end of the
ride. Sessions are daily from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
and cost $35 which includes tube rental and
lift ticket.
Tubing under the stars during night
sessions was introduced at Alpine Slide
several years ago
and has become
wildly popular.
Guests love sliding
on snow that
gets another fresh
grooming after the
day session ends
and the slopes are
lit up. Snow gets
faster and faster as
the evening
progresses. Night
sessions are Fridays,
Saturdays
and holiday periods
including Jan.
17 from 5-9 p.m.
and cost $35.
The latest unique attraction at Alpine
Slide is the new Mineshaft Coaster which
opened last summer. Negotiate carts you
control up and down a mile-long track
filled with corkscrews, long descents and
more, reaching speeds up to 27 mph in the
process.
Alpine Slide is at 800 Wildrose Ln.
Call (909) 866-4626.
Soar like an eagle!
Control your speed on the Alpine Slide sleds (left) or slide out of control down snow-covered slopes aboard inner tubes, camera in hand (right)

Big Bear Today January 2021—Page 5
Skating away on Barn’s new rink
Skiing, snowboarding, snow play,
snowshoeing. Big Bear boasts just
about every winter activity you can
think of, save for one: ice skating.
That’s changing though with the installation
of a temporary synthetic ice rink
at the Bowling Barn. Folks are skating outdoors
wearing real ice skates on a surface
that looks surprisingly authentic and downright
slippery even though it’s not.
Actually the rink that’s around 1,700
sq. ft. is made of durable, ultra high-density
polyethylene plastic, so it never needs
a Zamboni. A glycol lubricant is applied
to the rink surface to make it slippery and
since there’s no electricity or refrigeration
required, synthetic ice skating is very environmentally
friendly.
“It’s about 15-20% slower than real
ice so inherently it’s an easier surface to
skate on,” said Steve Frisken from Chill
Entertainment, the nation’s leader in popup
skating rinks. “Hockey walls line the
rink around three sides with the fourth left
open to enhance distancing.”
All guests are required to wear face
coverings and only 12-15 skaters will be
allowed on the rink at one time to encourage
distancing and allow guests plenty of
elbow room. Which Becky Schaefer and
her five-year-old daughter Serena took advantage
of on a recent visit.
“She likes it, a lot of fun,” Becky said
of her daughter who spent much of her
session twirling in place. “At first it felt a
little different from regular ice skating then
after awhile you get the feel of it.”
The Manhattan Beach residents saw
the new rink driving by and Serena clamored
to give it a try. “I always felt that (Big
Bear) needed an ice rink and it’s nice that
it’s outside,” Becky said. “It’s perfect for
her age and something fun to do.”
Skating is offered in 30-minute sessions
on the hour and half-hour with about
15 minutes of ice time, priced at $10. For
the more adventurous half-day and full day
skating passes are available for $25 and
$40 respectively. All prices include skate
rental though guests are welcome to bring
their own as long as they’re sharp.
Ice skating is offered daily at the
Bowling Barn through late March from
noon-8 p.m., weather permitting.
Skating joins an array of fun activities
at the Bowling Barn. In addition to
bowling on 16 social-distance lanes there’s
Laser Maze, video games and great to-go
food.
Newly-installed plastic welding
screens ensure bowlers social distance
while having a great time. “The screens
give the feeling that you are in your own
little space down there,” said Bowling
Barn’s Bill Ross. “There’s only a handful
of alleys in the country using them and I’ve
only seen one other with them.”
The Bowling Barn has high-powered
speakers and amps to kick up the sound
system a few decibels and really get the
party going. There’s laser lights, dancing
and spinning on the lanes and above the
pins, while center screen drops down to
play music videos, flanked by two more
screens on each side.
State-of-the-art scorekeeping on video
screens above each lane tallies not just pin
total, spares and strikes but also running
player handicaps and even the speed of
their rolls.
Laser Maze offers a challenge straight
out of an action movie. Enter the Arena
and try to break into the vault on the other
side of the room by avoiding countless
crisscrossing beams of light, accented by
fog to make them stand out. Crawl, jump,
slide, roll, whatever it takes to cross the
obstacle course of light. Hurry...the clock
is ticking!
Break a beam and the penalty isn’t
death like in the movies, just time added
to your score. Once across hold your hand
on the master key, money and red hand
Skating on synthetic ice outdoors at the Bowling Barn
Becky and Serena Schaefer showing
how it’s done
scanner to complete the mission. Takes true
Ninja skills and while the game is easy to
Continued on page 12

Page 6—January 2021
Long runs, glow tubing at BBSP
Great selfies and videos at
Big Bear Snow Play
Fine Dining in a Rustic Stone & Log Retreatt
Fine Steaks • Seafood • Prime Rib • Lobster
www.CaptainsAnchorage.com
Est. 1947 by Andy Devine
as the Sportsmans Tavern
Open Nightly 4:30 p.m.
"Still haunted by our Ghost George"
Welcome Back!
ventually Big Bear Snow Play will
be able to debut its new expanded
base lodge with huge wraparound Edeck and snack bar. Till that time it will
have to settle for offering the longest tubing
runs in Southern California and amazing
after dark fun.
The enlarged, renovated base lodge
more than doubled in size—a project that
literally required the roof to be raised!—
and is now two stories featuring a 6,700
sq. ft. observation deck serving up amazing
views of snow play action. It was supposed
to open last season but a few delays
and then virus restrictions keep pushing it
back. When guests finally can utilize the
new space it will be the ultimate spot for
families to have fun and grab a bite.
Radiant heat helps melt snow and ice
from the deck which wraps around the entire
building with plenty of seating. Indoors
the new snack bar will offer 3,000 sq. ft.
of seating with goodies like burgers and
pizza added to the menu.
All of which enhances an already
worldclass snow play experience. At one
time the old Rebel Ridge ski area, Big Bear
Snow Play sports by far the longest inner
tubing runs in the region.
With several ski area-quality fan snow
guns lining the slopes, Big Bear Snow Play
ensures winter by making snow at every
opportunity. As the season progresses snow
depths reach 30 feet or more—three stories
high—allowing daily tubing sessions
through Easter from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
So much product allows Big Bear
Snow Play to build its own signature snow
features in addition to traditional downhill
runs. Features like whoop-di-doos, bumps
and berms
that really
add to the
tubing experience
are built as
the season
continues.
Nightly
grooming
means tubers
enjoy
perfect surface
conditions
each
morning
Enjoy Great Food
in a Historic Setting
Outdoor Dining
Under our Pine Trees!
Seating is Limited for your Safety
Molekule Air Purifiers
for Safety of Customers & Staff
Rare Photos, Memorabilia,
and More!
Advance Reservations
Highly Recommended
with corduroy snow.
Getting to the top of all the snow
would be a real chore if not for two Magic
Carpet uphill lifts. Just step on and step
off! No uphill climb to tucker parents and
kids out so they save energy for downhill
fun and get all the runs they can handle.
For a special treat try after dark Glow
Tubing sessions at Big Bear Snow Play, 5-
9 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays and holiday periods
including every evening through
January 9 plus Jan. 17. The slopes already
looked like a Christmas tree for night tubing
when 11 RGB strobes that change sequences
from color to color and 1,500 LED
lights were installed and then even more
lighting was put in two years. The slopes
are a kaleidoscope of colors with all the
shades of the rainbow reflecting off snow.
Enhancing the experience even more
are colored inner tubes instead of traditional
black tires. Red, white and blue camo
tubes—the area went to colorful inner
tubes instead of the traditional black tirelook
several years ago—really light up after
dark, especially when the black light
comes around. Even the Magic Carpet lift,
enclosed for guest comfort, is lit up.
All inner tubing sessions at Big Bear
Snow Play are $35 which includes tube
rental and Magic Carpet lift ticket. Badge
Days honor military, fire, police, EMT and
other emergency personnel with 2-for-1 lift
tickets Mondays through Thursdays,
nonholiday.
Big Bear Today
Big Bear Snow Play Glow Tubing night sessions are in a whole new light
Enjoy a full day of winter play that
includes a flight on the Soaring Eagle for
just thirty bucks as Alpine Slide hosts its
annual winter KOLA-FM "Slide Day" on
Thursday, January 21 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
For $29.99, guests receive an all-day
pass for inner tubing on the area's snowplay
hill, which includes tube rental and use of
the Magic Carpet uphill lift, a $35 value in
itself. Guests also get two rides on the
one-of-a-kind Alpine Slide, an Olympic
bobsled-like experience full of banked
turns and long straightaways. Plus a flight
on the Soaring Eagle, a 500 ft. thrilling
descent at up to 26 mph.
There’s even turns on Putt `N Around
Go-Karts and 18-hole miniature golf
course, weather permitting. When hunger
strikes, Slide Day includes hot dog, chips
The 6,400 sq. ft. Big Bear Ropes
Course adjacent to the lodge is open yearround,
weather permitting with 37 challenging
elements including suspension
bridges, ropes, spinning log, curved bars
and more. The state-of-the-art ropes
course, only one in Big Bear, is two stories
high with an engaging mix of obstacles
and challenges that bring out your inner
Ninja warrior.
Unlike Ninjas, guests are wearing
five-point, full-body safety harnesses that
are tethered into the structure, so there’s
zero chance of falling as they navigate obstacles
like spinning log or a variety of rope
challenges. The advanced safety system
is unique. A slider “puck” attached to the
safety harness that can only be inserted or
removed by a certified operator is locked
into a continuous belay track system that
follows participants through every station.
There’s curved bars that adventurers
must wind their way around and swinging
steps. Along with a variety of suspension
bridges, some with wide-open gaps and
others dangling ropes to grasp onto. Even
an 80-foot descent on the Sky Rail zipline
with automatic braking.
Twenty-minute sessions are $12 and
guests. All users must be at least 42” tall
and under 48” must be accompanied by an
adult. Maximum weight 300 lbs.
Big Bear Snow Play/ Ropes Course is
at 42825 Big Bear Blvd. (909) 585-0075.
Play all day, even soar for $30 on Slide Day
and Coca-Cola for lunch.
Combined the full day of fun in the
Big Bear sun would cost well over $75, so
parents and youngsters save serious
money. Thanks to the area’s aggressive
snowmaking with Lenko fan guns plus
naturalsnow conditions are excellent. Getting
to the top of all the snow is easy,
thanks to the Alpine Slide’s Magic Carpet,
covered for guest comfort.
KOLA-FM radio will be on hand for
an on-air remote broadcast on Alpine
Slide's expanded sundeck. Enjoy the recently
remodeled heated lodge, with spacious
windows to soak in the views plus
video games and family-priced snack bar.
Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain is on
Big Bear Blvd. 1/4 mile west of the Village.
Call (909) 866-4626.

Big Bear Today January 2021—Page 7
January time to learn at BBMR
January is learn to ski and snowboard
month, and the holiday storm and tons of
snowmaking have made for terrific conditions
as the month arrives.
Most runs at both Snow Summit and
Bear Mountain are open as 2021 arrives.
That includes Geronimo at Bear, the longest
and steepest groomed run in the region,
along with Snow Summit’s Chair 6 plus
famous blue square runs like 7 Down, Ego
Trip, Perfect Pitches and Chair 9’s low intermediate
favorites.
Both resorts have expansive beginner
areas and lesson programs designed to introduce
newbies to sports they can enjoy
their entire lives. Bear Mountain for instance
has the largest beginner area in
Southern California, with lots of elbow
room for those just getting their ski and
board legs under them. Snow Summit’s
beginner area is also ample and when sliders
are ready to take the next step there’s
Summit Run, a lengthy low-level run from
the top of the mountain that introduces beginners
to all that’s good in winter.
Adults can book packages that include
lift ticket, lesson and equipment starting
at $143. Deduct $25 if you don’t need
equipment rental. Book equipment rentals
Resort Uniform Days
Snow Summit and Bear Mountain
continue to show gratitude to all military,
emergency and medical personnel
by offering discount lift tickets during
popular Uniform Day promotions.
Police, fire, EMT and active military
need only flash their badges or
proper ID at Snow Summit or Bear
Mountain windows to purchase an allday
lift ticket for $50 plus 2% TBID
charge during Uniform Days on January
6-7, February 3-4 and March 3-4, 2021.
Remember these are two-mountain
passes for the discounted price of one
and there’s a free shuttle running between
the resorts every half hour.
at least seven days in advance and save
20%, while passholders save 10-15% off
group lessons. Lessons alone for adults
start at $63.
Both resorts have built new Adventure
Academies in the past couple years,
special places for youngsters. Adventure
Academy is a one-stop shop for family
rentals, lift tickets and state-of-the-art
learning centers, 6,000 square feet of nirvana
for children ages 4-12 and even their
parents. Bear’s is actually a little bigger
than that, and both are designed to get families
out on the new faster.
Mom and Dad can watch from the
viewing decks at each Adventure Academy
location and cheer on their youngsters during
their lesson since they get passes into
the base area, or head out to the slopes
themselves. Kids get their own separate
five acre beginner area to learn on serviced
by moving carpets.
There’s various types of lesson to cater
to each child’s needs and renting equipment
is a snap with kids fitted for ski or
snowboard boots on a new step-through
ramp. Plus the unique Riechman Equipment
Rack system allows for faster fullservice
rentals.
Covid-compliant protocols are the
norm this season at Big Bear Mountain
Resort, which means that no one without a
valid lift ticket, season pass or reservation
is allowed into the base areas at Snow Summit
and Bear Mountain. Nor are they be
allowed on the free shuttles to the resorts
either. Reservations are not required to secure
a spot on the mountain but you won’t
get into the base areas without a valid lift
ticket or season pass.
All parking is paid on Fridays through
Sundays during peak winter months starting
in December at $20 per car even at remote
lots like Brownie and Garstin. Parking
can be purchased online in advance or
from on-site attendants. Remote parking
is free for BBMR and Ikon passholders.
Other virus-related protocols include
Lift ticket, reservation or season pass required to enjoy the expanded deck at Bear
Mountain, part of the protocols in place for winter at the resorts
obvious wearing of masks in public areas
and social distancing. Chairlifts are loaded
to partial capacity and groups are advised
to only ride with those they traveled with.
With these restrictions in place night
sessions at Snow Summit have become
very popular. No need to pay for parking
if you arrive after 2 p.m. nor worry about
getting a lift ticket. Sessions scheduled
from 3-8:30 p.m. nightly through Jan. 9
plus Jan. 15-17, 22-23 and 29-30.
Open terrain at night typically includes
the beginner area plus Summit Run and
Miracle Mile top-to-bottom including
variations like Steilhang, Hogback and
Summit Connector. In addition Westridge’s
famous terrain park is also open with jibs
Standard
Motel Rooms
$85
with Fireplace
& Queen Bed
Non-Holiday / Midweek
Weekends Slightly Higher
Subject to change without notice.
and jumps—in fact it gets a fresh groom
prior to night session so guests enjoy the
freshest terrain since first chair.
There’s some 20 different food and
beverage venues between Snow Summit
and Bear Mountain, some outdoors and
others in, and all are expected to operate
in 2020-21 at limited capacity and with enhanced
safety procedures. Additional graband-go
opportunities have been introduced
as well. Guests continue to enjoy the free
shuttle running between Snow Summit and
Bear Mountain every half-hour with their
tickets and passes valid at both resorts.
Visit bigbearmountainresort.com for
tickets and information.
CLOSE TO VILLAGE,
LAKE, DINNING
CLOSE to SLOPES!
Deluxe
Spa Rooms
$145
with Cozy
Fireplace
(800) 255-4378
local (909) 866-2166
41121 Big Bear Blvd. • Big Bear Lake, CA
www.BlackForestLodge.com

Page 8—January 2021
To-go food that’s to-die-for, filets too
T
o-go food that’s to-die-for, like
roasted triangle tip seasoned just
right, tangy kahlua pork with barbecue
sauce and more. Including thick, expertly
trimmed cuts of filet mignon.
If you’ve got a microwave or barbecue,
dinner is on at locals favorite Community
Market in Big Bear City. Like
homestyle meat loaf like mother makes and
enchiladas so authentic they taste like
they’re from the local cantina. Indeed Big
Bear’s best fast food doesn’t come from a
restaurant.
Microwaveable fully-cooked entrees
and side dishes are the ultimate in convenience,
definitely not the TV dinners you
grew up with. Prepared in Community
Market’s convection oven and commercial
smoker and then vacuum-sealed air tight
for freshness, the meals have become
wildly popular and for good reason...just
grab and zap for a real homestyle meal.
“We put out heartland comfort food
that’s preservative-free and cooked the way
you would do it at home,” Doucette said.
“Most items are portioned for two people
or servings. Everything we do is fresh,
done right here and handmade. It’s cold
fast food.”
Like enchiladas, rolled by hand in
chicken, pork or cheese varieties. “Pork is
always topped with green sauce, cheese is
usually red, and the staff goes back and
forth on which sauce chicken should get,”
Doucette said. Either way just 90 seconds
or so in the microwave delivers a delicious
Mexican meal right at home.
Filet mignon ready for your
grill; chicken ready for your
mouth!
Roasted triangle tip is another highlight.
It’s perfectly seasoned and cooked
before spending time in the store’s sousvide
oven that utilizes precise temperature
control to deliver consistent, restaurant
quality results. “It’s still pink edge to edge,
medium rare tri-tip that’s perfect every
time,” Doucette said. Roasted pepper pork
loin is prepared the same way.
Kahlua pork comes from a recipe an
employee raised in Hawaii provided whose
uncle roasted pigs in the ground. Community
Market simulates the process in its
pressure cooker and duplicates it amazingly
well. Especially with its homemade
barbecue sauce, Doucette’s own recipe,
that adds tangy sweet, tangy flavor.
Side dishes create full meals, such as
baked potato stuffed with cheese and all
the fixings or potatoes O’Brien, vegetable
medleys, savory mac and cheese and more.
“There’s even smoked tofu for vegetarians
that’s very popular,” Doucette said. All of
the take-home items are dynamite, usually
priced around five bucks or less, which is
why Community Market added a second
refrigerator case to meet demand.
Then there’s Community Market’s famous
filet mignon, ready for the barbecue.
Typically sold in packages of two expertlytrimmed
half-pound cuts, the steaks are
regularly priced around $11/lb., sometimes
a couple bucks less during frequent sales.
That’s right: filet mignon for five or six
dollars each, a meal that would be thirty
bucks or more at a restaurant.
Even discriminating eaters find virtually
no fat or grisle on the filets
and that’s not by accident.
“Filet mignon comes with a
strip of grisle in the middle that
we take off every time,” Community
Market’s Mark
Doucette said. “It takes five
seconds to remove it, but most
places don’t bother.”
Community Market has
long been known for hot foods
like chicken kabobs, which
started from humble beginnings
a quarter-century ago to
being at least part of the reason
the Kentucky chain left
town. Each kabob boasts a
coop’s worth of bird, succulent
pieces of skinless, boneless
chicken first rolled in Community
Market’s own barbecue
sauce. Then it’s breaded in special
seasonings and flour,
cooked and assembled onto a
skewer, five golf-ball sized pieces apiece.
Rotisserie chicken is another winner.
Typically Community Market goes
through 250 pounds of kabobs each week.
Big Bear Today
Yet they’re only cooked in small batches,
12-15 kabobs at a time, so they’re always
fresh and tender. Get `em early though for
Continued on page 10
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Packed with all the ways to get out and just have FUN,
from the lake to the trails.
Keep your distance, and your sanity, with Big Bear Today!
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Big Bear Today January 2021—Page 9
Rockin’ Burritos, shrimp cocktail at Cave
The music may be on hold, but the
doors are open at The Cave Big
Bear, with treats for taste buds instead
of the ears.
Food service at the intimate concert
venue in Big Bear Village has been
reimagined with the shutdown, and the result
is Rockin’ Burritos & More. The quick
serve Mexican eatery opened in late summer
with burrito bar, bowls, tacos, killer
Baja shrimp cocktail and more.
To be sure this isn’t fast food even
though orders are filled quickly. Food is
made to order right in front of customers
who choose their protein and decide between
a multitude of ingredients.
Rockin’ Burritos is along the lines of
Chipotle except it’s location at The Cave
allows it to also offer full cocktail service
including craft beers and fine wines. Plus
there’s more than just Mexican on the
menu, including loaded baked potatoes and
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a terrific Baja shrimp cocktail filled with
huge crustaceans and smothered on top
with tons of avocado.
The Cave had been looking to change
up its food service anyway and the shutdown
provided the perfect opportunity.
Rockin’ Burritos opened in late August and
has proven to be a favorite, quality food
served quickly at good prices, delighting
visitors and locals alike.
Burritos are the top seller followed by
bowls, said Jimmy Smith of Rockin’
Burritos, both reasonably priced at $8.50.
“We’ll serve over a hundred burritos a day
plus lots of bowls,” he said. “Everything
is prepared fresh daily.”
Burritos start with a tortilla on the grill
but from there the guest directs the show.
Choose protein from a list that includes
carne asada, chicken, pork, even spicy
jackfruit vegetarians yelp about online.
Then it’s time to select from a lengthy
list of additions and customers
can choose as many as
they want. There’s obvious
options like shredded
cheese, diced tomatoes, lettuce
and jalapenos, but also
Mexican or cilantro rice,
refried or black beans,
cilantro with onion and
more. Plus four different
salsas to choose from, pico
de gallo, green and red, even
corn salsa. Everything’s included
except sour cream,
guacamole and nacho
cheese which are each $2
extra.
“We’ve had some
people order so many ingredients
it’s hard to fold the
burrito,” Smith said as he
began preparing mine.
“They end up huge, like
this,” holding his hands
apart like cradling a football.
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and Ye Shall Find!!
Use the Search Feature on our website to learn
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and general Big Bear information!
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Custom burritos and bowls made your way in seconds; Baja shrimp cocktail too
“You have to tuck it in right.”
Mine wasn’t as ambitious, just carne
asada, refried beans, cheese, tomatoes and
fresh salsa. It still ended up enormous, a
meal in itself that was delicious, just as the
yelpers claimed. Wife Sandy meanwhile
opted for the bowl with chicken, Mexican
rice, cheese, lettuce and tomato. “It’s basically
a burrito bowl,” she said, surprisingly
polishing off the finished creation.
With all those fixin’s loaded nachos
are a natural and they also make great
baked potato toppings. There are also tacos
and street corn on the menu.
Don’t miss amazing Baja shrimp
cocktail, a treat for the eyes as well as the
palette with tons of fresh avocado on top.
Year-Round
Christmas Room!
They don’t skimp on the shrimp either,
huge chunks and whole crustaceans swimming
in zippy sauce with veggies like diced
tomato, onions, cilantro and more.
Pair the meal with a cold domestic or
craft beer, specialty cocktail or wine. And
be sure to check out the worldclass concert
venue that, hopefully, will be hosting
acts like Jefferson Starship, Ace Frehley,
Wynonna Judd and others again soon.
Rockin’ Burritos is open inside The
Cave Thursday through Sunday from noon
till 8 p.m., 9 on Saturday and Sunday.
—by Marcus Dietz
Rockin’ Burritos is inside The Cave
at 40789 Village Dr. Call (909) 878-0204.
Our rooms are
filled with gifts
and treasures
from nearly
20 artists!
Come Up the Historic Staircase of the 1920's Navajo Hotel
• Bear-ly Used
Books
• Jerky
• Pottery
• Aprons
• Sports
Memorabilia
• Everything
Bears & More
Open 7 Days
a week
Big Bear's from 9:30 a.m.
Shopping Experience
There is not “Anything” we do not have!
Village Faire
40794 Village Dr.
(909) 866-8220
Above the Leather Depot in Big Bear Village

Page 10—January 2021
Beauty flanks new Stanfield Cutoff Trail
On one side there’s beautiful Big Bear
Lake, a terrific spot to view sunset. On the
other is Stanfield Marsh, a great place for
sunrise.
If not for the road in between this
would be a pretty idyllic spot. Even with
it, the new dedicated bicycle and pedestrian
trail across Stanfield Cutoff serves up
stunning views while linking with Alpine
Pedal Path to serve up miles of safe, paved
lakeshore walking.
Stanfield Cutoff Trail, which connects
north and south shore on the east end of
the lake, is essentially finished with only a
few minor touches to be done in spring.
Attractive railing with mountain design,
cutouts to allow lake access and other nice
park amenities like benches, picnic tables
and bike racks are in place.
Stanfield Cutoff has been completely
resurfaced, a new protective guardrail has
been installed, and there’s new pavement
markings. The City of Big Bear Lake's contractor
paved public parking areas near the
intersection of Stanfield Cutoff and Big
Veterans get more than just a day of
appreciation from the Forest Service for
their service and sacrifice.
Beginning Veteran’s Day 2020 and
continuing indefinitely, men and women
who have served their country enjoy free
access to their national forests and grasslands.
Gold Star Families who have endured
the ultimate sacrifice also receive
fee-free, unlimited access to public land
and waters.
Trailheads, picnic grounds, visitor
centers and most other day-use recreation
sites are free including local Adventure
Pass locations. The Forest Service manages
18 National Forests in the Pacific
Southwest Region, encompasseing over
20 million acres across California. National
forests supply 50 percent of the water
in California and form the watershed
Free forest access for vets, Gold Star families
of most major aqueducts and more than
2,400 reservoirs throughout the state.
To access the benefit, veterans need
just present any of several government issued
documents verifying veteran status.
Gold Star families can download and print
a voucher to show a ranger or place on
the vehicle dashboard at unstaffed sites.
“This country is deeply indebted to
the dedicated men and women who have
served in the military, and to the families
of those who made the ultimate sacrifice
in defense of our nation,” said Forest Service
Chief Vicki Christiansen. “We are
pleased to offer this free access opportunity
as a way to honor them and to encourage
them to explore our Nation’s big
backyard.”
For more information, visit the Forest
Service at www.fs.usda.gov/R5.
Big Bear Today
Great views, access to Alpine Pedal Path on Stanfield Cutoff Trail
Bear Blvd. All of which proved popular
during the holidays. Stay off the lake ice
when it forms, since flunctuating temperatures
can make it very unstable.
The total project budget is approximately
$1.3 million, and is funded by State
grants and dedicated Measure Y transient
occupancy tax. S. Porter, Inc., a local contractor,
is performing the work.
In some ways the new section is really
an extension of Alpine Pedal Path, the
3.2 mile paved route along the north shore
that runs from Stanfield Cutoff to the Solar
Observatory. Combined they make for
a great walk next to the water and through
forest, passing Carol Morrison boat launch,
Meadows Edge, Juniper Point and the stillclosed
Discovery Center along the way.
In addition the City continues to expand
Rathbun Creek bicycle and pedestrian
trail, recently paving an additional
1,200 linear ft. of the trail. The newest segment
extends an existing 1,800 ft. segment
that runs along Rathbun Creek (from Elm
Street to Best Western) all the way to Sizzler
Restaurant on Big Bear Boulevard.
The sections combine to create great
bike rides, walks or runs along the creek
in a wooded area. Paved and fenced the
level path is scenic as it traverses past willows,
towering pines and a few aspens.
Once complete, bicyclists and pedestrians
will be able to travel on a dedicated asphalt
path all the way from Moonridge
commercial area to Big Bear Blvd.
The City is expanding the bicycle and
pedestrian trail network, with future plans
to extend Rathbun Creek Trail north past
Kmart and behind CVS and Interlaken
Shopping Center. Eventually it will run
south all the way to the new zoo. There’s
two-hour parking at the trailhead on Elm
near Cougar, below Bear Mountain’s lower
lot (turn at Bear Belly Deli).
A planned path along Sandalwood
Drive and Big Bear Blvd. will be constructed
in spring 2021 that will tie all these
projects together in a cool network.
The City is also in the process of purchasing
a vacant 3.2 acre tract of land located
adjacent to the Castle Rock trailhead
with the idea of creating a future dedicated
parking area beyond the wide spot in the
road that’s currently used. Expected to accommodate
between 30-40 vehicles when
completed, hopefully no later than summer
2022, plans include installation of park
facilities on the property, which is directly
adjacent to Castle Rock Trail with beautiful
views of the lake and mountains.
The $600,000 land purchase is funded
exclusively by transient occupancy tax revenues,
and construction of the new parking
area will be primarily funded by a
$741,000 Federal grant.
Community Market...
Continued from page 8
the last batch is usually around 4 p.m.
Homemade burritos made with flour tortillas,
tasty taquitos and guacamole sauce,
poppers, homemade salads and more are
also in the deli.
There’s so much more to Community
Market too. Like oven-ready chicken cordon
bleu, made fresh with Black Forest
ham. Fresh produce, a nice selection of reasonably-priced
wines, gourmet coffee
beans, Thrifty ice cream, liquor, propane
tanks and much more. Naturally there’s
lottery tickets too.
Community Market is at 100 E. Big
Bear Blvd. in Big Bear City, four miles east
of the supermarkets. Call (909) 585-2641.
18

Big Bear Today January 2021—Page 11
Support birds with houses, feeders
Along-term study released earlier
this year and based on decades of
research revealed that the world’s
population of birds has decreased by over
three million in the last half-century.
That’s a decline of some 30%. “People
are worried about what it means,” said
Randall Putz of Chirp Nature Center in the
Village. “Birds are the canary in the coal
mine so to speak—as birds go, we go.
People are recognizing that we need to pay
attention and support birds.” Western wildfires
have also afffected bird populations.
During the pandemic people have
definitely been paying attention, with more
time at home to look out windows and see
the wonders of nature. “More people watch
birds than NASCAR,” Putz said. “It’s the
second most popular hobby after gardening.
Birds provide enjoyment and beauty.”
Birding takes flight for enthusiasts of
all levels at Chirp Nature Center in the Village,
just east of the Christmas Tree Lot.
There’s feeders, houses, baths, binoculars,
books, seed, scarves and birds-eye cam
views of nests around the country.
Everything new and old birders alike
need to give our feathered friends a helping
hand—er, wing. “Feeding and providing
housing for birds is the least we can
do,” Putz said. “Estimates are that almost
half of all households feed birds.”
Chirp also plants the seed for birding
by hosting monthly walks and talks in
spring. Just as important, Chirp offers solutions
as well as product. When
nuthatches were pounding the sides of a
house, for example, alternative housing
distracted the birds.
“On our first live walk of the season
last July we had a whole family of mountain
quail pass right in front of us,” Putz
said. “Another time a redheaded sapsucker
looked like he was posing just for us.” He
added that recently he spotted a Clark’s
nutcracker, “always a thrill.”
When it comes to promoting birds Big
Bear has plenty to work with. Well over
200 different types of birds can be found
here, obviously the well-publicized bald
eagles but also tanagers, finches and even
orioles among many others. Chirp has free
checklists birders can use to identify up to
248 different Big Bear birds.
“Big Bear is along the Pacific Flyway
and at altitude so lots of birds migrate
through here,” Putz said. “Bluff Lake has
the widest variety of birds in the Valley.”
Williamson’s sapsucker is one of several
species in the area that entice birders.
When you can’t go to them use bathes
and houses to bring the birds to you, and
Chirp has plenty to choose from. Some
feeders mount on windows to allow for up
close viewing from inside the house. Others
have a cage built around them to let
only song birds in and keep pigeons and
squirrels out. Still others are bear-proof.
Bluebird houses are popular and
there’s also homes for kestrels and screech
owls. Along with squirrel feeders that let
the fuzzy friends perform aerobatics that
Feeders in all shapes, sizes and prices, birdhouses and more at Chirp Nature Center
are fun to watch. Birdhouses covered in
seed are an easy way to get into feeding;
as birds eat seed you’re left with the house.
Feeders and bathes made of recycled
water bottles can stand up to Big Bear’s
intense sun, rain and snow. “They’re guaranteed
to never crack, split, fade or peel,”
Putz said. “Bird bathes are just as important
as feeders since they need the water in
our dry climate. We even have heated baths
that won’t ice over in winter.”
Chirp has the seed that goes into the
feeders including it’s own custom Big Bear
mix. “It has lots of black oil sunflowers,”
Putz said. “Western and more rare mountain
bluebirds especially like meal worms.”
Join Chirp’s seed club to save up to
20% on all food purchases. Buy seed by
the bucket with lid that safely stores it and
when it’s empty just return to get a full
bucket, thus eliminating the plastic bag.
Gift items are also available at Chirp,
from custom design T-shirts and stickers
to puzzles, games and art. Plates, mugs,
door knockers, toys, calls and more are
found, all dedicated to birds.
The store makes bird watching easy
by streaming 30 live nest cams on four
screens. The images continuously rotate
and feature a variety of locations including
Big Bear’s own bald eagle nest.
Chirp is open daily 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Chirp Nature Center is at 40850 Village
Dr. (888) 412-4477.
Full Hot & Cold Deli
Groceries • Firewood & Propane • Spirits • Lotto
Try Our Famous
Rotisserie Chicken
& Kabobs!
We cut the highest
Quality Meats
Daily
Award
Winners:
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Liquor
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Groceries
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Chamber of
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Excellence
in Business!
Fully-Cooked Delicious Heat & Serve Meals Like Tri-Tip,
Smoked Pork Loin, Enchiladas & More! • Fresh Produce Too!
(909) 585-2641 • Open 7 Days
Community Market
100 E. Big Bear Blvd. (at Greenway) • Big Bear City
1 mile east of The Convention Center

Page 12—January 2021
Tunnels, dips on new Mineshaft Coaster
T
hree complete 360° corkscrew
turns. Steep descents, two 100-foot
tunnels, dips and drops galore, all
served up during a mile-long gravityfueled
adventure. And you control your
own speed through it all!
It’s enough to have riders screaming
all the way around the track like they’re
on an amusement park ride. Except this is
the newly-opened Mineshaft Coaster at
Alpine Slide, and unlike any park ride
guests control how fast their carts go down
the six-tube stainless steel track. Which can
be pretty fast, as carts hit speeds of up to
27 mph at multiple points along the way.
Or slower, if that’s what you prefer.
First ride of its kind in California,
Mineshaft Coaster has been a huge hit since
opening at Alpine Slide in Big Bear in
summer 2020. Two up tracks on a
motorized bullwheel pulley system provide
the uphill lift, including a long one out of
a cool new start house built at the bottom.
The real fun is on two downhill tracks,
as carts cross three 200-foot bridges, shoot
through S-turns and catch a few whoopdi-doos.
The whole ride is elevated above
the ground, at times two dozen feet up and
at a minimum four feet, really giving riders
a sense of speed as surroundings blur by.
It’s a roughly nine minute ride—faster
drivers can get closer to seven minutes—
that left Liana Martinez breathless.
“It’s really fun, I wasn’t expecting it
to be that fast but it was,” the Bakersfield
resident said. “There were a ton of twists
and turns too. It’s kind of like a roller
coaster except we were able to brake along
the way. We’re definitely going again.”
She rode with her husband Nico. Two
adults can ride Mineshaft Coaster together
if their combined weight is less than 375
lbs., making for a real thrill-filled shared
experience, though many carts go solo.
Front rider must be at least 38" tall and
three years old so kids can go, while rear
pilot 54" and age 18 or older.
“It’s kind of like the big brother of the
Alpine Slide,” said San Diego resident Sam
Gerdes of the area’s longtime favorite
signature sleds. “The ride was longer than
I thought it would be. I thought it was two
different rides instead of one long ride.”
His sons Isaiah, Micah and Noah took
turns too. “Really fun, you get to go as fast
as you want through lots of twists and
turns,” Isaiah said. “I only used the brake
where I was supposed to use it. I wasn’t
scared.”
Guests are secured by multipoint
safety belts at the start house. Rider in back
controls the cart’s braking mechanism and
is required to keep at least 80 feet from the
sled in front. But Mineshaft Coaster
features “Smart Cart” technology with a
computer controlled, fail-safe magnetic
braking system that gently applies brakes
if a cart approaches too close to another.
Plus each ride is equipped with speed
governor and centrifugal brake to control
top speed.
Each cart features specially designed,
lockable seat belts and shoulder restraints
to assure rider comfort at all times. Plus
carts have energy absorbing front and rear
buffers.
A lengthy up track climb to the top of
Alpine Slide awaits riders before they start
to descend and shoot through the first rocklined
mining tunnel. They wind their way
to the bottom before ascending again on
another up track back to the top for the
second tunnel and cool corkscrew that
leads to a quick drop; those going fast
enough get a little G-force on.
The track traverses Alpine Slide’s
entire property, around and under Alpine
Slide bobsleds, past the snow play hill and
above the
go-karts,
dipping in
and out of
pine trees.
Even the
entrance is
awesome,
built from
scratch with
mining carts
and rock out
front, plus
Big Bear’s
coolest sign.
Coaster
tracks are
popular in
Europe and
are popping
Big Bear Today
A mile of drops, dips and turns await riders on Mineshaft Coaster at Alpine Slide
up in ski resort towns including Snowbird
in Utah. Mineshaft Coaster is over 2,000
feet longer! Other coasters are in Jackson
Hole, Steamboat, Bogus Basin and
Heavenly’s Nevada side. Plus
entertainment hub Branson, MO.
Mineshaft Coaster is open daily yearround
and tickets are $20 per person,
children $10.
Alpine Slide is at 800 Wildrose Ln. on
Big Bear Blvd. 1/4 mile west of the Village,
Call (909) 866-4626.
Ice skating at Barn...
Continued from page 5
learn, it’s impossible to master with four
different skill levels to choose from.
Beam Buster in contrast sees players
trying to bust each laser beam before time
runs out. Both games are fun for the whole
family with top scores posted outside the
arena. Even record your experience on
video for just a buck.! Each game is $3 for
single player or $6 for two.
Bowling Barn has great grab and go
food like barbecue chicken pizza, street
tacos, chicken wraps, flaming hot onion
rings and carne asada fries. There’s a variety
of video and action games too, like
Hoop Fever, pool tables, air hockey and
many more. Including old favorites like
Alpine Skier and Dance Revolution.
Bowling Barn is at 40625 Big Bear
Blvd. (enter on Bonanza). Call 878-BOWL.

Big Bear Today
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QUALITY...
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East
Seafood
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Pasta
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Chicken
Bakery!
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Best Breakfast!
DAILY Breakfast Special!
Every Saturday Night
All-You-Can-Eat
Beef Ribs!
NIGHTLY DINNER SPECIALS
WED—PRIME RIB
THURS—CLOSED
FRIDAY—HOMEMADE CHICKEN POT PIES
OR SURF & TURF
SAT—ALL-U-CAN-EAT BEEF RIBS
CHICKEN POT PIES IF AVAILABLE
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FRESH CATCH OF THE DAY FRI/SAT
After lunch or dinner...
treat yourself from our
Bakery!
Caramel-topped apple
dumplings...cheesecakes...
apple streudel...fresh-baked pies
of the season!
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Dine Next to Our 2 Cozy
Fireplaces or Under Trees on
Our Outdoor Patio!
337 W. Big Bear Blvd.
(2 miles east of the Convention
Center in Big Bear City)
(909) 585-7005
...FAMILY
PRICES!
To To Los Angeles
and Orange County
Captain John’s
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Marina
CAPT. JOHN’S GROUT BAY
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W E
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Castle Rock
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Fun on Jan. 21!
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The Mountain’s Monthly Lifestyle Magazine
All Phone Numbers are area code
(909) unless otherwise noted
January
2-3
U10-14 South Series giant slalom
race at Snow Summit, free
spectating. 866-5766
4-8
Dick Kun Kids Ski Camp for Big
Bear grades 3-7 at Snow Summit.
$50. (760) 662-1990.
6-7
Uniform Days at Snow Summit
and Bear Mountain; $50 lift tickets
for badge-carrying personnel.
866-5766.
21
KOLA-FM Slide Day at Alpine
Slide; all-day snowplay pass,
two Alpine Slide rides, Soaring
Eagle flight, lunch and more for
$29.99. 866-4626.
February
3-4
Uniform Days at Snow Summit
and Bear Mountain; $50 lift tickets
for badge-carrying personnel.
866-5766.
GILNER POINT
METCALF
Holloway
BAY Marina
Big Bear and Vicinity
Pleasure
Point
Performing Arts
Center (PAC)
Polique Canyon
Trail
Solar Observatory
BIG BEAR LAKE
Mill Creek
Mill Creek
Alpine Slide
at Magic Mtn.
Pine Knot
Trail
Cougar Crest
Trail
Woodland
Trail
Discovery Center
Serranno
Campground
East Boat
Ramp
EAGLE POINT
Swim
Beach
Big Bear
Pine Knot
Marina
Marina
Meadow Park
Town Trail
6-7
U10-14 South Series slalom
race at Snow Summit, free spectating.
866-5766
March
3-4
Uniform Days at Snow Summit
and Bear Mountain; $50 lift
tickets for badge-carrying personnel.
866-5766.
7
17th Annual Bear Mountain
Scout Day for boys and girls
with discounted lift tickets, rentals
and lessons for registered
scouts. 866-5766.
13
USARC Ski-A-Thon at Bear
Mountain; $150 donation ($500
teams of four) for lift ticket, line
cutting, lunch, apres ski party
and goodie bag. 584-0269.
13
Pre-St. Patrick’s Day Party at
Wyatt’s at the Convention Center
with live band. 585-3000.
Youth ski racing at
Snow Summit!
Walk
Board
January 2021—Page 13
Big Bear City
Moonridge
For updated calendar of events visit us on the Internet!
www.bigbeartodaymag.com
CC
Club View Drive
Big Bear Mountain
20
Greenthumbs Native Plant Restoration
Program returns with
volunteers working with virus
protocols from 9 a.m.-3 p.m.;
meet at the Ranger Station.
382-2809
Ȧpril
17
Greenthumbs Native Plant Restoration
Program returns with
volunteers working with virus
protocols from 9 a.m.-3 p.m.;
meet at the Ranger Station.
382-2809.
30-May 2
Make A Wish Trailblaze Challenge
sees 28 miles of hiking
on Pacific Crest Trail to benefit
children with critical illnesses.
(310) 788-9474.
Live music weekends at Wyatt’s
Click Us Up!
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To Victorville, Barstow
& Las Vegas
Museum
Big Bear
Alpine Zoo
To Angelus Oaks
and Redlands
E
V
E
N
T
C
A
L
E
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Page 14—January 2021
Recreation
Guide
Action Tours
Zip through the trees on nine ziplines.
Segway along Village streets, discovering
Big Bear history at the same time on a most
unique tour and ride. Learn tree rope climbing
skills like rappelling from certified
instructors or seasonally snowshoe through
the forest. (909) 866-0390.
Alpine Slide
Shoot down a tobogan-style ride at Magic
Mountain, as a hand lever allows you to
control the speed. After an exhilerating
run, ride the chairlift back to the top for
more fun. $7/ride, 5-ride books $30. Also
new Mineshaft Coaster ride plus snowplay
area with Magic Carpet uphill lift, miniature
golf, go-karts, Soaring Eagle, familypriced
snack bar, video games. Open daily.
Big Bear Blvd., 1/4 mile west of the Village.
(909) 866-4626.
Bike Rentals
Bear Valley Bikes across from Alpine
Slide has a variety of bike rentals. Front
suspension $10/hour, $30/4 hours, $40/all
day. Full suspension $20/hour, $50/4 hours,
$70/all day. Full suspension demo $25/
hour, $60/4 hours, $85/all day. 40298 Big
Bear Blvd. Call (909) 866-8000.
Goldsmiths Pedego Electric Bike Shop
has a variety of electric bike rentals, 42071
Big Bear Blvd. (909) 866-2728.
909.878.4FUN
at North Shore Landing
& Holloway’s Marina
Pirate Ship Lake Tours Aboard ‘Time Bandit’
Narrated lake tours aboard
1/3 replica of a Spanish galleon
seen in the movie ‘Time Bandits’
• Pirate Booty for the Kids
• Cocktails for Adults • Sunset Tours
THE ALMANAC
Bingo
The Elks Lodge hosts stirring Bingo games
each Friday night at 7 p.m. All are welcome
ages 18 and over. 40611 Big Bear Blvd.
west of the Village, across from Lakeview.
(909) 866-3557. Temporarily closed,
please call
Bowling
The Bowling Barn offers new lanes with
automated scoring for bowling enjoyment.
Also arcade games and full-service cocktail
lounge with pool. Glow Bowling after
dark with black lights, sounds. Bowl 3
games for the price of 2 with coupon in this
issue. Open daily. 40625 Big Bear Blvd.
(enter on Bonanza).(909) 878-BOWL.
Temporarily closed, please call
Cross Country Skiing
All the great hiking trails in Big Bear make
great destinations for winter cross country
skiing, provided there’s enough snow.
Holcomb Valley is especially popular with
skinny plankers.
Goldsmith’s Boardhouse has waxless,
steel edge all-mountain wide touring skis,
boots and poles for small child to large
adult, $15/day. Also telemark skis, $22/
ski-boot-pole. 42071 Big Bear Blvd. (909)
866-2728.
Fishing
Catch some fun with Big Bear Charter
Fishing on a 22' fully loaded, super comfortable
boat with afriendly, expert guide
Aaron Armstrong. Open or private charters
for individuals or groups of all ages.
All gear provided—rods, reels, bait, lures,
• Waverunners • Jet Skis
• Sea Doos! • Kayaks, SUP
• Wakeboard/Water Ski Rides
• Poontoon Boats
and Fishing Boats!
Big Bear Today
Recreation • Dining • Nightlife • And More
Road Conditions: (800) 427-ROAD quickmap.dot.ca.gov
An array of obstacles and challenges awaits on the ropes course at Big Bear
Snow Play; see page 6 or call (909) 585-0075
drinks and snacks. Bass fishing too aboard
a Ranger Comanche. At Holloway’s Marina;
(909) 866-2240.
Gold Rush Mining Adv.
The adventures are real and so are the
treasures! Pan for gemstones and fossils
millions of years old in the working sluice
with water wheel, crack geodes to reveal
prescious stones within, find real pearls in
oysters and unearth dinosaur bones and
poop. Emporium with mining and dinosaur
theme gifts plus old fashioned fudge,
candy, sarsaparilla and more. 50016 Big
Bear Blvd. (909) 866-5678.
Helicopter Tours
See Big Bear from above during aerial
tours by Helicopter Big Bear. The lake, ski
resorts, desert and surrounding mountains
can be viewed aboard a climate-controlled
Robinson R44 helicopter flying daily from
Big Bear Airport. Tours start at $35 per
person based on two passengers. (909)
585-1200.
Hiking
There’s dozens of trails and natural areas to
enjoy the rugged beauty of the San
Bernardino National Forest. From easy
strolls along the lake to stenuous climbs
into the mountains, there are trails for all
abilities, including families, within a short
drive of Big Bear. For information on all
trails in the Valley and the required
Adventure Pass, visit the Discovery Center
on North Shore Dr., about two miles west
of Stanfield Cutoff. (909) 866-3437.
Alpine Pedal Path is a very easy 3.5 mile
(each way) paved trek following the lake
on the north shore. Popular with hikers,
bikers, skaters, strollers and wheelchairs
as it passes Carol Morrison East Boat
Launch, Discovery Center, Serrano
campground, Solar Observatory and more.
Castle Rock Trail is a short but strenuous
hike, that ends with a panoramic view of
Big Bear Lake. Legend has it that a beautiful
Indian maiden, jilted by her lover, took her
life by leaping from this towering 100 ft.
Continued on page 15
Enough Pause. Fast Forward to fun with Big Bear Today!
www.HollowaysMarina.com or www.BigBearBoating.com
COZY CHALETS WITH FIREPLACES & GREAT VIEWS...
LOCATED AT SNOW SUMMIT'S BASE AREA...
JUST STEPS TO THE SKI LIFTS!
Also Available
Lakeside RV Park
with
Full Hookups!
Remodeled Bathrooms and Store
www.800BigBear.com
Time to Push Play!
Packed with all the ways to get out and just have FUN,
from the lake to the trails.
Keep your distance, and your sanity, with Big Bear Today!
And when you can't
PICK US UP,
then CLICK US UP
for online adventure!
The Mountain’s Monthly Lifestyle Magazine
www.BigBearTodayMag.com

Big Bear Today January 2021—Page 15
monolith. It’s reached after a mostly uphill, Horseback Riding Big Bear Snow Play has Southen specials and Saturday night entertainment.
.8 mile walk past a stream and featuring
Baldwin Lake Stable is open year-round California’s longest tubing runs. Two German food a specialty plus steaks,
beautiful views. Located on Hwy. 18
for horseback riding. Rates are by the hour, Magic Carpet lifts mean guests never have seafood, chicken, burgers. Ground floor at
between Boulder Bay and the dam; park on
offering one, two, three and four-hour rides to walk back to the top and snowmaking the airport. (909) 585-9339.
the lake side of the road.
with longer rides heading along the famous lets the area build features to enhance the
THELMA’S TWIN PINES-Homestyle
Cougar Crest Trail is moderate two-mile Pacific Crest Trail plus sunset rides. A experience. Heated base lodge and paved
cooking at awesome prices make this a
(each way) hike. As it winds above the variety of spectacular mountain trails with parking. Next.to Motel 6 on the boulevard
lake’s north shore, it offers up great views horses for all riding abilities. For little one mile east of the supermarkets.Sessions
family dining favorite. Daily breakfast,
of water and the surrounding mountains. buckeroos there’s hand-led pony rides and daily 10 a.m.-4 p.m. plus Glow Tubing lunch and dinner specials. All-you-can-eat
Trailhead is on North Shore Dr. about two petting zoo. Reservations suggested for all sessions Fridays, Saturdays, holiday beef ribs on Saturday nights, and homemade
miles west of Stanfield Cutoff, .6 mile rides. Big Bear Blvd. east to stop sign at periods 5-9 p.m. All sessions $35 which pot pies are big favorites. Open daily for
from the Discovery Center where you can Hwy. 38, go through intersection, veer left includes tube rental. (909) 585-0075. breakfast, lunch, dinner. 337 W. Big Bear
park without an Adventure Pass. on Shay Rd. to 46475 Pioneertown Rd., Snowshoeing
Blvd. Call 585-7005.
Woodland Interpretive Trail is a short, Big Bear City. (909) 585-6482.
No lift lines—nor lift tickets to buy— Big Bear Lake
scenic family stroll with minimal elevation
gain, located on the north shore near Cougar
Mineshaft Coaster makes snowshoeing one of the fastestgrowing
winter sports. A great way to
BIG BEAR LAKE BREWING CO.—
Crest. Free trail maps (available at the First ride of its kind in California! Ride
Craft micros brewed on premises and
trailhead or Discovery Center) identify carts you control on a mile-long track with
escape the crowds and enjoy the serenity of
gourmet pub grub and appe-teasers at this
markers along the route noting local steep drops and climbs, 360-degree
Big Bear’s endless hiking trails covered by
new brewery in the Village. Full bars
vegetation, wildlife areas, etc.
corkscrew turns, two mining tunnels and
winter’s snow. Get maps, directions etc.
upstairs and down with lakeviews and all
more. Up to two can ride at one time. Open
from the shop below or Discovery Center.
Pacific Crest Trail comes through Big
sports all the time on big screens. 40827
daily at Alpine Slide, on the boulevard 1/4 Soaring Eagle
Bear from Onyx Summit through the East
Stone Rd. (909) 878-0283.
mile west of the Village. (909) 866-4626.
Valley to Hwy. 18 and then past Holcomb
Zip 500' downhill on the new Soaring CAPTAIN’S ANCHORAGE—Historic
Valley Rd. and Cougar Crest through Miniature Golf/Go Karts Eagle attraction at Alpine Slide, only one and rustic, this restaurant, built in 1947 as
Holcomb Valley before continuing its 2,638 Putt ‘N Around, located at the Alpine Slide
of its kind in California. Reach speeds up to the Sportsman’s Tavern and once owned
mile journey from Mexico to Canada. Call at Magic Mountain, features a landscaped
26 mph during the dramatic downhill by Andy Devine, is a Big Bear favorite
the Discovery Center to find out where to 18-hole miniature golf course complete
descent—only after riding backwards to with specialties like prime rib, Alaskan
catch this famous international trail. with water hazards and breaking greens.
the top! Up to two can ride at one time. King Crab legs, seafood, and steaks.
Pine Knot Trail from Aspen Glen picnic Then there’s an oval-shaped go-kart track
Open daily. On the boulevard 1/4 mile Homemade soups, romantic seating, and
area climbs the southern ridge above Alpine with high-banked turns, which nine Can
west of the Village. (909) 866-4626. cocktails in the Andy Devine Room. Open
Slide three miles (each way) to Skyline Dr. Am racers—including four two-seaters—
Zoo
for dinner daily from 4:30 p.m. Moonridge
2N10, through lush meadow and stands of with Honda 5.5 horsepowers engines and The new Big Bear Alpine Zoo at Moonridge Rd., just off Big Bear Blvd. (909) 866-
white fir and Jeffrey Pine. Continue another an array of safety features zip around. opens November 5! Grizzly and black bears, 3997.
1/4 mile to Grand View Point for spectacular Open till 9 p.m. daily. 866-4626. bobcats, coyotes, mountain lions, , eagles, DYNASTY—Authentic Szechuan cuisine
180-degree vistas.
Snow Playing
and other animals now have a new state-ofthe-art
home with creatures comforts for BBQ too and great cocktails. 40989 Big
with an array of specialty dishes. Mongolian
Holcomb Valley Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain, which
both animals residents and guests. Open 10 Bear Blvd. 866-7887.
At one time, Big Bear Valley was thriving has snowmaking to ensure snow, offers
a.m.-4 p.m. with animal presentations and OLD COUNTRY INN-Family-style home
gold country. The last remaining signs of great inner tubing daily 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and
special programing. 747 Clubview off cooking at this local’s favorite with
this historic chapter in Big Bear history are there’s a Magic Carpet to take riders to the
Moonridge Rd. $15 adults, $10 ages over breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. Steaks,
featured in a driving tour through what is top. Night tubing (5-9 p.m.) Fridays and
60 and children 3-12, two and under free. German and Italian specialties and much
known as Holcomb Valley. Totaling 11.6 Saturdays plus holidays. All sessions $35
(909) 584-1299. Temporarily closed, more with great weekday specials. 41126
miles over a dirt road, the tour offers stops which includes tube rental and lift. The
please call
Big Bear Blvd., east of Pine Knot. Call
at Two Gun Bill’s Saloon, Hangman’s area also has the Southland’s only Alpine
866-5600.
Tree, Pigmy Cabin, Metzger Mine, and Slide and a great outdoor deck, plus the
STILLWELLS—In Northwoods Resort,
more. Free maps available at the Big Bear Putt ‘N Around go-karts and miniature Dining
open for breakfast, lunch and dinner with
Discovery Center on the North Shore— golf course. 1/4 mile west of the Village on
fresh seafood and pasta dishes, gourmet
call 866-3437. Allow three hours or more. Big Bear Blvd. 866-4626.
Guide
steaks, homemade soups and more. 40650
Village Dr. (909) 866-3121.
After Dark...
Big Bear’s Nightlife & Entertainment Guide
ALLEY OOPS SPORTS BAR—Family Karaoke each Saturday night at 8 p.m. Glow
Bowling at 8:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 7 p.m. Friday, 2 p.m. Sat. and Sun.
Watch the big game on big screen TVs, open to all ages. Happy Hour Monday-
Friday 5:30-7 p.m. with 50¢ off all bar drinks (except draft), $1 hot dogs. Bowl
3 games for the price of 2 with coupon in this issue. Inside the Bowling Barn at
40625 Big Bear Blvd. (909) 878-BOWL. CLOSED FOR COVID-10, PLEASE CALL
BIG BEAR MOUNTAIN BREWERY— Craft microbrew beers, food in a cozy
atmosphere. Wear your gear, 75¢ off your beer. 40260 Big Bear Blvd. 866-BEER.
THE BONE YARD—Over 40 beers on tap plus large selection of wines and spirits.
560 Pine Knot Ave. (909) 878-0401.
NOTTINGHAMS TAVERN— Dayton Borders Thursdays on the patio from 6-8 p.m.
40797 Big Bear Blvd. near Bartlett. 866-4644.
THE CAVE BIG BEAR—Your favorite artists up close and personal! See national
performers, top tribute bands and more in Big Bear’s hot new intimate concert
venue. Good food and full cocktail service including craft beers from Big Bear Lake
Brewing Co. CLOSED FOR COVID-19, PLEASE CALL (909) 878-0204.
THELMA’S RESTAURANT—Brad from Silver Moon on the patio every Friday and
second and fourth Saturday 5-7 p.m. 337 W. Big Bear Blvd. 585-7005.
THE LODGE AT BIG BEAR LAKE—Fridays see singer Nikki Sparks in Stillwells
lounge 6-9 p.m. Brad from Silver Moon, Johnny Jukebox. Call for schedule. 30650
Village Dr. (909) 866-3121.
THE PINES LAKEFRONT/TAVERN—Live music on the outdoor patio Saturdays and
Sundays 1-4 p.m. 350 Alden Rd. (909) 866--5400.
WYATT’S CAFE & SALOON—Open 4 p.m. Wednesdays, Thursdays delivery/
takeout only, Fridays, Saturdays with live music. on the outdoor stage. Wyatt’s
at Convention Center, Big Bear Blvd. at Division. (909) 585-3000.
Big Bear City
BARNSTORM RESTAURANT—
Comfortable dining at the airport. Open
daily for breakfast and lunch, dinner
Thursday through Sunday with nightly
Click Us Up!
bigbeartodaymag.com

Page 16—January 2021
THE BACK PAGE
Social distance on snowshoes in woods
T
he path we’re following is welltracked,
but on either side of us and
extending deep into the forest
there’s virgin powder—lots of it. After the
holiday storm, it’s deep, burying tree
branches and obscuring shrubs.
The surface layer of the powder has a
microscopic crust to it after exposure to
sun and warmer temperatures. My ski poles
pop through that crust effortlessly, releasing
entombed fluffy pow-pow like air escapes
from a balloon.
We’re not skiing this beautiful powder—untracked
at the resorts ends hours
(minutes?) after the dump ends. Rather,
we’re getting our fix of freshies on snowshoes,
arguably the fastest-growing way to
play in the forest during winter. It’s the only
way to find untracked snow days, even
weeks, after snowstorms, and a great way
to enjoy winter play if you’re worried
about the virus and concerned about resort
crowds. Out in Big Bear backcountry,
you’re guaranteed to social distance.
Snowshoeing is also about the cheapest
way to get out and play during winter.
There’s no lift ticket to buy, and Atlas
snowshoes cost just $20 to rent for the day
at Goldsmith’s Boardhouse. Other than
that, you probably have the rest of the
equipment already, like Sorels or good hiking
boots for footwear, ski poles, jeans or
snow pants, and day pack with water bottle.
Besides being cheap, snowshoes take
folks into Big Bear backcountry that can’t
be viewed by car or even from a resort
chairlift. Summer hiking trails make great
snowshoe destinations when snow is abundant.
Bring a picnic—maybe a little wine,
sandwiches, whatever fits in your pack—
and see a side of Big Bear that you didn’t
know existed.
The new Maple Hill Trails Complex
immediately north of the high school for
instance is open to snowshoers, about 200
acres of low level trails with only modest
elevation gain. New Sawmill Pebble Plain
is another winner just a mile or so to the
west in Big Bear City. Heck, almost any
hiking trail on the South Shore works if
there’s been recent snow, as long as the
slopes are north-facing, be it Pine Knot
with solid elevation gain where snow players
hang out, areas along Hatchery Rd. off
Hwy. 38, many more.
Finding white stuff when snow hasn’t
fallen for awhile is more of a challenge.
Bow and Deer Canyons near Bear Mountain,
for instance, can harbor goods long
after the storm rolls through. The Millcreek
area near Cabin 89 trail off Hwy. 2N10 is
another popular spot, where the trek is usually
well-packed but you’re unlikely to see
another soul.
It’s not unusual to spot wildlife off the
beaten path either. Coyotes, birds including
hawks, occasional deer, even bobcats
are often viewed, along with endless expanses
of powder-filled bowls and
distant views of Big Bear Lake.
For years Big Bear Discovery
Center has led guided snowshoes but
with current conditions those outings
are on hold. Action Tours continues
to lead guided snowshoe treks
on its property high above Onyx
Summit. Three-hour outings start
with an off-road adventure to the
snow and are customized for each
group so guests can go easy, hard or
any combination.
Head out among the Jeffrey and
Ponderosa pine trees with
snowcapped peaks all around. Snowshoes
and poles are provided plus training with
experienced guide. Tours are for ages 10
and up and priced at $99 per person with
military and veteran discounts available.
Big Bear Today
Explore Big Bear backcountry on snowshoes
Call (909) 866-0390.
Goldsmiths Boardhouse (42071 Big
Bear Blvd) has snowshoe rentals and information
on current trail conditions. Call
(909) 866-2728.