Big Bear Today Magazine June 2020

Volume 31, No. 12 June 2020
www.bigbeartodaymag.com
The Mountain’s Monthly Lifestyle Magazine
‘Cruzer’ the
Lake!
Time To Push Play!
• Snow Summit Bike Park
Set to Open
• Tour Historic Holcomb Valley,
Wilbur's Pond
• Alpine Slide Open,
New Coaster Debuts Soon
• Take an Educational Hike on Woodland Trail

Page 2—June 2020
From the Publisher
Big Bear Today back
after 2 months but
where are events?
Thirty-plus years of publishing this
magazine and the June 2020 issue
you’re holding is the...uh, most
weird, difficult, unique and rewarding one
ever. Just the same, on principle alone I
don’t think I’ll ever have a Mexican beer
again, at least not that one.
Can you blame me? Big Bear Today
went on a two-month hiatus like the rest
of the country, excluding the essential businesses
of course, whatever they were. Virtually
all of our advertisers and distribution
spots ceased operating too, surely the
weirdest business environment any of us
will ever experience. In all these years we
had never missed a publication date, enduring
earthquakes, recessions, heavy
snow, fire evacuation, other calamities.
The end-of-the-world for me started
innocently enough while I was on a ski trip
to Southern Utah, a state that was just announcing
its first cases. Coming back we
skied Lee Canyon in Las Vegas and that
night servers were dishing our selections
at the buffet, one of the only ones open
and virtually empty at that. Then we went
to the sports book, where the evening’s
games were being canceled.
We all know how the story goes from
there. The ski resorts closed and we had to
drool over the best spring snow conditions
in ages from afar. Lodging properties on
lock down except for essentials, restaurants
open to-go only. No point in publishing a
visitor magazine when the City and Visit
Big Bear were officially discouraging tourism
and there was nowhere to put magazines
if we did. Nobody open, no events.
Now all of a sudden, America has decided
to come out of hibernation, Big Bear
included, a little more each day it seems.
Flip the switch, Big Bear Today is back
too with maybe the most difficult book
ever. Harder than the debut first issue in
July 1989, which was largely produced
from down the mountain. Or when the
2003 Old Fire forced us to all skedaddle
for a week and the 1992 earthquake that
shook us off the hill.
Who knows going forward what will
open or conditions will be like by the time
you actually pick up this magazine? Fortune
telling is one thing they didn’t teach
in journalism school and I don’t have a
crystal ball or prophetic dreams either.
Of course, Big Bear is a pretty good
place to be if you have to social distance.
Being spread out is a way of life up here
when you’re surrounded on all sides by National
Forest teaming with trails and there’s
a seven-mile lake to enjoy. Mini-wildflowers
at Baldwin Lake Ecological Reserve
on easy hikes, longer treks on Pacific Crest
Trail seeing only a few other hikers were
welcome diversions, along with, I must ad-
mit, a mask-wearing ski day at Mt. Baldy
which reopened shortly in late April.
Pretty much all the activities in these
pages are happening at press time, with
businesses like Alpine Slide and Big Bear
Speedway/Ropes Course just opening.
Tour boats likewise are just starting to operate
and there’s even a little live music
around town, hopefully more coming.
You’ll notice the calendar on page 13
is scrawny, usually a Big Bear Today standard.
Recreation is coming back but most
events have been postponed or canceled—
read on for the latest on some big ones.
Big Bear Discovery Center won’t
be opening any time soon. The recreation
destination closed last fall for remodel and
was expected to open in May. Coronavirus
didn’t help the work schedule. Now the
completion date is hoped to be end of July
or early August, but staff still will have to
move in, said the Forest Service’s Zachary
Behrens. So scratch summer programs like
canoe and kayak trips, gold panning etc.
•July 4th Fireworks are still on at
press time after the City of Big Bear Lake
and Visit Big Bear teamed to share the
show’s cost. Rotary Club of Big Bear Lake
provides manpower and there is optimism
that the show will go on. Rotary’s 40-plus
year Best View BBQ is a casualty though
as it won’t be held at Marina Resort.
•Fun Run, the classic three-day show
in The Village each August that attracts
500+ shiny rides from throughout the
southwest, is another victim. There had
been hope it could still be held given that
it’s outdoors, but the decision was made to
pull the plug and reschedule to next year
on Aug. 13-15, 2021.
Big Bear Alpine Zoo is still closed
and at the same location. Coronavirus
hasn’t helped facilitate work at the new
location and zoos aren’t allowed to be open
at press time. It is, however, producing
streaming animal videos and fun facts.
•Tour de Big Bear has moved back a
month to September 19, still with all the
distance rides ranging from 10K to 109
miles plus fun events like Glow and Poker
Rides. And obviously I was only joking
about blaming a beer for the bug.
If only it were that simple.
Have a good one.
Marcus
ON THE COVER: First cover in two months features the new Big Bear Cruzer tour boat at
Big Bear Marina and fishing and mountaintop picnics are great ways to sequester.
Volume 31, Number 12 June 2020
4
6
8
10
16
Publisher
Marcus G. Dietz
Associate Publisher
Sandra L. Dietz
Publishing Consultant
Bret Colson
Technical Consultant
Charles Dietz
Photography/Distribution
Steve Dietz
John Daskam
Mark Gauger
In This Issue...
Big Bear Today
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, two
tour boats sailing every hour, a variety of fishing boats, even
water bikes that riders pedal instead of paddle. SUP, canoes,
kayaks, there’s lots of ways to play with others by yourself.
Sled, Soar, Soak at Slide, Coaster Coming
Summer is on at Alpine Slide, which now has its sleds sliding,
eagle soaring water flumes flowing on the double water slide.
It’s a hot way to cool off and even hotter is the new
rollercoaster set to debut in late June or July. Mineshaft
Coaster is a mile-long track with corkscrews and drops, with
carts reaching nearly 30 mph. Here’s a sneakpeak...
Gold Fever Trail a Trip Back in Time
Holcomb Valley is where it all started and the Gold Fever Trail
is a fun drive if your vehicle will make it. See where Belleville
was, the remnants of a couple real mines and a hanging tree
and cabin that’s not so real. Wilbur’s Pond is also out there
and looking good with plenty of water, see it on page 9.
Summit Opens Bike Park, Scenic Skychair
Snow Summit Bike Park begins daily operations June 12 with
most of its mountain biking and hiking trails open. Scenic
Skychair will also be available for sightseers but there’s
currently no base camp activities.
Ecology Lesson, Hiking on Woodland Trail
Learn while you beat feet on the family-friendly Woodland
Interpretive Trail on the North Shore. Pick up a free guide to
the numbered posts at the trailhead or download one and
identify a 1,500-year-old tree, animal highways and native
pine trees and oaks. We bring it to you, on The Back Page.
Have you tried out the new Big Bear Ropes
Course? Ton of fun above the ground!
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, Big Bear
Visitor Bureau 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 2020 Big Bear Today

Big Bear Today June 2020—Page 3
POTPOURRI
Stream feature films, documentaries, more for 30 days
1st BB Film Summit
with virtual viewing
Online will have to do for the debut
of the first Big Bear Film Summit, but what
was once limited to three days has blossomed
into 30 days of binge-watching.
“Attendees” will be able to stream 50-
plus films for an entire month beginning
June 12 and continuing till July 12. What
originally was going to include concerts,
workshops and educational programs is
now limited to film screenings, but what a
barrage it will be with movies in all genres.
The festival’s theme is “Celebrating
Over 100 Years of Filmmaking in Big
Bear,” and there are tons of U.S. Narrative
and Documentary feature films and
shorts, experimental, animation and more.
In all there’s 52 films to watch, 12 feature
length and 40 shorts. Gabriel Horn and
Michael P. Hanson are cofounders of the
first-year event.
Feature films range from terror
(“Barney Burman’s Wild Boar”) to a
women’s road trip (“The In-Between”)
starring Jennifer Stone from” Wizards of
Waverly Place” that ran five years on
Michael P. Hanson
City encourages wearing masks to stop COVID-19
Mask giveaway
likely in June
Big Bear has remained one of the safest
places anywhere during the COVID-
19 event, with just nine reported cases at
press time and zero deaths.
In fact there have only been two confirmed
cases in the past month and none is
the past 21 days and counting as Big Bear
Today went to press. Not particularly surprising
really; people come to the mountains
to get away from it all and so many
of their favored activities—boating, hiking,
biking—lend themselves well to social
distancing.
The City of Big Bear Lake is working
hard to keep the Valley safe, partnering
with Visit Big Bear and the Chamber of
Commerce to give away free masks in The
Village. Part of a test program that began
the last weekend in May when thousands
were passed out, it’s likely to continue
weekends in June as well, according to Big
Bear Lake City Manager Frank Rush.
Masks are available at two Village lo-
Gabriel Horn
Disney Channel. From documentaries following
a 5,000 mile trek across Baja to a
journey through the African bush in search
of the king of beasts, there is a wide variety
of streaming available.
Not to mention dozens of domestic
and international short films, with subjects
like quarantining in New York City to
Unicorns. Plus animated movies, student
competition, even music videos.
Highlights include the virtual world
premiere of Noah Warner’s “The Trap
Door at the Edge of the Universe” about a
private detective whose new case involving
a priceless stolen heirloom ends up revealing
a secret about himself. Along with
“The One and Only Jewish Miss America”
about Bess Myerson, talented beauty queen
from the Bronx who overcame anti-
Semitism to open closed doors. “Woke the
Monster” follows army veteran Shawn
Livingston’s struggle back from heroin
addiction that includes a 100-mile trail race
in the Appalachian Mountains.
All-access virtual festival passes are
$25, with individual screenings $10,
though viewers can pay what they can afford.
Visit www.bigbearfilmsummit.com
cations Saturdays and Sundays from 10
a.m.-5 p.m. Visitors can pick up free masks
at booths on Pine Knot and also Village
Drives and learn about the City’s safe practices.
“We’re using the mask giveaway as a
trial run,” Rush said. “If it goes well we’ll
absolutely do it other weekends. We’re also
evaluating an option to provide each business
with free masks, but that’s obviously
more expensive.”
Masks are not currently required but
the City highly recommends their use by
everyone when interacting with others, indoors
or out. Visitors are especially encouraged
to wear them—hence the mask giveaway—to
prevent spread of the virus from
their home communities to Big Bear.
The City wants businesses to require
masks worn by all who enter, a policy many
are already practicing. “Face coverings can
be uncomfortable, unnatural and some
question their effectiveness or need, but
they are one of the easiest protection measures
to implement, and far more preferable
to shutting down our community
again,” Rush said.
Pontoon Boat Rentals
Pirate Ship
Lake Tours
Holloway’s
MARINA & RV PARK
800-448-5335
2 4 4 2 3 2 7
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 2020
Cruzer, new pontoons at BB Marina
Seven new clean and quiet fishing
boats and another four luxury pontoon
boats with bluetooth radio.
There’s a lot that’s new at Big Bear
Marina as the lake’s 2020 summer season
finally gets underway. The floating store
has been remodeled with new counters and
additional point of sale stations, all work
that was planned even before virus mandates.
Customers will find expanded bait
and tackle equipment plus other supplies
like snacks, beer, wine, ice and more.
The new world means Big Bear Marina
now sanitizes every boat between rentals.
“We wipe down the helm, controllers
and surfaces with professional disinfectant,”
the marina’s Steve Fengler said.
As June arrives occupancy limits on
boats are lifting and marina services are
Year-Round
Christmas Room!
expanding. Big Bear Cruzer, the marina’s
virtually new 28-passenger tour boat, will
be cruising daily at 11 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m.
at capacity determined by conditions.
Fully-covered with sound system and
onboard potty, Cruzer offers an intimate
experience on hour-plus tours on the lake.
There’s never minimum passenger
requirements so Cruzer cruises go out even
if there’s only one person on board. It joins
the marina’s other tour boat, longtime
favorite Big Bear Queen skippered by the
lake’s most experienced captain, Chris
Bellows, in offering guaranteed daily tours.
Between the two guests never get caught
between tours because a boat heads out
every hour.
Pontoon boats are a great way to social
distance as same household families
enjoy ample
seating and
shade amidst
lake isolation.
Float
with your
family in isolation
in a
quiet cove on
the lake, or
maybe troll
for trout.
Bring coolers,
picnic lunch,
canoes or kayaks,
tubes or
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
whatever and beat the heat on the water.
They’re as easy to drive as a car, powered
by eco-kind four stroke Mercury outboards,
so even inexperienced skippers
have no trouble navigating.
The four new pontoons are smaller 16
ft. luxury boats from Lowe. “The boats seat
eight but we’re only going to do six
people,” Fengler said. “Smaller luxury
pontoon boats have proven to be very
popular with families that don’t need so
much space, even with couples wanting
plenty of room.”
Last year Big Bear Marina added
larger Lowe pontoon boats equipped with
Bluetooth, premium sound system with
four-way speakers including bass with
iPhone and USB connectivity, so its luxury
pontoon boat fleet continues to expand.
Features like comfortable bench seating,
drink holders, slip-resistant vinyl flooring
and lots of storage make pontoon boats a
virtual floating living room, and Big Bear
Marina has three dozen in the water.
Bimini tops provide shade on sunny
days and there’s lots of storage to keep gear
out of the way. Larger pontoons accommodate
up to 12, smaller ones 10 and feature
high-tec four-stroke Mercury outboard
motors.
Seven new fishing boats from Lowe
also joined Big Bear Marina’s fleet, featuring
whisper-quiet 9.8 four-stroke motors,
to go with several added last year. 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 Big Bear’s official
Big Bear Today
Big Bear Cruzer, one of two tour boats sailing from Big Bear Marina
weigh station with its 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 new 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 rides very stable, even in rough water.
Plus 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.
“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 18 kayaks including
single, double and even triples.
Plus two-person pedal boats as legs are the
power source.
Big Bear Marina (909) 866-3218.
Water bikes are unique rides (above left); bring the clan on new pontoon boats

Big Bear Today June 2020—Page 5

Page 6—June 2020
Sled, soak, soar at Alpine Slide
Soak, soar and sled at Alpine Slide,
now open for summer recreation
even as it prepares to debut the
mountain’s first rollercoaster.
Mineshaft Coaster is set to open at
Alpine Slide in late June or July, first ride
of its kind in California (story this page).
In the meantime Alpine Slide is open weekends
only till June 13, then daily with signature
bobsled ride, Soaring Eagle flights
and refreshing double water slide, all serving
up fun while folks keep their distance.
Alpine Slide brings the thrills of
Olympic bobsledding to the masses in a
one-of-a-kind ride where guests control
their own speed. While most of us will get
no closer to the Olympics than we will to
flying in outer space, Alpine Slide brings
much of the excitement and gravitational
forces of the sport down to Earth as part of
a ride that never needs snow and always
delivers thrills galore.
Unleash your inner Olympian while
navigating sleds you control down two
quarter-mile long cement tracks. The sleds
sport ball-bearing wheels and teflon runners
so snow and ice aren’t necessary, but
otherwise the ride is the same as drivers
whip through turns and long straightaways.
Each sled carries one or two riders—
typically parent with a young child. Pulling
the control handle toward you applies
brake and slows the sled down; pushing
forward releases it and allows the sled to
roll freely. Far from an amusement park
attraction where there’s little or no guest
Fine Dining in a Rustic Stone & Log Retreatt
Fine Steaks • Seafood • Prime Rib • Lobster
Est. 1947 by Andy Devine
as the Sportsmans Tavern
Open Nightly 4:30 p.m.
"Still haunted by our Ghost George"
Welcome Back!
Seating is Limited
for your Safety
Enjoy Great Food
in a Historic Setting
with a Cozy Fireplace
www.CaptainsAnchorage.com
Rare Photos, Memorabilia,
and More!
Advance Reservations
Highly Recommended
Soak up sun and fun on the
double water slide at Alpine
Slide, now open with signature
sleds and Soaring Eagle too
interaction, Alpine Slide offers an experience
that’s different every time down, since
riders control their own speed.
While similar tracks are found worldwide
and at a couple dozen locations in
the country, mostly at prominent ski resorts,
the closest other one is in Park City,
Utah. Each ride serves up the ultimate Go
Pro moment as drivers with cameras
donned shoot through the turns. Bobsled
rides cost just $7 each, or $30 for a fiveride
book.
The area’s newest attraction is taking
riders to new heights. Soaring Eagle, first
one in California, treats guests to spectacular
views of the lake and a thrilling 500 ft.
descent during a zipline-type experience.
Riders sit instead of lie down and ride up
to the top tower backwards before the fight
down, dropping almost two football fields
in distance during a 125 foot descent that
reaches speeds up to 26 mph.
Double seat belts secure up to two riders.
Soaring Eagle zips down above the tree
tops and riders hit top speed as they approach
the bottom before the attraction
comes to a stop.
At $12 per ride Soaring Eagle is priced
less than other similar attractions. Riders
can go solo or with a companion to share
the experience. Guests must be at least 42”
tall and those between 42-48” must ride
with an adult. Photo and video of the experience
can also be purchased.
Then beat the heat with more thrills
on the double water slide. The recentlyrefurbished
side-by-side flumes are sliding
better than new after off-season restoration.
Both have new blue surfaces allowing
cool, cascading water to flow with less
resistance, making for thrilling rides down
long straightaways and a myriad of turns.
Flume #1 is considered the slower of
the two, with a more gentle descent at the
beginning but a series of sharp turns at the
bottom that really whip riders around.
Flume #2 on slider’s right drops quickly
at the onset of the ride and takes riders
through a series of gyrating turns. Both
rides end at the bottom by splashing sliders
into the solar heated pool.
Water slide rides are inexpensive—
just $20 for an all day pass, 10 rides for
Comfortable 24 foot pontoon boat...
only guide boat on the lake with
18 foot roof and full enclosure!
Professional licensed guides John Cantrell
and Cliff Fowler ("Fowler's Fish Tales")
have over 80 years combined experience
fishing Big Bear Lake!
Private Tours / Only your party
Sunset Tour - No Fishing Happy Hour (BYOB)
Big Bear Today
$15, or two bucks each. Going to be around
for a few days or coming back this Big Bear
Summer? Season passes are just $49 valid
Sunday through Friday (excluding July 4)
or $69 anytime.
A great way to beat the heat, and
parents who don’t want to play don’t have
to pay to get in, unlike the soaking they
get at down-the-hill water parks. Spread a
blanket out on the grass or take a seat on
one of the two outdoor decks and soak up
rays while the kids play. And family priced
snack bar is open inside.
Alpine Slide is at 800 Wildrose Ln. on
Big Bear Blvd. 1/4 mile west of the Village,
Call (909) 866-4626.
New Mineshaft Coaster nears opening
First roller coaster in Big Bear is about
to open at Alpine Slide in late June or July,
complete with two 100-foot tunnels and a
mile-long track.
The new Mineshaft Coaster at
Alpine Slide, first ride of its kind
in California, takes riders down
six-tube stainless steel tracks
aboard gravity-propelled sleds
they control, just like on the
Alpine Slide bobsleds. Carts hit
speeds up to 27 mph going
through steep descents, dips,
twists, hairpin turns and more.
Riders cross three 200-foot
bridges during their journey
aboard Mineshaft Coaster, with
three complete 360° corkscrew
loops. Mineshaft Coaster, open
year-round At Alpine Slide, has two up
tracks on a motorized bullwheel pulley
Continued on page 7
Catch Rainbow Trout...See Bald Eagles!
Cantrell Guide Service
Big Bear Lake's Longest Running Guide Service
Thousands Caught Since 1991!
All Equipment
Provided!
Below the Village (909) 585-4017 or (909) 239-7867
www.bigbearfishing.net
Pine Knot Marina • 400 Pine Knot Ave. • Big Bear Lake, CA

Big Bear Today June 2020—Page 7
Chirp hosts live, online walks, talks
Nurture your nature with free bird
walks and talks held online and in-person
by Chirp Nature Center in the Village.
Join Chirp the first Saturday of each
month including June 6 for educational
bird walks exploring birding hot spots
throughout Big Bear Valley and the National
Forest. The walks provide
birdwatchers at all experience levels an
Mineshaft Coaster comes to Slide...
Continued from page 6
system, including a long one out of a new
start house being built at the bottom, and
two down tracks. At its highest the track is
two dozen feet above the ground and the
whole ride is elevated above the ground,
really giving riders a sense of speed.
Each cart accommodates up to two
riders secured by multipoint safety belts.
Rider in back controls the sled’s braking
mechanism and is required to keep at least
80 feet from the sled in front. But
Mineshaft Coaster is equipped with a
computer controlled, fail-safe magnetic
braking system that automatically applies
brakes if a rider gets too close to another.
Plus carts are equipped with speed
governor and centrifugal brake to control
top speed.
Each cart features specially designed,
lockable seat belts and shoulder restraints
to assure proper ride speed and rider
comfort at all times. Plus sleds have energy
absorbing front and rear buffers. Front rider
must be at least 38” tall and three years
old, while rear pilot 54” and age 18 or older.
Sleds can handle up to 375 lbs. combined
weight in dry conditions.
The track traverses Alpine Slide’s
entire property and through forest above.
The two rock-lined tunnels will be
decorated to look like mines and were
carved out below Alpine Slide’s cement
track. Rides last between 7-9 minutes,
depending on driver speed.
Coaster tracks are popular in Europe
and are popping up in ski resort towns including
Jackson Hole, Steamboat, Bogus
Basin and Heavenly’s Nevada side. Plus
entertainment hub Branson, MO.
Construction began on Mineshaft
Coaster in early January. Tickets are $20,
children $10. High-tech videos with camera
captures from throughout the ride are
available for purchase.
Alpine Slide is on Big Bear Blvd. 1/4
mile west of the Village shopping area,
home to 60 specialty stores. Call (909) 866-
4626 for current operating hours or visit
www.AlpineSlideBigBear.com.
Free bird walks with Chirp Nature Center, live and virtual via streaming
and-a-half with moderate walking or hiking.
Complimentary refreshments follows
at Chirp with questions and answers.
Virtual walks are streamed live online
via Zoom, Facebook and YouTube.
Streamings are at 1 p.m. and afterwards
win prizes with what you’ve learned during
the virtual bird walk quiz.
Live and online bird walks are also
set for Saturdays July 4, August 1, September
5 and October 3.
Chirp also hosts free Bird and Nature
Talks on third Saturdays each month featuring
special guest speakers. Each free
hour-long presentation highlights a particular
nature-theme topic with expert insights
from noteworthy authors, scientists and
naturalists. Talks are at 4 p.m. and are also
streamed live online on Zoo, Facebook and
YouTube.
Programs include “Eagles, Eagles,
Eagles!” on June 20 followed by “Backyard
Birding Basics” on July 18. “Fantastic
Flying Squirrels” is presented on Aug.
15 with “Batty for Bats” on Sept. 19. Last
talk of the season is on Oct. 17 with “Ominous
Owls.”
Chirp is open 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Chirp Nature Center is at 40850 Village
Dr. Call (888) 412-4477.
FREE WIFI
CLOSE TO
VILLAGE,
LAKE &
DINING
Big Bear’s
Largest Pool
(Offer Good Sunday-Thursday / non-holiday)
Motel Rooms $75
with Fireplace & Queen Bed
Mountain Cabins $99
with Fireplace, Private Deck
.
Spa Rooms & Cabins!
with Cozy Fireplace
and Outdoor Spa (800) 255-4378
local (909) 866-2166
opportunity to observe and identify local
Big Bear birds and learn good viewing locations.
Experienced birders can practice
identification skills and share with fellow
nature enthusiasts.
Bird walks are held in-person and
online depending on current conditions.
Group outings as allowed will leave Chirp
at 8 a.m. sharp and last around an hour-
41121 Big Bear Blvd. • Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
www.BlackForestLodge.com

Page 8—June 2020
Big Bear Today
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 self-
guided 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 Belleville, one of the mining
towns that sprang up in Holcomb Valley
during Southern California’s largest gold
rush, missing out on becoming San Bernardino
County seat by just two votes. 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
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 pros-
Belleville on
Gold Fever Trail;
Hangman’s Tree
and inside the
cabin
pectors 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
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 dig-
Continued on page 9
Enough Pause. Fast Forward to fun with Big Bear Today!
Time to Push Play!
Packed with all the ways to get out and just have FUN,
from the lake to the trails.
Keep your distance, and your sanity, with Big Bear Today!
And when you can't
PICK US UP,
then CLICK US UP
for online adventure!
The Mountain’s Monthly Lifestyle Magazine
www.BigBearTodayMag.com

Big Bear Today June 2020—Page 9
Wilbur’s Pond, grave HV sites
Everyone hates the tax man, but over
a century ago Charles Wilbur was popular
enough in Holcomb Valley to be given a
proper burial.
Today his grave and stunning nearby
pond named after him aren’t official stops
along the popular Gold Fever Trail. Yet
both can be visited along the way or as
stand-alone destinations in their own right,
accessed by dirt roads that aren’t as challenging
as the Gold Fever Trail drive.
Wilbur was the first tax assessor in San
Bernardino County and was also a miner
Gold Fever Trail...
Continued from page 8
gings 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
so he well understood the importance of
identifying and separating claims. It was
he who oversaw the establishing of claims
in the area based on a boundary rock that
had a unique “split” that made it easy to
pinpoint. When he died he wanted to be
buried next to his favorite pond, certainly
a scenic spot to spend eternity.
Wilbur’s pond in particular is especially
enticing, a seasonal body of water
that after two consecutive good winters is
looking healthy as summer arrives. Some
years it’s little more than marshland but
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
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.
with all the water
it now looks
more like a little
lake than a
pond.
Located in
a quiet meadow
off dirt road
3N07, which
branches off
3N16, the main
Gold Fever
Trail, the
manmade pond
is serene and
quiet, surrounded by towering pines, with
sign directing visitors to the location. A
small stone dam marks the area.
On the other side of the dirt road is
Wilbur’s Grave. A large mound covered
by pine cones and branches marks the final
resting place for this historic Holcomb
Valley figure, along with American flag
and debris people have piled on.

Page 10—June 2020
HOMESTYLE
QUALITY...
Summit Bike Park,
Scenic Skychair
open daily June 12
Snow Summit Bike Park
opens for mountain
bikers and hikers
Big Bear Today
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 $20.95!
NIGHTLY DINNER SPECIALS
WED—PRIME RIB $17.95
THURS—CLOSED
FRIDAY—HOMEMADE POT PIES $14.25
OR SURF & TURF $18.95
SAT—ALL-U-CAN-EAT BEEF RIBS
$20.95...POT PIES $14.25 IF AVAILABLE
SUN-HOLIDAYS—PRIME RIB $18.95
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!
Get ready for a gravity fix when Snow
Summit Bike Park opens for two-wheel
and two-foot social distancing on June 12.
The resort will be open weekdays for
lift-served mountain biking and hiking
from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Saturday and Sunday
9-4. Ride or hike on a variety of trails
for all ability levels at the resort, and considering
off-property terrain like Skyline
Trail and the adjacent Forest Service road,
the possibilities are limitless.
Snow Summit debuted two new trails
last summer, one for bikers and another for
hikers, waiting to be explored. For twofooters
the Bobsled Trail can be used by
all visitors free of charge—provided they
want to hump uphill. The 1.45 mile trail,
which runs from Snow Summit’s peak to
the base area, has about 1,200 ft. elevation
gain. Hikers can climb from the bottom for
free or pay to ride the Scenic Skychair to
the top where the trail is virtually all downhill,
winding through towering trees.
Bobsled trail was constructed with
minimal impact and no trees were removed
or streams crossed. It’s sloped to help prevent
erosion and only about .13 acres of
previously undisturbed land were affected
by the trail’s construction. Catch it for free
uphill access at the bottom of Chair 5, or
at the top after Skychair ride at Chair 1.
10-Ply meanwhile is the resort’s latest
offering for advanced mountain bikers,
and since it debuted well into last summer
many riders haven’t experienced it yet. The
1.5-mile double black diamond run is a mix
of technical singletrack terrain and natural
features, including drops and rock gardens
sure to test rider skills.
The summer trail map at Snow Summit
looks a lot like the winter one, showing
just how far mountain biking at the resort
has come after the downhill bike park
was reintroduced.
Snow
Summit’s
other three
top-to-bottom
trails already
offer challenging
terrain
with professional
design
by Gravity
Logic. The
park sports
freshly-cut
berms, snakes
and non-dirt features like bridges, paverlined
turns and drops, long straights and
switchbacks.
Miracle Mile tasks even the best riders
with an array of sweeping S-turns plus
rollers, jumps and wood features including
dramatic 30-foot bridge, diving board
and berm. Westridge is the signature jump
trail through the forest as it cuts through
the woods and across ski runs, boasting
over 45 features top-to-bottom for an action-packed
ride. Party Wave is a challenging
black diamond run with steep drops,
banked turns, switchbacks and step ups.
Yet Bike Park isn’t just all hardcore.
Novices start out at the base area where
Small Wonder, a modest gravity-fed trail
about a half-mile in length, serves up all
18
the features riders encounter in Bike Park.
The ride presents an organic singletrack
feel with little pedaling or braking down a
gentle 6% grade serviced by Chair 4, the
popular beginner lift in winter. The halfmile
trail offers terrain features too, from
progressive paver turns and dirt berm to
baby rock garden and small wood feature.
Going Green is the natural next progression,
a wide, winding, gentle top-tobottom
descent. Four miles long with
sweeping berms and only minimal braking
or pedaling, it serves up spectacular
views as it drops through the forest.
Many old favorites, like Bristlecone,
Pirates and Fall Line, have been upgraded
as part of trail renovation projects led by
Big Bear Valley Trails Foundation. Of
course the ride out to Grandview Point remains
a favorite, where a quarter-mile of
singletrack leads to amazing 270-degree
views of the Santa Ana River Canyon.
Scenic Skychair isn’t just for twowheelers;
two-footers have fun too, riding
the sky high to the 8,200 ft. summit. Sightseers
are treated to panoramic views of the
lake, desert and surrounding mountains
during their 20-minute chairlift trip through
the forest to Summit’s summit.
At the top enjoy the Mountain Top
Loop, a gentle one-mile walk at the top that
starts and ends at Skyline Tap House. Have
lunch on the mountaintop outdoor sun deck
with goodies from the grill and cold beverages.
Play a game on the highest horseshoe
pit in Southern California or just soak
up views of snow-covered 11,502 ft. Mt.
San Gorgonio across the way.
Purchase Bike Park and Skychair tickets
at least 72 hours in advance and save
20%. Basecamp attractions are not available
at press time.
Call (844) GO-2-BEAR.

Big Bear Today June 2020—Page 11
See lake sites, sights on Queen tours
See the lake’s sites and sights aboard
Big Bear’s largest open air tour boat during
daily tours in June.
Big Bear Queen is again touring the
lake with longtime captain Chris Bellows
at the helm. Spread out on upper and lower
decks plus the open air bow and be entertained
by colorful Big Bear stories and history,
all while experiencing first hand beautiful
Big Bear Lake and surrounding mountains
that include the ski areas plus 11,502
ft. Mt. San Gorgonio.
Social distance for 90 minutes aboard
Big Bear Queen, which last year was updated
with new carpet, paint, trim, even
stern drive to mark its 30th year cruising
the lake. Boarding is easy—guests can just
pay at the dock and board—with all
COVID-compliant measures. Plus Big
Bear Queen is home of the guaranteed lake
Wyatt’s patio opens
Spacious dining inside and out make
Wyatt’s Grill & Saloon at the Convention
Center a summer favorite with terrific patio
under the pine trees.
The family friendly restaurant is open
again Wednesday through Saturday from
4-10 p.m. “Made for Home” specialties
perfected for takeout or delivery during the
shutdown are available 2-10 p.m.
Wyatt’s entertainment schedule will
resume as conditions allow with country
dancing Wednesdays and live bands on
weekends. Wyatt’s Grill & Saloon, 42900
W. Big Bear Blvd. (909) 585-3000.
Explore the lake with Captain Chris during daily Big Bear Queen tours
tour with the 2 p.m. cruise certain to sail
no matter how many are on board.
With bright-red flags flapping in the
breeze, Big Bear Queen is the lake’s original
60-passenger paddlewheeler and is the
top-ranked tour on Tripadvisor. 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 .
Bellows is the lake’s most experienced
skipper and his expert tour narration reflects
that. His father Dave began the tour
tradition in 1989, taking over Big Bear
Queen, which once sailed Newport Beach.
Chris served as backup skipper alongside
his Dad, having already captained on the
lake aboard Pine Knot Landing’s original
tour boat Sierra. Captain Chris took over
permanently after Dad passed two decades
ago.
Countless visitors have received their
initial introduction to Big Bear Lake during
Bellows cruises captained by either
Chris or his Dad. 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.
Captain Chris expertly navigates the
boat he’d 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 right past
the Solar Observatory is another highlight
and last year bald eagles were thrilling
guests, soaring above the boat and sometimes
even swooping down.
“ Brian Dennehy’s daughter was married
on this boat,” Captain Chris recalled
of the Tony and Emmy-winning actor best
known for his role as Sheriff Will Tasle in
“First Blood,” the initial Rambo film. “It
went really well, everyone had a wonderful
time. There have been many weddings
aboard the Queen.”
Guests are always encouraged to bring
Full Hot & Cold Deli
Groceries • Firewood & Propane • Spirits • Lotto
Try Our Famous
Rotisserie Chicken
& Kabobs!
We cut the highest
Quality Meats
Daily
their own picnic lunches and favorite beverages,
and there’s a corkscrew and
restroom on board. In addition to guaranteed
2 p.m. departures out of Big Bear
Marina, Big Bear Queen sails at noon and
4 p.m. with passenger minimum. Fares are
$22, senior-military $20, ages 3-12 $15,
under three free.
July and August see popular sunset
cruises returning with 6 p.m. trips tailored
to couples. though kids are welcome.
Served with stunning sunsets, guests are
encouraged to bring their own beer, wine,
champagne or cocktails and munchies to
enjoy Big Bear Lake at its finest hour.
Call (909) 866-3218 for Queen tours
Award
Winners:
1st
Liquor
2nd
Groceries
2017
Chamber of
Commerce
Excellence
in Business!
Fully-Cooked Delicious Heat & Serve Meals Like Tri-Tip,
Smoked Pork Loin, Enchiladas & More! • Fresh Produce Too!
(909) 585-2641 • Open 7 Days
Community Market
100 E. Big Bear Blvd. (at Greenway) • Big Bear City
1 mile east of The Convention Center

Page 12—June 2020
16 rooms, infinite gifts at Village Faire
Patriotic signs, dog and cat pillows,
yearround Christmas room, princesses,
incense, tasty jerky, and yes,
countless face masks. All in a historic Big
Bear setting that may or may not have its
own ghost.
If you want it, chances are they got it
at Village Faire, and the kind of stuff you
won’t find on Amazon. There’s thousands
of gifts—no exaggeration—ranging from
sports logo items and Harley Davidson
gear to crosses galore, clothing, purses and
pottery. The walls at the top of the stairs
may tell tales—the building used to house
Big Bear’s first hotel, the historic Navajo
built in 1920, kept busy by gold miners
and ladies of the night—but today the real
story is on the shelves, with goods from
artisans around town, the country, even the
world.
Sixteen theme rooms present a wide
range of gift ideas, from bears and princess
dolls, signs and home goods to gourmet
foods and Oriental treasures and much
more, many items handmade. Why there’s
an entire Princess Room at Village Faire,
with dolls and dresses and tea party sets
and wallets.
Duck inside the Tiki Room for Asiatheme
gifts like adorable stuffed panda
bears, fans and dragon figurines. The Pottery
Room not only features handthrown
clay plates and pots, lead-free and microwave
and dishwasher safe, but also soap
pumps and dreamcatchers.
For sports fans there’s not one but two
909.878.4FUN
at North Shore Landing
& Holloway’s Marina
Pirate Ship Lake Tours Aboard ‘Time Bandit’
Narrated lake tours aboard
1/3 replica of a Spanish galleon
seen in the movie ‘Time Bandits’
• Pirate Booty for the Kids
• Cocktails for Adults • Sunset Tours
• Waverunners • Jet Skis
• Sea Doos! • Kayaks, SUP
• Wakeboard/Water Ski Rides
• Poontoon Boats
and Fishing Boats!
rooms filled with memorabilia like playing
cards, team coffee cups and shot
glasses, signs and more. There’s a
stadium’s worth of football team selections
to choose from whether you root for the
Rams or Chargers and all the other teams
too—especially the Raiders! Bet you don’t
have stereo ear buds bearing your favorite
team’s logo; get them at Village Faire.
Sports fleece throws for $16.95, lamps and
pennants for five dollars, utility gloves and
scarves, and much more are displayed.
Baseball season is well represented
with plenty of Angels and Dodgers, Giants
and Yankees stuff to choose from, like team
coosies for only $7.95. From steins and
stemware to signs and clocks, blankets and
more, the shelves are filled with sports.
USC and UCLA gear too.
Carved bears or stuffed ones, the walls
can bear-ly hold all the bruins at Village
Faire, just about every room sporting something
Yogi. Bear hats are popular with long
arms and cozy pocket paws for your hands.
There’s stuffed black bears from Wishpets
and Giftable Worlds that are super cute and
huggable.
The year-round Christmas Room is always
busy, filled with Santas and trees, ornaments
and decorations galore. Stockings
in a variety of designs are less than ten
bucks and there’s gingerbread man ornaments
for $3.50.
Particularly unique is the “Cross
Room.” Cross-bearing carved bears are
one-of-a-kind but there’s many other selections
to choose
from. There’s also
old-fashioned
toys like paint by
number kits, models
and more.
Then there’s the
Chime Room,
with an endless
selection of pieces
bearing butterfly
and flower designs
among others.
Large rustic
wood American
flags are in season
for $34.98 with
smaller ones still a couple feet long for
$19.98. Chalkboard art is the latest rage
with folksy sayings and hand drawn and
unique Big Bear T-shirts cost just $11.95.
Pet lovers delight in the Dog Room where
there’s bowls, treats and gifts for their best
friend. Discover infant wear like Big Bear
onesies and tanks tops for just $9.95 in the
Baby Room.
Village Faire has a little something of
everything: Ladies Room with blouses,
packs and purses, classic metal signs from
cars and cowboys to superheroes and
Route 66. Take home agate arrowheads for
less than a buck and sample Bear Poop (nut
surrounded by caramel and chocolate).
“Snow” feels like the real stuff except it’s
not cold and doesn’t melt, the perfect Big
Bear souvenir for $5.50.
Big Bear Today
Forget your phone charger? Village
Faire has car plugs for $3.95 and wall
chargers for $7.99. There’s a mini-library
in the Bearly-Used book room with SciFi,
fantasy, fiction and non to choose from.
Don’t miss the modest collection of lold
Lps, some pressings in mint condition,
from artists like Peter, Paul and Mary, Boz
Scaggs, even Deep Purple in Rock for $35.
Village Faire is also the place to find
award-winning Jeff’s Famous Jerky, seen
on Forbes.com and Men’s Health magazine.
Made from real steak it’s tender and
moist, not the dry leather sometimes passed
as jerky, in intense flavors like jalapeno
and cranberry jalapeno. Bacon and chicken
jerky in assorted flavors too.
Village Faire is at 40794 Village Dr.
above Leather Depot. (909) 866-8220.
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!
HORSEBACK RIDING
Baldwin Lake Stables
Open Year Round•Rates by the Hour
1, 2, 3 & 4 Hour Rides•Reservations Suggested
Also Available
Lakeside RV Park
with
Full Hookups!
Remodeled Bathrooms and Store
www.800BigBear.com
Pony Rides & Petting Zoo
909-585-6482 • Big Bear City
Big Bear Blvd. east through stop sign at Hwy. 38,
veer left on Shay Rd. and follow the signs
46475 Pioneertown Rd.
www.baldwinlakestables.com
Specialty Rides
•Majestic Sunset Ride
•1/2 Day Ride along the
famous Pacific Crest Trail
Please Make Reservations
for Specialty Rides
Under Permit USDA Forest Service

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 2020—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 ree 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
All Phone Numbers are area code
(909) unless otherwise noted
June
6
Free Bird Walk leaves Chirp Nature
Center (40850 Village Dr.)
8 a.m. sharp; Virtual Walk
streamed online at 1 p.m. (888)
412-4477.
9
Bear Valley Farmers Market
8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Convention
Center; fresh fruits, vegetables,
flowers, vendors, more.
Free admission. 585-3000.
12
Snow Summit Bike Park/Scenic
Skychair open for daily operations
from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday
and Sunday, 10-4 Monday-
Friday. (844) GO-2-BEAR.
12-14
Big Bear Film Summit-Virtual
begins; attendees can stream
50+ films for 30 days; $25 all
access pass, screenings $10 or
pay what you can, portion of
proceeds to filmmakers.
bigbearfilmsummit.com.
16
Bear Valley Farmers Market
8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Convention
Center; fresh fruits, vegetables,
flowers, vendors, more.
Free admission. 585-3000.
20
Bird and Nature Talk 4 p.m. at
Chirp Nature Center (40850 Village
Dr.); “Eagles,
Eagles,Eagles!” Free. Also
streamed online. (888) 412-
4477.
23
Bear Valley Farmers Market
8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Convention
Center; fresh fruits, vegetables,
flowers, vendors, more.
Free admission. 585-3000.
30
Bear Valley Farmers Market
8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Con-
vention Center; fresh fruits,
vegetables, flowers, vendors,
more. Free. 585-3000.
July
4
Free Fishing Day on the lake;
no license required. 866-5796.
4
4th of July Fun Run 5/10/15K
and costume contest 9 a.m. at
Meadow Park, preceded by
opening ceremonies. Stroller,
family-friendly.
Runbigbear.com
4
Free Bird Walk leaves Chirp
Nature Center (40850 Village
Dr.) 8 a.m. sharp; Virtual Walk
streamed online at 1 p.m. (888)
412-4477.
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 at Snow Summit;
Skychair to top for dinner,
music, fireworks view at 5 p.m.
(844) GO-2-BEAR.
7
Bear Valley Farmers Market
8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Convention
Center; fresh fruits,
vegetables, flowers, vendors,
more. Free admission. 585-
3000.
14
Bear Valley Farmers Market
8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Convention
Center; fresh fruits,
vegetables, flowers, vendors,
more. Free admission. 585-
3000.
18
Bird and Nature Talk 4 p.m. at
Chirp Nature Center (40850
Village Dr.); “Backyard Birding
Basics!” Free. Also streamed
online. (888) 412-4477.
21
Bear Valley Farmers Market 8:30
a.m.-1 p.m. at the Convention
Center; fresh fruits, vegetables,
flowers, vendors, more. Free
admission. 585-3000.
28
Bear Valley Farmers Market 8:30
a.m.-1 p.m. at the Convention
Center; fresh fruits, vegetables,
flowers, vendors, more. Free
admission. 585-3000.
August
14-15
Kodiak 100 Ultra Marathon and
50 Mile Trail Runs at noon Friday,
6 a.m. Saturday with finish
festival in the Village. 744-4056.
22
4th Annual Ryan Hall Conquer
the Wall at Snow Summit 9
a.m.-noon with run up the mountain,
free spectating. 866-5766.
22
Big Bear Lake Brew Festival
11a.m.-5 p.m. in Village (630
Bartlett Rd.); 30+ breweries,
live music, kids zone. Free entry,
activity/tasting tickets $25-
$45. bigbearlakebrewfest.com
For updated calendar of events visit us on the Internet!
www.bigbeartodaymag.com
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Page 14—June 2020
Recreation
Guide
Action Tours
Zip through the trees on nine ziplines.
Segway along Village streets, discovering
Big Bear history at the same time on a most
unique tour and ride. Learn tree rope climbing
skills like rappelling from certified
instructors or seasonally snowshoe through
the forest. (909) 866-0390.
Alpine Slide
Shoot down a tobogan-style ride at Magic
Mountain, as a hand lever allows you to
control the speed. After an exhilerating
run, ride the chairlift back to the top for
more fun. $7/ride, 5-ride books $30. 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 weekends only till June
13, then daily. Big Bear Blvd., 1/4 mile
west of the Village. (909) 866-4626.
Big Bear Speedway
Soki Kart racing cwith 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). Weekends till June 13,
then daily. 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.
Goldsmiths Pedego Electric Bike Shop
has a variety of electric bike rentals, 42071
Big Bear Blvd. (909) 866-2728.
Boat Tours
“Big Bear Queen” sails daily from Big
Bear Marina including the lake’s most guaranteed
daily tours and its most experienced
captain, Chris Bellows. 2 p.m. tour goes
out regardless of passenger count every
day and Saturday noon and 4 p.m., Sunday
at noon are guaranteed too. Adults $22,
seniors/military $20, 12 and under $15, 3
and under free. Bring your favorite beverages
and snacks. (909) 866-3218.
Pirate Ship Lake Tours aboard newly
refurbished “Time Bandit,” a one-third
scale replica of a 1600’s galleon that appeared
in the movie of the same name, sail
daily from Holloway’s Marina...complete
with canon fire! Full bar with beer, wine
and cocktails. Fares $24, $16 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. $23,
$20 senior/military, $14 ages 3-12, four
and under free. (909) 866-8129.
Big Bear Today
Recreation • Dining • Nightlife • And More
Road Conditions: (800) 427-ROAD quickmap.dot.ca.gov
Beat the heat on a waverunner from Get Wet Water Sports. Call (909) 878-4FUN
Captain John’s Lake Cruise is a more
intimate cruise aboard eco-friendly
Duffield Whisper Drive electric boat
“Serena” or “Rose Bud” once owned by
Shirley Jones and Marty Ingels. Sail with
Captain John and learn about the lake including
intimate knowledge of the China
House and bald eagles. Fridays, Saturdays
and Sundays at noon, 2 and 4 p.m. $20, 12
and under $12. (909) 866-6478.
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) Ckised at press time
for COVID-19; call (909) 878-BOWL.
Fishing
Catch some fun with Big Bear Charter
Fishing on a 22' fully loaded, super com-
Continued on page 15

Big Bear Today June 2020—Page 15
fortable 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.
Cantrell Guide Service at Pine Knot Landing
is the lake’s longest running guide
service since 1991. Troll for trout around
the lake’s 23 miles of shoreline aboard 24'
pontoon boat with 18 ‘ roof and enclosure
to protect against cold and wind. Professional
licensed guides John Cantrell and
Cliff Fowler (“Fowler’s Fish Tales”) have
80 years experience. (909) 585-4017.
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. TBear Trap clubhouse
and pro shop offers putting green, cart and
club rentals, restaurant, lounge, and great
deck overlooking the golf course. Driving
range too. 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. The helicopter
seats up to four, pilot plus three passengers,
and tours start at $35 per person based
on two passengers. (909) 585-1200.
Hiking
There’s dozens of trails and natural areas to
enjoy the rugged beauty of the San
Bernardino National Forest. From easy
strolls along the lake to stenuous climbs
into the mountains, there are trails for all
abilities, including families, within a short
drive of Big Bear. For information on all
trails in the Valley and the required
Adventure Pass, visit the Discovery Center
on North Shore Dr., about two miles west
of Stanfield Cutoff. (909) 866-3437.
Alpine Pedal Path is a very easy 3.5 mile
(each way) paved trek following the lake
on the north shore. Popular with hikers,
bikers, skaters, strollers and wheelchairs
as it passes Carol Morrison East Boat
Launch, Discovery Center, Serrano
campground, Solar Observatory and more.
Castle Rock Trail is a short but strenuous
hike, that ends with a panoramic view of
Big Bear Lake. Legend has it that a beautiful
Indian maiden, jilted by her lover, took her
life by leaping from this towering 100 ft.
monolith. It’s reached after a mostly uphill,
.8 mile walk past a stream and featuring
beautiful views. Located on Hwy. 18
between Boulder Bay and the dam; park on
the lake side of the road.
Cougar Crest Trail is moderate two-mile
(each way) hike. As it winds above the
lake’s north shore, it offers up great views
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.
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
After Dark...
Big Bear’s Nightlife & Entertainment Guide
ALLEY OOPS SPORTS BAR—Family Karaoke each Saturday night at 8 p.m. Glow
Bowling at 8:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 7 p.m. Friday, 2 p.m. Sat. and Sun.
Watch the big game on big screen TVs, open to all ages. Happy Hour Monday-
Friday 5:30-7 p.m. with 50¢ off all bar drinks (except draft), $1 hot dogs. Bowl
3 games for the price of 2 with coupon in this issue. Inside the Bowling Barn at
40625 Big Bear Blvd. CLOSED FOR COVID-19, PLEASE CALL Call 878-BOWL.
BARNSTORM RESTAURANT—Live music Saturdays during dinner with favorite
local musicians, please call for schedule. 501 W. Valley Blvd. at the airport. (909)
585-9339.
BIG BEAR MOUNTAIN BREWERY— Craft microbrew beers, food in a cozy
atmosphere. Wear your gear, 75¢ off your beer. 40260 Big Bear Blvd. 866-BEER.
THE BONE YARD—Over 40 beers on tap plus large selection of wines and spirits.
560 Pine Knot Ave. (909) 878-0401.
NOTTINGHAMS TAVERN— 40797 Big Bear Blvd. near Bartlett. 866-4644.
THE CAVE BIG BEAR—Your favorite artists up close and personal! See national
performers, top tribute bands and more in Big Bear’s hot new intimate concert
venue. Good food and full cocktail service including craft beers from Big Bear Lake
Brewing Co. CLOSED FOR COVID-19, PLEASE CALL (909) 878-0204.
THE LODGE AT BIG BEAR LAKE—Fridays see singer Nikki Sparks in Stillwells
lounge 5-8 p.m. followed by Johnny Jukebox 8-10. 30650 Village Dr. (909) 866-
3121.
THE PINES LAKEFRONT/TAVERN—Pianist Mike Cross and Bass Mark Cade live
Thursdays in the restaurant 5:30-8:30 p.m. and Sundays 4-7 p.m., Fantasy
performs Fridays 5:30-8:30. Cross and Guests play Fridays and Saturdays 6-9
p.m. in adjacent lakeside lounge. 350 Alden Rd. (909) 866--5400.
WYATT’S CAFE & SALOON—Open 4 p.m. Wednesdays for country dancing with
DJ Evan, live bands Fridays and Saturdays. Great grub and drinks, family-friendly.
Convention Center, Big Bear Blvd. at Division. (909) 585-3000.
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. One, two, three and
four-hour rides with longer rides heading
along the famous Pacific Crest Trail plus
sunset rides. 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.
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.
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. Roundtrip ride (no bike) $24,
$19 senior/youth (save 20% with 72 hour
advance online or phone purchase). Open
daily starting June 12. (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. (909) 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 $20, single rides $2, 10-ride
books $15. Open weekends only till June
13, then daily. 1/4 mile west of the Village
on Big Bear Blvd. (909) 866-4626.
Zoo
Grizzly and black bears, bobcats, coyotes,
mountain lions, deer, eagles, and other
animals are at Big Bear Alpine Zoo, many
of which are native to the San Bernardino
Mtns. Open 10 a.m.-4 p.m. weekdays, 10-
5 Saturday and Sunday with daily animal
presentations at noon and weekend 3 p.m.
“feeding frenzy” tours. Moonridge Rd. to
Clubview, veer right to Bear Mountain,
and turn left to the zoo. $12 adults, $9 ages
over 60 and children 3-10, under two free.
Closed for COVID-19, call (909) 584-
1299.

Page 16—June 2020
THE BACK PAGE
Ecology lesson, views on Woodland Trail
E
cology lesson, family-friendly hiking
and views galore are rolled into
one great time along the Woodland
Interpretive Trail on the north shore.
The 1-1/2 mile loop is rated easy with
only a few gentle climbs and descents as it
winds through forest. Hikers actually experience
different climatic zones along the
way, transitioning between mixed-conifer
and Pinyon-Juniper woodland habitat.
Lake and ski slope views, wildlife
habitat, even a 1,500-year-old Western Juniper
and more are identified by 16 numbered
posts along the interpretive trail. Pick
up a free brochure at the nearby Discovery
Center though they’re also sometimes
available at the trailhead where there’s picnic
tables, rest rooms and parking. Adven-
ture Pass is required at the trailhead, but
many hikers park across the street for free
at Carol Morrison East Boat Launch.
The self-guided trek takes about 45
minutes to an hour to complete. Kids love
to scamper from post to post and don’t even
realize they’re learning about mountain
biology, landscape, even the native Americans
who first occupied Big Bear Valley.
There’s benches along the trail where hikers
enjoy a civilized sit, plus plenty of logs
interspersed for a more traditional hiking
break.
Catch the well-marked, extra-wide
singletrack trail on the east side of the parking
lot and after a little elevation gain hikers
come to the first post denoting the ancient
Western Juniper. Believed to have
taken root
around the fifth
century, the tree
was a seedling
as the Roman
Empire fell.
Where the
lake is now was
lush, brassy
meadow back
then, stomping
grounds for
California grizzly
bears, the
now extinct state
symbol. Juniper
Enjoy lake views and colorful wildflowers
on Woodland Trail
Big Bear Today
played a huge role in the lives of native
Serrano Indians, who used the loose stringy
bark to make simple skirts, baskets, even
shoes.
Next up trekkers see mountain mahogany,
what locals call ironwood at #2.
For good reason: it’s been known to bust
chainsaws and it’s so heavy it won’t float
in water! It’s coveted as firewood because
it burns so hot once you get it going.
Markers highlight willow trees, found
in moist drainage that was flowing with
water in spring. Now it’s dry but the abundant
willows prove water is underground.
The Serrano made baskets and bows of arrows
and also chewed on the barnk, their
version of aspirin.
Also featured are two different species
of oaks found in Big Bear—side-byside
at #7, making comparisons easy. California
black oak puts on a color show in
the fall as its leaves change and drop. Canyon
live oak on the other hand is evergreen.
See snowcapped Mt. San Gorgonio,
at 11,502 feet the highest point in Southern
California, beyond the ski resorts. Really
interesting is the towering Jeffrey pine
peppered by hundreds of woodpecker
holes, which the birds use to store acorns.
The role fire plays in the forest ecosystem,
ravines animals travel, granite rock
to climb on (beware of rattlesnakes) and
more highlight Woodland Trail. There were
even scattered patches of colorful wildflowers
on our late June outing, adding to
what is already a scenic trek.
Call Discovery Center (909) 866-3437
• 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!
$69 Anytime,
$49 Sun-Fri
(non-holiday)
Unlimited Water Slide rides ... $20 All Day • 10 Rides ... $15
• Each Ride ... $2
NEW!!
Soaring Eagle Ride
Summer is
Great at Alpine Slide!
Parents!... Sun On Our Spacious Deck While The Kids Play!
Year-Round Family Fun
With 300 Clear Days A Year!
Cool
Summer Spot
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! Check website for current operating hours
Coming June/July
2020!
• Minature Golf • Go Karts
• Video Game Room • Delicious Snack Bar
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 •