October 2021 Big Bear Today Magazine

Volume 33, No. 4 October 2021

www.bigb eartodaymag.com

Oktoberfest

Friday,

Saturday,

Sunday!

• Spartan Races Return with Top Athletes, Trifecta

• Bow Wow Wow, Tributes to Heart, UFO at Cave

• Adventure Van Expo Brings Cool Rides to Village

• One of Only 2 Southern Aspen Groves on Display

Page 2—October 2021

From the Publisher

Private land hiking

escapes offer nirvana

from forest shutdown

The ink hadn’t’ even dried on September

Big Bear Today before National

Forests throughout the state

were closed due to fire danger and the ongoing

infernos to the north.

Thus rendering our story on two cool

nearby hikes across Hwy. 38 from each

other worthless. At least for most of the

month, till the public lands reopened to the

public again in late September. Don’t fret;

we’ve posted the story on

bigbeartodaymag.com for those who

missed it or couldn’t use it.

Just as significantly, it left we hikers

grounded with little ground to explore.

Mountain bikers rolled to a stop too, not

just with the forest inaccessible but also

Snow Summit’s bike park was locked up.

Not that this is unfamiliar territory, by

the way. In fact there’s been a few closures

in recent years, like last year during and

after the El Dorado Fire and the Lake Fire

before that. All the way back to 2003 when

the shutdown came, like this year, just for

the fear of fire, and not because there were

actual flames nearby. Back then, I got my

fix on the short but sweet Woodland Interpretive

Trail, not much challenge but still

dirt under my boots, along with the paved

Alpine Pedal Path.

This time though, hikers had an ace

up their sleeves: two new trail networks,

both on private land and not subject to the

closure, right here in Big Bear. And with

multiple connectors, variations and access

points, the possibilities are endless...

* * *

Maple Hills Trails is an entire complex

of paths on private land, donated to

BVUSD Education Foundation by RCK

Properties in 2018. Since that time a cool

network of trails has been cut throughout

the 213 acres of forested land, single,

double and even triple-track wide, winding

up and down Maple Hill between the

high school and Big Bear Blvd.

I haven’t gone far up School Loop

from the Shore trailhead this sunny September

day before I discover another pleasant

surprise: more new trails, beyond those

that opened last year! Indeed freshly-cut

path in abundance that wasn’t here when I

last hiked Maple Hills in August. So new,

the dirt is freshly turned, branches and

shrubs recently cut.

The project’s second phase is underway

and while signage still lacks the professional

touch of Phase 1, there’s markers

denoting new routes. One points up

Tom’s, obviously a mountain bike route but

I march up anyway, eager to explore. It’s

steeper and wider than a two-footer trail

and after a distance connects with Pat’s,

both paths paying homage to Team Big

Bear mountain bike pioneers Tom Spiegel

and Pat Follett.

This time I veer south on Baldwin

Loop and follow it to Gavin’s Gulch, expecting

it to rejoin School Loop. Instead it

melds with Elementary Loop continuing

south, traversing below the school of the

same name, through dense forest.

I continue to the new Baldwin Lane

trailhead, immediately west of the school

with parking. There’s many variations, like

Two Turns and Steep, but I return the same

way I came till Elementary finally makes

the expected connection with School Loop,

then back to the trailhead.

Dixie Lane and Sawmill Loops are

other routes to be explored. Which tie into

another trail bonanza on private land...

* * *

Pebble Plain is usually associated with

the ecological reserve by Baldwin Lake.

But it’s hardly the only such unique soil

and strata system found in Big Bear and

nowhere else in the world, a holdover from

the Ice Age. In fact between Moonridge

and Big Bear City there’s several smaller

patches, 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.

All on private land, thanks to San Bernardino

Mountains Land Trust, which several

years ago purchased about 750 acres

of Pebble Plain and created a trail system

with the help of volunteers. Like Maple

Hills, there’s many access points and variations

so hikers never get bored.

There’s eight or more trailheads with

signage and maps detailing the area.

Moonridge portals can be found at Villa

Grove, Klamath, Tuolumne and Alameda

Roads, while Big Bear City trailheads include

Rose Hill, Needle and Dixie Lee.

It’s Rose Hill that draw my boots during

the closure, gently rising above Big

Bear City near Community Market and

leading to Horseshoe Pebble Plain about

1-1/4 miles away. Mountain biking is not

allowed here but for hikers it’s nirvana.

A must is scenic Lookout Point, with

panoramic vistas. Unlike Maple Hills,

there’s no traffic noise, only remote isolation

even though I haven’t left town. Real

salvation during the forest shutdown!

Have a good one.

Marcus

ON THE COVER: With top polka bands from Los Angeles indoors and rock, country and

more out, Oktoberfest is looking a lot like its normal self through Nov 7

Volume 33, Number 4 October 2021

4

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

Oktoberfest in Full Swing—and Polka

Things are back to normal at Oktoberfest, now on Fridays in

October in addition to Saturdays and Sundays through Nov. 7.

New bands you’ve never seen on the main stage, outside

entertainment on the Wyatt’s Stage that includes the Doo

Wah Riders, “Love Shacks” and more highlight the top-ranked

fall festival. Don’t miss the fun right here!

Spartans Back to Tackle Mud, Fire

Top athletes from around the Southland and even the country

tackle a dizzying array of obstacles when this signature event

returns to Snow Summit. Walls, mud, even fire challenge

warriors not to mention Big Bear’s elevation and 1,200 vertical

feet of climbing. Spectators get a front row seat for the action

plus access to vendors, music, and their own obstacles.

Bow Wow Wow, Top Tributes at The Cave

1980’s rockers Bow Wow Wow return to The Cave for the

first time in eight years for a pre-Halloween party. Along with

all-female tributes to AC/DC and UFO, Heart music, The

Mighty Cash Cats and more, it looks like a rockin’ October.

Cool Rides, Gear at Adventure Van Expo

See tricked out vans ready for the RV life when this popular

free show returns for two days in the Village. Sprinters, off

road vehicles and more will be on display with full kitchens,

living quarters, even restrooms. Hit the road in style!

Aspen Grove Back, But a Hike to Get There

The 2015 Lake Fire closed one of only two naturally occurring

aspen groves south of the Sierras, then El Dorado Fire

followed suit last year. Now Aspen Grove Trail is open again

and the leaves are putting on an autumn show, if you’re

willing to put in effort to get there. In color, on The Back Page.

Last call for Sodi Kart racing at Big Bear

Speedway till 2022. See page 15

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 October 2021—Page 3

POTPOURRI

Don’t miss 16th annual event on Oct. 2-3

Reel in cash, gear at

October Troutfest

Reel in big bucks during the 16th year

annual Western Outdoor News Big Bear

Lake Troutfest, set for October 2-3.

The event has become one of the premier

fishing tournaments in the region and

returns after a year’s absence with thousands

of dollars on the line in cash and

equipment prizes. Including a 15-foot Klam

a t h

Advantage

aluminum

b o a t

with 20

h p

Suzuki

Marine

tiller and

E Z

Loader

trailer

valued at

$14,000,

which

o n e

lucky

angler will win in Sunday’s raffle. You

don’t have to catch a single fish all weekend

to land the big prize in the raffle! Tons

of other prizes too.

All participants receive one raffle

ticket—no others are sold—for prizes like

exotic fishing trips, getaways, fishing gear

and more. Tens of thousands of dollars in

cash and prizes are up for grabs during the

event ranging from rod and reel combos

to Igloo Coolers, Coleman lanterns and

much more. Special raffle for juniors with

separate grand prize too.

All anglers are eligible for the $5,000

blind bogey contest, with payouts going

to fishermen whose catches come closest

to but not over predetermined weights. The

lake sees thousands of dollars in trout

stocked in advance of the event by Western

Outdoor News and Big Bear Municipal

Water District to make sure anglers enjoy

heavy-hitting action.

The Troutfest tournament format is

simple: anglers compete in one of four di-

Big Bear’s annual invasion of ghosts,

ghouls and goblins returns again from 5-8

p.m. on Sunday, October 31 with “Halloween

in the Village.”

Pine Knot Ave. and Village Dr., which

comprise the “L” in the Village, will again

be closed off so youngsters can safely visit

over 50 stores that pass out free candy. Under

cover of darkness, vampires and

witches roam the streets freely to enjoy the

always-scary welcome awaiting guests at

Whiskey Dave’s and other popular haunts.

Along with Village businesses, local

visions — Adult Male, Adult Female, Junior

Male and Junior Female — for trophies

and prizes for the top five heaviest weights

of total trout caught and weighed over two

days in each division.

Each angler can weigh up to five trout

per day. Andrew Mack landed a two-day

weight of 26.39 lbs. to win 2019 Troutfest.

Biggest overall fish caught during the

event is good for a new Sea Eagle 437PS

Paddleski inflatable catamaran with 6hp

Suzuki motor, which can take two anglers

into tight

spots to

search for

t h e

biggies.

Plus a

lifelike

replica of

the biggest

overall

rainbow

to

memorialize

the

catch,

courtesy

of Global

Fishmounts.

Anglers with the heaviest stringer

each day also net $100 gift cards from Bass

Pro Shops in Rancho Cucamonga.

Fishing gets underway each day at 7

a.m. and continues till 4 p.m. Saturday, 2

p.m. on Sunday with awards ceremony following

at 3:30. Weigh-in is 12-4 Saturday,

11 a..m.-2 p.m. Sunday.

The $75 entry, $50 14 and under, includes

raffle ticket and blind bogey contest

ante. Registration is limited to 1,000

anglers and the first 600 to sign up get a

free well-stocked, waterproof Frogg Toggs

goodie bag stuffed with swag from event

sponsors including Berkley PowerBait,

Rooster Tails, Thomas Buoyant spoons,

Huk discount cards, official Troutfest hats

and more.

Registration is at BBMWD parking lot

Friday, Oct. 1 from 5-9 p.m.

To register call (949) 366-0248 or visit

www.WONews.com.

Reel in more than just fish at October Troutfest...like cash!

Trick-or-treating, -

hot apple cider and chocolate too!

Ghosts, goblins haunt

`Halloween in Village’

nonprofit and service organizations set up

booths with yet more sweet treats plus hot

chocolate, safety information and trick-ortreating,

creating a festive and safe Halloween

adventure the whole family enjoys.

Warm up with a cup of hot apple cider

around the gas fireplaces and enjoy beautiful

fall colors before darkness arrives and

brings out the haunts.

Streets close to traffic at 4 p.m. and

reopen at 9 p.m. Parking is available in the

Bartlett or Knickerbocker lots. Also look

for the Village pet costume contest in front

of Copper Q (645 Pine Knot). Call (909)

878-4777 for costume judging time.

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

www.HollowaysMarina.com or www.BigBearBoating.com

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.

Social Distance on a bike, take a hike, drop a line,

make time for nine (holes, that is).

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!

• Waverunners • Jet Skis

• Sea Doos! • Kayaks, SUP

• Wakeboard/Water Ski Rides

• Poontoon Boats

and Fishing Boats!

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

The Mountain’s Monthly Lifestyle Magazine

www.BigBearTodayMag.com


Fridays, new bands key Oktoberfest

Fridays added by popular demand.

Live bands on two stages, inside and

out. German Spooktacular Halloween

costume contest.

Big Bear Oktoberfest is in full

swing—and polka—as its namesake month

of October arrives. There’s beer, bratwursts

and bands three days a week all month long

at the Convention Center—many making

their first visits ever—as Oktoberfest continues

to impress, ranked among the Top

10 celebrations nationwide by AOL, Ski

Net and most recently USA Today.

The 51st edition of Oktoberfest is

much more representative of the festival

that has become widely considered

California’s best, after last year’s Covid restrictions.

Not that 2021 was lacking necessarily

lacking; in fact some of the modifications

dictated by the virus have been

adopted for 2021.

Preferred seating, for instance, was

popular last year and is again offered in

addition to regular general admission. Reserved

seating guarantees your place to

land indoors or out plus drink service.

Groups fell for the “Love Shacks,” private

bungalows seating up to 10 complete

with drink service, so they’re back too. Friday

nights are offered throughout October.

Capacity is limited so advance reservations

are strongly suggested—and cheaper—as

Free rides to, from Big Bear Oktoberfest

There’s always a free ride home from

Big Bear Oktoberfest Saturday nights for

those who want one. Now there’s complimentary

rides to the event, allowing

guests to leave cars behind and not have

to worry about limited parking.

The free shuttle again runs to

Oktoberfest from Big Bear Village Saturdays

from 2-7 p.m. It picks up from the

bus shelter at 630 Bartlett Rd. and brings

guests directly to Oktoberfest, running

every 30 minutes. Rides returning to the

Village are from 6-11:30 p.m.

In addition, Mountain Transit has

added the Convention Center to its regularly

scheduled bus stops in the Valley.

Let the driver know you’re going to

Oktoberfest and ride for free! View routes

and schedules at MountainTransit.org.

As always the ride home from

Oktoberfest is free to any lodge or residence

in the Valley. Shuttles depart

Oktoberfest from 7-11:30 p.m. Fridays,

Saturdays from 6-11:30 p.m. Catch out

in front of the Convention Center.

Oktoberfest’s long-running designated

driver program continues as well.

The one at the wheel can pick up a wristband

that entitles them to unlimited free

coffee, tea, water and soda.

folks flock to Big Bear to chicken dance.

While your favorite bands from Germany

still aren’t allowed to fly across the

pond because of the pandemic, top German-American

groups are on the schedule

and making their first visits to Big Bear.

Like Hazelnusse Das Music on Oct. 1-3

and 15, and Bavarian Beer Garden Band

Oct. 22-24.

Die Sauerkrauts is another newcomer,

set to play Oct. 8-10 and 16-17. Considered

L.A.’s premier polka party band, the

group’s members have skills that range far

beyond Bavarian music. Accordion Brian

Manchen for instance has played with symphony

orchestras and musical theater. In

his spare time he drums for the prog rock

band Chickenbox.

Tube player Robert Todd Jr. meanwhile

has traveled the world, performing

with orchestras and recording artists. You

may have heard him play locally with Corona

and Dana Point Symphonies or the

Santa Clarita Philharmonic. Drummer Till

Ritcher has a slew of credits, working with

varied artists including The Voice Germany

winner Julian Martel since he too is German.

Die Hammerstein Musik Bavaria is a

four-piece all-star group set to play Oct.

22-24, sporting an equally interesting resume.

Singer Andreas Beckett has appeared

in a number of operas and played

Hitler on Saturday Night Live! His extensive

credits include the films Escape from

Sobibor, Poseidon and Transformers 4.

The rest of the lineup is equally impressive,

with tuba Stephen Nutt, drummer

Mike Deutsch and accordion Aleksei

Chebeliuk sporting credits ranging from

appearances with symphonies to American

Idol and Dancing with the Stars.

Outdoors Wyatt’s stage features everything

but German music with two bands

each Saturday, one on Sundays. Highlights

include the famed Doo Wah Riders on Oct.

9 plus Wyatt’s favorites Terry McRaven

Band, Sean Wiggins and Lone Goat,

Southern Spirit and others.

Big Bear Oktoberfest continues to offer

the same authentic Bavarian experience

guests have enjoyed for 50 years. Set under

the pine trees, it’s the highest elevation

celebration in the country and features

bratwurst from a German butcher and fresh

apple strudel and pretzels delivered weekly

from a German bakery in Newport Beach.

Two bier gartens outdoors include the

Craft Haus where connoisseurs find a variety

of microbrews and craft offerings.

While German food is obviously an

Oktoberfest staple including the tastiest

sauerkraut around, other treats are available

like burgers, flatbread pizza and more.

Contests inside and out make

Big Bear Today

Dance the night away at Oktoberfest, now held Fridays too in October

Oktoberfest an interactive experience and

all the usual favorites are back, like log

sawing and stein holding. In addition

there’s a new, fast-paced cornhole game

that challenges two-person teams to score

points in a timed two-minute event.

The Halloween costume contest returns

for adults on Saturday, Oct. 30 during

the annual German Spooktacular, with

hundreds of dollars in cash prizes. To say

that outfits can be quite extravagant to win

the big bucks is an understatement!

Children’s contest follows Oct. 31 and all

kids who dress up get in for free.

Oktoberfest remains family-friendly

with children’s contests like pretzel toss

and kid mug holding, plus their own outside

area with giant inflatable slides and

bounce houses plus balloon artists Saturdays

and Sundays. Sunday Family Fun

Package includes two adults and two children

plus kids meals for $48.

Oktoberfest continues through November

7 from 4-11 p.m. October Fridays,

Saturdays 1-11 p.m. and Sundays noon-6.

Friday admission is $24, seniors $16, child

$8, preferred $45 with Saturdays priced at

$28, $20, $12, preferred $58 and Sundays

$16, $12, $8 preferred $35. Big Bear locals

get in free each Sunday with ID.

Call Convention Center at (909) 585-

3000 or www.BigBearEvents.com.

Longtime favorites The Express plays Oct. 29 and Nov. 6 (left); Hansel and Gretel log sawing, one of many contests on tap at Big Bear Oktoberfest


Mud, obstacles task Spartan athletes

Spartan athletes are known for overcoming

signature obstacles like wall

climbs, ladders, mud, even flames of fire.

Covid is one they haven’t got past, the

virus twice postponing the Big Bear Spartan

Trifecta in Big Bear. Now the event is

back on October 16-17 at Snow Summit

with four races designed to push top athletes

to their limits, on challenging courses

worthy of the namesake Greek city-state

warriors for which the event is named.

There are tamer events too, namely the Saturday

10K night run and kid’s race.

Big Bear’s elevation is enough to task

even the fittest warriors, but these courses

take it to another level with plenty of hills

mixed in, adding to the 1,200 feet of el-

evation gain that reaches the 8,200 ft. top

of Snow Summit. Elite athletes will savor

the opportunity to complete the Spartan

Trifecta in one weekend: Sprint 5K, Super

10K and Beast 21K.

The competition attracts elite athletes

from around the country, waves of 150 entrants

heading out every 15 minutes for a

steady stream of action. The obstacles are

demanding enough that some entrants pay

extra to attend the Friday walk-through

where the intricacies of each wall, ladder

and such are explained and there’s pre-race

walk-thrus and practice.

On Saturday it’s the 21K Spartan

Beast, once the most difficult race of the

weekend and still the signature event. It’s

a half-marathon, over

13 miles in distance

and 30 signature

Spartan obstacles to

overcome. Racers

have to climb up ski

runs, under barbed

wire, even cross

flames. Beasts head

out all day starting at

8 a.m., elites beginning

a half-hour earlier.

The Ultra race

cranks the challenge

up a notch with 50K

course and 60 custom

obstacles. That’s

about 31 brutal miles

Fire, barbed wires and more await top athletes at Spartan Big Bear Trifecta

up on the most demanding terrain. Ultra

racers even have to get up earlier, heading

out on Saturday starting at 6 a.m.

On Sunday it’s the Spartan Sprint, designed

for first timers to seasoned veterans.

The 5K course still packs 20 obstacles,

a fast-paced adventure through rugged terrain

that’s the beginning steps in Spartan

development.

The Spartan Super 10K is also on

Sunday, double the distance with 25 obstacles.

A sizeable cash purse is sure to attract

top athletes from around the country,

including those seeking to qualify for the

2021 world championships held in Abu

Dhabi.

Both days see Spartan kids races with

half-mile, one and two mile courses and

scaled down obstacles. Along with their

own mini festival area filled with games

and children’s challenges.

The finish festival features lifestyle

exhibits, vendors, music, food and more

making Spartan super spectator-friendly.

There’s access to some of the obstacles on

course, including the epic Gladiator pit and

finish line, and guests can test their own

physical conditioning with fitness challenges

like pull-ups, slosh pipe, Kaiser and

traverse wall. The $20 admission includes

discount card redeemable at the merchandise

tent.

Call (800) 4 BIG BEAR.


Last splash for bears before winter

Grizzly and black bears love to romp

in the snow and that time is coming. For

now, they’re still playing in the water.

As fall arrives the bruins at Big Bear

Alpine Zoo, open daily 10 a.m.-4 p.m., are

enjoying their last splashes in their own

private rock-lined seasonal swimming

pool. Soon the water body will be drained

for winter but for now the situation is still,

shall we say, fluid. Even three-legged

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

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

had formed distinct packs but the move to

Full Hot & Cold Deli

Groceries • Firewood & Propane • Spirits • Lotto

Try Our Famous

Rotisserie Chicken

& Kabobs!

Award

Winners:

1st

Liquor

2nd

Groceries

Pool time for grizzly mama Tutu;

snow leopards at home in new home

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

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

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

Big Bear Today

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.

We cut the highest

Quality Meats

Daily

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

Spend an hour or several enjoying the new zoo’s many exhibits


Chirp sets bird cruise, virtual talk

Final bird walk of the season held by

Chirp Nature Center is actually a cruise,

aboard Big Bear Queen on October 2.

Waterfowl will be the focus as Big

Bear’s original paddlewheeler tours the

lake at 8 a.m. See pelicans, ducks, great

blue herons and perhaps bald eagles during

the 90-minute cruise with knowledgeable

captain Chris Bellows at the helm.

Big Bear Queen’s open air design

makes it ideal for viewing and identifying

local birds as well as enjoying beautiful

natural scenery. It’s a great opportunity to

learn bird watching tips and after the outing

participants are invited to return to

Chirp for coffee, donuts and a free gift.

Meet at Pine Knot Marina (439 Pine

Knot Ave.) at 7:30 a.m. as the tour leaves

promptly at 8. Discounted fare is just $20,

call (909) 744-4948 for reservations. Seating

is limited. Big Bear Queen also offers

daily tours of the lake through October.

Chirp is holding several activities at

its expanded location just west of Big Bear

Village near the Bowling Barn at 578 Bonanza

Trail. The store’s new “nest” carries

everything birding enthusiasts need,

whether they’re beginners or veterans. Including

expanded “Feeder Forest” with varieties

of seed mountain birds love. Plus

you can test premium bird watching optics,

explore bird houses and baths, or

browse a growing selection of educational

books and guides.

For those who can’t make the in-person

bird cruise a virtual trip is set on Oct.

13. Streamed live online via Facebook and

YouTube at 5 p.m., the program features

30 minutes of Big Bear Lake’s natural

splendor, as participants learn about wild

birds, points of interest and fun facts.

The virtual cruise is free, and after the

program participants can take the bird

cruise quiz to win prizes. Plus all participants

get a free gift mailed to them and

one lucky winner will land a wild birdthemed

grand prize.

“Ominous Owls” is the final Expert

Dirty hands give forest a helping hand

Give the forest a helping hand by getting

your hands dirty during two October

volunteer days.

Greenthumbs workers will be in the

forest on Oct. 23 for the final scheduled

outing in 2021. Greenthumbs volunteers

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.

The Covid-compliant workday is

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

by calling (909) 382-2809 to pre-register

or email megan.clement@usda.gov.

In addition Restoration volunteers

are sought for an Oct. 2 workday. Volunteers

will be in a beautiful part of the forest

working an OHV staging area 9 a.m.-

2 p.m. Preregiister by emailing

lunderwood@mountainsfoundation.org.

Join Chirp for in-person and virtual bird cruises aboard Big Bear Queen

Bird Talk program on Saturday, Oct. 16.

Learn why owls are worth giving a hoot

about during the free hour-long talk presented

by featured guest speaker.

Discover how owls accurately pinpoint

the sounds of their prey and whether

the color of their eyes and eating patterns

are related. Why are owls such deadly

predators? These mysteries and more are

unraveled during the talk, along with the

chance to read about the largest owl in the

world. Plus how to provide housing for

neighborhood owls. The talk is at 10 a.m.

and will be streamed live on Facebook and

YouTube.

Plan now to celebrate Chirp’s third

FREE WIFI

CLOSE TO

VILLAGE,

LAKE &

DINING

year of supporting wild birds and connecting

people to nature at its “Hatchiversary”

event on November 5. From 4-7 p.m. there

will be bird-themed music performed by

MountainTop Strings and “Singing for the

Birds’ artists Beth Wheat and Tori Waner,

hors d’oeuvres catered locally and special

presentation by featured keynote speaker.

In addition Chirp will debut its new

Backyard Event Center. Reserve your spot

in advance and get a free special gift valued

at over $30, which includes an exclusive

limited edition Chirp keepsake.

Chirp is open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. daily.

Chirp Nature Center is at 578 Bonanza

Trail. Call (888) 412-4477.

Big Bear’s

Largest Pool

(Offer Good Sunday-Thursday / non-holiday)

Motel Rooms $75

with Fireplace & Queen Bed

Mountain Cabins $99

with Fireplace, Private Deck

.

Spa Rooms & Cabins!

with Cozy Fireplace

and Outdoor Spa (800) 255-4378

local (909) 866-2166

41121 Big Bear Blvd. • Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

www.BlackForestLodge.com


Bow Wow Wow, tributes at Cave

Big Bear Today

T

he faces may have changed but the

music will be the same when Bow

Wow Wow returns to The Cave

Big Bear October 30.

The longtime British new wave favorite

last played Big Bear’s intimate concert

venue eight years ago as part of a 1980’s

music tripleheader. Now Bow Wow Wow

returns for a pre-Halloween party with different

lead singer but the same songs that

propelled the group to stardom.

Bassist Leigh Gordon is still around

and he put on quite the show when the band

last played The Cave. And while lineups

change—members through the years have

ranged from Boy George and originally

Adam Ant to No Doubt drummer Adrian

Young—the music hasn’t, as fans hear a

barrage of Bow Wow Wow hits that will

leave them saying “Wow!”

Like “I Want Candy,” the group’s big-

gest single that peaked as high as #9 on

the UK charts in 1982. It’s success was bolstered

with the early accompanying video

tat helped propel MTV. A myriad of artists

have covered “I Want Candy” originally

written by the Strangeloves, but Bow

Wow Wow takes the tune live to another

level.

“Aphrodisiac” and “Fools Rush In,”

along with “I Want Candy,” were featured

in the 2006 Sofia Coppola film Marie

Antoinette. Other favorites by the band include

“Go Wild in the Country,” “Do You

Wanna Hold Me,” “See Jungle,” “The Man

Mountain,” “C30, C60, C90,” “W.O.R.K.”

and others.

The band long since parted ways with

original lead vocalist Annabella Lwin, who

was only age 13 when she first joined Bow

Wow Wow. Now those duties are handled

by “Dinzy” Kristen Dinsmore who belts

out the hits with the power

and precision fans expect.

Gorman meanwhile is

the only original Bow Wow

Wow member, and he’s

been lauded for his intricate

bass work through the

years. Some consider

Gorman one of music’s

most underrated bassists

and he puts on quite the

show live. He co-wrote

many of the band’s hits and

thus has the rights to perform

them live. Tickets $15.

Bow Wow Wow returns to The Cave, along with Dog and Butterly’s Heart tribute

October sees a wide variety of shows

at The Cave ranging from reggae (Oct. 15)

to Punktoberfest (Oct. 23). The Legendary

Pot Roast presents its tributes to Meat

Loaf and Jim Steinman on Oct. 2 and Dog

and Butterfly returns to The Cave with its

top shelf tribute to female rockers Heart

on Oct. 22. Tickets for each show are $15.

Indeed the ladies are front and center

this month at The Cave. On Oct. 16 Whole

Lotta Rosies presents an all-female tribute

to AC/DC, with 2 Hot to Handle opening,

another female show playing UFO music.

Tickets are $20.

The Mighty Cash Cats were one of the

early groups to play at The Cave when it

opened and return for the first time Oct. 9.

The band’s powerful tribute to Johnny

Cash is impressive and the group is likely

to play other stuff too. Opening is the Linda

Ronstadt Experience, making for a great

night of country rock music. Tickets $15.

Tribute to The Eagles, Foo Fighters

and much more dot the November lineup.

And now’s the time to get tickets to see

favorites Pennywise on December 10,

which has been a quick sellout during previous

Big Bear visits. Tickets $38.

All shows start at 8 p.m.

Call The Cave (909) 878-0204 or visit

thecavebigbear.com.

Enough Pause. Fast Forward to fun

with Big Bear Today!

Time to Push Play!



Social Distance on a bike, take a hike, drop a line,

make time for nine (holes, that is).


And when you can't

PICK US UP,

then CLICK US UP





Glow Bowling, Laser Maze at Barn

Hot fun, cool air conditioning at the

Bowling Barn, with good times on the

lanes plus Laser Maze, great food and

drink, video games and more.

Sixteen sanitized lanes separated by

plastic welding screens ensure bowlers social

distance safely 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 personally only seen one

other with them.”

When the house lights go down and

black lights kick up for Glow Bowling, the

experience gets surreal as the screen barriers

are something else to reflect light off.

Even neon bowling balls, sanitized of

course, illuminate with fluorescent color

Laser Maze is like limbo with lights for one or two players

under the black lights in dazzling orange,

blue, green and red hues.

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. Easy to see why Glow Bowling

is so popular, held after 2 p.m. on Saturday

and Sunday, after 5 p.m. on Tuesday

and Friday, and after 8:30 p.m. other days.

For more social distance fun head to

the Laser Maze

for challenge

that’s 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, what-

Screens separate guests at the Bowling Barn, which lights up for Glow Bowling

ever 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

scanner to complete the mission. Takes true

Ninja skills and while the game is easy to

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.

Alley Oops Sports Bar is open with

reduced seating and full cocktail service

including specialty drinks, microbrews and

domestics on tap.. Bowling Barn has great

grab and go food too like barbecue chicken

pizza, street tacos, chicken wraps, flaming

hot onion rings and carne asada fries.

There’s a myriad of video and action

games at Bowling Barn, like Hoop Fever,

pool tables, air hockey and many more. Including

old favorites like Alpine Skier and

Dance Revolution and today’s latest machines.

Kids who register at

kidsbowlfree.com get two free games all

summer long as part of a nationwide program

Bowling Barn participates in.

Bowling Barn is at 40625 Big Bear

Blvd. (enter on Bonanza). Call 878-BOWL.

Pine Knot Marina & Fun Dock

Jet Skis & Boat Rentals

• Pontoons

• Fishing Boats

• Guided Fishing Tours!

Bait and Tackle Shop! (818) 434-5420

Kayaks & Paddleboard Rentals

courtesy of Get Boards (909) 878-3155

439 Pine Knot Ave • Located At the Foot of the Village

PineKnotMarina.com


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 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!

2 days of custom

vans, gear at

Adventure Expo

Check out the latest exploration vans,

trucks, campers, off road tent trailers and

roof top tents when the 2021 Adventure

Van Expo series returns to Big Bear October

16-17.

The free show held two days in

Bartlett Parking Lot in Big Bear Village

features primarily custom vans but other

rides too, built to get off the beaten path,

including Mercedes Sprinters. There’s also

4x4 rigs, accessories and more. Food, music

and beer are back on the itinerary for

2021 again along with over 25 exhibitors

and 30 sponsors, including host Walter’s

Sprinter of Riverside.

The custom vans are mini-RVs with

sinks, counters, restrooms, appliances and

more. Some are off-road beasts with full

off road capabilities! The expo is a chance

to meet professional adventure vehicle

builders and see their products on display

while networking with like-minded individuals.

See accessories and van conversions

from companies like Tourig, Mod Vans,

Airstream and Winnebago. Other participants

include Field Van, Van Land, American

Van Works, Thule, Vancation,

Camplife Customs, Outpost Vans, Nook,

Off the Grid,B-Cool Green Power AC,

Gentiu and more. There’s gear, racks, roof

2 days of exploration at the free Adventure Van Expo

top tents, trailer tents, accessories and

much more on display.

Adventure Van Expo special “Van

Row” parking for van owners is available

on a first-come basis. Demonstrations,

workshops and talks on interesting subjects

including solar are also on tap.

Hours on Saturday are 10 a.m.-5 p.m.,

10-3 Sunday.

The event is one of six expos held at

scenic locations around the country like

Lake Tahoe and Hood River along with areas

in Chatanooga, TN and Dillon, CO and

Bend, Oregon.

Visit AdventureVanExpo.com to RSVP

for free.

Big Bear Today

Haunted Drive Thru

Prepare for a scare when Big Bear

Lake Rotary Interact Club holds its Drive

Thru Haunted House three nights only on

October 20-22.

Terror is scheduled from 7-10 p.m.

each night in the Village, at the parking lot

on the corner of Knickerbocker and Village

Dr. Get ready to be spooked by strobe

lights, music machines with scary sounds,

fog machines and more. Interact kids will

be dressed to scare and there’s candy for

youngsters after the drive thru.

Admission is free though donations

are accepted. Interact Club is raising funds

to support its many programs like Rotary’s

Peanut Butter Project, a sustainable

nutrious food program for third world

countries, Big Bear Alpine Zoo, Christmas

presents and food for needy Big Bear families,

USARC adaptive ski program at Bear

Mountain and more.

USARC sets P2P27

Some fundraisers have gone virtual

but those who want to participate in the

annual Peak to Peak Pedal from Big Bear

to Mammoth have to earn it.

The 27th annual event set for October

6-10 is the primary fundraiser for United

States Adaptive Recreation Center at Bear

Mountain. Another big event, the winter

Ski-A-Thon at Bear Mountain, already had

to be canceled so two-wheelers are hitting

the road for five days, averaging about 60-

80 miles per day.

Peak to Peak Pedal starts at Bear

Mountain and continues down Hwy. 18 to

Lucerne Valley, past Cactus Flats and down

steep switchback sections. Only to have to

recover some of the elevation cyclists gave

up on the climb over Goat Mountain before

the cruise into Barstow.

Subsequent days have some tough

climbs too, like the second day’s hump into

Ridgecrest and the steady slog into Lone

Pine. But nothing matches the final day as

riders ascend Sherwin Summit, taking a

separate route from Hwy. 395 but still pedaling

to the top of the 8,000 foot grade.

The ride doesn’t end in town either; cyclists

still have to pedal up to Mammoth

Mountain, another thousand-foot ascent.

Visit USARC.org to donate


Tunnels, corkscrews on Mineshaft Coaster

Three complete 360° corkscrew turns.

Steep descents, two 100-foot tunnels, dips

and drops galore, all served up during a

mile-long gravity-fueled adventure.

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

slow, if that’s what you prefer.

First and only ride of its kind in

California, Mineshaft Coaster has been a

hit since opening at Alpine Slide this

summer. 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 really 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 to do it

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. “The ride was a lot 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

A mile of drops, dips and turns await riders on Mineshaft Coaster

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 sleds, past the water side 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 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.

Each cart is wiped down as part of Alpine

Slide’s many virus precautions.

Mineshaft Coaster tickets are $20 per

person, children $10. The ride is open

seven days a week, all year long.

Soaring Eagle, another first of its kind

ride in California, is also open daily. Guests

are treated to spectacular views of the lake

Continued on page 12

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

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


Miss Liberty tours, SUP at Pine Knot

Tour Big Bear Lake in climate-controlled

comfort during daily tours aboard

Miss Liberty out of Pine Knot Marina.

The lake’s largest tour boat with decorative

smokestacks and paddlewheel visits

Big Bear Lake sites and sights during

90-minute guided tours. Discover the

Valley’s rich history dating back to 1845

along with fun facts, celebrity sightings,

folklore and more.

Sit on the spacious, fully-shaded top

deck to soak in panoramic views of the

beautiful lake and fall colors on shore. Or

head below deck to the fully enclosed and

climate-controlled main salon for indoor

seating, the awesome views spilling inside

through panel windows.

At 64 feet long and 24-1/2 feet high,

Miss Liberty is easily the largest tour boat

on the water with 125 passenger capacity.

Coaster, Soaring Eagle...

Continued from page 11

and a thrilling 500 ft. descent during their

thrilling flight, dropping almost two football

fields in distance as part of a 125 foot

descent that reaches speeds up to 26 mph.

Double seat belts secure up to two riders.

At $12 per ride Soaring Eagle is priced

less than other similar attractions. Riders

can go solo or with a companion to share

the experience. Guests must be at least 42”

tall and those between 42-48” must ride

with an adult. Photo and video of the experience

can also be purchased.

Alpine Slide is also home to the

downhill sleds of the same name, a

The Skipper-liner 1500 LX was built in

1994 and fully refurbished in 2006.

Miss Liberty sports an array of amenities

including galley with light snacks and

a variety of beverages like sodas, beer and

wine, even champagne. There’s also modern

restrooms, quality sound system and

seating areas for small groups. The boat is

handicap accessible too.

Tours are available daily at noon, 2, 4

and 6 p.m. Weekend sunset tours are especially

popular in summer. Fares are $25,

seniors and military $23, children $16. Pine

Knot Marina is also home to the lake’s

other paddlewheeler, Big Bear Queen, with

its most experienced and knowledgeable

captain. Between the two there’s a tour

available every hour.

Pine Knot Marina has a myriad of

other activities for lake lovers. Rent a pon-

longtime favorite that delivers an Olympiclike

ride. Experience many of the same

gravitational forces bobsledders while

descending two quarter-mile cement tracks

filled with long straightaways, S-turns and

banked curves on individually-controlled

sleds.Bobsled rides cost just $7 each, or

$30 for a five-ride book.

Putt `N Around Go-Karts and 18-hole

miniature golf course are also open daily.

Alpine Slide bobsleds operate Saturday

and Sunday and it won’t be long till the

snow guns fire up for inner tubing.

Alpine Slide is at 800 Wildrose Ln. on

Big Bear Blvd. Call (909) 866-4626.

Big Bear Today

Tour the lake aboard Miss Liberty or rent a kayak or Standup Paddleboard at

Pine Knot Marina

toon or fishing boat for

a day on the water including

high performance

vessels with

powerful motors and

leather interiors for

comfort. Bosco’s onsite

Bait and Tackle

shop has everything anglers

need for a day of

fishing including rods,

reels, line, hooks, lures

and more.

Or play in the spray aboard a Yamaha

waverunner with seating up to three (two

preferred). Big Bear Watersports School

provides water ski and wake sports instruction

for first-timers to experienced pros by

certified USA Waterski instructor Brian

Boyd, with 25 years experience.

With sheltered bay Pine Knot Marina

has one of the prime locations to enjoy kayaks

and Standup paddleboards. Rent your

ride from Get Boards right at water’s edge

and enjoy tranquil marina waters while getting

the feel of the lake’s most popular

sports. Two, four and eight hour rental

available.

Pine Knot Marina is at 439 Village Dr.,

“Where the Village Meets the Lake.” Call

(909) 866-8129 or PineKnotMarina.com.

Big Bear Today

GET WET

With Us!

SEA DOOS

JET SKIS

WAVERUNNER

Rentals

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


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

Walk

Board

October 2021—Page 13

CC

Club View Drive

Big Bear City

Moonridge

Big Bear Mountain

To Victorville, Barstow

& Las Vegas

Museum

Big Bear

Alpine Zoo

To Angelus Oaks

and Redlands

WAKEBOARD

RIDES

Free Lessons!

SKI DOCK

Edgemoor

Rd.

Holloway's

Marina

Log Cabin

Rest.

To

Village

Big Bear Blvd.

Also on the North Shore at

North Shore Landing!

GET WET WATER

SPORTS CENTER

878-4FUN

866-5706

Big Bear.

Blvd.

Alpine

Slide

Oktoberfest on weekends,

including October Fridays

Must dial area code (909) with all

number unless otherwise noted

October

1-3

51st Annual Oktoberfest continues

at the Convention Center

with Hazelnusse Das Music. Friday

(4-11 p.m.) $24, senior

$16, child $8, Saturday (1-11

p.m.) $28, senior $20, child

$12; Sunday (noon-6) $16, senior

$12, child $8. 585-3000.

2

Bird Cruise aboard Big Bear

Queen, meet at Pine Knot Marina

7:30 a.m. $20 per person.

744-4948 or (888) 412-4477.

2

Restoration Volunteer Day in

OHV staging area from 9 a.m.-

2 p.m. Must preregister

lunderwood@

mountainsfoundation.org.

2

Big Bair Takeover Volkswagon

car show from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

at The Lodge (40650 Village

Dr.), after party follows. 866-

3121.

2-3

16th Annual Troutfest; com-

pete for thousands in cash and

prizes. $75 entry includes goodie

bag, hat. WONews.com.

6-10

27th Annual Peak to Peak Pedal

bike ride from Big Bear to Mammoth,

benefits USARC. 584-

0269.

8-10

51st Annual Oktoberfest at

Wyatt’s continues at the Convention

Center with Die

Sauerkrauts band. Friday (4-11

p.m.) $24, senior $16, child $8,

Saturday (1-11 p.m.) $28, senior

$20, child $12; Sunday

(noon-6) $16, senior $12, child

$8. 585-3000.

15-17



Center with Hazelnusse

Das Music. Friday (4-11 p.m.)

$24, senior $16, child $8, Die

Sauerkrauts Saturday (1-11

p.m.) $28, senior $20, child

$12; Sunday (noon-6) $16, senior

$12, child $8. 585-3000.

16

Fall Festival at Meadow Park

gym (41220 Park Ave.) 11:30

a.m.-3:30 p.m. with vendors,

face painter, trick or treating,

tarot card readings. Free admission.

16-17

Big Bear Spartan Trifecta Weekend;

elite athletes compete at

Snow Summit, base area activities.

Spectating $20. 866-5766.

16-17

Adventure Van Expo at Bartlett

Parking Lot 10-5 Sat., 10-3 Sun.

Free admission. 866-6190.

20-22

Drive Thru Haunted House by

Rotary Interact Club in the Village

at Knickerbocker corner lot

7-10 p.m. No charge, donations

welcome.

22-24



Center with Die

Hammerstein Music Bavaria. Friday

(4-11 p.m.) $24, senior $16,

child $8, Saturday (1-11 p.m.)

$28, senior $20, child $12; Sunday

(noon-6) $16, senior $12,

child $8. 585-3000.

23

Greenthumbs Native Plant Restoration

Program with volunteers

scheduled to work with

virus protocols from 9 a.m.-3

p.m.; meet at the Ranger Station,

call to confirm. 382-2809.

22-24



Center with The Express

Band Friday (4-11 p.m.)

$24, senior $16, child $8, Saturday

Bavarian Beer Garden

Band (1-11 p.m.) $28, senior

$20, child $12; Sunday Da

Stube Buden (noon-6) $16, senior

$12, child $8. 585-3000.

30

Bow Wow Wow in concert 8

p.m. at The Cave. Tickets $15.

878-0204.

31

Halloween in the Village sees

merchants passing out candy

from 5-8 p.m. 866-4607.

November

6-7

51st Annual Oktoberfest concludes

at the Convention Center

with American Heroes weekend.

Saturday The Express Band

(1-11 p.m.) $22, senior $16,

child $10; Sunday Da Stube

Buben (noon-6) $15, senior $12,

child $5. 585-3000.

For updated calendar of events visit us on the Internet!

www.bigbeartodaymag.com

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Recreation

Guide

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. Open

daily. Also Mineshaft Coaster, miniature

golf, go-karts, Soaring Eagle,. water slide.

Family-priced snack bar, video games. Big

Bear Blvd., 1/4 mile west of the Village.

(909) 866-4626.

Big Bear Speedway

Soki Kart racing with timed heats and

authentic track experience. Reach speeds

up to 30 mph while negotiating hairpin

turns and straightaways on the Grand Prixstyle

course. Double Karts allow younger

riders to go too. $20 on first visit includes

license valid one year, head sock and race

($25 double Kart). Base lodge with snack

bar. At Big Bear Snow Play next to Motel

6. (909) 585-0075.

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

• Races Timed,

Fastest Times Posted

• Safety First With Helmets,

4-Point Restraints

• Single & Double Karts with

2 Steering Wheels

(Passenger must be

at least 40" tall)

THE ALMANAC

Real Gear...Real Track...

Real Racing!

KART RACING in BIG BEAR

Located at Big Bear Snow Play

has a variety of electric bike rentals, 42071

Big Bear Blvd. (909) 866-2728.

Bingo

The Elks Lodge hosts stirring Bingo games

each Friday night at 7 p.m. All are welcome

ages 18 and over. Also new Cook Shack

open Wednesday-Sunday. 40611 Big Bear

Blvd. west of the Village, across from

Lakeview. (909) 866-3557.

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).

Boat Tours

“Big Bear Queen” sails daily from Pine

Knot Marina with the lake’s most guaranteed

daily tours and most experienced captain,

Chris Bellows. Tours daily at 11 a.m.,

1, 3 and 5 p.m. Adults $23, seniors/military

$23, 12 and under $16, 3 and under free.

Sunset cruises Saturdays 7 p.m., bring your

favorite beverages. (909) 744-4948.

Pirate Ship Lake Tours aboard newly

refurbished "Time Bandit," a one-third scale

replica of a 1600's galleon that appeared in

the movie of the same name, sail daily from

Holloway's Marina...complete with canon

fire! Full bar with beer, wine and cocktails.

Fares $29, seniors $27, ages 12 and under

$21, lap child free. (909) 878-4040.

“Miss Liberty” paddlewheeler with enclosed,

heated deck and snack bar, leaves

Pine Knot Marina for scenic tours of Big

Bear Lake. View the homes of celebrities,

42825 Big Bear Blvd. • Big Bear Lake

www.BigBearSpeedway.com

• Full-Featured

Sodi Kart Racing

• Grand Prix-Style

Fifth-of-a-Mile

Course!

(909) 585-0075

Check our website for current operating hours

State-of-the-art

Open April – October

Daily Summer Season

Free Print Out

of Lap Time Results

• Open Year Round

• 6,400 square feet of challenges

37 obstacles including Skyrail ® Zipline

• 2 Stories Tall, 35 ft. above ground

Big Bear Today

Recreation • Dining • Nightlife • And More

Road Conditions: (800) 427-ROAD quickmap.dot.ca.gov

Win big bucks during Friday night bingo at the Elks Lodge; call (909) 866-3557

solar observatory, and much more. $25,

$23 senior/military, $16 ages 3-12, four

and under free. (909) 866-8129.

Big Bear Cruzer is the lake’s newest tour

boat, sailing out of Big Bear Marina daily.

The open air boat with sunshade departs

several times daily with no passenger minimum..

$22, senior $20, 12 and under $15

(909) 866-3218.

Bowling

The Bowling Barn offers new lanes with

automated scoring for bowling enjoyment.

Also laser maze, arcade games, great food

and full-service cocktail lounge with pool.

Glow Bowling after dark with black lights,

videos. Open daily. 40625 Big Bear Blvd.,

enter on Bonanza. (909) 878-BOWL

Charter 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

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.

Continued on page 15

Enough Pause. Fast Forward to fun with Big Bear Today!

Time to Push Play!




And when you can't

PICK US UP,

then CLICK US UP





Pine Knot Trail from Aspen Glen picnic

Hiking

with Honda 5.5 horsepowers engines and

area climbs the southern ridge above Alpine

There’s dozens of trails and natural areas to

an array of safety features zip around.

Slide three miles (each way) to Skyline Dr.

enjoy the rugged beauty of the San

Open daily. 866-4626.

2N10, through lush meadow and stands of

Bernardino National Forest. From easy white fir and Jeffrey Pine. Continue another Soaring Eagle

strolls along the lake to stenuous climbs 1/4 mile to Grand View Point for spectacular Zip 500' downhill on the new Soaring

into the mountains, there are trails for all 180-degree vistas.

Eagle attraction at Alpine Slide, only one

abilities, including families, within a short

Looking for more hikes? Go online to of its kind in California. Reach speeds up to

drive of Big Bear. For information on all

www.BigBearTodayMag.com! 26 mph during the dramatic downhill

trails in the Valley and the required

descent—only after riding backwards to

Adventure Pass, visit the Discovery Center Holcomb Valley the top! Up to two can ride at one time.

on North Shore Dr., about two miles west At one time, Big Bear Valley was thriving Open daily. On the boulevard 1/4 mile

of Stanfield Cutoff. (909) 866-3437. gold country. The last remaining signs of west of the Village. (909) 866-4626.

Alpine Pedal Path is a very easy 3.5 mile this historic chapter in Big Bear history are

Zoo

(each way) paved trek following the lake featured in a driving tour through what is

on the north shore. Popular with hikers, known as Holcomb Valley. Totaling 11.6

The new Big Bear Alpine Zoo is open!

bikers, skaters, strollers and wheelchairs miles over a dirt road, the tour offers stops

Grizzly and black bears, bobcats, coyotes,

as it passes Carol Morrison East Boat at Two Gun Bill’s Saloon, Hangman’s

mountain lions, , eagles, and other animals

Launch, Discovery Center, Serrano Tree, Pigmy Cabin, Metzger Mine, and

now have a new state-of-the-art home with

campground, Solar Observatory and more. more. Free maps available at the Big Bear

creature comforts for both animals residents

Pirate ship lake tours; (909) 878-4040

Castle Rock Trail is a short but strenuous Discovery Center on the North Shore—

and guests. Open 10 a.m.-4 p.m. with animal

hike, that ends with a panoramic view of call 866-3437. Allow three hours or more.

presentations and special programing. 747 sports all the time on big screens. 40827

Clubview off Moonridge Rd. $15 adults, Stone Rd. (909) 878-0283.

Big Bear Lake. Legend has it that a beautiful

Horseback Riding $10 ages over 60 and children 3-12, two

Indian maiden, jilted by her lover, took her

BIG BEAR MOUNTAIN BREWERY—

life by leaping from this towering 100 ft.

Baldwin Lake Stable is open year-round and under free. (909) 584-1299. Fresh microbrewed beer served with hot

monolith. It’s reached after a mostly uphill,

for horseback riding. Rates are by the hour,

and cold sandwiches, soups, salads and

.8 mile walk past a stream and featuring

offering one, two, three and four-hour rides

Dining

appetizers in a cozy atmosphere. Weekend

beautiful views. Located on Hwy. 18

with longer rides heading along the famous

live entertainment. 40260 Big Bear Blvd.

between Boulder Bay and the dam; park on

Pacific Crest Trail plus sunset rides. A

just west of Alpine Slide. 866-BEER.

the lake side of the road.

variety of spectacular mountain trails with Guide

CAPTAIN'S ANCHORAGE—Historic

horses for all riding abilities. For little

Cougar Crest Trail is moderate two-mile

and rustic, this restaurant, built in 1947 as

buckeroos there’s hand-led pony rides and

(each way) hike. As it winds above the

Big Bear City

the Sportsman's Tavern and once owned

petting zoo. Reservations suggested for all

lake’s north shore, it offers up great views

rides. Big Bear Blvd. east to stop sign at BARNSTORM RESTAURANT—

by Andy Devine, is a Big Bear favorite

of water and the surrounding mountains.

with specialties like prime rib, Alaskan

Hwy. 38, go through intersection, veer left

Trailhead is on North Shore Dr. about two

King Crab legs, seafood, and steaks. Allyou-can-eat

homemade soup and salad bar,

on Shay Rd. to 46475 Pioneertown Rd.,

miles west of Stanfield Cutoff, .6 mile

Big Bear City. (909) 585-6482.

from the Discovery Center where you can

romantic seating, and cocktails in the Andy

park without an Adventure Pass.

Mineshaft Coaster

Devine Room. Open for dinner daily from

Woodland Interpretive Trail is a short, First ride of its kind in California! Ride

4:30 p.m. Moonridge Rd., just off Big

scenic family stroll with minimal elevation carts you control on a mile-long track with

Bear Blvd. (909) 866-3997.

gain, located on the north shore near Cougar steep drops and climbs, 360-degree

DYNASTY—Authentic Szechuan cuisine

Crest. Free trail maps (available at the corkscrew turns, two mining tunnels and

with an array of specialty dishes. Mongolian

trailhead or Discovery Center) identify more. Up to two can ride at one time. Open

BBQ too and great cocktails. 40989 Big

markers along the route noting local daily at Alpine Slide, on the boulevard 1/4

Bear Blvd. 866-7887.

vegetation, wildlife areas, etc.

mile west of the Village. (909) 866-4626.

OLD COUNTRY INN-Family-style home

cooking at this local's favorite with

Pacific Crest Trail comes through Big Miniature Golf/Go Karts

breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. Steaks,

Bear from Onyx Summit through the East Putt ‘N Around, located at the Alpine Slide

German and Italian specialties and much

Valley to Hwy. 18 and then past Holcomb at Magic Mountain, features a landscaped

more with great weekday specials. 41126

Valley Rd. and Cougar Crest through 18-hole miniature golf course complete

Big Bear Blvd., east of Pine Knot. Call

Holcomb Valley before continuing its 2,638 with water hazards and breaking greens.

866-5600.

mile journey from Mexico to Canada. Call Then there’s an oval-shaped go-kart track

STILLWELLS—In Northwoods Resort,

the Discovery Center to find out where to with high-banked turns, which nine Can

open for breakfast, lunch and dinner with

catch this famous international trail. Am racers—including four two-seaters—

fresh seafood and pasta dishes, gourmet

steaks, homemade soups and more. 40650

Village Dr. (909) 866-3121.

After Dark...

Big Bear’s Nightlife & Entertainment Guide

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 $20.95 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

ALLEY OOPS SPORTS BAR—Full cocktail service in Alley Oops Sports Bar at the

Bowling Barn. Watch the big game on big screen TVs, pool tables, good food,

40625 Big Bear Blvd. (909) 878-BOWL.

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 including Brad Riesau from Silver Moon Oct. 8,

14, 22 and 28. 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.

THE LODGE AT BIG BEAR LAKE—Brad Riesau from Silver Moon at Stillwells 6-9

p.m.every Saturday. 40650 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,

joined by top bass players on Saturdays. 350 Alden Rd. (909) 878--0506.

WYATT’S CAFE & SALOON—Wednesdays see country dancing. Wyatt’s is at

Convention Center, Big Bear Blvd. at Division. (909) 585-3000.

18


THE BACK PAGE

Aspen show back, if you can get there

Quaking aspens at one of only two

naturally-occurring groves south

of the Sierras are putting on their

fall color show 30 minutes from Big Bear,

provided you’re willing to work make the

effort to get there.

Autumn has been tough to catch at

Aspen Grove Trail since the 2015 Lake

Fire. Flames roared through the area, blackening

pine trees and removing just about

everything else, even the San Gorgonio

Wilderness sign that’s since been replaced.

The area was subsequently closed and even

after reopening in August 2018 was shut

down again last year due to the El Dorado

Fire.

But aspens are hardy with extensive

underground root systems and it didn’t take

long for shoots to start springing up, only

a couple months. Even while humans were

away, aspens flourished, taking advantage

of a year-round water supply and more

sunshine now that the pine tree population

was thinned by fire.

In fact I walked the area a couple

months after the inferno with Forest Service

biologist Steve Alarid, who predicted

then that aspens would recover nicely, and

quickly. Before the fire pines had been putting

the squeeze on the aspens. With the

tall conifers out of the way aspens are thriving;

the foot-high shoots I saw with Alarid

were several feet tall on a 2019 visit and

last month were still taller, the grove of yesteryear

surely returning.

Forest Road 1N02 off Hwy. 38 at

Heartbar, about 30 minutes

from Big Bear,

leads to Aspen Grove—

veer right at the Coon

Creek junction on 1N05

toward Fish Creek.

High clearance vehicles

are necessary, but if

yours won’t make it

park near the gate and

walk one-plus miles

climbing a few hundred

vertical feet to the trail.

Aspen Grove

Trailhead looks about

the same as before, with

a new sign marking the path. The quartermile

hike to the grove serves up nice views

with the sound of gurgling water and sight

of aspens stretching in the distance.

Fish Creek is flowing better than I

would expect for this late in a drought year.

Across the stream the aspen show unfolds.

This late September weekend is still a bit

early for color but yellow is beginning to

show and should be abundant as you read

these words.

The Wilderness sign toasted six years

ago has been replaced and is flanked by

aspens all around. Aspens are dominating

as expected and I have to elbow my way

through them at times along the trail. The

grove isn’t huge, only about two acres at

the time of the fire, but with tall conifers

gone the aspens may expand over time.

The trail meanwhile veers south from

Big Bear Today

Six years after the Lake Fire, Aspen Grove is open and again putting on a show

the grove into San Gorgonio Wilderness

and continues 1-1/2 miles to join with Fish

Creek Trail. I don’t go that far, just a mile

or so, enough to see fire damage all around.

Lake Fire charred over 30,000 acres, much

of it around this prime hiking area.

Though the pines are gone and won’t

be back in force during my lifetime, willows,

grasses and shrubs are everywhere,

adding to the color show with assorted hues

of green, yellow, even a little red.

This grove, and a smaller one north

of Onyx Summit near Arrastre Creek, are

thought to be Ice Age holdovers. Water and

unique locations allow them to survive

southern locations other aspens can’t

A free wilderness permit is required

to hike beyond the aspens. Visit

SGWA.org.

—by Marcus Dietz

October 2021 Big Bear Today Magazine

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