June 2022 Big Bear Today Magazine
History abounds in Big Bear Today! Read as we dispel myths about Belleviille and the 1861 election, and explore what's left of the gold rush in Holcomb Valley. Free sunset concert series stars X Ambassadors, Debbie Gibson and Drake White plus Music in the Mountains at Discovery Center is back. Make Music Day too! Bird walks and talks, new hiking and biking at Maple Hills Trails Complex, lake fun at Big Bear Marina and more! Plus calendar of events and recreation guide
History abounds in Big Bear Today! Read as we dispel myths about Belleviille and the 1861 election, and explore what's left of the gold rush in Holcomb Valley. Free sunset concert series stars X Ambassadors, Debbie Gibson and Drake White plus Music in the Mountains at Discovery Center is back. Make Music Day too! Bird walks and talks, new hiking and biking at Maple Hills Trails Complex, lake fun at Big Bear Marina and more! Plus calendar of events and recreation guide
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Volume 33, No. 12 June 2022
www.bigb eartodaymag.com
The Mountain’s Monthly Lifestyle Magazine
So Many Ways ...
...to Play on the Lake!
• Fish for $50K, Hunt Beasts
• Holcomb Valley Tales and Legends
• Make Music Day, Sunset Concerts,
in the Mountains!
• New Hiking, with Signs, on Maple Hills Trails
Page 2—June 2022
From the Publisher
Belleville was never
close to County Seat
but true story better
Belleville, one of the small mining
towns that sprang up in Holcomb
Valley during the gold rush, missed
out on becoming San Bernardino County
seat by a scant two votes.
Just to make sure the vote went
Belleville’s way, one “Hell Roaring
Johnson” decided to take control of the
election papers by killing Constable St.
John. Only the tables were turned on
Johnson, who was shot dead by St. John.
And even the two vote razor-thin margin
of defeat was suspicious. Seems ballots
in the 1861 election were being tallied
around a bonfire when one container was
“accidentally” kicked into the flames, resulting
in the loss of who-knows-howmany
votes that could have swung the
matter Belleville’s way. Instead San Bernardino
came out on top.
It’s one of Big Bear’s most enduring
tales, one I’ve heard since I moved here in
1989. It’s a story that’s featured in wellrespected
books by reputable authors, relayed
so many times it’s become etched in
the historical fabric. Only thing is, like so
much lore there’s not a shred of truth to it.
Instead, the real story is even better.
The truth is mixed with elements of
slavery and the Confederacy, secret meetings
and oaths, even a rogue duel a la
Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr. All
based on fact, details diligently unearthed
by historians Richard Graham, Mark
Durban and Anne Roark and presented at
an April Historical Society meeting.
Respected historians like John
Robinson, Austin Drake and even late Big
Bear icon Tom Core included the fable in
their writings. Core repeated it on many
occasions including during a “California
Gold” segment with Huell Howser. Yet
there’s no mention of Belleville losing the
County seat in writings by William
Holcomb or Sidney Waite who were there.
Nor is there any mention of any such
ballot measure in official records. “Reviewing
County Supervisors records,
there’s no such proposal in 1860, 61 or 62,”
Graham noted. “There’s no missing pages.
It’s just not there. Nor were there legal
notices printed in the Los Angeles Star
newspaper indicating a ballot measure
which would have been required.”
As a practical matter, San Bernardino
was by far the more logical choice for
County Seat. It already had a Court House,
Post Office, County offices and road system,
none of which were found in
Belleville, which like so many gold rush
towns was here today, gone tomorrow.
About the only thing Belleville had that
San Bernardino didn’t was winter snow,
hardly an enticement to moving the County
Seat.
It seems the 1861 election was hotly
contested in Holcomb Valley, but changing
the County Seat wasn’t the issue. As
the Civil War ignited back east, debate
about secession stirred in California too.
Mariposa miner and State Assemblyman
Dan Showalter wanted the state to join
the Confederacy, or at least split into two
regions. Debate about the issue turned into
a duel with fellow Assemblyman Charles
Piercy with rifles, on May 25, 1861.
Both missed with their first shots.
Piercy missed again but Showalter’s second
shot killed Piercy on the spot. Given
that dueling was illegal, Showalter “went
on the run,” Graham said, joined by about
20 other men, Southern sympathizers all.
Eventually the group made their way
to Holcomb Valley, known to have secessionist
leanings. “Showalter came to recruit
more men,” Graham said. “He didn’t get
any but did get gold for funding. He eventually
went to Arizona then Texas and was
killed in a bar fight in Mazatlan.”
Meanwhile politics remained a hot
button in Holcomb Valley. The Sacramento
Daily Alta ran a story in September 1861
that secessionists were holding “secret
meetings two or three times a week” while
Union loyalists were meeting Saturday
nights. One report by a Major Carleton
noted that in Holcomb and Bear Valley
mines there were “a thousand men, two
hundred of whom favor secession.”
All of which attracted the attention of
Clarence Bennett, who wrote Secretary of
War Seward, calling Holcomb Valley a
“rendezvous for secessionists planning to
take Fort Yuma then capture the Mexican
state of Sonora for the Confederacy.”
It all fizzled like a faulty firecracker.
“The gold petered out very quickly,” Graham
said, noting that while there were 547
votes cast in Belleville in 1861, just 51 a
year later as miners drifted away.
“The story would make a great movie
script,” Graham said. “Am I going to
change what goes around? I don’t think
so. The legend will continue.”
Graham, Durban and Roark will be at
the June 9 meeting again with still more
tales and legends of Big Bear’s past (story
page 3). Fascinating stuff, to be sure!
Have a good one.
Marcus
ON THE COVER: Cruzer lake tours at last year’s prices, pontoon boats, kayaks, waverunners,
Big Bear Marina has got your way to play on the lake.
Volume 33, Number 12 June 2022
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6
8
9
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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
Cruzer, New Pontoons at Big Bear Marina
Boats are a great way for families to social distance while
having fun and Big Bear Marina has a lot of them to choose
from. Like three dozen pontoons including four new ones, tour
boat sailing at last year’s prices despite inflation, a variety of
fishing boats, even water bikes that riders pedal instead of
paddle. SUP, canoes, kayaks and more mean summer is on!
Gold Fever Trail Visits Historical Holcomb
Holcomb Valley is where it all started and the Gold Fever Trail
is a fun drive if your vehicle is up to dirt road adventure. See
where Belleville was, the remnants of a couple real mines and
a hanging tree and cabin that’s not so real. The area is full of
legend and lore; find out what’s real and what’s not with
stories on this page along with page 3.
Gibson, XA get Free Sunset Concerts Rolling
The three-event Sunset Concert series gets underway with a
heavyweight lineup that includes X Ambassadors, pop star
Debbie Gibson and country star Drake White three consecutive
Fridays starting June 17. Enjoy the show and the sunset at
Veteran’s Park, free admission!
Music in Mountains Back, Bands at Wyatt’s
Discovery Center’s popular Music in the Mountains outdoor
concert series returns after its pandemic-driven hiatus. The
stars come out under the stars starting with the music of John
Denver presented by Jim Curry. Bands at Wyatt’s too!
2nd Phase Maple Hills Trails Now Open
213 acres of hiking bliss just got better with the introduction
of second phase paths at Maple Hills Trails Complex in Big
Bear City. Open to hikers and bikers, the treks are fun and
East Valley views sprawling; hard to believe such amazing
hiking is right off the boulevard! In color on The Back Page.
Nikki Sparks, one of many performers on
Make Music Day. See page 3.
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 June 2022—Page 3
POTPOURRI
Trail work, trash pick up on Woodland Interpretive Path
Woodland work on
June 4 Trails Day
Celebrate National Trails Day on Saturday,
June 4 by giving Woodland Interpretive
Trail on the North Shore some love.
Southern California Mountain Foundation
is holding a volunteer day event
from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. There’s guided beginner-friendly
trail work on tap, trash pick
up and information on the Trails Program.
Snacks and beverages will be provided and
there’s activities for the kids too.
Hell Roaring Johnson. Fixed Fourth
of July bull and bear fight with resulting
shoot outs. Creek George and Charlie the
Chink. Belleville in Holcomb Valley missing
out on becoming County Seat by just
two votes.
These legends and more will be addressed
by local historians Richard Graham,
Mark Durban and Anne Roark at the
June 9 meeting of Big Bear Valley Historical
Society. Their program, complete with
slide show, is the second of a two-part series
as the presenters confirm or dispel
some of Big Bear’s best yarns and stories.
While there was never a vote to make
Belleville the County Seat (story page 2),
Hell Roaring Johnson seems to be a real
character who met his end while trying to
rig an election. Graham and Durban dig
deep for the truth behind these stories, pro-
7 venues, over a dozen performers, free admission
Sounds abound at
Make Music Day
Spend the longest day of the year enjoying
the sounds of music from 2-8 p.m.
at seven Big Bear Village locations.
Make Music Day is a worldwide celebration
of sounds marked in Big Bear on
June 21, at locations on Bartlett Rd., Village
Dr. and Pine Knot Ave. At least 16
bands and performers are expected to participate.
There will even be street musicians
who will be “busking.”
Venues include Oakside Restaurant,
Chamber of Commerce, Copper Q, 572
Social, Sotherby’s Real Estate and the
Bone Yard. Nottingham’s Tavern meanwhile
will host its popular Open Mic with
different musicians playing every 20 minutes
on the beautiful outdoor patio.
It’ll take a long day to catch all the
varied performers. Don’t miss Big Bear
favorite Nikki Sparks, who has regularly
performed at Christmas in the Village,
Stillwells, The Cave, 572 Social and others.
“She’s a little bit country, a little bit
rock and roll” with a terrific voice and
playlist that covers everything from Shania
Twain to Bon Jovi.
Woodland Interpretive Trail is one of
Big Bear’s most popular paths, fun for the
whole family, 1.5 miles long as it winds
through different forest climatic zones.
Numbered posts identify points of interest—pick
up a free guide at the trailhead
or Discovery Center—detailing local flora,
fauna and more. Plus there’s great views
of the lake and surrounding mountains.
The event is free and open to the public
but children must be accompanied by
parent or guardian. Plenty of free parking
at the trailhead across from Morrison Boat
Launch with no Adventure Pass required.
Hell Roaring Johnson, Creek George come to life!
Team talks legends
at Historical Society
ducing newspaper clips, miners memoirs
and County records.
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 with
terrific prizes like gift baskets and items
from the museum gift shop are highlights.
As are refreshments including delicious
desserts and cookies.
Big Bear Museum is open for the season,
Saturdays, Sundays, Wednesdays and
holiday Mondays into September. Explore
Big Bear’s fascinating past with your own
eyes, ears and hands at the working blacksmith
shop. Relive the mining days when
the authentic five-stamp mill roars to life,
and youngsters love to try their hands at
gold panning. There’s over a million items
on display reflecting Big Bear’s storied
mining, ranching, logging and recreation
past. Admission is $5. 14 and under free.
Located at 800 Greenway in Big Bear City.
Call (909) 585-8100.
Her powerhouse voice made her a fixture
on the Sunset Strip for two years before
moving to Big Bear, at clubs like the
Whiskey, Roxy and House of Blues.
Sparks released her first CD with the ballad
“Misunderstood” getting airplay on
country stations.
Other Make Music Day artists include
Peggy Baldwin and Duke Michaels, regulars
at The Pines Tavern. The husband and
wife duo puts out an amazing sound for a
twosome, Peggy on cello and Duke on guitar.
He is a talented singer and songwriter
while Peggy has played with Jeff Lynne
of ELO fame, Yanni and many others.
Dave Graham from Damn Good
Question, the Boswell Project, and many
others dot the day’s lineup. Don’t miss
Farley the Fiddler, Time Travel Madams,
Karen Elaine, Dan O’Mara, Todd Clanton,
Rebecca Jane, Paul Black, Thai Barker,
Tom Stauffer and more.
Make Music Day will be marked in
over 1,000 cities around the world, in 120
countries. First launched in France in 1982
as the Fete de la Musique, the event is open
literally to anyone who makes music, making
it much more than just a festival.
Visit MakeMusicDay.org/bigbear for
latest music schedule and details
Pirate Ship
Lake Tours
Holloway’s
MARINA & RV PARK
800-448-5335
2 4 4 2 3 2 7
Pontoon Boat Rentals
Fishing
Boats
LAKESIDE RV CAMPING
• Waverunners & Jet Skis
• SUPs-Stand Up Paddleboards
• Wake Boarding / Waterskiing
909.866.5706
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—June 2022
Cruzer, new pontoons at BB Marina
At a time when inflation is running
rampant on everything from gasoline
to groceries, it’s nice to know
that at least some prices are holding the
line.
Big Bear Cruzer, the newest tour boat
on the lake, sails daily from Big Bear Marina
at last year’s fares. The 25-passenger
tour boat offers narrated tours of Big Bear
Lake, nimble enough to cope with lower
water levels. Fully-covered with sound system
and onboard potty, Cruzer offers an
intimate experience during 90-minute tours
that sail past China Island, the Solar Observatory,
celebrity homes and more.
There’s no minimum passenger requirements
so Cruzer cruises even if
there’s only one customer on board. Tours
are set for 1:30 and 3:30 p.m. along with
"Still haunted by our Ghost George"
11 a.m as demand warrants. Fares are $22,
senior/military 12, ages 4-12 are $15, free
3 and under. Same prices as last year despite
obvious fuel increases!
Pontoon boats are another great way
to enjoy the lake as families and groups
enjoy ample seating, space and shade
amidst lake isolation. Four new pontoons
from Sweetwater joined Big Bear Marina’s
fleet last season, one 23’ boat that seats 12
and three 20’ vessels accommodating six.
The past couple years have seen several
Lowe boats added as well, and Big Bear
Marina has over three dozen pontoons on
the water.
Bluetooth sound system with fourway
speakers including bass with iPhone
and USB connectivity are just a few of the
cool features. Amenities like comfortable
bench seating,
drink
holders, slipresistant
vinyl
flooring and
lots of storage
make pontoon
boats a
virtual floating
living
room. Bimini
tops provide
shade on
sunny days .
Float
with your
Fine Dining in a Rustic Stone & Log Retreatt
Fine Steaks • Seafood • Prime Rib • Lobster
Welcome Back!
Enjoy Great Food
in a Historic Setting
family in isolation in a quiet cove on the
lake, or maybe troll for trout. Bring coolers,
picnic lunch, canoes or kayaks, tubes
or whatever and beat the heat on the water.
They’re as easy to drive as a car, powered
by eco-friendly four stroke Mercury
outboards. Even inexperienced captains
figure navigation out quickly.
“Smaller luxury pontoon boats have
proven to be very popular with families that
don’t need so much space, or with couples
wanting plenty of room,” Big Bear
Marina’s Steve Fengler said.
Make a splash on new Yamaha VX
1100 three-seater Waverunners available
at Big Bear Marina. Enjoy an exhilerating
day of play in the spray with friends and
family. The marina also offers water ski
and wake pulls by Big Bear Watersports.
Seven new fishing boats from Lowe
have been added by Big Bear Marina as
well, featuring whisper-quiet 9.8 fourstroke
motors, to go with several added in
2019. The 14-foot aluminum vessels seat
up to four anglers and are perfect for going
out to where the fish are biting.
The marina is also home to Big Bear
Lake’s official weigh station with the only
tournament scale. If you hook up with a
big one be sure to hit “Mac’s Shack” at
Big Bear Marina and see if you have a lake
record trout, large or smallmouth bass,
crappie or other species.
For self-propelled fun check out the
marina’s water bikes, only ones on the lake.
These recumbent bike-style rides feature
handlebars and pedals, but instead of two
wheels there’s two pontoons. Making the
Big Bear Today
Cruise aboard Big Bear Cruzer on narrated tours
rides very stable, even in rough water.
Water bikes are comfortable and practically
maneuver on a dime with a 10-foot
turning radius. With rudder and propeller
water bikes have boating features but are
as simple to ride as any cycle on land, ideal
for those who would like to try
paddleboards but are afraid they’ll spend
more time in the water than on it.
“They go three knots without having
to pedal very hard at all,” Fengler said.
“And they move through the water even
into the wind.”
Ample deck space allows water bikes
to carry up to three people. “Or a couple
can go out and bring a cooler,” Fengler
said. “Plus there’s a tray up front to put
your phone or snacks. A great way to have
fun and get exercise at the same time.”
Standup Paddleboards are also
muscle-powered, a way to socially distance
by definition. Stand up on the Hobie surfboard-like
boards nearly 12 feet long and
paddle to enjoy the lake and get exercise
at the same time.
Big Bear Marina has kayaks including
single, double and even triples. Plus
two-person pedal boats with legs as the
power source.
The floating store has been remodeled
with new counters and additional point of
sale stations. Customers will find expanded
bait and tackle plus other supplies like
snacks, beer, wine, ice and more. Check
out two live online webcam feeds
(BigBearMarina.com) to see current conditions
on the water for yourself.
Big Bear Marina (909) 866-3218.
Pontoon parties or self-propelled fun on water bikes (left)
Est. 1947 by Andy Devine
as the Sportsmans Tavern
Open Nightly 4:30 p.m.
Inside & Out
Alfresco Outdoor Dining
on Our New Patio!
Molekule Air Purifiers
for Safety of Customers & Staff
www.CaptainsAnchorage.com
Rare Photos, Memorabilia,
and More!
Advance Reservations
Highly Recommended
Big Bear Today June 2022—Page 5
$50K on the line, Roundup too Dirty hands give forest a helping hand
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
Give the forest a helping hand by getting
your hands dirty as part of a longrunning
native plant restoration volunteer
program held all summer including June
11..
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.
Register by June 9 for this month’s
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
outing with work at Children’s Forest
Native Plant Nursery at the nearby Deer
Lick Fire Station in Running
Springs.Nurserycleaup, invasive species
removal and other tasks are scheduled.
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 2022 Greenthumbs days
are on July 9, August 6, September 24
(National Public Lands Day) and October
29. Call (909) 382-2809 to preregister
or email megan.clement@usda.gov.
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.
Page 6—June 2022
Fact, fiction meet in Holcomb Valley along Gold Fever Trail
F
act, fiction, and some good old Wild
West lore come to life along the
Gold Fever Trail, an 11-mile selfguided
driving tour of Holcomb Valley.
Here Big Bear first took root, not with
skiing or boating but mining. It happened
almost overnight after William “Bill”
Holcomb stumbled across the valley one
ridge north of Big Bear that now bears his
name, finding yellow flakes and igniting
Southern California’s largest gold rush.
Over $100 million in gold is estimated to
have been taken in subsequent decades,
and the mother lode was never found!
Not a lot remains of the onetime mining
hot spot, save for a few well-placed
logs that once were buildings and the remnants
of a couple mines. But a century-anda-half
ago the area was home to Belleville,
the largest mining town that sprang up in
Holcomb Valley during Southern
California’s largest gold rush. The famed
Gold Mountain “Lucky Baldwin” Mine
operated into the 1940’s, and late Big Bear
historian Tom Core, who passed in 2006,
recalled hearing the massive stamps
pounding ore when he was a youngster.
Mostly the 12-stop Gold Fever Trail
(turn off North Shore Dr. on Polique Canyon
Rd.) visits stunning scenery that those
who never leave Big Bear Valley proper
while they’re here don’t see. Building remains
are mostly representations of structures
found in the bygone era, but when
the wind rustles through the trees you can
almost hear the sounds of yesteryear.
Pick up a free driving map at Big Bear
Discovery Center, climb into a high-clearance
vehicle and get psyched for a bouncy
dirt road ride, and set out to explore this
spectacular landscape where many a miner
sought their fortune (passenger cars not
recommended for road’s current condition).
As an alternative rent a Jeep that you
drive for the journey from Big Bear Jeep
Experience at (909) 420-5828.
Holcomb View Trail is the first Gold
Fever stop. Bill found more than just meat
in early 1860 when he followed the blood
trail of a “monster” grizzly bear he’d
wounded past a quartz ledge...gold! Once
word got out prospectors flooded the area.
This first spot takes visitors a short
distance up to a point along Pacific Crest
Trail, popular today with hikers instead of
miners, many making their way from
Mexico to Canada or vice-versa as part of
Belleville on
Gold Fever Trail;
Hangman’s Tree
and inside the
cabin
a 2,650 mile journey. PCT runs from the
Mexican to Canadian borders and travels
through three states, mostly at high elevation,
through six National Parks and across
57 major mountain passes. About 39 of its
miles are in Big Bear.
Last Chance Placer is essentially a
big hole in the ground; here prospectors
dug down to within several feet of bedrock,
removing “pay dirt” that was sluiced.
Water came from snowmelt in manmade
earthen ponds like the one a short distance
away. In 1860 some three pounds of gold
was taken in this area each day, around
$27,000 in current valuations.
Two Gun Bill’s Saloon is next on the
tour, really just a few rotting logs stacked
together, and not a watering hole originally
to begin with. This clapboard cabin was
believed to actually be a Valley Gold Co.
office, where the first telephone line came
into the Valley. The saloon by this name
some 1.5 miles west of this location,
ground zero for debauchery of all kinds.
Hangman’s Tree is also debatable,
with the real one thought to be just a stump
remnant to the east. No doubt it looked like
this one though, with branches cut off each
time justice was carried out. Which was
often; some 50 murders were quickly recorded
in Holcomb Valley the first two
years after gold was found, with up to four
outlaws swinging from a noose at one time.
Claim jumping, election fixing, Holcomb
Valley had it all in its heyday.
Belleville was a thriving little town in
Big Bear Today
this beautiful meadow, but through the
years wood and metal was removed from
buildings for scrap and souvenir hunters
took away what was left. The lone log
structure seen now was moved here and is
representative of the past.
Arrastres marks gold ore grinder diggings
just down the path from the building.
Ore was crushed in the middle with a
post-and-stone setup powered by donkey
or mule walking endlessly in a circle. Slow
and tedious to be sure—it took four hours
to crush a decent pile of ore—but there
were a hundred such arrarastres in operation
during the heyday.
Ross’ Grave is unique in that no one
really knows why somebody bothered to
bury him in the first place, given the frantic
mining town pace. Apparently he was
accidentally killed cutting down a tree and
a picket fence was built around the grave.
Vandals and souvenir seekers have done a
number on the site.
Pygmy Cabin Site aroused curiousity
for years with its 6 ft. ceiling and 4 ft. door.
The point is moot now because fire and
scavengers have reduced the remains down
to original stone chimney and cabin footprint.
Still worth seeing, and the 900-foot
trail to the site is stunning.
Metzger Mine is an underground
horizontal passage dug out by miners still
visible today. Duck under the quartz ledge
and enter the mine remnants, provided you
Continued on page 7
Big Bear Today June 2022—Page 7
See sites, sights on Queen lake tours
Cruise the lake aboard Big Bear
Queen with longtime captain Chris Bellows,
Big Bear’s top-ranked Tripadvisor
tour, sailing out of Pine Knot Marina.
Big Bear’s original paddlewheeler
with colorful flags flapping in the breeze
has been plying the lake’s waters since
1989 after arriving from Newport Beach.
His dad Dave was the original skipper with
Chris serving as backup, and now son continues
the tradition, narrating local history
that he and family have knowledge of.
The Bellows family has been leading
narrated tours of the lake sites and sights
aboard the colorful Queen for over 30
years. Chris previously captained on the
lake aboard Pine Knot Landing’s original
tour boat Sierra before taking over Big
Gold Fever Trail...
Continued from page 6
bring light because it is pitch dark inside.
It goes a short distance into the mountain
following a vein that the miners worked
and is not recommended for the claustrophobic
or ill-prepared.
Gold Mountain “Lucky Baldwin”
Mine is last stop on Gold Fever Tour. The
remnants were saved during the 2017
Holcomb Fire, about the only good fortune
it’s seen in the last century, so the massive
wood beams marking the spot of a huge
40-stamp mill operation remain. The lack
of surrounding timber is because most of
the trees in the area were cut to power the
steam engine in the stamp mill, which
burned some 11,000 lbs. of dry pine daily.
Bear Queen two decades ago.
Spread out on upper and lower decks
plus open air bow and be entertained by
colorful Big Bear stories and history, while
experiencing first hand Big Bear Lake and
surrounding mountains that include the ski
areas plus 11,502 ft. Mt. San Gorgonio.
While capacity is 60 passengers, Big Bear
Queen sails with fewer than that to allow
plenty of personal space.
The open air design on both decks allows
guests to experience as well as see
the lake, as they can hear the boat ply
through the water and taste lake spray and
breezes. New old-time photos line the
Queen’s sides, depicting Big Bear history.
Animal Sanctuary tours
Learn the stories of rescued critters
during one-hour tours of Grateful Heart
Animal Sanctuary in Big Bear City.
Horses, burros, chickens, ducks, roosters,
bunnies, goats, pigs, dogs, cats, even
a steer have found forever homes at the
nonprofit, volunteer-run facility. Enjoy upclose
personal interactions with goats and
pigs while touring the property and learning
the stories of how they ended up at
Grateful Heart Animal Sanctuary, a 100%
volunteer run facility.
Tours are set for June 11 and 25. Admission
is $10, $5 under 18, with proceeds
going to feed and care for the animals including
veterinary care, supplies and
equipment. Ticket sales end two days prior
to each tour so book in advance by calling
(909) 979-9333, or visit BigBear.com
Bring your favorite beverage and see the sights and sites on Big Bear Queen
On board potty too.
Captain Chris expertly navigates the
boat he’s piloted for so many years around
China Island and past the Zebra Room.
Talks about the creation of the dam, aeration
system, Teetering Rock, the old
damkeeper house and many more fascinating
points of interest. Cruising past the
Solar Observatory is another highlight and
bald eagles sometimes thrill guests, soaring
above the boat and swooping down.
Sail past the homes of celebrities—if
you’re lucky Noel Blanc, who with his father
Mel mouthed the voices of Bugs
Bunny, Porky Pig and other legendary
characters for decades, will come out to
hail Big Bear Queen guests.
Each tour is 90 minutes, departing
from Pine Knot Marina with up to four
sailings daily at 11 a.m. plus 1, 3 and 5
p.m., which returns at day’s end for awesome
vistas. Big Bear Queen, pioneer of
guaranteed lake tours that sail no matter
how many are on board, assures the 1 and
3 p.m. tours go out..
Big Bear Queen is spruced up for the
2022 season after getting new carpet and
paint. Guests are welcome to bring their
own beer, wine (corkscrew on board),
champagne or cocktails, picnic baskets etc.
Daily Big Bear Queen fares are $29,
senior-military $27, ages 3-12 $19, under
three free. Book online for contact-free reservations
at BigBearQueen.com.
FREE
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VILLAGE,
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Big Bear’s Largest
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with Cozy Fireplaces
(Offer Good Sunday-Thursday / non-holiday)
(800) 255-4378
local (909) 866-2166
41121 Big Bear Blvd. • Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
www.BlackForestLodge.com
Page 8—June 2022
Free sunset concerts star Gibson, XA
Top tier talent highlights the new
Sunset Concert Series at Veteran’s
Park, featuring three events kicking
off on June 17.
Bring the whole family to enjoy the
free Friday series in the beautiful lakeside
park just east of Pine Knot. Featuring some
of music’s brightest stars: X Ambassadors,
Debbie Gibson and Drake White.
The new series debuts June 17 with
pop stars X Ambassadors (XA for short),
whose full length debut release VHS in
2015 vaulted the band to stardom. Sam
Nelson Harris, Casey Harris and Adam
Levin transitioned from Ithaca alt-rockers
and Brooklyn-indie-scene outsiders to Billboard
stalwarts with the release, which
certified platinum. Hits like “Unsteady”
and “Renegades” took an intimate look at
the brothers’ youth and led to a three-year
global tour journey and high-profile festival
shows.
Since then X Ambassadors has stayed
in the music forefront with 2019’s Orion,
supported by another lengthy tour, and last
year’s concept album The Beautiful Liar.
2021 also saw the band release (Eg), a
multipart series of collaborations. Combined
with a steady stream of single releases,
XA brings plenty of material to
shows. Like last year’s “Water,” a song for
the Blade Runner Black Lotus soundtrack.
The Big Bear appearance is part of a
worldwide tour for XA, which two weeks
later will perform at Ballpark Village in St.
Louis. Then it’s off to Quebec, Martin
Luther King Jr. Memorial Park at Manhattan
Square, and eventually the United
Kingdom. The band Moontower opens.
Debbie Gibson stars a week later on
June 24 and needs little introduction, after
selling more than 16 million albums in an
over three decade career. At age 16 she
burst into the music world by becoming
the youngest artist in history to write, produce
and perform a Billboard number one
hit, “Foolish Beat.”
Hits have kept coming ever since.
Songs like “Only in My Dreams,” “Electric
Youth,” “Anything is Possible,” “Staying
Together,” “Lost in Your Eyes,” “Girls
Night Out” and many more have kept her
name at the top of the charts. Gibson is
more than just a talented singer too; she
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100 E. Big Bear Blvd. (at Greenway) • Big Bear City
1 mile east of The Convention Center
starred in 17 musicals in 17 years, from
Broadway's Les Miserables to the West
End's Grease.
Plus Gibson has a slew of film and
television credits, from made-for-television
movies on the Hallmark Channel to
sci-fi flixs like “Mega Shark versus Giant
Octopus.” Along with “Mega Python vs.
Gatoroid” in which she co-starred with fellow
pop singer Tiffany. From co-hosting
Nickelodeon’s first Kids Choice Awards to
being on Celebrity Apprentice, American
Idol and Dancing with the Stars, Gibson
has done a little bit of everything, much of
it at the highest level.
Closing out the summer series on July
1 is country star Drake White. He got his
Big Bear Today
X Ambassadors (above) and Debbie Gibson Left) headline lakeside sunset concerts
Year-Round
Christmas Room!
start singing in his Alabama church’s youth
choir before vaulting to fame with his 2013
debut single “Simple Life,” showcasing his
brand of country soul.
Songs like “It Feels Good” and “Livin’
the Dream” followed and White was opening
for artists like Eric Church, Luke
Bryan, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Little Big Town,
Zac Brown Band and others. Then in 2019
he collapsed on stage from a hemorrhagic
stroke and doctors said he might never perform
again.
Obviously after several operations and
months of therapy, White has proven them
wrong. His new album The Optimystic is
aptly titled, a story of strength and resil-
Continued on page 10
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
Big Bear Today June 2022—Page 9
Curry’s Denver music kicks off series
Enjoy a seat under the stars as the stars
come out on stage when “Music in the
Mountains” returns for the first time in
three years.
The popular outdoor concert series
held at Big Bear Discovery Center’s beautiful
amphitheater nestled among the pine
trees sees five shows starting July 9. It’s a
great lineup beginning with Jim Curry’s
amazing presentation of the music of John
Denver, followed by tributes to Journey,
the Beatles and more, while marking the
15th anniversary of the series.
The setting can’t be beat, under the
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.
Calico Creek Band is at Wyatt’s June
4 and 18, playing country music from the
1960’s to today’s hits. Heavy emphasis is
placed on country’s golden years in the
90’s, even mixing in the Eagles in the process.
The band has played at Buckeye
Jack’s in Apple Valley, concert in the park
at Menifee Lakes and has upcoming shows
at Saddlesore in Norco.
High Desert and Wyatt’s favorite
Southern Spirit is back with power country
on June 24 and July 8. Regulars at
Buckeye Jack’s, Southern Spirit has played
everywhere from the old Crazy Horse in
pine trees in the forest as the sun sets and
stars twinkle above. Pre-pandemic improvements
in sound and lighting production
make for a great concert experience
with proceeds going toward conservation,
recreation and education programs in the
mountains. Plus there’s great food and
drink for purchase, making for a real festival
atmosphere.
Music in the Mountains kicks off July
9 with Curry, an appropriate choice to reintroduce
the series indeed. Denver’s music
sought to raise environmental consciousness
as well and no one sings it bet-
Calico Creek, Southern Spirit at Wyatt’s
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.
Other Wyatt’s highlights include
Cumberland Gap on June 11. Terry
McRaven Band plays June 10 with Contagious
on June 17.
Have a “blast” at Wyatt’s Fourth of
July weekend, open July 1-3 with music
by Terry McRaven Band. On July 4 it’s
the annual Independence Day Fair featuring
vendors, kids activities and more with
Street Music Band performing. Hours are
10 a.m.-6 p.m. and admission is free.
Wyatt’s is at the Convention Center,
42900 Big Bear Blvd. Call (909) 595-3000
or visit www.bigbearevents.com.
The music of John Denver presented by Jim Curry opens Music in the Mountains
ter than Curry; close your eyes and the
sounds of the late singer come to life.
He sang the music for the CBS television
movie Take Me Home: The John Denver
Story with an off-camera performance.
His truly American show has been seen at
venues around the country, sometimes
backed by full symphony orchestra. On
other occasions he’s joined by wife Ann
and several band members who played
with Denver, who tragically passed away
in 1997 while flying an aircraft.
The evening features a wide selection
of Denver’s vast legacy of multiplatinum
hits, tunes like “Rocky Mountain High,”
“Sunshine on My Shoulders,” “Calypso,”
“Grandma’s Feather Bed” and “Annie’s
Song.” Curry’s repetoire also includes
Denver fan favorites like “The Eagle and
the Hawk” and “Country Roads.”
Two weeks later The Long Run returns
with its tribute to the Eagles on July 23.
Formed in 1999 by accomplished musicians,
The Long Run is considered a top
Eagles tribute band and plays all the legendary
group’s greatest hits...even the solo
work done by Eagles Don Henley, Glenn
Frey and Joe Walsh.
The band mixes in the studio quality
that marked the Eagles music with their
own live concert energy show. With lush
vocal harmonies and exceptional musical
accuracy The Long Run captures the
unique Eagles sound. Enjoy the hits of
Linda Ronstadt when Kristina Kay opens.
Continued on page 12
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 10—June 2022
Chirp sets bird walks, talks, crafts
Big Bear Today
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. Including Saturday,
June 4, which visits a nice forested
spot with open meadows and unique alpine
lake, ideal for birding.
Birders of all experience levels enjoy
observing and identifying local Big Bear
Sunset concerts...
Continued from page 8
ience, on both his personal level and also
for the country as a whole as it emerged
from the pandemic.
White has received accolades including
Rolling Stone’s 10 Country Artists You
Need to Know and The Grammy’s Artist
of Tomorrow. Plus the British CMA
Awards’ International Song of the Year.
The venue opens at 4 p.m. for all concerts,
which run till about 8 p.m. Admission
is free.
Snacks and beverages are available
for purchase at each event, presented by
Visit Big Bear. Or make a picnic out of it
but no chairs, portable stools or ice chests
permitted.
Veteran’s Park is at 40870 Big Bear
Blvd. Call Visit Big Bear (909) 866-6190.
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 set for 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.
“Wings of Change” explores the past
and present of Southern California wild
birds with Sean Lyon on June 11. Learn
about the historical change of bird populations
with Lyon, Curatorial Assistant at
the Moore Lab of Zoology at Occidental
College. He’ll share how museum specimens
can be combined with cutting-edge
Explore forest and lush meadow on the June 4 bird walk led by Chirp
technology to unlock the past, and document
how nature has changed in the Los
Angeles Basin.
Future programs include “What’s That
Bird in My Backyard” on July 9 presented
by Matthew Schreiner. “The Art of the
Bird” on August 13, “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 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.
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 June 2022—Page 11
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, now open daily
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
daily and offer more
self-controlled fun.
Lean into banked turns
with the sled almost
perpendicular to the
ground and whip out
into a tuck through
straightaways to and
experience some of the same gravitational
forces found in Olympic sled events.
Apply brake to go as slow as you want
or let the sled’s 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
towers riders soar 500 feet—close to two
Tunnels, drops, more on new Mineshaft
Coaster, and you’re in control!
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
is open daily, a great way to beat the heat.
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 open till 8 p.m. on
Fridays and Saturdays starting June 17.
Alpine Slide is at 800 Wildrose Ln.
Call (909) 866-4626.
Page 12—June 2022
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
$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
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
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 daily.
Explore a 6,400 ft. mix of suspension
bridges, ropes, spinning log, curved bars
and more. Two stories high, the mix of obstacles
and challenges is sure to bring out
the Ninja warrior 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 course are
exposed to nothing but air. Even an 80-
foot descent on the Sky Rail zipline with
automatic braking. Each session is $12.
Big Bear Today
Hit speeds up to 30 mph on the Grand Prix-style track at Big Bear Speedway
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
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.
Music in Mtns...
Continued from page 9
DSB is a returning favorite, headlining
August 6. On Aug. 20 Hard Day’s
Night takes the stage with the music of
the Beatles. The series concludes September
3 with Deja Vu’s retrospective of
Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young.
Show tickets are $38 for general admission
or $49 premium seating. Season
passes are $152 and $198, respectively.
Gates opens at 5:30 p.m. with shows
at 6:30. Food and beverages available.
MountainsFoundation.org for tickets
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
June 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
June
4
In-Person Bird Walk leaves Chirp
Nature Center (578 Bonanza
Trail) 8 a.m. sharp. Free, refreshments
follow. (888) 412-
4477.
4
Bald Eagle Viewing from 9 a.m.-
1 p.m. at Dana Point Park
(39369 North Shore Dr.) with
nest viewing, information, free.
4
National Trails Day sees volunteers
working on Woodland Trail
10 am.-2 p.m., register at
mountainsfoundation.org.
4-5
Team Big Bear Mountain Bike
Shootout #2 mountain bike racing
at Snow Summit. 633-
6729.
7, 14, 21, 28
Bear Valley Farmers Market
8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Convention
Center; fresh produce,
vendors. Free. 585-3000.
9
Historical Society Meeting 7
p.m. at Presbyterian Church
(579 Knickerbocker); Richard
Graham, Mark Durban present
Big Bear legends. Free, refreshments,
drawing.
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
Greenthumbs Native Plant Restoration
Program sees volunteers
working from 9 a.m.-3
p.m.; meet at the Ranger Sta-
tion. 382-2809.
11
Free Nature Talk at Chirp Nature
Center (578 Bonanza Trail) 7-8
p.m.; “Past & Present of SoCal’s
Wild Birds” with Sean Lyon.
(888) 412-4477.
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.
17
X Ambassadors kicks off Sunset
Concert Series at Veteran’s
Park at 4 p.m., Moontower
opens. Free admission.
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.
18-19
Team Big Bear Mountain Bike
Shootout #3 mountain bike racing
at Snow Summit. 633-6729.
21
Make Music Day sees 7 Village
venues hosting 12 bands/musicians
from 2-8 p.m., all free.
MakeMusicDay.org/bigbear.
24
Debbie Gibson headlines Sunset
Concert Series at Veteran’s Park
at 4 p.m. Free admission.
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.
July
1
Country Star Drake White headlines
Sunset Concert Series at
Veteran’s Park at 4 p.m. Free
admission.
2
Free Fishing Day on the lake; no
license required. 866-5796.
2
Free Bird Walk leaves Chirp Nature
Center (578 Bonanza Trail)
8 a.m. sharp; refreshments follow.
(888) 412-4477.
4
Wyatt’s Independence Day Faire
at the Convention Center 10
a.m.-6 p.m. with arts and crafts,
Street Music Band plays under
the pines. Free entry. 585-3000.
4
Fireworks Over the Lake, presented
by the City, Visit Big Bear
and Rotary Club at 9 p.m. (800)
4-BIG BEAR.
4
Above the Boom fireworks party
at Snow Summit 7-9 p.m. with
Skychair ride, DJ (844) GO2-
BEAR.
9
“Music in the Mountains” series
returns to Discovery Center with
the music of John Denver by Jim
Curry. $38-$49. Gates open 5
p.m., show at 6. 866-3437.
21
KOLA-FM Slide Day at Alpine
Slide; water slide pass, Alpine
Slide and Soaring Eagle rides,
lunch, more $29.99. 866-4626.
23
Spirits of the West Brewsfest 1-
7 p.m. at Convention Center
with Temecula Gunfighters, beer,
wine and spirits tastings, live
band. 585-3000.
23
“Music in the Mountains” series
at Discovery Center with tribute
to the Eagles by the Long Run.
$38-$49. Gates open 5 p.m.,
show at 6. 866-3437.
For updated calendar of events visit us on the Internet!
www.bigbeartodaymag.com
E
V
E
N
T
C
A
L
E
N
D
A
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Page 14—June 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 a snowplay area with Magic Carpet
uphill ride, plus 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 comes to Big Bear with
timed heats and authentic track experience.
Reach speeds up to 30 mph while
negotiating hairpin turns and straightaways
on the Grand Prix-style 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.
THE ALMANAC
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.
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), Captain John’s
Marina (866-6478).
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. Adults $29,
seniors/military $27, 12 and under $19, 3
and under free. 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
Big Bear Today
Recreation • Dining • Nightlife • And More
Road Conditions: (800) 427-ROAD quickmap.dot.ca.gov
Beat the heat on a waverunner! Call Get Wet Water Sports (909) 878-4FUN
daily from Holloway’s Marina...complete
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. Bowl 3
games for the price of 2 with coupon in this
issue. Open daily. 40625 Big Bear Blvd.
(enter on Bonanza).(909) 878-BOWL.
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.
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
Continued on page 15
Big Bear Today June 2022—Page 15
into the mountains, there are trails for all
abilities, including families, within a short
drive of Big Bear. For information on all
trails in the Valley and the required
Adventure Pass, visit the Discovery Center
on North Shore Dr., about two miles west
of Stanfield Cutoff. (909) 866-3437.
Alpine Pedal Path is a very easy 3.5 mile
(each way) paved trek following the lake
on the north shore. Popular with hikers,
bikers, skaters, strollers and wheelchairs
as it passes Carol Morrison East Boat
Launch, Discovery Center, Serrano
campground, Solar Observatory and more.
Castle Rock Trail is a short but strenuous
hike, that ends with a panoramic view of
Big Bear Lake. Legend has it that a beautiful
Indian maiden, jilted by her lover, took her
life by leaping from this towering 100 ft.
monolith. It’s reached after a mostly uphill,
.8 mile walk past a stream and featuring
beautiful views. Located on Hwy. 18
between Boulder Bay and the dam; park on
the lake side of the road.
Cougar Crest Trail is 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 short,
scenic family stroll with minimal elevation
gain, located on the north shore near Cougar
Crest. Free trail maps (available at the
trailhead or Discovery Center) identify
markers along the route noting local
vegetation, wildlife areas, etc.
Pacific Crest Trail comes through Big
Bear from Onyx Summit through the East
Valley to Hwy. 18 and then past Holcomb
Valley Rd. and Cougar Crest through
Holcomb Valley before continuing its 2,638
mile journey from Mexico to Canada. Call
the Discovery Center to find out where to
catch this famous international trail.
Pine Knot Trail from Aspen Glen picnic
area climbs the southern ridge above Alpine
Slide three miles (each way) to Skyline Dr.
2N10, through lush meadow and stands of
white fir and Jeffrey Pine. Continue another
1/4 mile to Grand View Point for spectacular
180-degree vistas.
Holcomb Valley
At one time, Big Bear Valley was thriving
gold country. The last remaining signs of
this historic chapter in Big Bear history are
featured in a driving tour through what is
known as Holcomb Valley. Totaling 11.6
miles over a dirt road, the tour offers stops
at Two Gun Bill’s Saloon, Hangman’s
Tree, Pigmy Cabin, Metzger Mine, and
more. Free maps available at the Big Bear
Discovery Center on the North Shore—
call 866-3437. Allow three hours for the
drive.
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). Big Bear Marina (866-3218) has
new Yamaha three-seaters. Pine Knot
Landing has three-person waverunners
available. 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 June 7, 9, 21, and 23, 6-9 p.m. June 3 and 17, 2-5 p.m. June 26. 40260
Big Bear Blvd. (909) 878-0616.
THELMA’S–Brad Riesau from Silver Moon on the outdoor patio June 10, 24 from
6-8 p.m. 337 W. Big Bear Blvd., Big Bear City. (909) 585-7005.
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. June 3-4: Terry McRaven Band, Caico Creek. June
10-11: Terry McRaven Band, Cumberland Gap. June 17-18: Contagious, Calico
Creek. June 24: Southern Spirit. 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.
through mid-September. Located at 800
Greenway just off the boulevard at Big
Bear City Park. $5, 14 and under free.
(909) 585-8100.
Scenic Sky Chair
Ride Snow Summit’s Scenic Sky Chair to
the top for incredible views of the Valley,
lake, Mt. San Gorgonio, and more. Enjoy
barbecued food, beer and wine at the View
Haus on top, which has a terrific sundeck,
while taking in spectacular views that can
stretch to the Basin. Hike down or ride the
chair back. (909) 866-5766.
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
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 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.-5 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—June 2022
Big Bear Today
THE BACK PAGE
2nd phase means more Maple Hills hiking
• 909.866.4626 • FAMILY FUN! • 909.866.4626 • FAMILY FUN! • 909.866.4626 • FAMILY FUN! •
he second phase of new hiking
trails in Big Bear’s newest system
is now open, complete with Tsignage.
Maple Hills Trails Complex in Big
Bear City sports 213 acres of hiking and
biking utopia that debuted with its first
phase in 2020. Now still more hiking has
opened, complete with the installation of
about 70 trail signs earlier this year, with a
planned third phase still to come.
Like School Loop, the primary path
in the first phase that essentially circles the
property’s perimeter at about 3.2 miles
long, the new section has a main path as
well. Baldwin Loop heads up the ridge
from the complex’s west side with a trailhead
off Big Bear Blvd. at Shore Dr. It
scales the hill above, eventually reaching
Baldwin Lane school at the top and connecting
with the Dixie Lee section.
Like School Loop, Baldwin accesses
many connectors and short sections, making
for infinite exploration possibilities.
Two steep sections, Pat’s and Tom’s,
geared to mountain bikers pays homage to
Team Big Bear founders Follett and
Spiegel, respectively, with black diamond
terrain best suited to two wheelers. Even
so I felt compelled to hump it as a two
footer on a recent outing.
Otherwise Baldwin Loop traverses
back and forth up the ridge, connecting
with School Loop to completely circumnavigate
the system. While School Loop
orbits around the high school, Baldwin
works westward to the elementary school
of the same name, tied together by a terrific
connecting path.
Indeed options abound in both phases:
Gavin’s Gulch, Two Turns and Big Pine
are but a few. As the trails work their way
around the property they pass through pine
forest, exposed manzanita and more, serving
up stunning East Valley views. In most
cases trail junctions are spread out every
third to half a mile so users remain engaged
and connected with amazing signage at
both trailheads and access points. Maple
Hills is mountain hiking done right!
While School Loop, paralleling Maple
Drive, at times feels pretty urban with traffic
noise in the distance before it ditches
the road, that’s not the case with Baldwin
Loop. Double and triple wide track twists
and turns along the ridge in isolation for a
real wilderness feel. Sprawling views
emerge and the only sounds are the whispers
of wind in the trees and the occasional
bird call, the only signs of civilization an
airport beacon tower the route winds past.
Amazing that there’s so much hiking
and biking in just a couple hundred acres
right above the highway! Not just hikers
and bikers benefit either; it’s ideal terrain
for high school cross country runners and
bike team members to train on and will afford
field-based learning opportunities galore.
All thanks to RCK Properties,
which in 2018 donated 213
acres to BVUSD Education
Foundation, so Maple Hills Trail
Complex is private property.
Handy during last falls forest closure,
for instance, when most
hikes were shut down by order
but not this one. Southern California
Mountains Foundation
and its Big Bear Trails program cut miles
of trail by hand and with machinery in creating
the trail system.
Maple Hill Trails is located between
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
Water Slide Rides • $25 All Day • 10 Rides ... $15
• Single Ride ... $2
Summer is
NEW!!
New!
Water Slide
Season Passes!
$75 Anytime,
$60 Sun-Fri
(non-holiday)
Soaring Eagle Ride
Great at Alpine Slide!
Second phase at the new
Maple Hill Trails Complex is
now open for hiking, biking
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!
Big Bear Blvd. and the high school west
of Maple in Big Bear City.
—by Marcus Dietz
Visit bigbeartrails.org for information.
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 •