Big Bear Snow Play

There’s a chill in the air and in Big Bear that means only one thing, winter is right around the corner. If you love winter sports it’s time to get excited. Here’s a little pre-season info to get you thinking about all the winter fun you’re going to be having in Big Bear this season.

Skiing and Snowboarding

We’d be spoiled of we had just one local ski area in Big Bear, but we’re blessed with two world-class resorts, Snow Summit and Bear Mountain. There’s something for every skill level and taste, long cruiser ski runs, steep moguls, jumps and pipes and jibs and rails. Both resorts are owned by the same company and tickets are good at either location. There’s a shuttle that runs back and forth on a regular basis. Here are the basic differences
between the two:

Snow Summit

Snow Summit is a little more family oriented and offers a traditional ski resort experience. The overall terrain at Snow Summit is rated beginner/intermediate. And if you’re a real hotdogger, there are a few runs at Summit that will challenge just about any level skier or snowboarder. The “Family Fun Park” on the west side of the resort features gently sloping runs and beginner terrain features like mini jumps and rails. Snow Summit also has
night skiing on Fridays and Saturdays until 9:30. Snow Summit can be reached at
909-866-5766 or online at www.snowsummit.com.

Bear Mountain

The first things you’ll notice about Bear Mountain are the age of the snowboarders and the music – they’re young and it’s loud. This is definitely the place for the young at heart. Most of the runs feature jumps and rails and the lodge looks and feels a like a spring break party. A massive half-pipe is situated at the bottom of the main run and you can watch the
action from the view deck. For more information call Bear Mountain at 909-585-2519 or find them online at www.bearmountain.com.

Snow Play and Inner-Tubing

After a snow storm you can play just about anywhere in Big Bear valley. But for guaranteed snow and safer fun you’ll want to visit our two snow play areas. The Alpine Slide is located just west of the village, on Red Ant Hill, and features inner-tubing for all ages. They can be reached at 909-866-4626 and www.alpineslidebigbear.com. The second area is called “Big Bear Snow Play”. The two areas have basically the same features, plenty of inner-tubes and a Magic Carpet lift to the top of the runs, but Big Bear Snow Play is just a little larger than Alpine Slide. Big Bear Snow Play is located at 42825 Big Bear Blvd. and can be reached at
909-585-0075 or online at www.bigbearsnowplay.com.

If you’re planning a Big Bear getaway this winter be sure to contact Alpine Village Inn and Vacation Rentals for the best selection of accommodations on the mountain. We have everything from cozy one bedroom suites located in the heart of the village on up to private vacation rental cabins and homes located at the resorts. Call us at 909-866-5711 or check us out online at www.alpineresortrentals.com for additional information and reservations.

It's Fishing Season in Big Bear Lake

We’ve had an incredible winter with record snowfall and Big Bear Lake is as full as it gets.  It’s time to dust off your fishing tackle, take a short drive to the mountains, and catch some fish.  When our local temperatures start rising the fish become very active.  If you’ve never caught a fish before, or you would like to teach someone how to fish, this is the best time of the year to give it a try.

There is a limit of 5 trout per angler, per day, and fishing licenses are required for anyone 16 years old and older.  Sport fishing licenses are sold at Big Bear Sporting Goods and several other locations in town.  There are two free fishing days this season (statewide) when a license is not required, July 2, 2011 and September 3, 2011. 

Shore fishing is very productive in early Spring.  The south shore is dominated by resorts and private homes so unless you’re staying in one of our private lakefront rentals we recommend finding a spot on the north shore of the lake.  You will find several places right next to the road to pull the car over and cast a line. 

Fishing on Big Bear Lake is one of the best ways to enjoy the beauty of our mountain paradise and a great way to spend quality time with family and friends.  Make a memory that will last a lifetime, come up for fresh air and great fishing on Big Bear Lake.  For additional Big Bear information and to view our lodging choices, visit us at www.alpineresortrentals.com