Big Bear Today Magazine May 2022

Volume 33, No. 11 May 2022
www.bigb eartodaymag.com
The Mountain’s Monthly Lifestyle Magazine
Beat Feet
on the
PCT!
• Oktoberfest in Spring
with Maifest
• Spartan Trifecta
Brings Elite Athletes
• Wildflower and Bird Walks,
Talks, Crafts
• BBQ, Brews, Bands at
Grill & Chill

Page 2—May 2022
From the Publisher
Hiking 28 miles in
one day on the PCT
for Make-A-Wish
T
he
28-miles of Pacific Crest Trail
in Big Bear Valley these folks will
be hiking I know well, and have
hiked myself many times.
Just not all in one day.
That’s exactly what dozens of twofooters
will do on May 21 and again on
June 4, hitting the PCT by 4 a.m.,
headlamps and flashlights illuminated to
chase away shadows. What’s more, they’re
each committing $2,500 or more in donations
for the effort, either writing their own
tax-deductible check or raising money, in
some cases lots of it. The hiker gets a twonight
hotel stay and meals, trail support and
much more, a chance to dig deep not just
into your pockets, but also your soul.
The Trailblaze Challenge is the best
event in Big Bear you’ve never heard of.
The idea of hiking 28 miles on the PCT to
benefit Make-A-Wish started with the San
Diego chapter six years ago and has since
spread like wildfire. From Northern California
and Nevada all the way to Alabama,
chapters around the country are hosting
events on their own local trails that challenge
hikers and raise money to grant
wishes to critically ill kids.
Covid threw the event for a loop the
past couple years in some places, but
Trailblaze Challenge San Diego hit the
PCT in 2021 and is doing so again this year.
Just how many will participate is an unknown
at press time, but at least 70 returning
veterans are expected to hike.
There were 74 hikers that first year in
2017 and subsequent events have seen as
many as a couple hundred participate. Over
$2 million has been raised to grant wishes
to sick kids, an amazing total indeed and
an indicator of the passion that both the
cause and event inspire in people.
“That’s over 200 life-changing wish
experiences that not only impact wish kids
directly, but also impacts their families
along with thousands of community members
involved annually in making wishes
come true,” said Christine Reed of Make-
A-Wish San Diego.
So why haven’t you heard of an event
that raises millions and grants hundreds of
wishes? Trailblaze Challenge San Diego
stays somewhat under the radar to discourage
unregistered hikers from crashing its
party. Marathons call them bandits, but by
any term they’re people who show up to
do the event but don’t raise money or register.
Given that there’s aid stations along
the route and trail support, it’s easy to see
why this is a problem.
The group doesn’t even want the
hike’s start and finish lines publicized.
Given that there’s 39 miles of PCT in Big
Bear, it’s pretty easy to guess which 28 are
involved in the event but we’ll honor that
request. Of course, Trailblazers won’t be
the only ones on the trail since PCT is
popular with thru-hikers heading from
Mexico to Canada at this time of year. In
any case, registration is closed so if you’re
interested in participating look to 2023 by
making your commitment around the holidays.
Trailblaze Challenge is a months-long
journey that starts with commitment and
ends with hike. Registrants receive personal
training schedule and the chance to
go out on weekly training hikes, tips on
footwear and hiking gear from seasoned
professionals, and help with fundraising.
During hike weekend participants stay
two nights in town and are treated to Friday
night dinner, post-hike Saturday celebration
and breakfast on Sunday before
heading home. Transportation to the trailhead
and support along the trail are other
perks as well as a cool T-shirt. All part of a
journey that lets hikers discover a lot about
Make-A-Wish, and also about themselves.
Any impact Trailblaze Challenge
makes on the PCT is mitigated thanks to
the event’s main underwriter, Wheelhouse
Credit Union. As part of its mission to
Leave No Trace Behind, WCU is providing
hikers with reusable bags for training
hikes and the big event to clip to their packs
for trail cleanup. The PCT will be cleaner
after they walk than before.
“It seems like just yesterday that I went
to my first info meeting in 2017,” said Suzi
Reagan-Harlow, now on her fourth event.
“That time between starting in the chilly
dark of night and hiking as the sun yawns
and stretches across the forest might have
happened in a dream. I didn’t want to wake
up, except that together we are raising
money for the kids.”
It should be noted that wishes aren’t
granted to only terminal children, contrary
to popular belief. All are critically ill, but
some recover with memories of a lifetime
people who beat feet for a good cause help
provide.
You can help Trailblaze Challenge
cross the finish line for its fundraising goals
by making a donation; visit
bigbeartodaymag.com for the link. Or walk
28 miles next year!
Have a good one.
Marcus
ON THE COVER: Thru-hikers, Trailblazers and everyday day hikers will keep Pacific Crest
Trail busy in May. See our coverage on pages 2 and 4. —BBT photo by Marcus Dietz
Volume 33, Number 11 May 2022
4
6
8
11
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
See it all on the Pacific Crest Trail
Rare flowers and lions, spectacular sights and sacred sites, all
found along the famous Pacific Crest Trail...in just its Big Bear
sections! Thru-hikers are making their way north on the PCT
but you don’t have to go all the way to Canada to have fun
because there’s great local sections to hike right here. Plus
more PCT coverage on this page. Can you tell we love it?
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.
Maifest Back 2 Weekends, Grill & Chill too
Maifest is back for three days over two weekends, bringing a
bit of Oktoberfest with a spring flair to it. Not to mention three
German bands, brats and beers! Plus Grill & Chill over
Memorial Day weekend sees Kansas City BBQ competition,
brews and live music including Morgan Leigh Band.
Museum Opens for Holiday, Tacos, Talk
Big Bear Museum opens for the season with hands-on history
the whole family will love. Like the authentic five-stamp mill,
working blacksmith shop, “gold” panning for the kids and
more. Plus eagle talk on May 12 (page 3), tacos on May 23.
Fast Times at Big Bear Speedway, Ropes too
Get a taste of real racing on a fifth-mile long grand prix-style
track at Big Bear Speedway driving state-of-the-art Sodi karts.
You’ll hit speeds up to 30 mph while leaning into hairpin turns
and pounding straightaways. Then climb Big Bear’s only ropes
course, where over 30 challenges await.
Grizzlies can be viewed up close and
personal at Big Bear Alpine Zoo. 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 2022 Big Bear Today

Big Bear Today May 2022—Page 3
POTPOURRI
Live entertainment, bottomless mimosas, kids fun too!
Western brunch for
Moms at Wyatt’s
Celebrate Mother’s Day on May 8 the
Wild West way with lavish brunch, entertainment
and more at Wyatt’s Grill and
Saloon.
Treat Mom and the whole family to a
memorable Sunday under the pine trees if
the weather is nice, indoors if it’s not.
There’s live entertainment featuring two of
Big Bear’s most popular entertainers, Terry
McRaven and Dayton Borders, and free
arts and crafts to keep the kids busy. Plus
bottomless mimosas, build your own
bloody Marys and special take-home
flower for Mom.
Choose from full buffet brunch or limited
a la carte menu that includes some of
Wyatt’s most popular breakfast items. Like
Rey’s famous breakfast burrito and the
brunch burger, with half-beef, half-bacon
patty topped with cheese, more bacon, avocado,
fried egg, hash browns and sausage
gravy, all on a brioche bun.
Other a la carte items include French
Recognized photographers Trisha
Dale Green and Owen Phairis present the
challenges they face capturing images of
local bald eagle and other wonders of the
area Thursday, May 12 at Big Bear Valley
Historical Society’s monthly meeting.
The pair have teamed to capture stunning
close up images of bald eagles, both
nesting and in flight. Some of those images
are featured in a 2022 calendar produced
by Green and Phairis, available at
Big Bear locations including Lodge Podge
in Big Bear City, and others have been included
in this magazine.
Their efforts aren’t limited to eagles
either. Green has photographed scenic lo-
toast and luscious biscuits and gravy. Prices
range from $5.99-$15.89 and there’s kid
offerings too, like French toast, chicken
fingers and flatbread pizza, starting at
seven bucks.
Or opt for the incredible buffet brunch
with food onslaught that includes one trip
to the omelette bar. Plus unlimited trips to
buffet items that include chicken fried
steak, breakfast scramble, French toast,
bacon, sausage, potatoes, oatmeal and toppings,
pastries and more. Brunch buffet is
$26.99 for adults, kids $16.99.
For the lunch-minded a limited
Wyatt’s menu is offered that includes famous
tri-tip, marinated and slow-smoked
over mesquite for hours. Along with regular
and specialty burgers, hearty appetizers,
New York steak and lettuce wraps, and
more. Full bar too.
Located at the Convention Center,
Wyatt’s is Big Bear’s largest restaurant so
Mom won’t have to wait to dine. Reservations
are suggested.
Wyatt’s at 42900 Big Bear Blvd., 1.5
miles east of the supermarkets.. Call (909)
585-3000 or wyattsbigbear.com.
Opportunity drawing, refreshments, free to the public!
Pair talk eagle, scenic
photos at meeting
Pay respects to fallen American heroes
during the annual Memorial Day ceremony
on May 30 at Veteran’s Park.
Proceedings begin at 11 a.m. with bagpipe
tribute performed by Major Nelson
Reynolds, USAF retired. The public is welcome
to join veterans and families of service
personnel and first responders, past
and present in the procession and ceremony
at Veterans Park, just east of Pine Knot.
Patriotic songs performed by Unaccompanied
Minors, Big Bear High School
students of Diane Sloan Kubeja, will be
featured. Attending dignitaries include
Senator Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh, representing
the 23rd Senate District.
City of Big Bear Lake Mayor Rick
Herrick, along with Marine Corps Color
cations throughout these mountains including
along the Santa Ana River and other
wildlife including deer. Phairis meanwhile
is a historian and pilot, and has an amazing
collection of planetarium projectors,
scientific instruments, and memorabilia.
Both Green and Phairis have generously
donated many artifacts and photos
to the museum and some of their photography
are featured in its gift store. They’ll
discuss the equipment they use for their
photographs and the patience required to
get such stunning images.
The 7 p.m. meeting, free and open to
the public, is held at Bridges Presbyterian
Fellowship at 579 Knickerbocker in Big
Bear Village. Opportunity drawing and refreshments
including delicious desserts are
other highlights.
Pay tribute to American heroes with music, service
Bogh, dignitaries at
Memorial Day event
Guard from MCLB Barstow, American Legion
and Women’s Auxiliary American Legion
Post 584, Cub Scout Troop 49 and
Big Bear Mortuary.
The City, American Legion Post 584
and Marine Corps League Detachment
1038 host the event.
bigbearamericanlegion@gmail.com
If You Can’t Pick Us Up...
Click
Us Up!
bigbeartodaymag.com
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Pirate Ship
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Holloway’s
MARINA & RV PARK
800-448-5335
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1/2 mile north of Big Bear Blvd. on Edgemoor
2 miles west of the Village (turn at Log Cabin Restaurant)
3 miles east of the dam
www.HollowaysMarina.com

Page 4—May 2022
Flowers to grizzlies, see it on PCT
Pacific Crest Trail’s motto has long
been “Find Yourself on the PCT” but
really it should be “See it All.” And
we’re not even referring to the 57 major
mountain passes it crosses through three
states and touching as many countries, five
national monuments, another five state
parks, or six national parks.
We’re just talking about Big Bear and
the 39 miles of PCT that passes through
the Valley. Hikers wander through historic
Holcomb Valley, site of Southern
California’s largest gold rush, past wildflowers
that grow here and nowhere else
in the world, near the Serrano Indian sacred
site “Eye of God” and so much more.
The nation’s premier long distance
trail, which runs 2,638 miles from the
Mexican to Canadian borders, also serves
up spectacular views of 11,502 ft. Mt. San
Gorgonio, Big Bear Lake and the High
Desert. Plus the nearby Bighorn Mountain
Wilderness and a lesser-known Southland
aspen grove, Arrastre Creek. Along the
way there’s trail camps like Deer Springs,
Tanglewood, Holcomb Crossing and Little
Bear Springs, places to pitch a tent or take
a pause.
And let’s not forget grizzlies and African
lions. At one time Big Bear Valley
was teeming with grizzlies, but there’s
never been African lions till Randy Miller,
renowned for his work with exotic animals
in photo shoots and movie productions,
founded Predators in Action
The facility is a short distance from
the PCT about two miles south of Onyx
Summit and while it’s closed to the public,
hikers can’t help but notice they’re
being watched by predators as they go by.
Miller was a stunt double working with lions
on the movie “Gladiator” and has been
profiled in many newspaper stories.
There’s so much to see along PCT in
Big Bear, gurgling creeks to lush green
meadow, even Pebble Plain, terrain found
only in Big Bear where inch-high wildflowers
endemic to these mountains grow.
PCT is also popular with equestrians, and
Baldwin Lake Stables leads guided horseback
rides along the trail.
Walk the whole route and go through
terrain that ranges from fiery desert to dripping
wet rain forest. PCT winds into 24
federal forests and 33 designated wilderness
areas—including skirting nearby San
Gorgonio Wilderness. It passes a thousand
lakes and tarns and descends into 19 distinct
canyons, traversing some of
America’s most majestic mountain ranges
including the Sierra Nevada and Cascades.
At this time of year Big Bear welcomes
a lot of trekkers going the whole
way. Thru-hikers typically start at the
Mexican border in April and after a couple
hundred miles arrive in Big Bear, often in
need of gear, food or soft bed for a night.
You don’t have to walk all the way to
have a good time on the PCT, as several
local sections make great family day hikes,
no permit needed. Most are basically level
with only a few killer climbs, suitable for
all ability levels. Just be careful: you might
have so much fun it’s hard to turn back!
Big Bear Today
Views for miles, wildflowers up close on Pacific Crest Trail
The PCT enters Big
Bear Valley at the top of
Onyx Summit immediately
east of Hwy. 38, and
there’s a big turnout for
parking. Catch the trail up
the hill about 100 yards
east of where you park,
then head either north or
south on the path. Go
south (toward Mexico)
and you’ll start a gradual
descent as beautiful views
of the San Gorgonio Wilderness
and its snowcapped
namesake peak
unfold. Head north and
there’s a panoramic view spot with vistas
stretching 180-degrees a mile-plus in.
Another good place for a PCT day
hike can be found on Hwy. 18 at
Cushenbury Grade, as the road descends
to Lucerne Valley. Park on the east side
and catch the trail going either direction
as it crosses the highway. North is especially
dramatic, with crest views of the
desert and good wind and sun protection.
Walk a couple miles and you’ll come to
Holcomb Valley Rd.. Unfortunately hikers
have to reroute up the adjacent fire road
here since PCT remains closed after the
2017 Holcomb Fire.
South on the trail from Cushenbury
meanwhile leads past Shadow Ranch, and
along the way serves up more great views
of the Mojave Desert, Baldwin Lake and
Bighorn Wilderness (The photo below as
well as the front cover were both shot in
this section.) The walking starts with a
climb, descends and continues two miles
where it meets up with the access hike to
the quartz rock formation known as “Eye
of God,” sacred to the Serrano Indians.
For less convenient parking but more
adventurous hiking, drive out to Holcomb
Valley on Van Dusen Canyon Rd. off North
Shore Dr. The PCT intersects the dirt road
about 2.4 miles in; find a place to park and
check out the great hiking in either direction.
South climbs up the ridge immediately
to the east and can be quite a hump.
North also dishes up some uphill, and
after a few miles the PCT connects with
Cougar Crest trail. Get someone to drop
you off on Van Dusen and you can hike
the PCT to Cougar Crest connection and
descend two miles to the trailhead.
East valley vistas along PCT are as good as they get, as these thru-hikers notice

Big Bear Today May 2022—Page 5
Naturalist-led Pebble Plain tours return
Naturalist-led guided tours of fascinating
Pebble Plain terrain found
exclusively in Big Bear Valley are
back for the first time in three years, each
Saturday through June 25.
Explore unique Baldwin Lake Ecological
Reserve during short wildflower
walks led by Big Bear Discovery Center
volunteer naturalists Saturdays at 10:30
a.m. and noon. Learn about the one-of-akind
ecosystem and the numerous flower
species that call it home, many of which
are found in Big Bear and nowhere else in
the world.
Pebble Plain at first glance doesn’t
appear particularly special. In fact it’s considered
to be some of the planet’s most
unique terrain, 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” an inch
or two high, best viewed by lying down.
Douglas’ violets, actually yellow, look
like miniature daffodils and are usually visible.
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. Naturalist guides iden-
tify each species and what makes them
special on the wildflower walks.
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 so please
leave the area exactly as you found it. Visit
MountainsFoundation.org for schedule and
information.
A self-guided interpretive trail explores
Baldwin Lake Ecological Habitat,
located on Hwy. 18 just west of Holcomb
Valley Rd. A short loop visits 11 marked
posts. Developed by the Forest Service in
conjunction with Department of Fish and
Game, the loop is quick, just over a halfmile
in length. It presents the area’s unique
flora and fauna plus history for those who
can’t join the guided hikes.
The trail features a touch of elevation
gain, but 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 for activities that reportedly went
on here decades ago.
Baldwin Lake Ecological Reserve
isn’t the only Pebble Plain in Big Bear but
it’s the largest area. Villa Grove, Sawmill,
Horseshoe and Dixie Lee Pebble Plains,
located closer to town between Big Bear
Naturalist-led tours of Baldwin Lake Ecological Reserve on Saturdays
City and Moonridge, can all be accessed
via a new cool trail network with multiple
access points.
San Bernardino Mountains Land Trust
purchased 750 acres of mostly Pebble Plain
terrain and created a terrific trail network
for hikers and equestrians (no mountain
biking allowed). The trails are mostly level
with only some elevation gain which the
entire family will enjoy.
Big Bear Discovery Center meanwhile
has free guided walks along its half-mile
Nature Discovery Trail Saturdays at 1 and
2 p.m. and Sundays at 11 a.m. and noon.
The free treks led by volunteer naturalists
explore mountain flora like pinyon pine,
service berry, Indian paintbrush,
Kennedy’s buckwheat and more. There’s
benches to take a break and views that include
the ski resorts and San Gorgonio
Wilderness in the distance, even peek-aboo
vistas of Big Bear Lake.
Pinecone Birdfeeders are free
Dicovery Center programs held Sundays
from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Make your own peanut
butter-based feeder to take home and
treat our feathered friends!
Children experience the forest firsthand
in an outdoor “classroom” just for
them at Discovery Center. Ages 2-7 delight
in the Nature Discovery Zone—first one
in the National Forest system—which
combines education and unstructured play
areas just for youngsters. Discovery Center
i open Thursday-Monday 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Discovery Center (909) 382-2790

Page 6—May 2022
Mud, obstacles task Spartan athletes
Big Bear Today
Spartan athletes are known for overcoming
signature obstacles like wall
climbs, ladders, mud, even flames of fire.
Covid was one they didn’t get past,
the virus twice postponing the Spartan
Trifecta in Big Bear. Now the event is back
on May 14-15 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 elevation 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
Fire, barbed wires and more await top athletes at Spartan Big Bear Trifecta
21K. Those completing all three qualify for
the 2022 Trifecta World Championship
held in Sparta, Greece.
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
up on the most demanding terrain. Ultra
racers even have to get up earlier, heading
out on Saturday starting at 6 a.m.
Sunday sees 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.
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. Festival admission is $20.
Snow Summit’s Scenic Skychair and base
camp activities will be available as well.
Call (800) 4 BIG BEAR.

Big Bear Today May 2022—Page 7
Chirp sets bird walks, talks, crafts
Nurture your nature with free bird
walks, nature-theme talks and kids crafts
held by Chirp Nature Center.
Chirp’s seasonal event series begins
the first Saturday of each month starting
with walks exploring birding hot spots
throughout Big Bear Valley and the San
Bernardino National Forest. First walk of
the season is set for May 7.
Birders of all experience levels enjoy
Greenthumbs Days
Give the forest a helping hand by
getting your hands dirty during the next
Greenthumbs volunteer day on May 14.
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.
Covid-compliant workdays last
from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Bring a mask plus
lunch, water, sun protection and sturdy
shoes. Gloves, tools, restrooms and hand
sanitizer will be provided.
Subsequent Greenthumbs days are
set for June 11, July 9, August 6, September
24 (National Public Lands Day)
and October 29.
Call (909) 382-2809 to pre-register
or email megan.clement@usda.gov.
Year-Round
Christmas Room!
observing and identifying local Big Bear
birds and learn good viewing locations,
while following 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 (578 Bonanza Trail)
promptly at 8 a.m. Participants carpool as
needed with Adventure Pass, available at
Chirp, recommended but not necessary.
Bring water and binoculars and scopes for
better viewing.
Outings last around an hour-and-ahalf
and sometimes include moderate
walking or hiking. Complimentary refreshments
follow at Chirp with questions and
answers and free raffle. Subsequent bird
walks are on June 4, July 2, August 6, September
3 and October 1, which is actually
a bird cruise aboard Big Bear Queen to
observe waterfowl.
Chirp also hosts nature talks on the
second Saturday each month. Join awardwinning
authors, wildlife specialists and
naturalists for these informative, interactive
lectures held from 7-8 p.m. in Chirp
Nature Center’s beautiful backyard.
Sandy Steers kicks off the series on
May 14, presenting Big Bear Lake’s Magnificent
Bald Eagles. Steers has over 20
years of experience supporting local bald
eagles and will present exclusive insights
on new parents Jackie and Shadow. With
eyewitness accounts of eagle nest history,
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
Join Chirp Nature Center for monthly bird walks, talks and crafts
resilience and ongoing nesting activities
plus live cam photos this will be one of
Chirp’s most popular and timely talks so
register in advance to secure a seat.
“Wings of Change” explores the past
and present of Southern California wild
birds with Sean Lyon on July 9. Other programs
include “What’s That Bird in My
Backyard” on Aug.. 13 presented by Matthew
Schreiner. Photographing the Spirit
of the Bird on Sept. 10 and Ominous Owls
on Oct. 8 are other topics. Register for the
programs for free at ChirpforBirds.com/
events
Third Saturday each month sees
Chirp’s new Book and Craft series events.
Listen to local educators read fun-filled
nature-theme stories, followed by a creative
nature-theme DIY craft. While the
book and craft event is free, Chirp offers
the craft kit for $10 that includes everything
needed to create the project during
the event and can be ordered during registration.
Build a hummingbird feeder on May
21 and a home for bees on June 18. Craft
your own bird feeder on July 16 and a birdhouse
on Aug. 20. Bird feeder building is
on tap Sept. 17 and Oct. 15.
Chirp Nature Center has all the supplies
birders need at home or for walks and
talks, including guides, checklists, binoculars
and more. Along with birdhouses,
feeders, fountains, feed geared to mountain
birds, gift items and more.
Chirp is open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. daily.
Chirp Nature Center is at 578 Bonanza
Trail. Call (888) 412-4477.

Page 8—May 2022
BBQ, brews, bands at Grill & Chill
Big Bear Today
Two days of music, suds and Kansas
City-style BBQ Championships
are on tap at Big Bear Grill & Chill
over Memorial Day weekend May 28-29.
Top pit-masters compete in KCBS
BBQ Society State Championship competition
with their efforts available for sample
and purchase, grilling brisket, pork butt,
pork ribs and chicken. Plus there’s beer
tasting festival, artisan marketplace and
kids zone, all from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. each day
at Bartlett Parking Lot (630 Bartlett Rd.)
in the Village.
The sanctioned K.C. BBQ State
Championship event sees 40 grill masters
from around the country competing for
cash purse on Saturday. Taste their efforts
both days with samples and full portions
at the People’s Choice booth, complete
with sides.
Wash it all down with ice cold suds at
the beer tasting festival. Over 40 breweries
will be on hand with sample pours of
their craft beers, special brews and brand
favorites, from Big Bear Lake Brewing
Co., Coronado Brewing Co. and Stone
Brewing. Other participants include 5174
Brewing, Alosta Brewing, Belching Beaver
Brewery, Bottle Logic Brewing, Oak
Hills and many others.
The music lineup amps up in 2022 as
well with headliners Morgan Leigh Band,
well known in Big Bear after local performances
including at The Cave. The group
is one of the Southland’s fast-rising bands
mixing four-part vocal harmonies, rock
energy and pop country hooks, and has
opened for Pat Benatar, Loverboy, Jamie
O’Neal, Craig Wayne Boyd, James Otto,
Sammy Kershaw, Phil Vassar and Juice
Newton among others. Along with Roger
Clyne and the Peacemakers, High Valley,
Jake Owen, Justin Moore and more.
Lead vocalist Leigh is a country star
seen on “American Idol” Seasons 12 and
14 and is a two-time nominee for Best
Country Americana for the San Diego
Music Awards. A Texaco Country Showdown
State winner, she’s also been tabbed
Best Female Vocalist and Entertainer of the
Year for the California Country Awards.
Leigh has performed the National Anthem
at the PRCA Rodeo Finals in Las Vegas
Motor Speedway and at Madison
Square Garden. Plus Petco Park for the San
Diego Padres.
Also appearing on the Big Bear Cool
Cabins stage will be Twisted Gypsy with
its power tribute to Fleetwood Mac. Return
to the classic band’s early days on the
Sunset Strip and its 1970’s peak with
Twisted Gypsy’s all-live harmonies and
high energy music.
Listeners at Fantasy Springs Casino,
Hilltop Tavern in Apple Valley and other
top venues have been treated to Mac
reimagined by Twisted Gypsy. Niki Bente,
another American Idol alum from Seasons
4 and 6, fronts the band as Stevie Nicks
but all the members have impressive credits
and put on a great show. Enjoy notefor-note
versions of songs like “Go Your
Two days of savory KC barbecue,
craft beers and live music including
Morgan Leigh Band (right)
at Grill & Chill
Own Way,” “Don’t Stop,” “The
Chain,” even “Tusk,” a popular
song many Mac tribute bands
don’t cover.
Local favorites Stun Grenade
are also on the schedule plus
there’s vendor village, festival
food and more. The event is kid
friendly too with climbing wall,
bounce houses and face painters.
General admission priced at
$25 includes commemorative 16
oz. glass and ten tickets for beer tastings
or barbecue sampling. VIP single day tickets
get a 17.5 oz. souvenir mug and unlim-
ited craft beer pours plus meal ticket for
$80.
Call (800) 442-2422 or bigbear.com
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

Big Bear Today May 2022—Page 9
2 weekends of German fun at Maifest
○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○
E○ njoy a touch of Oktoberfest in spring
during the annual Big Bear Lake
Maifest, held two weekends on May
21 and 28-29.
Hosted by Wyatt’s Grill & Saloon at
the Convention Center, there’s the German
Live bands at Wyatt’s
Weekend live music is a staple at
Wyatt’s, Big Bear’s largest restaurant
with seating indoors and out and western-theme
menu featuring half-pound
burgers, savory tri-tip and more. High
Desert favorite Southern Spirit returns to
Wyatt’s with power country May 6-7.
Regulars at Buckeye Jack’s in Apple
Valley, Southern Spirit has played everywhere
from the old Crazy Horse in Orange
County to the late Cocky Bull in
Victorville during 25-plus years of music.
Opening for the likes of Martina
McBride, Brooks and Dunn and Toby
Keith, among others.
Nitro Express brings high-energy
country rock to Wyatt’s on May 14. Favorites
at Southland casinos like Pala and
Pauma, the San Diego-based band has
rocked venues in Las Vegas along with
Buckeye Jack’s as well. Nitro Express
has opened for Tim McGraw, Kenny
Chesney, Clint Black, Ronnie Milsap,
Bill Ray Cyrus, Wynonna Judd, Dwight
Yoakam, The Derailers, Vince Gill and
others, Cumberland Gap kicks off the
weekend at Wyatt’s on May 13 and Terry
McRaven Band is May 20 and 27..
beer, music, food and contests you’d find
at Oktoberfest. Plus Maifest (May Fest)
mixes in a few spring traditions like festive
maypole adorned with colorful ribbons
and accompanying dance plus special beverages.
Hours are 1-10 p.m. each day.
Maifest, a traditional German festival
celebrating the end of winter and beginning
of spring that dates to the 18th century,
has its own champagne-style punch
drink called Maibowle. The German beer
lineup includes Maibock, specially brewed
spring suds. Just like Oktoberfest there’s
sizzling bratwursts hot off the grill, famous
homemade sauerkraut, pretzels and apple
strudel with warm vanilla sauce.
Plus each of the three days sees a different
German band, each of which performed
at last year’s Big Bear Oktoberfest
and is adept at playing polka music and
American dance standards. First up on May
21 is Bavarian Beergarden Band, longtime
favorites at Southland festivals with engaging
oompa-pah music.
Memorial Day weekend sees Die
Sauerkrauts on Saturday, May 28. 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.
Tuba player Robert Todd Jr. meanwhile
has traveled the world, performing
with orchestras and recording artists. You
Three days of Maifest, three German bands including Die Sauerkrauts (above)
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.
Sunday, May 29 sees Hazelnuss Das
Music take the stage. Bandleader Alex
Bubenheim played Munich Oktoberfest in
his early years and is now an internationally
recognized composer who has worked
or collaborated with Sheryl Crow, Ringo
Starr, David Hasselhoff and Sir Bob
Geldof.
He’s joined by top-shelf musicians
who split their time between European and
American gigs. Like fellow German Nicki
Strehl on drums, guitarist Gary Miller and
tuba extraordinaire Santiago Trujillo, who
grew up near a German village in Texas
and started playing the euphonium at age
11. Hazelnuss has performed at the largest
Oktoberfests around the state and country,
Hofbrauhaus in Las Vegas and other top
venues.
Maifest activities include Oktoberfest
favorites like log sawing and stein holding
contests plus cornhole toss along with
a variety of vendors and kids fun zone. Plus
plenty of chicken dances! Wear lederhosen
or a dirndl and get a free Warsteiner gift.
Maifest admission is $14, seniors $11,
ages 3-12 $6. Preferred admission is $25
which includes reserved seating and table
service.
Call (909) 595-3000 or book online
at www.bigbearevents.com.

Page 10—May 2022
$50K on the line, Roundup too
The biggest prize purse ever awaits
anglers at the 2022 “Fishin’ for $50K”
event on the lake set for June 11-12.
The spring bite has been very active
with lots of limits reported and large trout
taken, but what really matters during this
event is that the right ones bite. Five specially
tagged rainbow trout are each worth
$10,000 if they’re reeled in. Plus another
first five non-grand prize trout brought in
are each worth a cool $500 and there’s an
additional 20 tagged fish worth smaller
prizes.
There’s big bucks for big fish as well.
Like $1,500 for first place, $750 for second
and $500 for third in both men’s and
women’s divisions for largest trout. Even
kids get in on the love too with $500, $250
and $100 cash prizes. Someone will take
home a fishing kayak courtesy of Big Bear
Sporting Goods at the 3:30 p.m. Sunday
awards ceremony at Bartlett parking lot.
The raffle sees thousands of dollars in fishing
gear, bait and tackle from national
manufacturers.
Fishing is from 6 a.m.-2 p.m. each day.
The $80 entry is for both derby days and
includes free bait, raffle ticket and wristband
that provides discounts at restaurants,
shops and services all around Big Bear. $20
of each entry goes to Big Bear Lake trout
fishery program.
Get 50% off entry by staying at least
one night at a participating lodging facility
or by renting a pontoon boat at big Bear,
Holloway’s, Pine Knot and Pleasure Point
Marinas. First responders and active and
retired military get $20 entry discount
while locals and second homeowners save
$10. Children are half-price with any fullprice
adult entry.
The event is limited to the first 650
anglers with online and phone registration
through June 9 at 5 p.m. (800) 424-4232.
A week later it’s fishing of a different
kind during the annual Carp Roundup on
June 18-19. Bow hunters compete for large
cash prizes while removing thousands of
pounds of carp during the two-day event,
and another couple thousand during the
preceding days tuning up for the competition.
All of which enhances the fishery by
eliminating this trash species. Fishing
teams can compete too, albeit for a smaller
purse.
Hunting begins each day at 7 a.m.
$1,000 cash is awarded based on the total
weight of carp taken over the two days to
two-man shoreline and boating bow hunting
teams in each category, with $500 for
second place teams and $300 for third.
Cash prizes for fishing teams are $250,
$175 and $100 respectively.
Biggest fish (by weight) each day is
worth $200, while $100 is awarded for the
smallest. Biggest goldfish of the weekend
is worth $100 and biggest catfish each day
is worth $150. Optional 50-50 biggest fish
side pool costs $20 to join. Hunting is till
4 p.m. Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday with the
awards ceremony an hour later.
Entry fee is $60 per bow hunter, $30
per fisher, and there’s all kinds of equipment
prizes given at the 3 p.m. Sunday
awards ceremony. Enter the grand raffle
for $5 per ticket or five for $20 for a chance
at a prize valued at over $5,000.
Register at www.bbmwd.com or call
(909) 866-5796.
Plan ahead for the 17th year is the
annual Western Outdoor News Big Bear
Lake Troutfest on October 1-2. The event
has become one of the premier fishing tournaments
in the region with thousands of
dollars on the line in cash and equipment
prizes. Including a Klamath boat with 20
hp Suzuki Marine tiller and EZ Loader
trailer valued at $14,000, which one lucky
angler will win in the Sunday raffle that
has 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
Big Bear Today
Tour the lake aboard Big Bear Queen, sailing from Pine Knot Marina
cash and prizes are up for grabs during the
event and there’s also a special raffle for
juniors with separate grand prize.
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 BBMWD to make
sure anglers enjoy heavy-hitting action.
Fishing gets underway each day at 7
a.m. and continues till 4 p.m. Saturday, 2
p.m. on Sunday. The $75 entry ($50 14 and
under) includes raffle ticket and blind bogey
contest. Registration is limited to 1,000
anglers and the first 600 to sign up get a
free well-stocked goodie bag with swag
from event sponsors. To register call (949)
366-0248 or visit www.WONews.com.
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Highly Recommended

Big Bear Today May 2022—Page 11
Go back in time with mill, blacksmiths
Step back in time at Big Bear Museum,
which opens for the season
Memorial Day weekend with working
blacksmith shop and five stamp mill,
“gold” panning for the kids and more.
Big Bear Museum remains the best
visitor value in the Valley. History comes
alive at the museum where the walls really
do tell tales. Most of the buildings have
been moved to the property from other locations,
be it the Juniper Cabin which was
once lakeside and is now decked out like a
general store and post office, or the historic
Shay Meadow cabin, now home of
the Peter Pan display. Each in itself is a
part of Big Bear history.
With print shop, dentist office and bar-
$1 tacos for museum
Scarf down tacos for a good cause
when Big Bear Museum’s popular
fundraiser returns Monday, May 23.
“$1 Tacos with a Purpose” is back
at Sonora Cantina from noon-8:30 p.m.
Chow down on as many dollar tacos as
you can handle with every buck going
to the museum. Choose from ground
beef, chicken, pork, shredded beef or
veggie tacos.
Plus there’s opportunity drawing
and silent auction, both featuring great
prizes like dining certiciates, lodging
stays, gift items and much more. All proceeds
benefit Big Bear Museum. Sonora
Cantina is at 41144 Big Bear Blvd. Call
(909) 866-8202.
bershop, authentic schoolhouse and more,
the museum is really a western town.
There’s over a million items on display reflecting
Big Bear’s storied mining, ranching,
logging and recreation past. Tributes
to famous Big Bear residents Mel Blanc,
the voice of Bugs Bunny and so many more
cartoon characters, and renowned western
artist Bob Brown are highlights.
As is the working five-stamp mill, one
of only two such working machines in
California. When it roars to life it literally
drops the hammer on ore and pulverizes it
to reveal gold inside. In the latter part of
the 19th century there were dozens of these
mills operating in Big Bear, some with up
to 40 stamps, others just one or two.
Kids love to get their hands wet in the
sluice panning for shiny rocks, just like
miners did 150 years ago. At the museum
the findings are just pyrite instead of gold,
but the thrill of finding something is the
same nonetheless.
The blacksmith shop meanwhile is an
ears-on experience. Children and parents
are regaled with stories about Big Bear’s
storied past by blacksmith and storyteller
extraordinaire Jim Lanners. Even as he
“stokes the fire” and “keeps his irons in
the fire” Lanners tells tall but true tales with
a steady stream of bad jokes mixed in.
All the while pounding iron on one of
the museum’s historical anvils, crafting
peanut butter knives for any kid who wants
one. One anvil weighs a whopping 623 lbs.
and there’s forges from the original Rose
Working blacksmith shop, stamp mill (left) and sluice for gold panning at museum
Mine in Big Bear. When he pounds hot iron
sparks fly like mini-fireworks, drawing
oohs and ahhs from youngsters. All around
the grounds there’s mining equipment, like
ore carts on tracks, most of it from local
operations including Rose and Gold Mountain
Mines.
Then there’s a still once operated by
Jim Johnson, who fought in the Civil War
and ended up in Cactus Flats around the
1890’s, cutting Johnson Grade. He tried
ranching and prospecting and was even the
Doble postmaster for a time but Cactus Jim
was best at bootlegging, supplying saloons
in Holcomb Valley and Doble with hootch.
He was buried in a cement crypt with the
still till a grave robber stole it.
When visiting Big Bear Museum be
sure to savor a cold Sioux City sarsaparilla
or cowboy root beer. There’s expanded
book and gift store to explore inside the
Caddy Shack, a piece of history itself as
part of the famous Peter Pan Woodland
Club, with all kinds of treasures. Including
vials of real 14K gold for $10, an easy
mining shortcut.
The museum opens for the season
May 28-30 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Wednesdays,
weekends and holiday Mondays into
September. Admission is $5. 14 and under
free. Located at 800 Greenway in Big Bear
City. Call (909) 585-8100.
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

Page 12—May 2022
Speed, soar, splash 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.
Mineshaft Coaster at Alpine Slide,
a mile-long stainless steel track on which
riders negotiate turns and drops aboard
karts they control, is open daily, 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-di-doos, and around three 360°
corkscrew turns. The whole ride is elevated
above the ground, at times two dozen feet
Cool off on the double water slide, opening May 28
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.
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.
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, are open
weekends in May and
offer more selfcontrolled
fun. Lean
into banked turns with
the sled almost
perpendicular to the
ground and whip out
into a tuck through
Church Directory
Bear Valley Center for
Spiritual Enrichment
579 Knickerbocker Rd., Big Bear Lake
(Bridges Presbyterian Fellowship)
Sundays 11:45 a.m.
(909) 866-8081
Bear Valley Church
Big Bear
41960 Big Bear Blvd.,Big Bear Lake
Sundays 10 a.m.
(909) 866-3951
www.BVCBigbear.org\
Believers Chapel
42180 Moonridge Rd., Big Bear Lake
Sundays 10:30 a.m.
Wednesday Bible Study 6 p.m.
(909) 866-2552
Foursquare Church
at Big Bear Airport
501 Valley Blvd., Big Bear City
Saturday Worship 6:30 p.m.
Sundays 10 a.m.
Wednesday Bible Study 6:30 p.m.
(909) 856-6259
www.bigbearfoursquare.com
Bridges Presbyterian
Fellowship
579 Knickerbocker Rd.
Big Bear Lake
Sundays 10 a.m.
(909) 866-5683
www.bigbearpresbyterian.org
Calvary Chapel Big Bear
1001 Holden Ave. Big Bear City
Sundays 8:30 and 10:30 a.m.
Wednesday Bible Study 6 p.m.
(909) 866-9328
Christian Faith Center
39853 Crocus Dr. Big Bear Lake
Sundays 10 a.m., also on
Facebook Live
(909) 273-9234
www.cfcbigbear.com
Church of Christ
41035 Big Bear Blvd., Big Bear Lake
Sunday Worship 10 a.m.
Wednesday Bible Study 6 p.m.
(909) 866-2828
Community Church
Big Bear
40946 Big Bear Blvd., Big Bear Lake
Sunday Worship 8:45, 10:30 a.m.
Wednesday Dinner/Study 6 p.m.
(909) 866-7523
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 teflon runners and ballbearing
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. Alpine Slide rides cost $9 each,
$40 for five-ride book.
Soaring Eagle is another unique ride
open daily, 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
First Church of Christ
Scientist
550 Squirrel Ln., Big Bear Lake
Sunday Services/School 10 a.m.
www.cschurchbigbearlake.org
Seventh Day
Adventist Church
349 E. North Shore Dr.,
Big Bear City
Saturday Worship 11 a.m.,
lunch follows
(909) 585-2275
www.BigBearSeventhDayAdventisChurch.org
Sheperd in the Pines
Lutheran Church
42450 North Shore. Dr., Big Bear
Lake
Sunday Worship 10 a.m.
(909) 547-0934
www.SITPBigbear.org
Spirit of Peace
Lutheran Church
42324 North Shore Dr.
Big Bear City
(St. Columbas Episcopal Church)
Sunday Service 10 a.m.
(909) 866-7239
Big Bear Today
Tunnels, drops, more on new Mineshaft
Coaster, and you’re in control!
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.
Soaring Eagle costs $12 per rider.
Bundle Soaring Eagle flight, go-karts and
miniature golf for $22, a steal of a deal.
Double Water Slide at Alpine Slide
opens for the season May 28 weekends
only till June 4. Two flumes filled with
cascading cool water take riders on a thrill
ride through turns and chutes till a finale
splash in the pool at the bottom.
Rides are two bucks each, 10 for $15
or $25 all day. Season passes are just $60
for Sunday through Friday (excludes
holidays) or $75 anytime.
Alpine Slide is at 800 Wildrose Ln.
Call (909) 866-4626.
St. Columba’s
Episcopal Church
42324 North Shore Dr.,
Big Bear City
Sunday Services/Communion
10 a.m.
(909) 866-7239 * (951) 809-5232
www.stcolumbas.bigbear.com
St. Joseph’s Catholic
Community Church
42242 North Shore Dr., Big Bear
Lake
Monday-Friday Mass 8 a.m.
Saturday Reconciliation 4 p.m.,
Mass 5:30
Sunday Mass 8 and 11 a.m.,
Spanish 1 p.m.
(909) 866-3030
Summit Christian
Fellowship
41965 Garstin Dr., Big Bear Lake
Sunday Worship 10 a.m.
Wednesday Bible Study 6:30 p.m.
(909) 878-HOPE (4673)
SummitChristianFellowship.com
The Journey Church
800 Greenspot (Hwy. 38)
Big Bear City
Sunday Service 9:30 a.m.
(909) 585-4428
TheJourneyChurchBigBear.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
The Mountain’s Monthly Lifestyle Magazine
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
CC
Club View Drive
May 2022—Page 13
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
Must dial area code (909) with all
number unless otherwise noted
May
3, 10, 17, 24
Bear Valley Farmers Market
8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Convention
Center; fresh produce,
vendors. Free. 585-3000.
6-8
“Feiffer’s People” by BBHS at
the Little Theater Friday and
Saturday 7 p.m., 2 p.m. matinees
Saturday and Sunday. $15,
student/senior $10. 585-6892.
7
In-Person Bird Walk leaves Chirp
Nature Center (578 Bonanza
Trail) 8 a.m. sharp to visit
Metcalf Meadow. Free, refreshments
follow. (888) 412-4477.
7
Restoration Volunteer Day from
9 a.m.-1 p.m.; potting saplings.
Must preregister lunderwood@
mountainsfoundation.org.
8
Mother’s Day Brunch at Wyatt’s
9 a.m.-2 p.m.; omelette and
bloody Mary bar, kids area, entertainment.
585-3000.
12
Historical Society Meeting 7
p.m. at Presbyterian Church
(579 Knickerbocker); Owen
Phairis, Trisha Dale Green talk
bald eagle photography. Free,
refreshments, drawing.
14
Greenthumbs Native Plant Restoration
Program sees volunteers
working from 9 a.m.-3
p.m.; meet at the Ranger Station.
382-2809.
14
Restoration Volunteer Day from
9 a.m.-1 p.m.; potting saplings.
Must preregister lunderwood@
mountainsfoundation.org.
14
International Migratory Bird Day
at Discovery Center 10 a.m.-2
p.m. with bird crafts, talks, Build
a Birdhouse, more 10 a.m.-noon.
866-3437.
14
Free Nature Talk at Chirp Nature
Center (578 Bonanza Trail) 7-8
p.m.; “Big Bear Lake’s Magnificent
Bald Eagles” with Sandy
Steers. (888) 412-4477.
14-15
Big Bear Spartan Trifecta Weekend;
elite athletes compete at
Snow Summit, base area activities.
bigbear.com
21
Bear Awareness Day at Alpine
Zoo (747 Clubview) 10 a.m.-4
p.m. with bruin-related activities.
$15, $10 senior/ages 3-10.
584-1299.
21
Annual Maifest 1-10 p.m. at
Wyatt’s celebrates spring in the
mountains Oktoberfest-style
with German contests, beer,
food, Bavarian Beergarden Band.
585-3000.
21-22
Team Big Bear Mountain Bike
Shootout #1 mountain bike racing
at Snow Summit. 633-6729.
23
$1 Tacos With a Purpose Historical
Society fundraiser and
drawing noon-8:30 p.m. at
Sonora Cantina (41144 Big Bear
Blvd.) 866-8202.
28-29
Annual Maifest 1-10 p.m. at
Wyatt’s celebrates spring in the
mountains Oktoberfest-style
with German contests, beer,
food. Die Sauerkrauts Saturday,
Hazelnuss Das Music Sunday.
585-3000.
28-29
“Grill and Chill” KCBS State BBQ
at Bartlett Parking Lot 10 a.m.-5
p.m. with live music, craft beer.
General admission $25, VIP $80,
866-6190.
30
Memorial Day Service at
Veteran’s Park at 10 a.m. with
color detail, music, wreath presentation.
866-4607.
June
4-5
Team Big Bear Mountain Bike
Shootout #2 mountain bike racing
at Snow Summit. 633-6729.
11
National Get Outdoors Day; feefree
recreation in the forest. 382-
2790.
11
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.
11-12
“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
18-19
Carp Roundup at 7 a.m. for twoperson
hunting teams, 3 p.m.
Sunday awards ceremony. $60
per hunter, $30 fisher. 866-
5796.
24-26
Big Bear Film Summit with films
of hope, survival, resilience and
courage. See selected films in
virtual cinema, award winners at
live events at PAC, others.
bigbearfilmsummit.com.
25
Ice Cream Safari at Alpine Zoo
(747 Clubview) 10 a.m.-5 p.m.;
5 scoops for $5 plus admission
of $15, $10 senior/ages 3-10.
584-1299.
For updated calendar of events visit us on the Internet!
www.bigbeartodaymag.com
E
V
E
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C
A
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Page 14—May 2022
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. (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. $9/ride, 5-ride books $40. There’s
also miniature golf, Go-Karts, Soaring
Eagle, family-priced snack bar, video
games. Open daily. 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 to. $20 on first visit includes
license valid one year, head sock and race
($25 double Kart). Base lodge with snack
bar, ropes course too. At Big Bear Snow
Play next to Motel 6. (909) 585-0075.
Bike Rentals
Bear Valley Bikes across from Alpine
THE ALMANAC
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.
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.
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 (866-3218),
Holloway’s Marina (866-5706), North
Shore Landing (878-4FUN) Pine
KnotMarina (478-2500), Pleasure Point
(866-2455).
Boat Tours
“Big Bear Queen” sails daily from Pine
Knot Marina including the lake’s most
guaranteed daily tours and its most experienced
captain, Chris Bellows. Tours daily
at 11 a.m., 1, 3 and 5 p.m. Bring your
favorite beverages. BigBearQueen.com.
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
Big Bear Today
Recreation • Dining • Nightlife • And More
Road Conditions: (800) 427-ROAD quickmap.dot.ca.gov
with canon fire! Full bar with beer, wine
and cocktails. Fares $34, seniors $32, $21
ages 12 and under, lap child free. (909)
878-4040.
“Miss Liberty” paddlewheeler with enclosed,
heated deck and snack bar, leaves
Pine Knot Landing for scenic tours of Big
Bear Lake. View the homes of celebrities,
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. $22, senior $20, 12 and
under $12. (909) 866-3218.
Bowling
The Bowling Barn offers new lanes with
automated scoring for bowling enjoyment.
Also arcade games and full-service cocktail
lounge with pool. Glow Bowling after
dark with black lights, sounds. Open daily.
40625 Big Bear Blvd. (enter on Bonanza).(909)
878-BOWL.
Discovery Center
The Discovery Center on the north shore,
two miles west of Stanfield Cutoff, is a
breathtaking facility overlooking the lake
and offering informational galleries, self
and naturalist guided tours, Adventure
passes and wilderness permits, and recreation
programs. Open Thursday through
Monday. (909) 866-3437.
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.
Golf
High altitude enhances any game at the
Bear Mountain Golf Course. A nine-hole
(par 35) 2,730-yard course, each round is
accompanied by clear air and spectacular
mountain views. The full-service 4,000 sq.
ft. Bear Trap clubhouse and pro shop offers
putting green, cart and club rentals, restaurant,
lounge, and deck overlooking the
course. Driving range. Across from the ski
resort on Moonridge Rd. (909) 585-8002.
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, departing daily
out of Big Bear Airport. (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
Continued on page 15
909.878.4FUN
at North Shore Landing
& Holloway’s Marina
• Waverunners • Jet Skis
• Sea Doos! • Kayaks, SUP
• Wakeboard/Water Ski Rides
• Poontoon Boats
and Fishing Boats!
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
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

Big Bear Today May 2022—Page 15
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 a moderate twomile
(each way) hike. As it winds above
the lake’s north shore, it offers up great
views 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 1.5
mile scenic family stroll with minimal
elevation gain, located on north shore
near Cougar Crest. Free trail maps
(available at the trailhead or Discovery
Center) identify markers along the route
noting 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.
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.
Jet Skis/Waverunners
Jet skis and two, three and four seater
Waverunners from Get Wet Water Sports
Center at North Shore Landing (878-
4FUN), and Holloway’s Marina (866-
5706) are $85-$140 per hour. Big Bear
Marina (866-3218) has new Yamaha threeseaters
for $125/hour, gas included. Pine
Knot Landing has three-person
waverunners available at $109. 478-4377.
Mineshaft Coaster
First ride of its kind in California! Ride
After Dark...
Big Bear’s Nightlife & Entertainment Guide
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 including FNJK Classic Rock Duo
5-9 p.m. on March 26. 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. Music seven days a week including Brad Riesau from Silver Moon 5-
8 p.m May 3, 10, 12 and 24, 7-10 p.m. May 6 and 20, 1-5 p.m. May 15. 40260
Big Bear Blvd. (909) 878-0616.
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 Fridays and Saturdays with Mike
Cross on the piano, joined by top bass players, Duke Michaels and Peggy Baldwin
Saturdays and Sundays. 350 Alden Rd. (909) 878--0506.
WYATT’S CAFE & SALOON—Open Wednesdays with country dancing, Fridays
and Saturdays with live bands. May 6-7: Southern Spirit. May 13-14: Cumberland
Gap, Nitro Express. May 20-21: Terry McRaven Band, Maifest. May 27-29: Terry
McRaven Band, Maifest Saturday/Sunday. Cowboy Church Saturdays at 1
p.m.Wyatt’s is at Convention Center, Big Bear Blvd. at Division. (909) 585-3000.
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.
Museum
An authentic, restored log cabin, gold
mining artifacts, rebuilt stamp mill, cattle
ranching and logging memorabilia,
information on native animals, birds and
reptiles, and much more are found at the
Eleanor Abbott Big Bear Museum. Open
Saturdays, Sundays, Wednesdays and
Holiday Mondays from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
beginning Memorial Day weekend through
mid-October. Located at 800 Greenway
just off the boulevard at Big Bear City
Park. $5, 14 and under free. (909) 585-
8100.
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.
Wakeboard/Water Ski
Experience wakeboarding, wake skating,
water skiing, even kneeboarding without a
boat with the new cable pull at Holloway’s
Marina. Beginners on up learn to ride and
can master new tricks in a fraction of the
time it takes out on the open lake. $35 buys
two hours of pulls in Holloway’s quiet
cove and includes equipment. 866-5706.
Get Wet Water Sports Center offers
water ski and wakeboard rides from North
Shore Landing, Holloway’s Marina and
Big Bear Marina. $195/hour ($360 for 2
hours) includes equipment, boat and
lessons, if desired. Group rates. Call 878-
4FUN.
Water Slide
The Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain is
home to two side-by-side water slide flumes
that take riders through a maze of banked
turns and wild, wet action. At the bottom,
each track dumps into a heated pool. Allday
passes $25, single rides $2, 10-ride
books $15. Open weekends only beginning
May 28 till June 4, then daily. 1/4 mile
west of the Village on Big Bear Blvd. (909)
866-4626.
Zoo
The new Big Bear Alpine Zoo at Moonridge
opens November 5! Grizzly and black bears,
bobcats, coyotes, mountain lions, , eagles,
and other animals now have a new state-ofthe-art
home with creatures 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.
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—CLOSED
THURS—PRIME RIB
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!

Page 16—May 2022
THE BACK PAGE
Thrills galore at Speedway, Ropes Course
t age 15 AJ Wayne wasn’t old
enough to drive but he already had
a license. To race, in fact, at Big ABear Speedway, where he registered the
track’s second fastest time of the day.
Better yet, his clocking of 25.77 at Big
Bear Speedway was faster than dad Matt’s
time of 26.02. Allowing the unlicensed
driver bragging rights, at least for the day.
Feed your need for speed at Big Bear
Speedway, open weekends only beginning
May 14 then daily June 4, where racers
negotiate high-tech Sodi Karts around a
one-fifth mile Grand Prix-style track. Tires
squealing in the turns, engines roaring,
push the karts to the limit in a real Go-Pro
experience while hitting speeds up to 30
mph. Tecpro barriers used in Formula 1 and
circuits around the world line the track to
make the experience even more authentic.
These aren’t your parent’s go-karts
from yesteryear; Sodi’s RT8 is a fully featured
vehicle with self-adjusting hydraulic
brakes and vacuum fuel pumps that
come straight from the automotive industry.
The karts handle like race cars and the
Honda Whisper Motors generate amazing
power, enough to lay rubber through turns
though virtually impossible to roll.
The racing experience at Big Bear’s
fastest attraction begins with first time
guests viewing a short safety video. Then
they’re issued Big Bear Speedway licenses—complete
with picture—good for
one year and assigned a heat number.
After donning head socks and helmets
adorned with visors and hearing
last minute instructions, the pit
crew waves drivers onto the track
in staggered starts, no more than
11 cars per heat. First lap is not
timed so racers can get a feel for
the kart and track. Timing starts
with the second lap and drivers get
about seven to nine laps or more
depending on how fast they go. At
the end of the heat drivers are
waved in to the pit area where they
get a printout of their time and the
six fastest times in the heat.
Initial Big Bear Speedway
membership is $20 (double kart
Big Bear Today
Hit speeds up to 30 mph on the Grand Prix-style track at Big Bear Speedway
$25) which includes license valid for one
year, one race and mandatory head sock
worn under the helmet. Subsequent visits
cost $15 per race or buy credits in advance
which are stored on your license for a year
and save up to 30%.
For thrills above ground there’s adjacent
Big Bear Ropes Course, open weekends
till June 4, then daily. Explore a 6,400
ft. mix of suspension bridges, ropes, spinning
log, curved bars and more that has
proven wildly popular since the state-ofthe-art
ropes course, only one in Big Bear,
opened two years ago. Two stories high,
the mix of obstacles and challenges is sure
to bring out the Ninja warrior in all of us
as guests ranging from small children to
adults climb, trek, stretch and balance their
way through.
Unlike Ninjas, guests are wearing
five-point, full-body safety harnesses that
are tethered into the structure, so there’s
zero chance of falling as they navigate a
variety of rope challenges. Many of the
more than 30 elements on the towering
course are exposed to nothing but air.
There’s curved bars that adventurers
wind their way around and swinging steps.
Along with a variety of suspension bridges,
some with wide-open gaps and others with
merely dangling ropes to grasp onto. Even
an 80-foot descent on the Sky Rail zipline
with automatic braking. Each session is
$12. Operators are on the course at all times
for participants who need assistance.
Maximum weight 300 lbs.
Check out the expanded lodge with
3,000 sq. ft. of seating and snack bar with
burgers and more..
Big Bear Speedway/Ropes Course is
at 42825 Big Bear Blvd. (909) 585-0075.
• 909.866.4626 • FAMILY FUN! • 909.866.4626 • FAMILY FUN! • 909.866.4626 • FAMILY FUN! •
FAMILY FUN! • 909.866.4626 • FAMILY FUN! • 909.866.4626 • FAMILY FUN! • 909.866.4626 • FAMILY FUN! • 909.866.4626 • FAMILY FUN! • 909.866.4626 •
Ride Our
Double
Water
Slide
New!
Water Slide
Season Passes!
$75 Anytime,
$60 Sun-Fri
(non-holiday)
Water Slide Rides • $25 All Day • 10 Rides ... $15
• Single Ride ... $2
Summer is
NEW!!
Soaring Eagle Ride
Great at Alpine Slide!
Your Alpine Slide experience begins
with a scenic chairlift ride above the
beautiful Big Bear Lake. Then, with
you controlling the speed, your toboggan
plummets back down the mountain creating a thrill you’ll want to relive
again and again!
Now Open!
• Miniature Golf • Go Karts
• Video Game Room • Delicious Snack Bar
Parents!... Sun On Our Spacious Deck While The Kids Play!
Year-Round Family Fun
With 300 Clear Days A Year!
Cool
Summer Spot
Check website for current operating hours
www.AlpineSlideBigBear.com
FAMILY FUN! • 909.866.4626 • FAMILY FUN! • 909.866.4626 • FAMILY FUN! • 909.866.4626 • FAMILY FUN! • 909.866.4626 • FAMILY FUN! • 909.866.4626
FAMILY FUN! • 909.866.4626 • FAMILY FUN! • 909.866.4626 • FAMILY FUN! • 909.866.4626 •