February 2021 Big Bear Today Magazine

Volume 32, No. 8 February 2021
www.bigbeartodaymag.com
Bald Eagle
Lovin’!
• Give Birds a Helping Hand...er, Wing
• Craft Beer, Artisan Food and the ‘Bomb’
• Zoo That Just Opened Gets to Re-open
• All Signs Point to Staying Off Lake Ice

Page 2—February 2021
From the Publisher
All signs point
to staying off
Big Bear Lake ice
Stay off lake ice. There’s signs all
around Big Bear Lake with the message,
dozens and dozens of them in
all shapes and sizes, from Boulder Bay to
Baker Pond and everywhere in between,
stapled to telephone poles and mounted
onto posts.
Some signs are 4x8 feet, practically
billboards. Others are electronic. The message
is the same on all of them, threatening
a hefty $500 fine for those who violate
San Bernardino County Code 52.0502.
“We put signs up anywhere we see tracks
to the lake,” said Ricky Seward, Big Bear
Municipal Water District lake operations
supervisor, whose job it is to put up the
signs. “They’re on the gazebo at Baker
Pond, telephone poles, everywhere.”
Yet every winter there are those who
can’t resist the urge to venture out onto frozen
Big Bear Lake, intrigued by ice that
often has cracked, thawed and refrozen repeatedly
thanks to the warm days and cold
nights that make Big Bear such a popular
winter destination.
You see people in Boulder Bay especially,
but at other spots around the lake
too, gingerly stepping out onto the ice just
to see if...what? If it will hold their weight?
What if it doesn’t?
A more somber consequence than just
a ticket that costs money awaits those who
insist on walking on lake ice: doing so can
cost much more, like your life. Which very
nearly happened to one family last year,
after they walked right past and defied one
of the many signs by stepping out onto ice
near Stanfield Cutoff.
The lake bottom slopes away rather
quickly at the east end of the lake, the result
of major dredging work several years
ago, so the water gets deep right away. The
man and his wife plus daughter had only
gotten 20 feet from the shore or so when
the ice gave way and all three plunged into
lake water that was only 34 degrees at the
surface, a couple degrees less underwater,
several days after the incident.
“There must have been some cracking
or some noise,” Seward said. “We estimate
they were in six feet of water.”
At those temperatures the body
doesn’t last long as hypothermia sets in,
losing the ability to function in only a
couple minutes with death in as few as 15.
“We’ve all jumped into a cold pool and
sucked our breath in,” said Mike
Stephenson, BBMWD general manager.
“We can all relate to that experience. In
bitter cold temperatures shock sets in.
“We estimate that they were only in
the water for a minute or so before someone
on the shoreline reported it.”
Stephenson added. “They were lucky the
Sheriff (Citizen Patrol) was around the corner.
They were in the water about seven
minutes and probably would have been unconscious
in ten.”
As it happened help was on scene in
moments and from the shoreline was able
to toss a rescue rope out to the family. It
took several attempts and about three precious
minutes for all three to be pulled to
shoreline. Lucky Citizen Patrol was nearby,
lucky they were only a rope’s throw from
the shoreline when they plunged in, lucky
there was only three of them and not the
dozens that have been reported out on the
ice at one time. Otherwise they’d have
gone home from Big Bear in body bags.
“In another couple minutes they
wouldn’t have been able to grab the rope,”
Seward added. “Your grip gets so weak.
The deputy told them to wrap the rope
around their arms. The family was treated
on scene for hypothermia and also abrasions—ice
cuts you too.”
To be clear most people heed the signs,
but social media has been alive past couple
years with photos of the relativity few who
don’t. And really the number of those doing
such a head-scratching dumb act seems
to be going down. A decade ago we’d see
two or three hundred out on the ice on a
busy day, now it’s down to dozens.
“I feel like we’re getting the word
out,” Stephenson said. “You can’t enter the
Valley without driving by a 4 x 8 sign. A
lot of these people are knowingly breaking
the law. I’ll pull up and they run off
the ice. It’s no different than if they were
parking in a No Parking zone.” Except, of
course, you’re not likely to die in a No
Parking zone.
Yes, the family was issued a citation
with a court appearance but five hundred
bucks seems like a slap in the wrist, no
worse than a speeding ticket. “And that’s
if the judge doesn’t reduce it as they often
do,” Stephenson said.
Ice hasn’t been much of a problem this
season till the late January storms arrived,
slated to be followed by cold temperatures.
At press time there was ice off Stanfield
Cutoff where there’s a new pedestrian path
to enjoy, and at other locations around the
lake too. Stay off it. The ticket, or worse,
isn’t worth it.
Have a good one.
Marcus
ON THE COVER: Bald eagles are beautiful birds and there’s both a transient and permanent
population in Big Bear. See them up close online or in the skies! Photo credit SCMF
Volume 32, Number 8 February 2021
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6
8
11
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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
Nature’s Harsh Side Unfolds on Eagle Cam
Those watching the live bald eagle cam last month were
thrilled to see resident mama Jackie lay three eggs. They also
got to watch ravens attack two of the eggs and the third
crack on delivery. Big Bear bald eagles are breathtaking to see
in person and we’ll point you in the right direction. Or just use
stream and we have the internet address right here.
Zoo That Just Opened Gets to Reopen
Big Bear Alpine Zoo had only been at its long-anticipated new
location a month or so when it was forced to close for several
weeks by government order. That order has been lifted and if
you haven’t seen the new zoo yet a visit is a must. Up close
experiences, amenities like kids playground, and state-of-theart
enclosures are just a few of the reasons to go.
Craft Beer, Artisan Food, Avocado Bombs!
Craft beer flows from the taps and the kitchen serves artisan
pub grub, but it’s avocado that’s the bomb at Big Bear Lake
Brewing Company. Stuffed with seafood and packed with zip,
avocado bombs are the hot ticket, get yourself one.
Care for Big Bear, Nativescapes Tackle Trash
Please pack out your trash after a day of play in the
mountains. That message is pretty straightforward and most
heed it, but the relative minority that doesn’t leaves behind a
hideous mess of broken snow toys and garbage. A new
program seeks to deal with the problem and you can help.
Skating Away on Barn’s New Outdoor Rink
The ice is synthetic but the experience is very real on the new
outdoor skating rink at the Bowling Barn. Lace up a pair of real
skates or even bring your own and get ready to slide in style
with Big Bear’s newest winter activity. The rink just opened
but it’s already been a hit as we found out on a recent visit.
37 challenges to conquer on the ropes
course at Big Bear Snow Play. Page 9
DEPARTMENTS
2
3
13
14
From the Publisher
Potpourri
Area Map/
Calendar of Events
The Almanac
Big Bear's most complete
listings for recreation,
dining, and more.
Big Bear Today is a monthly magazine covering recreation,
dining, nightlife, and events in Big Bear. Reproduction of any
material, without the express written consent of the Publisher,
is prohibited. Advertising/editorial, call Big Bear Today at (909)
585-5533. Mailing address: PO Box 3180, Big Bear City, CA,
92314. E-Mail: bigbeartoday@verizon.net. Member, Visit Big
Bear and Big Bear Chamber of Commerce. Internet Address:
bigbeartodaymag.com
Production: Offset printing by G.W. Reed Printing, Inc.
Color prepress by 2-Bit Studio.
Manuscripts and Art: Contributions are welcome. Big
Bear Today is not responsible nor liable for unsolicited
manuscripts or art. Materials received will not be returned.
© Copyright 2021 Big Bear Today

Big Bear Today February 2021—Page 3

Page 4—February 2021
Online viewers have been watching
the miracle of nature unfold on
their computer screens. They’ve
been seeing its harsh side too.
Last month resident bald eagle mama
Jackie laid three eggs, one more than she
has each of the past three years. Internet
viewers from around the world watched
online at FriendsofBigBearValley.org/
eagles with a front row seat. Yet joy turned
to sorrow as two of the eggs were consumed
by ravens and the third cracked
during a difficult delivery for Jackie.
So instead of celebrating impending
eagle chicks in Big Bear this month, perhaps
hatching around Valentine’s Day, instead
eagle aficionados are left wondering
what went wrong. Last year’s two eggs
never hatched so even though Jackie and
mate Shadow have been trying, no new
eagles have been born in Big Bear Valley
since 2019. And it doesn’t look like any
are coming in 2021 though there’s always
a chance Jackie could still lay another
clutch in the next month or two.
Unlike past years when one of the
eagles was always around the nest to protect
against predators, last month Shadow
went AWOL for a couple days and Jackie
didn’t stick around as much either, straying
from the nest for hours at a time, leaving
the eggs vulnerable to scavengers. It
just seemed neither bird was into the
parenting thing this year, with increased
human activity—despite closure signs—
around the nest floated as one reason why.
The nest cam has brought to light
nature’s hard side in a way people don’t
often get to see. Visit the site and you’re
likely to see the eagles arrive with fish from
the lake, spend special time with each other,
and even lay eggs. Last year the eagles
were diligent with incubating their two
eggs, to no avail.
There are several possible reasons the
eggs never hatched, including cold temperatures—snow
several days before they
were due to hatch may have played a role.
Perhaps they were just infertile eggs or the
Big Bear Today
Bald eagle cam shows miracle, tragedy of nature
Viewers had a birds-eye view last month as mama
eagle Jackie laid three eggs, only to lose them all
embryos died during incubation. It’s possible
the chicks were just unable to break
out of their shells and were trapped inside.
Jackie along with mate Shadow continued
to sit on the eggs even days after
they should have hatched. Eventually the
eggs were finally eaten by ravens, long after
they were viable, unlike this year.
"Sometimes Mother Nature can be
harsh and disappoint us with our human
hopes," the Forest Service said on its
Facebook page, a message that it repeated
in January. "Getting a glimpse into the daily
lives of this beautiful bald eagle pair has
been a real treat. Bald eagles have a very
strong fidelity to their nest sites."
Only one eagle survived from each
pair of eggs the previous two years as well,
winter storms taking their toll. The mortality
rate for bald eagle eggs and eaglets
is 50% though in recent years Big Bear’s
has exceeded it.
That the Valley hosts transitory birds
migrating from colder northern climates including
Montana, Canada and even Alaska
is no surprise; Big Bear is along the Pacific
Migratory Flyway and affords reliable
fishing. The lake rarely freezes entirely
and if it does it traps intellectuallychallenged
coots into frozen water which
then become easy pickings.
Now it seems a population of Big
Bear-born birds is trying to be established,
estimated at around a half-dozen eagles or
so. “We all think Shadow was born in that
nest,” said Trisha Dale Green, local eagle
photographer and moderator of a popular
Facebook page.
According to Friends of Big Bear Valley,
the eagle nest has been in active use
since fall 2013. The eagle cam was installed
two years later and captured its first
eagle nesting season in 2017.
“Big Bear eagles are the most beautiful
birds,” Trisha said. “Stormy (another
offspring of Jackie) is a beautiful bird. The
more you watch him the more you realize
he’s really special. Same with Shadow.”
The area around the bald eagle nest is
Jackie and Shadow housekeeping the nest as seen on the live bald eagle cam
closed by Forest order. Still some ignore
the well-posted closure, potentially spooking
the birds. “Bald eagles are known to
abandon nests, eggs and young when feeling
threatened by human activities,” said
Marc Stamer, district ranger for the
Mountaintop Ranger District.
“We are very excited to see bald eagles
continuing to successfully reside and raise
young in this part of the forest,” Stamer
aid. “But that success is shared by the public
who continue to adhere to an area closure
around the nest.” The area closure included
lower Gray’s Peak Trail and Grout
Bay picnic area among others.
Bald eagle tours have been a thing of
the past for some time and celebrations that
took their place aren’t happening thanks
to the virus. So people who want to spot
bald eagles in the wild are on their own,
doable if you’re willing to work at it. Scan
deadtop trees around the lake with a good
view of the water and you’ll often spot
birds, especially on aptly-named Eagle
Point along the south shore. There’s a wellknown
perch tree in the area that often
harbors bald eagles.
“Start at Grout Bay and use binoculars
to see a nest from the gangway at Captain
John’s,” said Trisha. “In a boat go toward
the dam and look near Gilner Point.
Or drive to the west ramp and trees above
Stanfield Cutoff.”
The wrong way to see them is by using
a drone. Last year one of the remote
vehicles was spotted buzzing above the
eagle nest. Obviously not a good idea since
bald eagles (and golden eagles also) are
protected by Federal legislation against harassment
that includes not only drone operations
but also trespassing that can include
snow play.
Instead watch the eagles at
FriendsofBigBearValley.org/eagles and
follow Big Bear Lake Bald Eagles group
on Facebook. Chirp Nature Center in the
Village has the stream on as well.
Call Forest Service (909) 382-2790
Transient juvenile bald eagle
from Arizona

Big Bear Today February 2021—Page 5
Feeding in winter helps birds survive
he number is staggering: three billion
birds lost in North America
Tsince 1970, according to an eyepopping
report in the journal Science.
That represents a decrease of some
30% of the bird populations in the United
States and Canada, in just five decades.
Researchers point to changing ecosystems,
habitat loss, toxic pesticides and urbanization
as possible causes. Regardless, we
should all want to give birds a helping
hand—er, wing.
Especially in winter, now that January
storms have left white stuff on the
ground. Plus recent wildfires, both locally
from the El Dorado Fire plus many others
around the western states, have decimated
bird habitat even more.
It’s a misconception that all birds fly
south for the winter. For some, like the bald
eagles, this is south! Other species do seek
warmer southern climates but others, like
the dark eyed Junco, stick around in Big
Bear.
During winter they can often be seen
circling birdfeeders, particularly after
snowstorms. Juncos enjoy mostly seeds
and can often be spotted hopping along the
ground in search of food.
They’re just one example of the many
species who can use a helping wing to get
through winter. Indeed studies have shown
that feeding birds during the cold months
greatly increases their chances of survival.
Putting birdfeeders out gives our winged
friends additional sustenance especially
when the ground is covered with snow.
And if you already have one out, consider
a second or third feeder—the more that are
out, the more birds you’ll feed.
“People are worried about what the
decline in bird populations means,” said
Randall Putz of Chirp Nature Center in the
Village. “Birds are the canary in the coal
mine so to speak—as birds go, we go.
People are recognizing that we need to pay
attention and support birds.”
Birding takes flight for enthusiasts of
all levels at Chirp Nature Center, just east
of the Christmas Tree Lot next to construction
lot. There’s feeders, houses, baths, binoculars,
books, seed, scarves and birds-eye
cam views of nests around the country.
“Feeding and providing housing for
birds is the least we can do,” Putz said.
“Estimates are that almost half of all households
feed birds.”
Birds need extra fuel in winter for
long-lasting energy to create body warmth.
Suet is a great choice since it’s made with
animal fat, ideal for when insects and other
food sources are scarce. Nyjer seed, peanut
butter, peanuts, safflower seeds and
cracked corn are all good selections. California
scrub jays, prominent in Big Bear,
are candidates for such a menu but observe
what birds visit your feeder and put seed
out accordingly.
To protect feed from the elements,
tube and all-weather feeders are popular,
enclosed to keep seed dry. Shelter is important
as well and Chirp has a variety of
Dark eyed Junco, one of Big Bear’s wintering species
birdhouses available. Some mount on windows
to allow for up close viewing from
inside the house. Others have a cage built
around them to let only song birds in and
keep pigeons and squirrels out. Still others
are bear-proof.
Water is also important, even in winter.
“Bird bathes are just as important as
feeders since they need the water in our
dry climate,” Putz said. “It’s true that
they’ll eat snow for water but that lowers
their body temperature so they have to expend
energy to warm again. Look for
heated baths that won’t ice over.”
Join Chirp’s seed club to save up to
20% on all food purchases. Buy seed by
the bucket with lid that safely stores it and
when it’s empty just return to get a full
bucket, thus eliminating the plastic bag.
Gift items are also available at Chirp,
from custom design T-shirts and stickers
to puzzles, games and art. Plates, mugs,
door knockers, toys, calls and more are
found, all dedicated to birds.
The store makes bird watching easy
by streaming 30 live nest cams on four
screens. The images continuously rotate
and feature a variety of locations including
Big Bear’s own bald eagle nest.
Chirp is open daily 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Chirp Nature Center is at 40850 Village
Dr. (888) 412-4477.

Page 6—February 2021
Zoo that just opened gets to reopen
The switch is back to on at Big Bear
Alpine Zoo, which had only been
open about a month at its new location
before closing per state orders in
December.
Now that those orders have been lifted
Big Bear Alpine Zoo is open again daily
10 a.m.-4 p.m. First order of business
though when the green light was finally
given to open in late January was snow removal
and a lot of it!
The courtyard-style entrance with
paved brick and gas fireplace welcomes
guests as they arrive. Along with. expanded
gift shop and interior displays, operating
at limited capacity but filled with takehome
treasures. Even exterior landscaping
lining the street along Clubview, heralding
the new zoo’s arrival.
"Still haunted by our Ghost George"
After two decades of starts and stops,
location changes and seemingly endless
delays, Big Bear Alpine Zoo has proven
worth the wait. Nearly 100 animals were
moved from the old location across from
Bear Mountain to a state-of-the-art facility
in lower Moonridge.
The zoo’s program birds which are
brought out for educational presentations
were moved in late January. Including great
horned owl Cowboy, made famous on the
Big Bear float in the Rose Parade two years
ago. Other raptors like Hootie, Rem,
Yuhaviat, and Alice Cooper are all settling
nicely into their new homes.
There’s a lot to like at the new zoo, as
animals enjoy more room and guests are
closer than ever for viewing. A pathway
circles the 5.6 developed acre facility that’s
more than double
the previous size.
A n i m a l
enclosures are
typically on the
inside of the loop,
with black bears
the first residents
guests encounter
after arriving,
Talk about
close-up viewing!
The bears like to
doze in the sun
next to the
enclosure’s glass
wall, putting them
Fine Dining in a Rustic Stone & Log Retreatt
Fine Steaks • Seafood • Prime Rib • Lobster
Welcome Back!
Enjoy Great Food
in a Historic Setting
Outdoor Dining
Under our Pine Trees!
just millimeters away from viewers awed
by inches-long claws and massive feet.
“The bears love the glass panel,” said
Bill Hoffman, Big Bear Alpine Zoo’s new
curator who took over about the same time
as the move. “They’ll sleep right up against
it. You cannot get closer to a bear than this.”
The bears even have their own private
rock-lined seasonal swimming pool,
drained for winter but the bruins has a blast
with before it closed. Even three-legged
Hucklebeary, missing his right front limb,
got in on the fun after the entry slope was
modified to accommodate him. Other black
bears Zuni and Holly also got to splash.
At the other end of the park, the wellpublicized
grizzly bears enjoy their own
pools and even seasonal stream. Now
they’re practically polar bears after last
month’s snow! Mama Tutu and offspring
Ayla and Harley, who arrived in Big Bear
two decades ago after raiding one
campground too many in Yellowstone,
were the first animals moved.
Now their larger enclosure sees them
lounging in a mulch-filled dig pit that they
love to roll around in, along with culverts
and posts. Big Bear Alpine Zoo is still one
of only two parks in California where the
state’s symbol, the grizzly, can be seen.
Moving one-eyed Himalayan snow
leopard sisters Asha and Shanti was
another challenge. Before the move exams
under sedation showed both cats have
suffered significant deterioration in their
remaining eyes so while they had
memorized every inch of their old home,
no one knew how they’d fare in a new one.
Big Bear Today
Grizzly bears are at home in snow at the new zoo, now open again
For a few days after they were
relocated the snow leopards barely stuck
their heads outside. Fears were that they
wouldn’t be able to take advantage of the
special 15-foot structure build just for
them. After a couple weeks they were
spotted on top of it and have since been
exploring their surroundings.
Big Bear Alpine Zoo’s five resident
gray wolves also have room to roam with
double enclosure that allows them to trot
back and forth Before the move the wolves
had formed distinct packs but the move to
a new home has meant they can all be kept
together again.
“Moving to a new zoo is a unique
opportunity to put together animals you
couldn’t before,” Hoffman said.
Two mountain lions who have lived
at the zoo since they were kittens are now
becoming senior citizens with a touch of
arthritis. So their new home features ramps
they can climb and a sleeping area in back.
Raccoons, bobcats, fallow and mule
deer, bald and golden eagles and many
more have adapted to their new digs.
Snowy owl exhibit is another favorite.
Reptile room and nocturnal animal
buildings are still to open.
For popular animal presentations by
staff there’s a new stage and benches.
Brand new picnic area and kid’s
playground with equipment donated by the
Friends of the Big Bear Alpine Zoo are
other amenities, even a climbing wall.
To continue its behind-the-scenes
work—vast majority of animals that arrive
Continued on page 10
www.CaptainsAnchorage.com
Est. 1947 by Andy Devine
as the Sportsmans Tavern
Open Nightly 4:30 p.m.
Seating is Limited for your Safety
Molekule Air Purifiers
for Safety of Customers & Staff
Rare Photos, Memorabilia,
and More!
Advance Reservations
Highly Recommended
Endanged Himalayan snow leopards Asha and Shanti enjoy the snow too

Big Bear Today February 2021—Page 7
Social distance in forest on snowshoes
The path we’re following is welltracked,
but on either side of us and extending
deep into the forest there’s virgin
powder—lots of it. After the holiday storm,
it’s deep, burying tree branches and obscuring
shrubs.
The surface layer of the powder has a
microscopic crust to it after exposure to
sun and warmer temperatures. My ski poles
pop through that crust effortlessly, releasing
entombed fluffy pow-pow like air escapes
from a balloon.
We’re not skiing this beautiful powder—untracked
at the resorts ends hours
(minutes?) after the dump ends. Rather,
we’re getting our fix of freshies on snowshoes,
arguably the fastest-growing way to
play in the forest during winter. It’s the only
way to find untracked snow days, even
weeks, after snowstorms, and a great way
to enjoy winter play if you’re worried
about the virus and concerned about resort
crowds. Out in Big Bear backcountry,
you’re guaranteed to social distance.
Snowshoeing is also about the cheapest
way to get out and play during winter.
There’s no lift ticket to buy, and Atlas
snowshoes cost just $20 to rent for the day
at Goldsmith’s Boardhouse. Other than
Resort Uniform Days
Snow Summit and Bear Mountain
continue to show gratitude to all military,
emergency and medical personnel
by offering discount lift tickets during
popular Uniform Day promotions.
Police, fire, EMT and active military
need only flash their badges or
proper ID at Snow Summit or Bear
Mountain windows to purchase an allday
lift ticket for $50 plus 2% TBID
charge during remaining Uniform Days
on February 3-4 and March 3-4.
Remember these are two-mountain
passes for the discounted price of one
and there’s a free shuttle running between
the resorts every half hour.
that, you probably have the rest of the
equipment already, like Sorels or good hiking
boots for footwear, ski poles, jeans or
snow pants, and day pack with water bottle.
Besides being cheap, snowshoes take
folks into Big Bear backcountry that can’t
be viewed by car or even from a resort
chairlift. Summer hiking trails make great
snowshoe destinations when snow is abundant.
Bring a picnic—maybe a little wine,
sandwiches, whatever fits in your pack—
and see a side of Big Bear that you didn’t
know existed.
The new Maple Hill Trails Complex
immediately north of the high school for
instance is open to snowshoers, about 200
acres of low level trails with only modest
elevation gain. Sawmill Pebble Plain is another
winner just a mile or so to the west
in Big Bear City. There’s acre upon acre
of pristine white stuff after the recent
storms to enjoy.
Heck, almost any hiking trail on the
South Shore works if there’s been recent
snow, as long as the slopes are north-facing,
be it Pine Knot with solid elevation
gain where snow players hang out, areas
along Hatchery Rd. off Hwy. 38, many
more.
Finding white stuff when snow hasn’t
fallen for awhile is more of a challenge.
Bow and Deer Canyons near Bear Mountain,
for instance, can harbor goods long
after the storm rolls through. The Millcreek
area near Cabin 89 trail off Hwy. 2N10 is
another popular spot, where the trek is usually
well-packed but you’re unlikely to see
another soul.
It’s not unusual to spot wildlife off the
beaten path either. Coyotes, birds including
hawks, occasional deer, even bobcats
are often viewed, along with endless expanses
of powder-filled bowls and distant
views of Big Bear Lake.
For years Big Bear Discovery Center
has led guided snowshoes but with current
conditions those outings are on hold. Ac-
The recent snow means best conditions
in years for snowshoeing
tion Snowshoe Tours lead guided
snowshoe treks on its wooded property
high above Onyx Summit.
Three-hour outings start with an offroad
adventure to the snow and are
customized for each group so guests
can go easy, hard or any combination.
Head out among the Jeffrey and
Ponderosa pine trees with
snowcapped peaks all around. Snowshoes
and poles are provided plus
training with experienced guide. Tours are
for ages 10 and up and priced at $99 per
person with military and veteran discounts
available. Call (909) 866-0390.
Goldsmiths Boardhouse (42071 Big
Bear Blvd) has snowshoe rentals and information
on current trail conditions. Call
(909) 866-2728.
CLOSE TO VILLAGE,
LAKE, DINNING
CLOSE to SLOPES!
Deluxe
Spa Rooms
$145
with Cozy
Fireplace
Standard
Motel Rooms
$85
with Fireplace
& Queen Bed
Non-Holiday / Midweek
Weekends Slightly Higher
Subject to change without notice.
(800) 255-4378
local (909) 866-2166
41121 Big Bear Blvd. • Big Bear Lake, CA
www.BlackForestLodge.com

Page 8—February 2021
Craft beer, artisan food the `bomb’
At a place renowned for brewing its
own craft beers and serving halfpound
burgers and artisan food,
the signature item is the bomb. Avocado
bomb, that is.
Big Bear Lake Brewing Company’s
famed avocado bomb appetizer is so tasty,
it practically trades as currency. Donations
of unwrapped toys or also diapers were
worth free avocado bombs during the
restaurant’s recent holiday drive. When the
brewery reopened after the initial shutdown
avocado bombs were the big seller,
flying out at record pace.
People yelp about avocado bombs and
rave in reviews, noting how unique they
are. Turning an avocado into an amazing
appetizer is a BBLBC original and since
being introduced a few years ago word has
quickly spread far and wide.
The avocado is halved and honey ale
battered to perfection, Then stuffed with
spicy ahi, crab shrimp cake and drizzled
with chipotle sauce, finally topped with
wonton crisps with a zip of their own and
a side of ponzon. Combined the result is
an explosion of flavors, spicy zip soothed
by cool avocado. The two halves make a
worthy appetizer for two to share though
social media is riddled with posts of those
who wanted the bomb all to themselves.
The 15 barrel JV Northwest steam
jacketed brewing system has been busy
trying to keep up with demand for its distinctive
ales, IPAs, hefeweizen and porter.
Everything is done on premises, as
grain is milled and then sent to huge vats
where it is boiled, cooled and turned into
beer during a process that takes anywhere
from 14 to 30 days depending on the brew.
This is such a craft operation, beers are
even canned individually on site.
Bearly Legal honey blonde is as much
a brewery signature item as the avocado
bomb. A clean, crisp ale it’s so smooth it
drinks like a lager, partly at least due to
the addition of orange blossom honey.
Sidewinder red ale is another longtime favorite,
bold and flavorful. For something
heavier there’s medium-bodied Whisper
Pine IPA. High Altitude Hefeweizen is another
favorite.
Batch #200 of the popular Ode to
Winslow chocolate porter was set to be
ready for the taps as this month arrives.
Full of body and flavor and without any
bite, the brew is made with two row pale
malt, crystal and chocolate malts. It has just
the faintest hint of chocolate joining the
medium body favorite. Beers are available
by the glass or take home 16 oz. four-pack
cans and growlers.
Not into craft beer? The brewery has
a nice selection of domestics and mass-produced
product on tap as well. BBLBC offers
a nice selection of specialty cocktails,
from pomegranate and strawberry lavender
martinis to the Moscow mule and an
array of margaritas. The full bar features
an excellent selection of spirits from
around the world plus nice wine offerings.
Avocado bomb is reflective of other
Full Hot & Cold Deli
Groceries • Firewood & Propane • Spirits • Lotto
Try Our Famous
Rotisserie Chicken
& Kabobs!
Award
Winners:
1st
Liquor
2nd
Groceries
(above) Where the magic
happens at Big Bear Lake
Brewing Co., as craft beers
are brewed and even canned
on premises
food offerings at BBLBC,
which sports a mostly American
pub-style menu, done with
an artisan flair. Burgers are a
notch above, a full half-pound
of the brewery’s signature
blend beef and are craft efforts
themselves. Like the
Widowmaker, aptly-named
topped with fried egg, bacon,
Tilamock cheddar and Sriracha aioli for
good measure, truly something to die for.
Aside from burgers there’s a variety
of sandwiches like seared ahi tuna, sesame
seed encrusted with miso glaze and wasabi
cream. The spicy chicken is delicious, fried
bird topped with coleslaw, pickles and
chipotle jalapeno mayo. Tongue-tickler to
be sure and very tasty!
Another unique item is the country
fried chicken and biscuit sandwich, served
open faced and smothered with country
gravy and a driz of maple syrup. The BLTA
is a winner along with the reuben and new
kielbasa sandwich with sauerkraut.
Big Bear Today
At the brewery fries aren’t just topped
with chili but with carne asada, complete
with fixings like pico de gallo. A variety
of flatbreads including specialties like
roasted jalapeno and pineapple are other
highlights along with pastas, half a dozen
signature salads and more. Including entrees,
ranging from herb encrusted Atlantic
salmon to rib eye steak.
Big Bear Lake Brewing Co. is at
40827 Stone Rd. Call (909) 878-0283.
Click Us Up!
bigbeartodaymag.com
We cut the highest
Quality Meats
Daily
2017
Chamber of
Commerce
Excellence
in Business!
Fully-Cooked Delicious Heat & Serve Meals Like Tri-Tip,
Smoked Pork Loin, Enchiladas & More! • Fresh Produce Too!
(909) 585-2641 • Open 7 Days
Community Market
100 E. Big Bear Blvd. (at Greenway) • Big Bear City
1 mile east of The Convention Center
Underneath all those wonton crisps and chipotle sauce is the famed avocado bomb

Big Bear Today February 2021—Page 9
Long runs, glow tubing at BBSP
he new snack bar is closed but at
least the huge wraparound deck can
finally be used. It’s a start as Big TBear Snow Play is one step closer to showing
off the base lodge renovation it undertook
in 2019 but hasn’t been able to open.
The lodge more than doubled in size—
a project that literally required the roof to
be raised!—and is now two stories featuring
a 6,700 sq. ft. observation deck serving
up amazing views of snow play action.
Radiant heat helps melt snow and ice from
the deck which wraps around the entire
building with seating. Very useful during
late January’s heavy snow storms. Indoors
the new snack bar will offer 3,000 sq. ft. of
seating with goodies like burgers and pizza
added to the family priced menu when the
facility can finally open.
All of which enhances an already
worldclass snow play experience. At one
time the old Rebel Ridge ski area, Big Bear
Snow Play sports by far the longest inner
tubing runs in the region. With January’s
big dumps snow conditions at the longtime
family favorite tubing area are prime.
With several ski area-quality fan snow
guns lining the slopes, Big Bear Snow Play
ensures winter by making snow at every
opportunity. Nightly grooming means tu-
Glow Tubing night sessions are in a whole new light
bers enjoy perfect surface conditions each
morning with corduroy snow. Snow depths
are already 20 feet or more in spots! Daily
tubing sessions are from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Getting to the top of all the snow
would be a real chore if not for two Magic
Carpet uphill lifts. Just step on and step
off! No uphill climb to tucker parents and
kids out so they save energy for downhill
fun and get all the runs they can handle.
For a special treat try after dark Glow
Tubing sessions at Big Bear Snow Play, 5-
9 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays and holiday periods
including Valentine’s night on Feb.
14. The slopes already looked like a Christmas
tree for night tubing when 11 RGB
strobes that change sequences from color
to color and 1,500 LED lights were installed
and then even more lighting was
put in two years. The slopes are a kaleidoscope
of colors with all the shades of the
rainbow reflecting off snow.
Enhancing the experience even more
are colored inner tubes instead of traditional
black tires. Red, white and blue camo
tubes—the area went to colorful inner
tubes instead of the traditional black tirelook
several years ago—really light up after
dark, especially when the black light
comes around. Even the Magic Carpet lift,
enclosed
for guest
comfort, is
lit up.
All inner
tubing
sessions at
Big Bear
Snow Play
are $35
which includes
tube
rental and
Magic Carpet
lift
ticket.
Badge
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
Great selfies and videos at Big Bear Snow Play where there’s tons of white stuff!
Days honor military, fire, police, EMT and
emergency personnel with 2-for-1 lift tickets
Mondays through Thursdays,
nonholiday.
The 6,400 sq. ft. Big Bear Ropes
Course adjacent to the lodge is open yearround,
weather permitting with 37 challenging
elements including suspension
bridges, ropes, spinning log, curved bars
and more. The state-of-the-art ropes
course, only one in Big Bear, is two stories
high with an engaging mix of obstacles
and challenges that bring out your inner
Ninja warrior.
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 obstacles
like spinning log or a variety of rope
Year-Round
Christmas Room!
Our rooms are
filled with gifts
and treasures
from nearly
20 artists!
Come Up the Historic Staircase of the 1920's Navajo Hotel
• Bear-ly Used
Books
• Jerky
• Pottery
• Aprons
• Sports
Memorabilia
• Everything
Bears & More
challenges. The advanced safety system
is unique. A slider “puck” attached to the
safety harness that can only be inserted or
removed by a certified operator is locked
into a continuous belay track system that
follows participants through every station.
There’s curved bars that adventurers
must wind their way around and swinging
steps. Along with a variety of suspension
bridges, some with wide-open gaps and
others dangling ropes to grasp onto. Even
an 80-foot descent on the Sky Rail zipline
with automatic braking.
Twenty-minute sessions are $12 and
guests. All users must be at least 42” tall
and under 48” must be accompanied by an
adult. Maximum weight 300 lbs.
Big Bear Snow Play/ Ropes Course is
at 42825 Big Bear Blvd. (909) 585-0075.
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

Page 10—February 2021
Winter hiking a Breeze with Vasque boot
Snowshoeing, winter hikes, even just
running errands in winter demand the right
seasonal footwear.
While summer hiking shoes and boots
can work during winter they’re hardly
ideal, especially when it’s really cold out.
Sure water-resistant summer footwear will
keep your feet dry when it’s deep, but will
those boots keep you warm?
Vasque’s new Breeze WT GTX will.
These new winter specific hiking boots
sport 200 grams of Thinsulate insulation
to make sure tootsies stay toasty. As you’d
expect there’s GORE-TEX extended comfort
waterproof membrane to make sure
feet stay not just warm but dry.
Plus Vasque’s exclusive Vibram Contact
Grip outsole with Megagrip compound.
and Nubuck leather upper with Ripstop
mesh for breathability makes them
comfortable. All designed to take adventures
deep into the depths of winter, either
snowy hikes or snowshoe treks.
And yet the most premium winter boot
from Vasque, a longtime heavyweight in
the adventure footwear industry known for
innovative purpose-built boots, packs all
this into a mere 2 lbs. 14 oz. for men’s 10,
less for women’s sizes. Surprisingly light
for boots in this category, showing winter
exploration doesn’t have to mean packing
a lot of extra weight on your feet.
All-Terrain compound midsole with
EVA cushioning pods make the Breeze surprisingly
comfortable for such a stout boot.
As do dual density EVA footbeds, surprising
quality for stock out-of-the-box. The
TPU shank provides stability in rugged
conditions while Megagrip technology offers
good traction even on rocky or loose
dirt or while bouldering.
Snow was what was on my mind when
I took a pair of Breezes out after last
month’s volumous storms left feet of white
stuff around Big Bear.
The aggressive tread is impressive,
like four-wheel drive traction for your feet.
Each step is confident with good traction,
Free forest access for vets, Gold Star families
Veterans get more than just a day of
appreciation from the Forest Service for
their service and sacrifice.
Beginning Veteran’s Day 2020 and
continuing indefinitely, men and women
who have served their country enjoy free
access to their national forests and grasslands.
Gold Star Families who have endured
the ultimate sacrifice also receive
fee-free, unlimited access to public land
and waters.
Trailheads, picnic grounds, visitor
centers and most other day-use recreation
sites are free including local Adventure
Pass locations. The Forest Service manages
18 National Forests in the Pacific
Southwest Region, encompasseing over
20 million acres across California. National
forests supply 50 percent of the water
in California and form the watershed
of most major aqueducts and more than
2,400 reservoirs throughout the state.
To access the benefit, veterans need
just present any of several government issued
documents verifying veteran status.
Gold Star families can download and print
a voucher to show a ranger or place on
the vehicle dashboard at unstaffed sites.
“This country is deeply indebted to
the dedicated men and women who have
served in the military, and to the families
of those who made the ultimate sacrifice
in defense of our nation,” said Forest Service
Chief Vicki Christiansen. “We are
pleased to offer this free access opportunity
as a way to honor them and to encourage
them to explore our Nation’s big
backyard.”
For more information, visit the Forest
Service at www.fs.usda.gov/R5.
even on slicker surfaces including ice that
I found. Stable thanks to the rigid shank,
the boot exudes confidence.
And warmth! Treks in 20° temperatures
and snow couldn’t chill my toes,
something I can’t say about my ski boots.
Toes were toasty and fluff stayed out of
my boots even when I stepped into aboveankle
deep. And the Breeze is comfortable
enough that I left the boots on for hours
after adventure was done for break-in.
A nitpick would be that the laces could
be a tad longer for those of us who like to
double-tie at multi-lace points. Some have
complained that the Breeze runs narrow,
not a problem for me. Otherwise these
Vasque beauties have vast potential for
whatever winter you care to throw at it.
Vasque has other winter hiking footwear
besides the Breeze, which comes in
men’s and women’s designs and priced at
$199. The Coldspark Ultradry for instance
is another high-performance design that’s
waterproof with aggressive traction, priced
at $139.
In addition there’s gender-specific
Ultradry models from Vasque, the Suburban
II for men and Laplander for women.
Big Bear Today
Stout and sturdy but also super comfortable:
the new Breeze WT GTX is
perfect for snowshoes and winter hikes
but also just wearing around town
Each is priced at $159 and waterproof, insulated
and meant to move in winter.
—by Marcus Dietz
Zoo open again...
Continued from page 6
are returned to the wild during rescue and
rehabilitation efforts—the new zoo has
expanded medical and rehab facilities plus
food preparation room. In all the property
sits on about 10 acres with the eastern end
left as empty space for flood mitigation.
Guests find a new parking lot on the
property’s east side next to Rathbun Creek
as well. There’s a path and bridge leading
to the new welcome center.
The zoo’s price tag, once expected to
be around $8 million, soared to over $18
million after several years of delays. Plans
were drawn by renowned firm PGAV
Designers, same company that created the
famous Georgia Aquarium.
The zoo is open daily from 10 a.m.-4
p.m. Admission is $15, $10 ages 3-10/60
and over, under three free.
The zoo is at 747 Clubview Dr. at
Moonridge Rd. Call (909) 584-1299.
18

Big Bear Today February 2021—Page 11
Nativescapes, Care for BB tackle trash
Please take your broken pieces of
snow toys home after a day of winter play
in the mountains. A new initiative is tackling
the unsightly mess left behind by those
who don’t.
Care For Big Bear is a new program
that aims to keep the Valley litter-free. Last
month the group partnered with local landscape
designer and arborist Nativescapes
for trash removal sweeps aimed at removing
the countless pieces of broken sleds and
other bits of plastic discarded in the forest
each winter.
Marty Murie of Nativescapes and his
crews are performing daily trash sweeps
Give the forest a helping hand by getting
your hands dirty as part of a longrunning
native plant restoration volunteer
program returning next month.
Greenthumbs volunteer days return
March 20 as helpers plant and seed native
trees, shrubs and wildflowers across
many new sites while maintaining existing
projects. Volunteers learn to identify,
collect and propagate native plants in the
Forest Service’s newly renovated nursery
facilities. These efforts improve habitat
for wildlife, plants, Monarch butterfly
and other pollinators.
Big Bear Ranger Station itself has
two greenhouses, a lathe house, and seed
storage shed, and volunteers use these facilities
to grow and outplant thousands
in the City of Big Bear Lake and around
Municipal Water District and Forest Service
recreation areas through April 1. The
initial outing on January 8 was around the
dam and Castle Rock to Stanfield Cutoff.
Funding for the campaign is provided
by Visit Big Bear, the local destination
marketing nonprofit, that is taking an active
role in addressing tourism’s impact
posed by visitor traffic to the Valley. For
more information on Care For Big Bear,
visit CareForBigBear.com and be sure to
follow the initiative on Facebook and
Instagram.
The City has been focused on cleanup
Dirty hands give forest a helping hand
of native plants from seed they collect, to
give the forest a hand in its regenerative
efforts. Hundreds of acres of habitat have
been enhanced in the process for wildlife,
federally listed plants and animals,
and other degraded lands in the program
since its inception in 1998.
Covid-compliant workdays 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 2021 Greenthumbs days
are set for April 17, May 15, June 12, July
10 and 24, August 21, September 25 (National
Public Lands Day) and October 23.
Call (909) 382-2809 to pre-register or
email megan.clement@usda.gov.
Just another day at the office in the forest for trash removal teams
as well, placing many dumpsters in high
visitation areas. Dumpsters can be found
at popular recreation areas like Pine Knot,
Cougar Crest and Woodland Trails plus at
the Civic Center, City parking lots, East
Boat Launch and Stanfield Cutoff. The Forest
Service has put dumpsters out as well,
adding trash receptacles at popular play
areas along Hwy. 38 and other locations
on the mountain roads.
Between the pandemic and now with
the recent snowstorms there’s been plenty
of guests to clean up after. More than 80
portable toilets have been placed in the City
and along the north shore including boulevard
businesses.
The City has deployed staff to address
trash concerns. In addition, Sheriff staff has
been doubled on weekends for parking and
trespassing violations in high visitation
areas like the eagle area across from
Stanfield Marsh.
Trash left behind on the highways attracts
wildlife leading to increased road
kills. Animals scatter the trash and can ingest
harmful foods and items. And plastic
sleds don’t decompose for ions so they
trash the forest long after your visit. So
please, don’t leave broken sleds and trash
behind!
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

Page 12—February 2021
Sled, snow, coaster at Alpine Slide
Choose from two unique
rides,longtime favorite Alpine
Slide and new Mineshaft Coaster,
neither found elsewhere in California, both
letting riders control their own speed.
Really it’s three interactive rides
counting family inner tubing on Alpine
Slide’s snow play hill; how you slide, when
you slide, with whom you slide all
determine how fast tubers go. Toss in the
Putt `N Around go-kart track and there’s
four attractions at Alpine Slide that allow
families to go as fast or slow as they want.
Mineshaft Coaster at Alpine Slide, a
mile-long stainless steel track on which
riders negotiate turns and drops aboard
karts they control, opened last summer, first
ride of its kind in the state. Two up tracks
on a motorized bullwheel pulley system
provide the uphill lift, including a long one
out of a cool new start house at the bottom.
The real fun is on two downhill tracks,
Soaring
Eagle
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
up and at a minimum four feet, really
giving riders a sense of speed as
surroundings blur by.
It’s a roughly nine minute ride—faster
drivers can get closer to seven minutes—
that elicits amusement park-style screams
from many riders, only this is no park ride
where there’s no guest interaction. On
Mineshaft Coaster guests go faster or
slower by applying brake. Rider in back
controls the cart’s braking mechanism and
is required to keep at least 80 feet from the
sled in front.
Mineshaft Coaster features “Smart
Cart” technology with a computer
controlled, fail-safe magnetic braking
system that gently applies brakes if a cart
approaches too close to another. Plus each
ride is equipped with speed governor and
centrifugal brake to control top speed.
Each cart has specially designed,
lockable seat belts and shoulder restraints
to assure rider comfort at all times. Plus
carts have energy absorbing front and rear
buffers. Mineshaft Coaster is open daily
year-round and tickets are $20 per person,
children $10.
Alpine Slide bobsleds, only track west
of Utah, offer more self-controlled fun in
an experience that gives rides a small taste
You’re in control on the new Mineshaft Coaster at Alpine Slide
of Olympic bobsledding. Lean into banked
turns with the sled almost perpendicular
to the ground and whip out into a tuck
through straightaways to and experience
some of the same gravitational forces
found In Olympic sled events.
Apply brake to go as slow as you want
or let the sled’s 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. Bobsled rides cost $7 each, $30
for five-ride book.
Alpine Slide’s Snow Play Area is
going off after the January storms. There
was tons of snow before the weather
arrived, thank’s to the area’s ski resort
quality Lenko snowguns lining the slopes,
and now it’s piled two stories high. It’s
daunting to see all the white stuff piled up!
There will be inner tubing at Alpine Slide
through Easter at least.
The enclosed 210-foot long Magic
Carpet uphill lift has been busy, taking
guests and their tubes to the top of all the
snow—just step on and step off. Nightly
grooming like at the ski resorts ensures
smooth tubing on perfect corduroy snow.
Night Tubing under the stars was
introduced at Alpine Slide years ago and
has become wildly popular. Guests love
sliding on snow that gets another fresh
groom after the day session. There’s new
glow lighting and the snow gets faster and
Big Bear Today
faster as the evening progresses.
Tube daily from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. with
evening sessions Fridays, Saturdays and
holiday periods including February 14, a
great chance to take your sweetie tubing
on Valentine’s Day. Lift passes for all
sessions are $35 and include inner tube
rental.
Soaring Eagle is a zipline-like
experience with a couple notable
differences. Riders sit instead of lie down
and ride up to the top tower backwards.
Plus guests don’t have to apply any brake
or use any skill set, since it’s an amusement
park ride rather than zipline, so they’re just
along for the ride.
What a ride it is! Between the two
towers riders soar 500 feet—close to two
football fields!—and reach speeds up to
26 mph, with a vertical drop of about 125
feet. It’s the first ride of its kind in
California with the nearest other one atop
the Rio Hotel in Las Vegas. There’s no
bulky shoulder harness to wear so guests
feel, well, as free as birds while they fly.
Double seat belts secure up to two
riders and they shoot to the top tower
facing the ground, almost as fast as when
they’re coming down, an experience that’s
as exhilarating as the descent. Soaring
Eagle costs $12 per rider.
Bundle Soaring Eagle flight, go-karts
and miniature golf for $22, a steal of a deal.
Alpine Slide is at 800 Wildrose Ln.
Call (909) 866-4626.
Even non-Olympians enjoy bobsled-like rides at Alpine Slide

Big Bear Today
HOMESTYLE
QUALITY...
Steaks
East
Seafood
Valley's
Pasta
Only
Chicken
Bakery!
Voted Big Bear's
Best Breakfast!
DAILY Breakfast Special!
Every Saturday Night
All-You-Can-Eat
Beef Ribs!
NIGHTLY DINNER SPECIALS
WED—PRIME RIB
THURS—CLOSED
FRIDAY—HOMEMADE CHICKEN POT PIES
OR SURF & TURF
SAT—ALL-U-CAN-EAT BEEF RIBS
CHICKEN POT PIES IF AVAILABLE
SUN-HOLIDAYS—PRIME RIB
FRESH CATCH OF THE DAY FRI/SAT
After lunch or dinner...
treat yourself from our
Bakery!
Caramel-topped apple
dumplings...cheesecakes...
apple streudel...fresh-baked pies
of the season!
Also Available to Go!
○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○
Dine Next to Our 2 Cozy
Fireplaces or Under Trees on
Our Outdoor Patio!
337 W. Big Bear Blvd.
(2 miles east of the Convention
Center in Big Bear City)
(909) 585-7005
...FAMILY
PRICES!
To To Los Angeles
and Orange County
Captain John’s
S
Marina
CAPT. JOHN’S GROUT BAY
West Boat Ramp
MARINA WINDY POINT
W E
North Shore
Landing
Castle Rock
Trail
Fly on Soaring
Eagle at Alpine
Slide, open daily
Holcomb
Valley
BOULDER
BAY
1989 25 YEARS 2014
The Mountain’s Monthly Lifestyle Magazine
All Phone Numbers are area code
(909) unless otherwise noted
February
3-4
Uniform Days at Snow Summit
and Bear Mountain; $50 lift tickets
for badge-carrying personnel.
866-5766.
6-7
U10-14 South Series slalom
race at Snow Summit, free spectating.
866-5766
March
3-4
Uniform Days at Snow Summit
and Bear Mountain; $50 lift tickets
for badge-carrying personnel.
866-5766.
7
17th Annual Bear Mountain
Scout Day for boys and girls
with discounted lift tickets, rentals
and lessons for registered
scouts. 866-5766.
13
USARC Ski-A-Thon at Bear
Mountain; $150 donation ($500
teams of four) for lift ticket, line
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
cutting, lunch, apres ski party
and goodie bag. 584-0269.
13
Pre-St. Patrick’s Day Party at
Wyatt’s at the Convention Center
with live band. 585-3000.
20
Greenthumbs Native Plant Restoration
Program returns with
volunteers working with virus
protocols from 9 a.m.-3 p.m.;
meet at the Ranger Station.
382-2809
Ȧpril
17
Greenthumbs Native Plant Restoration
Program returns with
volunteers working with virus
protocols from 9 a.m.-3 p.m.;
meet at the Ranger Station.
382-2809.
30-May 2
Make A Wish Trailblaze Challenge
sees 28 miles of hiking on
Pacific Crest Trail to benefit
children with critical illnesses.
Youth ski racing at
Snow Summit!
Walk
Board
February 2021—Page 13
Big Bear City
Moonridge
For updated calendar of events visit us on the Internet!
www.bigbeartodaymag.com
CC
Club View Drive
Big Bear Mountain
(310) 788-9474.
May
15
Greenthumbs Native Plant Restoration
Program returns with
volunteers working with virus
protocols from 9 a.m.-3 p.m.;
meet at the Ranger Station.
382-2809.
29-30
3rd Annual Maifest at Wyatt’s
with German contests, beer,
food, music by The Express.
585-3000.
June
5-6
Team Big Bear Mountain Bike
Shootout #1 mountain bike racing
at Snow Summit. 633-
6729.
Live music weekends at Wyatt’s
Click Us Up!
bigbeartodaymag.com
To Victorville, Barstow
& Las Vegas
Museum
Big Bear
Alpine Zoo
To Angelus Oaks
and Redlands
E
V
E
N
T
C
A
L
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Page 14—February 2021
Recreation
Guide
Action Tours
Zip through the trees on nine ziplines.
Segway along Village streets, discovering
Big Bear history at the same time on a most
unique tour and ride. Learn tree rope climbing
skills like rappelling from certified
instructors or seasonally snowshoe through
the forest. (909) 866-0390.
Alpine Slide
Shoot down a tobogan-style ride at Magic
Mountain, as a hand lever allows you to
control the speed. After an exhilerating
run, ride the chairlift back to the top for
more fun. $7/ride, 5-ride books $30. Also
new Mineshaft Coaster ride plus snowplay
area with Magic Carpet uphill lift, miniature
golf, go-karts, Soaring Eagle, familypriced
snack bar, video games. Open daily.
Big Bear Blvd., 1/4 mile west of the Village.
(909) 866-4626.
Bike Rentals
Bear Valley Bikes across from Alpine
Slide has a variety of bike rentals. Front
suspension $10/hour, $30/4 hours, $40/all
day. Full suspension $20/hour, $50/4 hours,
$70/all day. Full suspension demo $25/
hour, $60/4 hours, $85/all day. 40298 Big
Bear Blvd. Call (909) 866-8000.
Goldsmiths Pedego Electric Bike Shop
has a variety of electric bike rentals, 42071
Big Bear Blvd. (909) 866-2728.
THE ALMANAC
Bingo
The Elks Lodge hosts stirring Bingo games
each Friday night at 7 p.m. All are welcome
ages 18 and over. 40611 Big Bear Blvd.
west of the Village, across from Lakeview.
(909) 866-3557. Temporarily closed,
please call
Bowling
The Bowling Barn offers new lanes with
automated scoring for bowling enjoyment.
Also new outdoor ice skating rink, arcade
games and full-service cocktail lounge with
pool. Glow Bowling after dark with black
lights, sounds. Open daily. 40625 Big
Bear Blvd. (enter on Bonanza).(909) 878-
BOWL.
Cross Country Skiing
All the great hiking trails in Big Bear make
great destinations for winter cross country
skiing, provided there’s enough snow.
Holcomb Valley is especially popular with
skinny plankers.
Goldsmith’s Boardhouse has waxless,
steel edge all-mountain wide touring skis,
boots and poles for small child to large
adult, $15/day. Also telemark skis, $22/
ski-boot-pole. 42071 Big Bear Blvd. (909)
866-2728.
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,
Big Bear Today
Recreation • Dining • Nightlife • And More
Road Conditions: (800) 427-ROAD quickmap.dot.ca.gov
Check out new Stanfield Cutoff Trail, with or without the snow
drinks and snacks. Bass fishing too aboard
a Ranger Comanche. At Holloway’s Marina;
(909) 866-2240.
Gold Rush Mining Adv.
The adventures are real and so are the
treasures! Pan for gemstones and fossils
millions of years old in the working sluice
with water wheel, crack geodes to reveal
prescious stones within, find real pearls in
oysters and unearth dinosaur bones and
poop. Emporium with mining and dinosaur
theme gifts plus old fashioned fudge,
candy, sarsaparilla and more. 50016 Big
Bear Blvd. (909) 866-5678.
Helicopter Tours
See Big Bear from above during aerial
tours by Helicopter Big Bear. The lake, ski
resorts, desert and surrounding mountains
can be viewed aboard a climate-controlled
Robinson R44 helicopter flying daily from
Big Bear Airport. Tours start at $35 per
person based on two passengers. (909)
585-1200.
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
Continued on page 15
Enough Pause. Fast Forward to fun with Big Bear Today!
Time to Push Play!
Packed with all the ways to get out and just have FUN,
from the lake to the trails.
Keep your distance, and your sanity, with Big Bear Today!
And when you can't
PICK US UP,
then CLICK US UP
for online adventure!
The Mountain’s Monthly Lifestyle Magazine
www.BigBearTodayMag.com

Big Bear Today February 2021—Page 15
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. Call
the Discovery Center to find out where to
catch this famous international trail.
Pine Knot Trail from Aspen Glen picnic
area climbs the southern ridge above Alpine
Slide three miles (each way) to Skyline Dr.
2N10, through lush meadow and stands of
white fir and Jeffrey Pine. Continue another
1/4 mile to Grand View Point for spectacular
180-degree vistas.
Holcomb Valley
At one time, Big Bear Valley was thriving
gold country. The last remaining signs of
this historic chapter in Big Bear history are
featured in a driving tour through what is
known as Holcomb Valley. Totaling 11.6
miles over a dirt road, the tour offers stops
at Two Gun Bill’s Saloon, Hangman’s
Tree, Pigmy Cabin, Metzger Mine, and
more. Free maps available at the Big Bear
Discovery Center on the North Shore—
call 866-3437. Allow three hours or more.
Horseback Riding
Baldwin Lake Stable is open year-round
for horseback riding. Rates are by the hour,
offering one, two, three and four-hour rides
with longer rides heading along the famous
Pacific Crest Trail plus sunset rides. A
variety of spectacular mountain trails with
horses for all riding abilities. For little
buckeroos there’s hand-led pony rides and
petting zoo. Reservations suggested for all
rides. Big Bear Blvd. east to stop sign at
Hwy. 38, go through intersection, veer left
on Shay Rd. to 46475 Pioneertown Rd.,
Big Bear City. (909) 585-6482.
Mineshaft Coaster
First ride of its kind in California! Ride
carts you control on a mile-long track with
steep drops and climbs, 360-degree
corkscrew turns, two mining tunnels and
more. Up to two can ride at one time. Open
daily at Alpine Slide, on the boulevard 1/4
mile west of the Village. (909) 866-4626.
Miniature Golf/Go Karts
Putt ‘N Around, located at the Alpine Slide
at Magic Mountain, features a landscaped
18-hole miniature golf course complete
with water hazards and breaking greens.
Then there’s an oval-shaped go-kart track
with high-banked turns, which nine Can
Am racers—including four two-seaters—
with Honda 5.5 horsepowers engines and
an array of safety features zip around.
Open till 9 p.m. daily. 866-4626.
Snow Playing
Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain, which
has snowmaking to ensure snow, offers
great inner tubing daily 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and
there’s a Magic Carpet to take riders to the
top. Night tubing (5-9 p.m.) Fridays and
Saturdays plus holidays. All sessions $35
which includes tube rental and lift. The
area also has the Southland’s only Alpine
Slide and a great outdoor deck, plus the
Putt ‘N Around go-karts and miniature
golf course. 1/4 mile west of the Village on
Big Bear Blvd. 866-4626.
Big Bear Snow Play has Southen
California’s longest tubing runs. Two
Magic Carpet lifts mean guests never have
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. (909) 878-BOWL. CLOSED FOR COVID-10, PLEASE CALL
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— Dayton Borders Thursdays on the patio from 6-8 p.m.
40797 Big Bear Blvd. near Bartlett. 866-4644.
THE CAVE BIG BEAR—Your favorite artists up close and personal! See national
performers, top tribute bands and more in Big Bear’s hot new intimate concert
venue. Good food and full cocktail service including craft beers from Big Bear Lake
Brewing Co. CLOSED FOR COVID-19, PLEASE CALL (909) 878-0204.
THELMA’S RESTAURANT—Brad from Silver Moon on the patio every Friday and
second and fourth Saturday 5-7 p.m. 337 W. Big Bear Blvd. 585-7005.
THE LODGE AT BIG BEAR LAKE—Fridays see singer Nikki Sparks in Stillwells
lounge 6-9 p.m. Brad from Silver Moon, Johnny Jukebox. Call for schedule. 30650
Village Dr. (909) 866-3121.
THE PINES LAKEFRONT/TAVERN—Live music on the outdoor patio Saturdays and
Sundays 1-4 p.m. 350 Alden Rd. (909) 866--5400.
WYATT’S CAFE & SALOON—Open 4 p.m. Wednesdays, Thursdays delivery/
takeout only, Fridays, Saturdays with live music. on the outdoor stage. Wyatt’s
at Convention Center, Big Bear Blvd. at Division. (909) 585-3000.
to walk back to the top and snowmaking
lets the area build features to enhance the
experience. Heated base lodge and paved
parking. Next.to Motel 6 on the boulevard
one mile east of the supermarkets.Sessions
daily 10 a.m.-4 p.m. plus Glow Tubing
sessions Fridays, Saturdays, holiday
periods 5-9 p.m. All sessions $35 which
includes tube rental. (909) 585-0075.
Snowshoeing
No lift lines—nor lift tickets to buy—
makes snowshoeing one of the fastestgrowing
winter sports. A great way to
escape the crowds and enjoy the serenity of
Big Bear’s endless hiking trails covered by
winter’s snow. Get maps, directions etc.
from the shop below or Discovery Center.
Soaring Eagle
Zip 500' downhill on the new Soaring
Eagle attraction at Alpine Slide, only one
of its kind in California. Reach speeds up to
26 mph during the dramatic downhill
descent—only after riding backwards to
the top! Up to two can ride at one time.
Open daily. On the boulevard 1/4 mile
west of the Village. (909) 866-4626.
Zoo
The new Big Bear Alpine Zoo at Moonridge
opens November 5! Grizzly and black bears,
bobcats, coyotes, mountain lions, , eagles,
and other animals now have a new state-ofthe-art
home with creatures comforts for
both animals residents and guests. Open 10
a.m.-4 p.m. with animal presentations and
special programing. 747 Clubview off
Moonridge Rd. $15 adults, $10 ages over
60 and children 3-12, two and under free.
(909) 584-1299. Temporarily closed,
please call
Dining
Guide
Big Bear City
BARNSTORM RESTAURANT—
Comfortable dining at the airport. Open
daily for breakfast and lunch, dinner
Thursday through Sunday with nightly
specials and Saturday night entertainment.
German food a specialty plus steaks,
seafood, chicken, burgers. Ground floor at
the airport. (909) 585-9339.
THELMA’S TWIN PINES-Homestyle
cooking at awesome prices make this a
family dining favorite. Daily breakfast,
lunch and dinner specials. All-you-can-eat
beef ribs on Saturday nights, and homemade
pot pies are big favorites. Open daily for
breakfast, lunch, dinner. 337 W. Big Bear
Blvd. Call 585-7005.
Big Bear Lake
BIG BEAR LAKE BREWING CO.—
Craft micros brewed on premises and
gourmet pub grub and appe-teasers at this
new brewery in the Village. Full bars
upstairs and down with lakeviews and all
sports all the time on big screens. 40827
Stone Rd. (909) 878-0283.
CAPTAIN’S ANCHORAGE—Historic
and rustic, this restaurant, built in 1947 as
the Sportsman’s Tavern and once owned
by Andy Devine, is a Big Bear favorite
with specialties like prime rib, Alaskan
King Crab legs, seafood, and steaks.
Homemade soups, romantic seating, and
cocktails in the Andy Devine Room. Open
for dinner daily from 4:30 p.m. Moonridge
Rd., just off Big Bear Blvd. (909) 866-
3997.
DYNASTY—Authentic Szechuan cuisine
with an array of specialty dishes. Mongolian
BBQ too and great cocktails. 40989 Big
Bear Blvd. 866-7887.
OLD COUNTRY INN-Family-style home
cooking at this local’s favorite with
breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. Steaks,
German and Italian specialties and much
more with great weekday specials. 41126
Big Bear Blvd., east of Pine Knot. Call
866-5600.
STILLWELLS—In Northwoods Resort,
open for breakfast, lunch and dinner with
fresh seafood and pasta dishes, gourmet
steaks, homemade soups and more. 40650
Village Dr. (909) 866-3121.
Click Us Up!
bigbeartodaymag.com

Page 16—February 2021
THE BACK PAGE
Skating away on Barn’s new rink
S
kiing, snowboarding, snow play,
snowshoeing. Big Bear boasted just
about every winter activity you can
think of, save for one: ice skating.
That’s changed with the new temporary
synthetic ice rink at the Bowling Barn.
Folks are skating outdoors wearing real ice
skates on a surface that looks surprisingly
authentic and downright slippery even
though it’s not.
Actually the rink that’s around 1,700
sq. ft. is made of durable, ultra high-density
polyethylene plastic, so it never needs
a Zamboni. A glycol lubricant is applied
to the rink surface to make it slippery and
since there’s no electricity or refrigeration
required, synthetic ice skating is very environmentally
friendly.
“It’s about 15-20% slower than real
ice so inherently it’s an easier surface to
skate on,” said Steve Frisken from Chill
Entertainment, the nation’s leader in popup
skating rinks. “Hockey walls line the
rink around three sides with the fourth left
open to enhance distancing.”
All guests are required to wear face
coverings and only 12-15 skaters will be
allowed on the rink at one time to encourage
distancing and allow guests plenty of
elbow room. Which Becky Schaefer and
her five-year-old daughter Serena took advantage
of on a recent visit.
“She likes it, a lot of fun,” Becky said
of her daughter who spent much of her ses-
sion twirling in place. “At first it felt a little
different from regular ice skating then after
awhile you get the feel of it.”
The Manhattan Beach residents saw
the new rink driving by and Serena clamored
to give it a try. “I always felt that (Big
Bear) needed an ice rink and it’s nice that
it’s outside,” Becky said. “It’s perfect for
her age and something fun to do.”
Skating is in 30-minute sessions on the
hour and half-hour with about 15 minutes
of ice time, priced at $10. For the more
adventurous half-day and full day skating
passes are available for $25 and $40 respectively.
All prices include skate rental
though guests are welcome to bring their
own as long as they’re sharp.
Ice skating is offered daily at the
Bowling Barn through late March from
noon-8 p.m., weather permitting. Skating
joins an array of fun activities at the Bowling
Barn. In addition to bowling on 16 social-distance
lanes there’s Laser Maze,
video games and great to-go food.
Newly-installed plastic welding
screens ensure bowlers social distance
while having a great time. “The screens
give the feeling that you are in your own
little space down there,” said Bowling
Barn’s Bill Ross. “There’s only a handful
of alleys in the country using them and I’ve
only seen one other with them.”
The Bowling Barn has high-powered
speakers and amps to kick up the sound
system a few decibels and really get the
party going. There’s laser lights, dancing
and spinning on the lanes and above the
pins, while center screen drops down to
play music videos, flanked by two more
screens on each side.
Laser Maze offers a challenge straight
out of an action movie. Enter the Arena
and try to break into the vault on the other
side of the room by avoiding countless
crisscrossing beams of light, accented by
fog to make them stand out. Crawl, jump,
slide, roll, whatever it takes to cross the
obstacle course of light. Hurry...the clock
is ticking!
Beam Buster in contrast sees players
trying to bust each laser beam before time
runs out. Both games are fun for the whole
family with top scores posted outside the
arena. Even record your experience on
video for just a buck.! Each game is $3 for
Big Bear Today
Skating on synthetic ice outdoors
at the Bowling Barn
Becky and Serena Schaefer showing
how it’s done
single player or $6 for two.
Bowling Barn has great grab and go
food like barbecue chicken pizza, street
tacos, chicken wraps, flaming hot onion
rings and carne asada fries. There’s a variety
of video and action games too, like
Hoop Fever, pool tables, air hockey and
many more. Including old favorites like
Alpine Skier and Dance Revolution.
Bowling Barn is at 40625 Big Bear
Blvd. (enter on Bonanza). Call 878-BOWL.