April 2021 Big Bear Today Magazine

Volume 32, No. 10 April 2021
www.bigb eartodaymag.com
The Mountain’s Monthly Lifestyle Magazine
Rare
Wildflowers
on Pebble Plain!
• Sawmill One of Big Bear's Other Pebble Plains
• 44 Beers on Tap at the Bone Yard
• Celebrating Earth Day Locally and Globally
• ‘Eye of God’ a Worthy Early Season Hike

Page 2—April 2021
From the Publisher
Two years running,
marking Earth Day
means getting creative
T
he
first Earth Day was on April 22,
1970 and I actually remember it
well, all these years later.
I was in middle school and for students
it was a day’s reprieve from the usual Three
R grind of reading, riting, rithmetic. There
were ecology-themed films and outdoor
fun and games, dedicated to this great blue
planet and more fun than classroom stuff.
Earth Day got more people than just
us students involved. It’s estimated that 20
million took part that first year, about 10%
of the country’s population back then. Now
each Earth Day, at least pre-pandemic, mobilizes
a billion people around the world
into some sort of environmental action in
over 190 countries.
Democratic Wisconsin senator
Gaylord Nelson came up with the idea of
a teach-in on college campuses and enlisted
the support of Republican congressman
Pete McCloskey. The pair engaged Denis
Hayes who created an 85 person staff to
launch events across the country. The name
was changed to Earth Day which immediately
resonated with the press and public.
Within a few months of the first Earth
Day, the Environmental Protection Agency
was created, along with first-of-their-kind
laws. Like the National Environmental
Education Act, Occupational Safety and
Health Act, and the Clean Air Act. Those
who remember the bad smog days of the
1960’s in Orange and Los Angeles Counties
know how valuable the latter law is.
More action continued to follow as
Earth Day became an event that brought
both political parties together along with
business and faith groups, educators, really
everybody. Two years later the Clean
Water Act was passed followed a year after
that by the Endangered Species Act.
Then the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide
and Rodenticide Act.
In 1990, 20 years after the first event,
Earth Day went global. Over 200 million
people participated in 141 countries. The
event gave the worldwide recycling effort
a huge boost and helped lead to the 1992
United Nations Earth Summit in Rio de
Janeiro. For his idea in founding Earth Day,
senator Nelson was awarded the Presidential
Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest
civilian honor, by President Clinton.
Last year marked 50 years since the
first Earth Day, a half-century, usually a
big deal and golden anniversary. Earth
Day’s was hardly even mentioned. Of
course, in April 2020 we were in the early
throes of this novel coronavirus and people
were being told to stay indoors, not out.
Now comes the first Earth Day since
the milestone one that flew under the radar
last year. 2021 seems to be on the same
trajectory. Visitors to earthday.org find a
scattering of events across the country including
a couple in the Southland. That’s
for in-person events, which is kind of the
whole purpose of Earth Day to begin with.
There are additional virtual events if you’re
content to do Earth Day online.
Locally Earth Day has never received
the attention you’d expect. Bear Valley
Electric Service annually hosts an expo
with environment-related vendors but it’s
a no-go for the second year in a row. Nothing
at Big Bear Discovery Center either,
closed till Fall 2021.
Sometimes there’s been a hike or
cleanup tied to Earth Day but never the
kind of annual event that would get listed
on earthday.org to begin with. Surprising
given that Big Bear is surrounded by National
Forest and home to a stunning lake,
with species found here and nowhere else
in the world (story page 4). There’s not
even a hike or cleanup this year.
There are two volunteer Saturdays
around Earth Day to get involved with if
you’re so inclined. The long-running
Greenthumbs is expected to return April
17 but the scheduled March date was canceled
so who knows. Restoration days return
a week later on April 24, but only five
people are needed. Read about both events
and how to participate in this issue.
Otherwise it looks like a quiet 2021
Earth Day, both in Big Bear and around
the country, even globe. Of course, any day
featuring environmental engagement can
be Earth Day. Whether you pick up broken
snow toys and trash in the forest, explore
rare pebble plain terrain, take a hike,
there’s lots of ways to mark Earth Day.
At least people don’t look weird at you
anymore when you step out of the house,
unlike a year ago during official lockdown.
Though I do confess to having busted out
of confinement last year to mark Earth Day
on the Pacific Crest Trail, which while
closed to thru-hikers trekking the whole
2,650 miles from Mexico to Canada, was
open for day hikes.
Along with a ski day at Mt. Baldy,
probably the only resort in the world open
at the time with all others shut down.
Which makes me one of the very few who
skied to celebrate Earth Day 2020!
Have a good one.
Marcus
ON THE COVER: See wildflowers that grow here and nowhere else in the world on the
Pebble Plain, in Baldwin Lake and other areas, with great hiking to boot.
Volume 32, Number 10 April 2021
4
5
7
8
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
Walk on the Wild(flower) Side
Big Bear’s favorite spring trail isn’t long, but packs a big
wallop as it winds through Baldwin Lake Ecological Preserve,
home to rare wildflowers found here and nowhere else. The
visitor center at the trailhead won’t be open and there’s no
guided tours as in past years, but the trail is open showing off
a real “super” bloom.
More Than One Pebble Plain to Explore
The main expanse of this terrain unique to Big Bear in Baldwin
Lake gets most of the attention, but there’s other areas to
explore too. A great trail network winds through Sawmill,
Dixie Lee and other Pebble Plains smack in the middle of Big
Bear City, but with remote feel.
In-Person Bird Walks, Online Talks at Chirp
Monthly bird walks and talks return to Chirp Nature Center, a
chance to explore birding hot spots in Big Bear and learn about
our winged friends. Bird populations have seen shocking
declines in the last 50 years and this is your chance to give
avian assistance.
4 Dozen Beers on Tap, Spirits, and BBQ
The new outdoor patio with cornhole and other games has
proven handy at the Bone Yard in the Village, with plenty of
seating and kid and dog-friendly. Just another reason to visit,
as if great barbecue, nearly four dozen beers on tap, and
hundreds of spirits and bottles of wine weren’t enough. Plus a
special Cigar & Whiskey sampling event coming soon too!
Hike Pacific Crest Trail to `Eye of the God’
It was a sacred site to the Serrano Indians and a rock pile to
dynamite to subsequent miners looking for gold. Eye of the
God is still an impressive sight despite the desecration and a
great destination reached by hiking Pacific Crest Trail.
Mark Earth Day with forest volunteer
efforts. See pages 7 and 10 for details
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 April 2021—Page 3

Page 4—April 2021
INCH-HIGH COLOR SHOW
Short self-guided trail explores the unique Baldwin
Lake Ecological Preserve pebble plain, home to
rare wildflowers that grow only in Big Bear
○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○
T○ his year there’s no organized group
tours and who knows if the free
interpretive maps will be at the
trailhead.
Still spring is arriving on the Baldwin
Lake pebble plain and the seasonal show
that unfolds each year on this unique terrain
goes on, virus or not. The onsite visitor
center won’t open again in 2021 but
families are still free to explore an area
home to wildflowers that grow here and
nowhere else in the world. Last year, even
as the world shut down in spring, pebble
plain came to life, just as it has for thousands
of years.
At first glance there’s nothing to suggest
there’s anything special about this rugged,
barren terrain. In fact the area for the
most part lacks vibrant color, save for
shades of clay soil and an endless expanse
of blue sky horizon. The only thing that
breaks up the stark horizon is nearby
Baldwin Lake, the Valley’s naturally occurring
body of water that only occasionally
has water lapping at its shores.
It’s only upon closer inspection that
the uniqueness that is the Baldwin Lake
Ecological Preserve comes to life. There’s
color here, beautiful shades of yellow and
red and purple, if you’re willing to look
closely for it. There’s history too—some
150 years ago this area was the epicenter
of Southern California’s largest gold rush.
Perhaps most significantly, there’s life here,
no less than ten different floral species that
exist here and nowhere else on the planet.
A self-guided interpretive trail and
visitor center explores Baldwin Lake Ecological
Habitat via a short loop that visits
11 marked posts. Developed by the Forest
Service in conjunction with Fish and
Game, the loop is short, just over a halfmile
in length, and it presents a healthy
dose of rare habitat and history.
The trailhead is located along Hwy.
18 in Baldwin Lake just west of Holcomb
Valley Rd. The terrain is rocky so good
footwear is recommended, and there is a
touch of elevation gain, but the trail is well
marked and easy to follow as it winds along
old fire roads and even wagon trails from
yesteryear. History abounds, starting at the
building marking the trailhead—it once
was known as the “Horse House,” a synonym
for house of ill repute activities that
reportedly went on here decades ago.
As the trail winds through open sagebrush
habitat overlooking Baldwin Lake,
visitors learn about the flora and fauna that
call this area home. Deer, coyotes, mountain
lions, a variety of small mammals,
birds and reptiles live in this harsh terrain,
where the sun’s rays are intense—bring
your sunscreen—yet winters are harsh.
Three types of jays—pinyon, Steller’s and
scrub—are found in the San Bernardino
Mountains.
The trail’s highlight comes at posts #7
and #8, as it visits Pebble Plain. Scattered
patches of rocky clay soil are in fact some
of the planet’s most unique terrain, believed
to be created during the Pleistocene
periods 10,000 years ago when glaciers
covered much of the area. Pebble Plain is
so unique, it has been compared to coral
reefs with as many as 20 species in a square
meter.
Big Bear’s unique climate, particularly
in spring—freezing nights, warm days—
causes pebbles to literally push to the soil
surface. It’s a habitat only the most hardy
can survive in, like “belly plants” only an
inch or two high, best viewed by lying
down. Douglas’ violets, actually yellow,
Big Bear Today
Tiny Douglass’ violets, actually yellow but now in season on the pebble plain
look like miniature daffodils and are usually
visible in April. Parish’s rock cress,
Bear Valley sandwart, Kennedy buckwheat
and others are mostly unique to this area.
It’s among the highest concentrations of
rare plants in North America.
Belly plants contrast nicely with colorful
displays that aren’t particularly
unique, like red Indian paint brush, orange
California poppies, and even purple lupine
that smells like grape soda. Artifacts from
the mining era are mixed in with more recent
items that are purely trash...please
leave the area exactly as you found it.
Stop #10 marks western juniper, best
identified by red stringy bark, scaly green
leaves, and small light purple berries. These
slow-growing trees are hardy and
enduring...some in the forest are believed
to date over 2,000 years!
If this short loop isn’t enough hiking
for you, continue east on Hwy. 18 another
quarter-mile to Holcomb Valley Rd. and
turn left. Just before the transfer station at
the end of the road is the famed 2,638 mile
Pacific Crest Trail. The section on the left
is closed after last year’s Holcomb Fire but
the southern section on the right sports panoramic
desert views.
Up close ther5e’s an inch-high color show of purple and yellow. in the distance xpansive views, all part of rare terrain at Baldwin Lake Ecological Preserve

Big Bear Today April 2021—Page 5
Trails explore Sawmill Pebble Plain
Baldwin Lake Ecological Reseve gets
all the publicity and is the largest,
but it’s hardly the only Pebble Plain
terrain in Big Bear.
Indeed Pebble Plain, a soil and strata
system found only in Big Bear and a holdover
from the Ice Age, can be seen at locations
other than the east valley mainstay
(story page 4). Like between Moonridge
and Big Bear City, as Villa Grove, Sawmill,
Horseshoe and Dixie Lee Pebble
Plains bump shoulders amidst a towering
forest of Jeffrey and pinyon pines and a
few oaks too.
A cool trail system explores Sawmill
Pebble Plains Ecological Preserve, in the
middle of town yet completely remote. All
courtesy of San Bernardino Mountains
Land Trust, which in recent years purchased
about 750 acres in the area and created
a trail network with the help of volunteers.
Several trails explore this special area,
mostly well-marked with modest uphill
climbs and elevation gain. Plus there’s still
more loop and connector variations that
create multiple trail combinations, some
still a work in progress but most complete
and top-shelf quality.
Even better are the access points.
There’s eight or more trailheads with
signage and free maps detailing the area.
Moonridge portals can be found at Villa
Grove, Klamath, Tuolumne and Alameda
Rds, while Big Bear City trailheads include
Rose Hill plus Needle and Dixie Lee Lanes.
Plentiful signage on the trails is an-
other plus, showing the way and distance
between points. Like the recreation-oriented
South Shore Trail Network, which
has created Skyline Trail and several others,
the Land Trust’s conservation approach
to its system is user-friendly. All
this, mind you, has been done in just six
years, when Villa Grove was acquired before
Horseshoe was purchased in 2016.
Rose Hill Trail is one of the Preserve’s
hidden gems, gently rising above Big Bear
City near Community Market and leading
to Horseshoe Pebble Plain about 1-1/4
miles away. Enroute hikers or equestrians—like
Pacific Crest Trail, mountain
biking is not allowed in the Preserve—are
presented multiple choices, on veering to
scenic Lookout Point (worth doing), taking
connector loops and such.
At first glance Pebble Plain doesn’t
look that special, just a mix of gravel and
stones embedded in orange-tint clay soil
remiscent of Mars. Yet it’s some of the
planet’s most unique terrain, found only
in Big Bear and Holcomb Valleys and believed
to have been created during the
Pleistocene periods 10,000 years ago when
glaciers covered much of the area. Pebble
Plain is so special, it has been compared
to coral reefs with as many as 20 species
in a square meter.
Big Bear’s unique climate, particularly
in spring—freezing nights, warm days—
causes pebbles to literally push to the soil
surface. It takes unique species to live here,
like ash-grey Indian paintbrush, Bear Valley
Sandwort and Southern Mountain
Scenic hiking and wellmarked
trails in the Preserve
Buckwheat, all federally
threatened and found on the
Preserve. Or Parrish’s rock
cress and Douglass’ violets,
which appear in spring, native
only to Big Bear.
“The system is built to
basic Forest Service standards,”
said Tom Highberger,
who with wife Denise along
with Jim Baugh helped design
it. He spent 34 years
with the Forest Service in recreation management
so he would know.
“The goal was to get rid of roads and
have trails be the primary paths for lower
end hiking,” he said. “Horseshoe has been
degraded by vehicular traffic, but now that
it’s fenced it’s starting to come back.” He
added that the process takes about 10 years.
www.SBMLT.net for information.

Page 6—April 2021
A pip, a peep, then nothing
One bald eagle chick died in its shell and the other
never hatched, leaving Big Bear’s birds 0-for-5 in 2021
People watching the live nest cam
could tell something was wrong after
the first bald eagle chick didn’t
emerge from its shell.
On March 18 the first egg in the twoegg
clutch begin the pip process of breaking
through the shell. That night the baby
bird could even be heard chirping inside
the egg on the nest microphone. Then next
morning, no activity was observed as the
chick apparently died still inside its shell,
perhaps unable to break out or from the
elements.
Unfortunately nothing was also the
story of the clutch’s second egg. The normal
incubation period of 35 days or so
came and went with nary a pip to be seen.
At 40 days in late March the Forest Service
said that a successful hatching was
highly unlikely.
At press time bald eagle parents Jackie
and Shadow were still been incubating the
egg but as time progresses they’ll start to
leave it unattended for longer and longer
periods. At some point the egg will be
found by ravens or other scavengers. And
another clutch is considered highly unlikely
till next year.
None of the five eggs laid by Jackie
in 2021 survived as January’s clutch saw
two eaten by ravens and a third break. Virtually
a repeat of last year, when two eggs
never hatched for unknown reasons.
For two years straight before that, an
eagle survived from each pair of eggs laid,
so Big Bear now has true native bald
eagles.. The mortality rate for bald eagle
eggs and eaglets is 50% and Big Bear has
certainly seen that and then some.
Even so bald eagle numbers nationwide
are soaring. Once threatened with
extinction and on the Endangered Species
List, bald eagles have made an incredible
recovery in recent years. A United States
Fish and Wildlife report shows that the
number of birds in the Lower 48 states has
quadrupled just since 2009.
In 1963 there were just 417 nesting
pairs in the continental U.S. That number
has ballooned to over 71,000 with over
316,000 individual bald eagles. In 2009
there were 72,434 solo birds so the number
has risen by a factor of four.
In Big Bear bald eagle numbers seem
to have been dwindling ago even as populations
nationwide recover. Monthly counts
held by the Forest Service for 40 years
were discontinued after the 2019 season
so there aren’t any current official numbers.
But counts typically tallied around
10 eagles give or take, down from highs in
the 20’s and even 30’s dating back a couple
decades.
That bald eagles winter here is not surprising.
A significant population has used
Big Bear as a southern seasonal destination
dating back to when the lake was
formed. The Valley is along the Pacific
Migratory Flyway and affords reliable fishing
for birds traveling from Montana, Wyoming,
Idaho, even Canada and Alaska.
As northern waters freeze over ice entombs
fish and ducks fly south, so the two
favorite foods for bald eagles become unavailable.
Wintering here makes perfect
sense: there’s lots of ducks and coots, and
the lake rarely freezes over. Even when it
does, intelligence-challenged coots freeze
right into the water overnight, making for
easy eagle pickin’s locals term
“cootsicles.”
In the last several years Big Bear has
seen a permanent bald eagle population
established of about 12-14 birds. Reasons
for declining Big Bear eagle numbers include
development.
See and hear Jackie and Shadow courtesy
of the bald eagle nest cam installed
FriendsofBigBearValley.org/eagles. Even
though there aren’t organized tours or
viewings, eagle aficionados have been getting
an incredible look at how nature works
on the live stream. The eagle nest has been
in active use since 2013. The eagle cam
was installed two years later and captured
its first nesting season in 2017.
Watch the live streaming nest cam at
FriendsofBigBearValley.org/eagles and
follow Big Bear Lake Bald Eagles group
Big Bear Today
A second two-egg clutch in February for Big Bear bald eagles Jackie and Shadow
on Facebook. Chirp Nature Center in the
Village has the stream on as well.
Duke & Peggy at Pines
Tavern weekends
Ever heard a duo perform Led
Zeppelin’s Kashmir? Duke Michaels
and Peggy Baldwin play the classic and
much more weekends at The Pines
Lakefront Tavern. He’s a guitar-playing
recording artists; her violin has recorded
with ELO, Yanni and others.
330 Alden Rd. just east of Pine
Knot. Call (909) 866-5400.

Big Bear Today April 2021—Page 7
Nurture nature with bird walks, talks
Nurture your nature with free in-person
and virtual bird walks and talks held
by Chirp Nature Center starting May 1.
First in-person bird walk of the season
is on Saturday, May 1. Metcalf
Meadow is the destination, one of six
birding hotspots in Big Bear Valley and the
National Forest to be explored in 2021.
Birders of all experience levels enjoy
observing and identifying local Big Bear
birds and learn good viewing locations, and
there’s free species checklists provided by
Chirp. Experienced birders can practice
identification skills and share with fellow
nature enthusiasts.
Walks are free and no reservation is
required but the group does depart Chirp
Nature Center (40850 Village Dr.)
promptly at 8 a.m. Outings last around an
hour-and-a-half with moderate walking or
hiking. Complimentary refreshments follow
at Chirp with questions and answers.
Future in-person bird walks are set for
June 5, July 3, August 7, September 4 and
October 2. Participants need to wear masks
and social distance on the walk as per cur-
Dirty hands give forest a helping hand
Give the forest a helping hand by getting
your hands dirty as part of a longrunning
native plant restoration volunteer
program returning next month.
Greenthumbs volunteer days are set
to begin April 17 as helpers plant and seed
native trees, shrubs and wildflowers
across many new sites while maintaining
existing projects. Volunteers learn to identify,
collect and propagate native plants
in the Forest Service’s newly renovated
nursery facilities. These efforts improve
habitat for wildlife, plants, Monarch butterfly
and other pollinators.
Big Bear Ranger Station itself has
two greenhouses, a lathe house, and seed
storage shed, and volunteers use these facilities
to grow and outplant thousands
of native plants from seed they collect, to
give the forest a hand in its regenerative
efforts. Hundreds of acres of habitat have
been enhanced in the process for wildlife,
federally listed plants and animals,
and other degraded lands in the program
since its inception in 1998.
Covid-compliant workdays are from
9 a.m.-3 p.m. Bring a mask plus lunch,
water, sun protection and sturdy shoes.
Gloves, tools, restrooms and hand sanitizer
provided. Confirm in advance.
Subsequent 2021 Greenthumbs days
are May 15, June 12, July 10 and 24, August
21, September 25 (National Public
Lands Day) and October 23. Call (909)
382-2809 to pre-register or email
megan.clement@usda.gov.
In-person bird walks return each month starting May 1 led by Chirp
rent Covid protocols. Bring water and binoculars
and scopes for better viewing.
Virtual Bird Walks begin May 12, held
the second Wednesday each month and
streamed live online via Facebook and
YouTube. Tine in at 5 p.m. for 30 minutes
of Big Bear’s natural splendor, as participants
learn about wild birds, points of interest
and fun facts.
Subsequent virtual walks are on June
9, July 14, Aug. 11, Sept. 8 and Oct. 13.
Free, and after the program participants can
take a quiz and win prizes.
Chirp also hosts Expert Bird Talks on
the third Saturday each month, beginning
May 15. Each hour-long interactive presentation
highlights a particular naturetheme
topic with expert insights from noteworthy
authors, scientists and naturalists.
Talks are at 10 a.m. and are streamed live
on Facebook and YouTube.
First program of the season is May 15,
“Big Bear’s Bald Eagles,” timely given the
nesting pair’s activities of late. Future talks
are on June 19, July 7, Aug. 21, Sept. 18
and Oct. 16 featuring woodpeckers, raptors,
owls and more.
Chirp is open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. daily.
Standard
Motel Rooms
$85
with Fireplace
& Queen Bed
Non-Holiday / Midweek
Weekends Slightly Higher
Subject to change without notice.
Chirp Nature Center is at 40850 Village
Dr. Call (888) 412-4477.
Work to begin on new bike trail
Construction of a dedicated, new halfmile
bicycle trail on Sandalwood Drive is
about to begin and more exciting projects
may be in the works too.
The new trail will begin at the Rathbun
Creek crossing on Sandalwood and continue
east to Big Bear Blvd. and Stanfield
Cutoff. Construction is expected to begin
in April or May, and be complete by late
summer or early fall. When finished the
trail will be a safer, more convenient connection
from the City to Alpine Pedal Path
on the North Shore.
Total cost of the project is $1.15 million
and is funded exclusively by state
grant funds and transient occupancy taxes.
The project is a key segment of the City's
overall bicycle trail plan, which seeks to
provide a continuous dedicated bicycle
trail system (approximately 3.5 miles) from
the Moonridge area to the Alpine Pedal
Path and Division Dr. within the next 5
years.
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—April 2021
Brews, beef, bird at Bone Yard
F
ourty four beers on tap. Not to mention
18 whiskeys...just from
America! A refrigerated wine cellar
with vintages from around the world.
Better allow a little extra time to wade
through the beverage offerings at The Bone
Yard Bar & Grill in the Village. Fortunately
there’s a terrific new patio with outdoor
games like cornhole to look the drink menu
over on, and indoors, when that’s allowed
Cigar and whiskey dinner
Kick off the holiday weekend with the
Bone Yard’s five-course Cigar and Whiskey
Dinner on Thursday, May 27.
Sip fine whiskeys, savor smokes and
enjoy the delicious dinner and dessert at
the 6 p.m. event. The evening starts with
an Old Fashion welcome drink and ends
with luscious dessert.
In between there’s tastings of whiskeys
like Buffalo Trace, Eagle Rare, E.H.
Taylor and Blantons. Whiskey is even utilized
on the dinner menu. The four-course
repast features ahi poke with Buffalo Trace
ponzu, followed by bay scallops tossed
with Eagle Rare whiskey.
The main course is a grilled filet
topped with E.H. Taylor peppercorn cream
sauce. For dessert there’s whiskey peach
pie. The $75 price also includes two premium
cigars. The evening is presented by
Stone Entertainment Group. The Bone
Yard is at 560 Pine Knot Ave. in the Village.
kpelietier@stoneentertainmentgroup.com
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
again, has beautiful handpainted custom
murals that include a nod to Bugs Bunny
plus televised sports including NFL games.
Everything is big at the Bone Yard,
whether it be selection or portions. Kid and
dog-friendly, there’s a half-dozen burgers,
five flat bread pizzas, and a smoker that
pumps out delights like ribs, both baby
back and beef, tri tip, pulled pork and
chicken. There’s steak, shrimp tacos and
wraps, six salads...you get the idea.
Talk about timing. The Bone Yard began
building its beautiful 4,200 sq. ft. patio
before the shutdown orders as a way to
introduce outdoor dining and it’s a great
place to hang out, covered with sun canopy
and lined with astroturf. Play a game of
tic-tac-toe, connect 4 or jenga and at dusk
the patio’s string lights come on.
Order drinks first though. Tap handles
obviously include domestics—you don’t
have to choose between Budweiser and
Coors here—and popular favorites from
Stone Brewing and Lagunitas among others
but also microbrews. Like offerings
from Pizza Port in Solana Beach, and Boulevard
Brewing in Kansas City. Russian
River beers are very popular.
There’s brews from Boulder, Denver,
Maui, Temecula, many more, all categorized
by type to make deciding on one a
little easier. Mother Earth Cali Creamin’
from Vista is a full-bodied light that was
my recent choice. Can’t decide? Order a
flight and sample several.
Spirits are as well-represented at the
• Waverunners • Jet Skis
• Sea Doos! • Kayaks, SUP
• Wakeboard/Water Ski Rides
• Poontoon Boats
and Fishing Boats!
Bone Yard as suds.
There’s more Scotch
whiskey to choose
from than there is the
dozen-and-a-half
American spirits and
about as many ryes.
Outnumbering them
both are the bourbons,
nearly 30 on the menu!
Equally impressive is
the wine cellar, well
over 200 selections
with 30 chardonnays,
two dozen cabernets, a
variety of pinot noirs,
chenin blanc and more plus champagne selections.
The Bone Yard also pours craft
cocktails including signature mules and
martinis.
The menu is an inspired blend of barbecue
and gourmet pub grub. Meat is the
star, seasoned and smoked slowly and tantalizingly
till tender and tasty. Big beef ribs
and baby backs are specialties, slathered
in house barbecue sauce, and pulled pork
shoulder is another, along with smoked half
chicken. Can’t choose? Combo plates mix
two together and are a great value, priced
around $21 including two sides like homemade
beans, garlic mash potatoes, sweet
Big Bear Today
potato or flat fries, and mac and cheese.
Pulled pork and tri tip come in sandwich
form along with carved smoked turkey.
Burgers are half-pound beasts,
jalapeno cheddar and bacon mushroom
Swiss favorite options. The Bone Yard is
carnivore-heavy but burgers do come in
portebello and seared ahi tuna varieties.
Appetizers include famous pulled
pork Irish nachos. Flat fries are topped with
pulled pork, two kinds of cheese, sour
cream, tomatoes, onions, pickle jalapenos
and barbecue sauce .
The Bone Yard; 560 Pine Knot. (909)
878-0401 or theboneyardbarandgrill.com
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 April 2021—Page 9
Bear fun shifts from snow to water
Grizzly and black bears love to romp
in the snow, but as the seasons change so
do their play opportunities. The water just
changes from frozen to liquid.
As spring arrives the bruins at Big
Bear Alpine Zoo, open daily 10 a.m.-4
p.m., are again able to enjoy their own private
rock-lined seasonal swimming pool,
drained for winter but now flowing again
with the warmer weather. Even threelegged
Hucklebeary, missing his right front
limb, gets in on the fun after the entry slope
was modified to accommodate him. Other
black bears Zuni and Holly also got to
splash.
There’s a lot to like at the new zoo, as
animals enjoy more room and guests are
closer than ever for viewing. A pathway
circles the 5.6 developed acre facility that’s
more than double the previous size. Animal
enclosures are typically on the inside of
the loop, with black bears the first residents
guests encounter after arriving,
Talk about close-up viewing! The
bears like to doze in the sun next to the
enclosure’s glass wall, putting them just
millimeters away from viewers awed by
inches-long claws and massive feet.
“The bears love the glass panel,” said
Bill Hoffman, Big Bear Alpine Zoo’s new
curator who took over about the same time
as the move. “They’ll sleep right up against
it. You cannot get closer to a bear than this.”
After two decades of starts and stops,
location changes and seemingly endless
delays, Big Bear Alpine Zoo has proven
worth the wait. Nearly 100 animals were
Year-Round
Christmas Room!
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
moved from the old location across from
Bear Mountain to a state-of-the-art facility
in lower Moonridge which opened its
doors in November. Those doors were shut
a month later by state mandate, but while
the humans had to stay away, it gave the
animals more time to adjust to their new
digs.
Last residents to be moved were the
zoo’s program birds which are brought out
for educational presentations in late
January. Including great horned owl
Cowboy, made famous on the Big Bear
float in the Rose Parade two years ago.
Other raptors like Hootie, Rem, Yuhaviat,
and Alice Cooper are all settling nicely into
their new homes.
Moving one-eyed Himalayan snow
leopard sisters Asha and Shanti was
another challenge. Before the move exams
under sedation showed both cats have
suffered significant deterioration in their
remaining eyes so while they had
memorized every inch of their old home,
no one knew how they’d fare in a new one.
For a few days after they were
relocated the snow leopards barely stuck
their heads outside. Fears were that they
wouldn’t be able to take advantage of the
special 15-foot structure build just for
them. After a couple weeks they were
spotted on top of it and have since been
exploring their surroundings.
Big Bear Alpine Zoo’s five resident
gray wolves also have room to roam with
double enclosure that allows them to trot
back and forth Before the move the wolves
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
Pool time for grizzly mama Tutu;
snow leopards at home in new home
had formed distinct packs but the
move to a new home has meant they
can all be kept together again.
“Moving to a new zoo is a
unique opportunity to put together
animals you couldn’t before,”
Hoffman said.
Two mountain lions who have
lived at the zoo since they were
kittens are now becoming senior
citizens with a touch of arthritis. So
their new home features ramps they
can climb and a sleeping area in back.
Raccoons, bobcats, fallow and
mule deer, bald and golden eagles
Continued on page 10
Full Hot & Cold Deli
Groceries • Firewood & Propane • Spirits • Lotto
Try Our Famous
Rotisserie Chicken
& Kabobs!
We cut the highest
Quality Meats
Daily
Award
Winners:
1st
Liquor
2nd
Groceries
2017
Chamber of
Commerce
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 10—April 2021
Live bands, cowboy church at Wyatt’s
Live bands on weekends and country
dancing Wednesdays. Saturday cowboy
church and the return of weekly Tuesday
Farmer’s Market.
April is a busy month at the Convention
Center where Wyatt’s Grill & Saloon’s
indoor operations have finally resumed.
Animal sanctuary, Apples set egg hunts
Be on the hunt for Easter eggs during
a couple of events the whole family will
enjoy on Saturday, April 3.
Three thousand candy-filled eggs strategically
placed around the grounds at
Grateful Heart Animal Sanctuary in the
East Valley. A special section set aside for
ages 2-4 ensures little ones don’t get shutout.
There will also be an egg hunting section
for ages 5 to 8 and a section for ages 9
to 12. The Easter Bunny will be on hand
for photos.
There’s also a raffle for giant “Mystery
Easter Eggs” with the contents inside
the big plastic egg a surprise. Raffle tickets
are $1 each, cash only.
Ticket for the hunt are $10 minimum
donation to the program that provides a
Big Bear Alpine Zoo...
Continued from page 9
and many more have adapted to their new
digs. Snowy owl exhibit is another favorite.
Reptile room and nocturnal animal
buildings are still to open.
For popular animal presentations by
staff there’s a new stage and benches.
Brand new picnic area and kid’s
playground with equipment donated by the
Friends of the Big Bear Alpine Zoo are
other amenities, even a climbing wall.
To continue its behind-the-scenes
work—vast majority of animals that arrive
are returned to the wild during rescue and
rehabilitation efforts—the new zoo has
expanded medical and rehab facilities plus
food preparation room. In all the property
safe space for farm animals who have been
abused, neglected, abandoned or have special
needs. Parents of participants and children
under 2 are free. The fun starts at 1
p.m. and it’s BYOB (basket).
Closed shoes are a must. Limited onsite
parking is available and there is off site
parking on Pioneer Town Rd. Call (909)
973-9333.
Apples Bed & Breakfast is also holding
an Easter Egg Hunt with over a thousand
colorful eggs up for grabs. Ages 2-4
are at 11 a.m. and at noon ages 5-7 get their
turn. Take photos with the Easter Bunny
and there’s face painting and bake sale too.
Cost is $5 per child, observers free.
Call (909) 866-0903.
sits on about 10 acres with the eastern end
left as empty space for flood mitigation.
The courtyard-style entrance with
paved brick and gas fireplace welcomes
guests as they arrive. Along with. expanded
gift shop and interior displays, operating
at limited capacity but filled with takehome
treasures.
The zoo’s price tag, once expected to
be around $8 million, soared to over $18
million after several years of delays. Plans
were drawn by renowned firm PGAV
Designers, same company that created the
famous Georgia Aquarium.
The zoo is open daily from 10 a.m.-4
p.m. Admission is $15, $10 ages 3-10/60
and over, under three free.
The zoo is at 747 Clubview Dr. at
Moonridge Rd. Call (909) 584-1299.
Live music on weekends at Wyatt’s, with stages indoors and out
lowed by Southern Spirit the next week on
April 9-10. Jimi Nelson Band takes the
stage April 16 and next day it’s 33 Thunder
on April 17. Thunder Country plays
April 23 and on April 24 it’s Rob Staley
Band..
Wednesday country dancing with DJ
is back and Wyatt’s is open Sunday too for
inside dining. Thursdays are takeout and
delivery only. Sunday brunch returns to
Wyatt’s on Easter April 4, served all day
Join Southern California Mountains
Foundation restoration volunteers by potting
saplings and other tasks on Saturday,
April 24.
No experience is needed to be a big
help in the program, which received 5,000
Jeffrey pine saplings from the Forest
Service’s Placerville Nursery. Volunteers
are needed to pot the saplings in sterilized
soil and tree beds. Mountains Foundation
will use the trees for restoration projects
around the forest.
“This is a lot of trees, there’s a ton of
work to do,” said Lisa Underwood. “Getting
them into soil is crucial before the roots
Big Bear Today
from 11 a.m.-8 p.m.
Cowboy church is at 1 p.m. on alternating
Saturdays, April 3 and 17 plus May
1 and 15. The nondenominational service
features a short sermon by Pastor Eric of
Believer’s Chapel, inspirational music by
Terry McRaven, and a chance to spend
some time with the Word under God’s creation.
All welcome, come as you are.
Wyatt’s Grill & Saloon, 42900 W. Big
Bear Blvd. (909) 585-3000.
Restoration days back with potting work
Even as warmer weather has folks thinking
about the outdoor patio and stage under
the pine trees. Indoors or out, the
Wyatt’s stage is busy with favorite bands
and some new faces too each Friday and
Saturday.
On April 3 it’s the Stage Robbers foldry
out. We would love the public’s help
in potting and planting.”
Volunteers will also do other nursery
work such as weeding, watering and maintenance
at Big Bear Natives Nurseries.
There are also dates at Lytle Creek.
Next month’s Big Bear workdays are
on May 8 and 22. All participants must social
distance and wear a mask with health
check in the morning.
Participants must sign up in advance
to comply with the Covid-19 safety plan
and will meet near Big Bear Ranger Station
on the north shore. To register email
lunderwood@mountainsfoundation.org.
18

Big Bear Today April 2021—Page 11
Sled, snow, coaster at Alpine Slide
Choose from two unique
rides,longtime favorite Alpine
Slide and new Mineshaft Coaster,
neither found elsewhere in California, both
letting riders control their own speed.
Really it’s three interactive rides
counting family inner tubing on Alpine
Slide’s snow play hill; how you slide, when
you slide, with whom you slide all
determine how fast tubers go. Toss in the
Putt `N Around go-kart track and there’s
four attractions at Alpine Slide that allow
families to go as fast or slow as they want.
Mineshaft Coaster at Alpine Slide, a
mile-long stainless steel track on which
riders negotiate turns and drops aboard
karts they control, opened last summer, first
ride of its kind in the state. Two up tracks
on a motorized
bullwheel pulley
system provide the
uphill lift, including
a long one out of a
cool new start house
at the bottom.
The real fun is
on two downhill
tracks, as carts hit
speeds up to 27 mph
across three 200-foot
bridges, into two
100-foot tunnels,
through S-turns, over a few whoop-didoos,
and around three 360° corkscrew
turns. 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 elicits amusement park-style screams
from many riders, only this is no park ride
where there’s no guest interaction. On
Mineshaft Coaster guests go faster or
slower by applying brake. Rider in back
controls the cart’s braking mechanism and
is required to keep at least 80 feet from the
sled in front.
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 has specially designed,
lockable seat belts and shoulder restraints
to assure rider comfort at all times. Plus
carts have energy absorbing front and rear
buffers. Mineshaft Coaster is open daily
year-round and tickets are $20 per person,
children $10.
Alpine Slide bobsleds, only track west
of Utah, offer more self-controlled fun in
an experience that gives rides a small taste
of Olympic bobsledding. Lean into banked
turns with the sled almost perpendicular
to the ground and whip out into a tuck
through straightaways to and experience
some of the same gravitational forces
found In Olympic
sled events.
Apply brake to
go as slow as you
want or let the sled’s
Soaring
Eagle
teflon runners and
ball-bearing wheels
roll freely down the
two side-by-side
quarter-mile cement
tracks. Banked turns,
long straightaways
and more await
riders and every time
down is different. Bobsled rides cost $7
each, $30 for five-ride book.
Alpine Slide’s Snow Play Area is also
open till the white stuff is gone. off after
the January storms. There was tons of snow
before the weather arrived, thank’s to the
area’s ski resort quality Lenko snowguns
lining the slopes, and now it’s piled two
stories high. It’s daunting to see all the
white stuff piled up! There will be inner
tubing at Alpine Slide through Easter at
least.
The enclosed 210-foot long Magic
Carpet uphill lift has been busy, taking
guests and their tubes to the top of all the
snow—just step on and step off. Nightly
grooming like at the ski resorts ensures
smooth tubing on perfect corduroy snow.
Night Tubing under the stars was
introduced at Alpine Slide years ago and
You’re in control on the new Mineshaft Coaster at Alpine Slide
has become wildly popular. Guests love
sliding on snow that gets another fresh
groom after the day session. There’s new
glow lighting and the snow gets faster and
faster as the evening progresses.
Tube daily from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. with
evening sessions Fridays, Saturdays and
holiday periods from 5-9 p.m. Lift passes
for all sessions are $35 and include inner
tube rental.
Soaring Eagle is a zipline-like
experience with a couple notable
differences. Riders sit instead of lie down
and ride up to the top tower backwards.
Plus guests don’t have to apply any brake
or use any skill set, since it’s an amusement
park ride rather than zipline, so they’re just
along for the ride.
What a ride it is! Between the two
"Still haunted by our Ghost George"
towers riders soar 500 feet—close to two
football fields!—and reach speeds up to
26 mph, with a vertical drop of about 125
feet. It’s the first ride of its kind in
California with the nearest other one atop
the Rio Hotel in Las Vegas. There’s no
bulky shoulder harness to wear so guests
feel, well, as free as birds while they fly.
Double seat belts secure up to two
riders and they shoot to the top tower
facing the ground, almost as fast as when
they’re coming down, an experience that’s
as exhilarating as the descent. Soaring
Eagle costs $12 per rider.
Bundle Soaring Eagle flight, go-karts
and miniature golf for $22, a steal of a deal.
Alpine Slide is at 800 Wildrose Ln.
Call (909) 866-4626.
Fine Dining in a Rustic Stone & Log Retreatt
Fine Steaks • Seafood • Prime Rib • Lobster
Welcome Back!
Enjoy Great Food
in a Historic Setting
Outdoor Dining
Under our Pine Trees!
www.CaptainsAnchorage.com
Est. 1947 by Andy Devine
as the Sportsmans Tavern
Open Nightly 4:30 p.m.
Seating is Limited for your Safety
Molekule Air Purifiers
for Safety of Customers & Staff
Rare Photos, Memorabilia,
and More!
Advance Reservations
Highly Recommended
Even non-Olympians enjoy bobsled-like rides at Alpine Slide

Page 12—April 2021
16 rooms, infinite gifts at Village Faire
Big Bear Today
Patriotic signs, dog and cat pillows,
yearround Christmas room, princesses,
incense, tasty jerky, and yes,
countless face masks. All in a historic Big
Bear setting that may or may not have its
own ghost.
If you want it, chances are they got it
at Village Faire, and the kind of stuff you
won’t find on Amazon. There’s thousands
of gifts—no exaggeration—ranging from
sports logo items and Harley Davidson
gear to crosses, clothing, purses and pottery.
The walls at the top of the stairs may
tell tales—the building used to house Big
Bear’s first hotel, the historic Navajo built
in 1920, kept busy by gold miners and ladies
of the night—but today the real story
is on the shelves, with goods from artisans
around town, the country, even the world.
Sixteen theme rooms present a wide
range of gift ideas, from bears and princess
dolls, signs and home goods to gourmet
foods and Oriental treasures and much
more, many items handmade. There’s an
entire Princess Room, with dolls and
dresses and tea party sets and wallets.
Duck inside the Tiki Room for Asiatheme
gifts like adorable stuffed panda
bears, fans and dragon figurines. The Pottery
Room not only features handthrown
clay plates and pots, lead-free and microwave
and dishwasher safe, but also soap
pumps and dreamcatchers.
For sports fans there’s not one but two
rooms filled with memorabilia like playing
cards, team coffee cups and shot
glasses, signs and more. There’s a
stadium’s worth of football team selections
to choose from whether you root for the
Rams or Chargers and all the other teams
too—especially the Raiders! Bet you don’t
have stereo ear buds bearing your favorite
team’s logo; get them at Village Faire.
There’s also sports fleece throws for
$16.95, lamps and pennants for five dollars,
and more.
Baseball season is well represented
with plenty of Angels and Dodgers, Giants
and Yankees stuff to choose from, like team
coosies for only $7.95. From steins and
stemware to signs and clocks, blankets and
more, the shelves are filled with sports.
Carved bears or stuffed ones, the walls
can bear-ly hold all the bruins at Village
Faire, just about every room sporting something
Yogi. Bear hats are popular with long
arms and cozy pocket paws for your hands.
There’s stuffed black bears from Wishpets
and Giftable Worlds that are super cute and
huggable.
The year-round Christmas Room is always
busy, filled with Santas and trees, ornaments
and decorations galore. Stockings
in a variety of designs are less than ten
bucks and there’s gingerbread man ornaments
for $3.50.
Particularly unique and appropriate at
this time of year is the “Cross Room.”
Cross-bearing carved bears are one-of-akind
but there’s many other selections to
choose from. There’s also old-fashioned
toys like paint by number kits, models and
more. Then
there’s the Chime
Room, with an
endless selection
of pieces.
Large rustic
wood American
flags are in season
for $34.98 with
smaller ones still a
couple feet long
for $19.98. Chalkboard
art is the latest
rage with
folksy sayings
and hand drawn
and unique Big
Bear T-shirts cost
just $11.95. Pet lovers delight in the Dog
Room where there’s bowls, treats and gifts
for their best friend. Discover infant wear
like Big Bear onesies and tanks tops for
just $9.95 in the Baby Room.
Village Faire has a little something of
everything: Ladies Room with blouses,
packs and purses, classic metal signs from
cars and cowboys to superheroes and
Route 66. Take home agate arrowheads for
less than a buck and sample Bear Poop (nut
surrounded by caramel and chocolate).
“Snow” feels like the real stuff except it’s
not cold and doesn’t melt, the perfect Big
Bear souvenir for $5.50.
Forget your phone charger? Village
Faire has car plugs for $3.95 and wall
chargers for $7.99. There’s a mini-library
in the Bearly-Used book room with SciFi,
fantasy, fiction and non to choose from.
Don’t miss the modest collection of old
LPs, some pressings in mint condition.
Village Faire is at 40794 Village Dr.
above Leather Depot. (909) 866-8220.
Enough Pause. Fast Forward to fun with Big Bear Today!
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
HOMESTYLE
QUALITY...
Steaks
East
Seafood
Valley's
Pasta
Only
Chicken
Bakery!
Voted Big Bear's
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
SUN-HOLIDAYS—PRIME RIB
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!
Also Available to Go!
○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○
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
S
Marina
CAPT. JOHN’S GROUT BAY
West Boat Ramp
MARINA WINDY POINT
W E
North Shore
Landing
Castle Rock
Trail
Holcomb
Valley
BOULDER
BAY
1989 25 YEARS 2014
The Mountain’s Monthly Lifestyle Magazine
Bear Valley Farmers Market is
back, Tuesdays at the Convention
Center
All Phone Numbers are area code
(909) unless otherwise noted
April
3
Easter Egg Hunt at 1 p.m. at
Grateful Heart Animal Sanctuary
with candy eggs, raffle,
Easter bunny. $10, under 2 free.
gratefulheartanimalsanctuary.org
6
Bear Valley Farmers Market
8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Convention
Center; fresh produce,
vendors. Free. 585-3000.
13
Bear Valley Farmers Market
8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Convention
Center; fresh produce,
vendors. Free. 585-3000.
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.
20
Bear Valley Farmers Market
8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Convention
Center; fresh produce,
vendors. Free. 585-3000.
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
24
Restoration Volunteer Day from
9 a.m.-1 p.m.; potting saplings.
Must pre-register lunderwood@
mountainsfoundation.org.
24-25
Stay in Your Car eco-friendly
car wash 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at
Worldmark (240 Starvation
Flats Rd.) No charge, donations
benefit Rotary Interact Club.
27
Bear Valley Farmers Market
8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Convention
Center; fresh produce,
vendors. Free. 585-3000.
May
1
In-Person Bird Walk leaves Chirp
Nature Center (40850 Village
Dr.) 8 a.m. sharp to visit Metcalf
Meadow. Free, refreshments
follow. (888) 412-4477.
9
Mother’s Day Brunch at Wyatt’s
9 a.m.-2 p.m.; omelette and
bloody Mary bar, kids area, entertainment.
585-3000.
15
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.
15-21
Austin-Healy 2021 Conclave
sees cars lining Village streets,
special events. 866-7000.
27
Cigar & Whiskey Dinner hosted
by the Bone Yard (560 Pine
Knot Ave.) at 6 p.m.; $75 includes
tastings, 2 premium cigars.
29-30
3rd Annual Maifest at Wyatt’s
Walk
Board
April 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
with German contests, beer,
food, music by The Express.
585-3000.
29-30
“Grill and Chill” KCBS State BBQ
Championships at Bartlett 11
a.m.-5 p.m. with music, craft
beer. Free. 866-6190
June
5-6
Team Big Bear Mountain Bike
Shootout #1 mountain bike racing
at Snow Summit. 633-6729.
12
Holcomb Valley 7/15/33 Mile
Trail Runs start at Meadow’s
Edge picnic area on north shore
at 7:30 a.m. 633-6729.
12-13
“Fishin’ for $50K” with cash
prizes for tagged trout, raffles.
50% off for those staying over
night or renting pontoon boat.
(800) 4-BIG BEAR
19-20
Carp Roundup at 7 a.m. for twoperson
hunting teams, 3 p.m.
Sunday awards ceremony. $50
per hunter. 866-5796.
Bear Mountain golf course
driving range opens May 15, the
course on May 20
To Victorville, Barstow
& Las Vegas
Museum
Big Bear
Alpine Zoo
To Angelus Oaks
and Redlands
E
V
E
N
T
C
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Page 14—April 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.
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
Boat Rentals
Sailboats, pontoon boats, speed and fishing
boats plus paddleboards and canoes are
available for rental from the lake's marinas.
Big Bear Marina (909-866-3218),
Holloway's Marina (909-866-5706),
North Shore Landing (909-878-4FUN).
Bowling
The Bowling Barn offers new lanes with
automated scoring for bowling enjoyment.
Also new outdoor ice skating rink, arcade
games and full-service cocktail lounge with
pool. Glow Bowling after dark with black
lights, sounds. Open daily. 40625 Big
Bear Blvd. (enter on Bonanza).(909) 878-
BOWL.
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,
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
Big Bear Today
Recreation • Dining • Nightlife • And More
Road Conditions: (800) 427-ROAD quickmap.dot.ca.gov
Bowl safely with protective screens and protocols at Bowling Barn; (909) 878-BOWL
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.
monolith. It’s reached after a mostly uphill,
.8 mile walk past a stream and featuring
beautiful views. Located on Hwy. 18
between Boulder Bay and the dam; park on
the lake side of the road.
Cougar Crest Trail is moderate two-mile
(each way) hike. As it winds above the
lake’s north shore, it offers up great views
Continued on page 15
Enough Pause. Fast Forward to fun with Big Bear Today!
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 April 2021—Page 15
of water and the surrounding mountains.
Trailhead is on North Shore Dr. about two
miles west of Stanfield Cutoff, .6 mile
from the Discovery Center where you can
park without an Adventure Pass.
Woodland Interpretive Trail is a short,
scenic family stroll with minimal elevation
gain, located on the north shore near Cougar
Crest. Free trail maps (available at the
trailhead or Discovery Center) identify
markers along the route noting local
vegetation, wildlife areas, etc.
Pacific Crest Trail comes through Big
Bear from Onyx Summit through the East
Valley to Hwy. 18 and then past Holcomb
Valley Rd. and Cougar Crest through
Holcomb Valley before continuing its 2,638
mile journey from Mexico to Canada. Call
the Discovery Center to find out where to
catch this famous international trail.
Pine Knot Trail from Aspen Glen picnic
area climbs the southern ridge above Alpine
Slide three miles (each way) to Skyline Dr.
2N10, through lush meadow and stands of
white fir and Jeffrey Pine. Continue another
1/4 mile to Grand View Point for spectacular
180-degree vistas.
Holcomb Valley
At one time, Big Bear Valley was thriving
gold country. The last remaining signs of
this historic chapter in Big Bear history are
featured in a driving tour through what is
known as Holcomb Valley. Totaling 11.6
miles over a dirt road, the tour offers stops
at Two Gun Bill’s Saloon, Hangman’s
Tree, Pigmy Cabin, Metzger Mine, and
more. Free maps available at the Big Bear
Discovery Center on the North Shore—
call 866-3437. Allow three hours or more.
Horseback Riding
Baldwin Lake Stable is open year-round
for horseback riding. Rates are by the hour,
offering one, two, three and four-hour rides
with longer rides heading along the famous
Pacific Crest Trail plus sunset rides. A
variety of spectacular mountain trails with
horses for all riding abilities. For little
buckeroos there’s hand-led pony rides and
petting zoo. Reservations suggested for all
rides. Big Bear Blvd. east to stop sign at
Hwy. 38, go through intersection, veer left
on Shay Rd. to 46475 Pioneertown Rd.,
Big Bear City. (909) 585-6482.
Mineshaft Coaster
First ride of its kind in California! Ride
carts you control on a mile-long track with
steep drops and climbs, 360-degree
corkscrew turns, two mining tunnels and
more. Up to two can ride at one time. Open
daily at Alpine Slide, on the boulevard 1/4
mile west of the Village. (909) 866-4626.
Miniature Golf/Go Karts
Putt ‘N Around, located at the Alpine Slide
at Magic Mountain, features a landscaped
18-hole miniature golf course complete
with water hazards and breaking greens.
Then there’s an oval-shaped go-kart track
with high-banked turns, which nine Can
Am racers—including four two-seaters—
with Honda 5.5 horsepowers engines and
an array of safety features zip around.
Open till 9 p.m. daily. 866-4626.
Snow Playing
Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain, which
has snowmaking to ensure snow, offers
great inner tubing daily 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and
there’s a Magic Carpet to take riders to the
top. Night tubing (5-9 p.m.) Fridays and
Saturdays plus holidays. All sessions $35
which includes tube rental and lift. The
area also has the Southland’s only Alpine
Slide and a great outdoor deck, plus the
Putt ‘N Around go-karts and miniature
golf course. 1/4 mile west of the Village on
Big Bear Blvd. 866-4626.
Big Bear Snow Play has Southen
California’s longest tubing runs. Two
Magic Carpet lifts mean guests never have
to walk back to the top and snowmaking
lets the area build features to enhance the
experience. Heated base lodge and paved
parking. Next.to Motel 6 on the boulevard
After Dark...
Big Bear’s Nightlife & Entertainment Guide
ALLEY OOPS SPORTS BAR—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. Inside the Bowling Barn at 40625 Big Bear Blvd. (909)
878-BOWL. CLOSED FOR COVID-10, PLEASE CALL
BIG BEAR BAR & GRILL—Live music weekends and midweek karaoke, horseshoe
pit, great food and drinks. 42164 Moonridge Rd. (909) 878-0802
BIG BEAR MOUNTAIN BREWERY— Craft microbrew beers, food in a cozy
atmosphere. Live music weekends. 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.
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
with Duke Michaels and Peggy Baldwin 1-4 p.m. Mike Cross on the piano Fridays
and Saturdays. 350 Alden Rd. (909) 866--5400.
WYATT’S CAFE & SALOON—Wednesdays see country dancing, live music
Fridays and Saturdays. April 3: Stage Robbers, April 9-10: Southern Spirit. April
16-17: Jimi Nelson Band, 33 Thunder. April 23-24: Thunder Country, Rob Staley
Band. Wyatt’s at Convention Center, Big Bear Blvd. at Division. (909) 585-3000.
one mile east of the supermarkets.Sessions
daily 10 a.m.-4 p.m. plus Glow Tubing
sessions Fridays, Saturdays, holiday
periods 5-9 p.m. All sessions $35 which
includes tube rental. (909) 585-0075.
Snowshoeing
No lift lines—nor lift tickets to buy—
makes snowshoeing one of the fastestgrowing
winter sports. A great way to
escape the crowds and enjoy the serenity of
Big Bear’s endless hiking trails covered by
winter’s snow. Get maps, directions etc.
from the shop below or Discovery Center.
Soaring Eagle
Zip 500' downhill on the new Soaring
Eagle attraction at Alpine Slide, only one
of its kind in California. Reach speeds up to
26 mph during the dramatic downhill
descent—only after riding backwards to
the top! Up to two can ride at one time.
Open daily. On the boulevard 1/4 mile
west of the Village. (909) 866-4626.
Zoo
The new ZBig Bear Alpine Zoo is open!
Grizzly and black bears, bobcats, coyotes,
mountain lions, , eagles, and other animals
now have a new state-of-the-art home with
creature comforts for both animals residents
and guests. Open 10 a.m.-4 p.m. with animal
presentations and special programing. 747
Clubview off Moonridge Rd. $15 adults,
$10 ages over 60 and children 3-12, two
and under free. (909) 584-1299.
Dining
Guide
Big Bear City
BARNSTORM RESTAURANT—
Comfortable dining at the airport. Open
daily for breakfast and lunch, dinner
Thursday through Sunday with nightly
specials and Saturday night entertainment.
German food a specialty plus steaks,
seafood, chicken, burgers. Ground floor at
the airport. (909) 585-9339.
THELMA’S TWIN PINES-Homestyle
cooking at awesome prices make this a
family dining favorite. Daily breakfast,
lunch and dinner specials. All-you-can-eat
beef ribs on Saturday nights, and homemade
pot pies are big favorites. Open daily for
breakfast, lunch, dinner. 337 W. Big Bear
Blvd. Call 585-7005.
Big Bear Lake
BIG BEAR LAKE BREWING CO.—
Craft micros brewed on premises and
gourmet pub grub and appe-teasers at this
new brewery in the Village. Full bars
upstairs and down with lakeviews and all
sports all the time on big screens. 40827
Stone Rd. (909) 878-0283.
CAPTAIN’S ANCHORAGE—Historic
and rustic, this restaurant, built in 1947 as
the Sportsman’s Tavern and once owned
by Andy Devine, is a Big Bear favorite
with specialties like prime rib, Alaskan
King Crab legs, seafood, and steaks.
Homemade soups, romantic seating, and
cocktails in the Andy Devine Room. Open
for dinner daily from 4:30 p.m. Moonridge
Rd., just off Big Bear Blvd. (909) 866-
3997.
DYNASTY—Authentic Szechuan cuisine
with an array of specialty dishes. Mongolian
BBQ too and great cocktails. 40989 Big
Bear Blvd. 866-7887.
OLD COUNTRY INN-Family-style home
cooking at this local’s favorite with
breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. Steaks,
German and Italian specialties and much
more with great weekday specials. 41126
Big Bear Blvd., east of Pine Knot. Call
866-5600.
THE BONE YARD-44 beers on tap,
hundreds of wines and spirits, beefy big
ribs and BBQ and more. New outdoor
patio with games. 560 Pine Knot. (909)
878-0401
If You Can’t Pick Us Up
Click Us Up!
bigbeartodaymag.com

Page 16—April 2021
THE BACK PAGE
Eye of God still sacred to Serrano, PCT
o the Serrano Indians who first
called Big Bear Valley home it was
a sacred place to worship and con- Tnect with the Creator. To miners it was
something to dynamite in search of gold.
Today Eye of the God, a magnificent
quartz megalith in East Big Bear Valley,
remains a special spot, one accessible only
to hikers or those with really good SUVs.
It rises above its surroundings and can be
seen from a distance if you know where to
look. Eye of God would be an even more
commanding sight if miners hadn’t blasted
the beautiful white dome in search for gold.
No one knows how much stone was
blown away and when or exactly who did
it, but some estimate that God’s Eye might
have been dozens of feet higher than it is
today. Even so it remains impressive as it
Views stretch for miles along the PCT
dominates the landscape. All around the
megalith there’s tiny crystal-sized pieces
of white quartz that may or may not be evidence
of dynamiting.
Two thousand years ago Eye of God
or God’s Eye as it is sometimes called,
watched over the desert-dwelling Serrano
Indians who summered in Big Bear to escape
scorching heat. To them the huge
white dome with a great view of the valley
was literally the eye of their creator
Kruktat, watching over them to make sure
they lived by moral code.
Eye of God remains an inspiring destination
for a hike along Pacific Crest Trail,
considered America’s premier long distance
footpath with 39 of its 2,650 miles
slicing through Big Bear. A moderate fourmile
(roundtrip) section of PCT from Hwy.
18 at
Cushenberry
Summit leads
to the quartz
formation,
serving up
magnificent
vistas of creation
including
Big Horn Wilderness
and
distant desert.
F r o m
Cushenberry—
there’s ample
Eye of the God, a sacred Serrano destination along the PCT
parking at the trailhead and no Adventure
Pass necessary—head south on PCT, first
ascending about 130 vertical feet up the
ridge, then descending as many feet more,
past stately Shadow Mountain Ranch. The
trail transitions from forest with pinion
pines to exposed subalpine dotted by
Joshua trees and rocky outcroppings and
rising ridges all around.
The views can be so spectacular at
times it’s easy to not watch where you’re
going. Not a good idea on previous outings
when we saw rattlesnakes, including
an ancient five-footer plus what appeared
to be a deadly Mojave green.
About a mile in a quartz hilltop serves
as a nice detour with the reward panoramic
Big Bear Today
BBT photo by John Daskam
views. The next mile mostly winds
through, up and down canyons before approaching
an open saddle with fencing and
restoration area sign. Exit the trail and hike
down to the road and follow it a short distance
to the obvious connecting trail down
to Eye of God, a gentle quarter-mile descent.
A shorter-but-less-inspiring alternative
is to walk up Burns Canyon Rd. in
Baldwin Lake. The 1.8 mile up-and-back
is a dirt road that heavy-duty SUVs can
drive but everyone else needs to hike or
bike. In any case be respectful around Eye
of God, still a sacred and special spot.
—by Marcus Dietz
Call Discovery Center (909) 866-3437