Big Family Fun in Big Bear Lake
A guest article by Tony Conboy III
Big Bear Lake, CA
Gliding down the snow-covered slope repeatedly, made especially for tubing, children squealing with glee, it is not hard to see why one of California's biggest secrets is a blast for families - and all in a quaint mountain community with family owned small hotels and cottages. Where? Big Bear Lake, California.
Although Big Bear Lake might be very well known to Californians for winter vacations, it is not well known to the rest of the country. Amazingly, nestled in the San Bernadino Forest, it is less than two hours from Los Angeles and four hours from Las Vegas. (From Las Vegas it is nearly a direct trip across the barren Nevada/California Las Vegas desert on I-15, where you can go from comfortable long-sleeve shirt weather to four inches of snow in a matter of hours.)
Of course there is skiing and snowboarding on Big Bear Lake, that is the marquis attraction, but what helps set this town apart from other ski resorts is its "family-friendly" atmosphere. You won't find the mega-resorts in Big Bear Lake; in fact you will be hard pressed to find even a national chain hotel. Most of the hotels are independently owned and operated; along with countless chalets, condos and B&Bs for visitors to choose from. Unlike other ski resorts and ski towns, the top priority is having a good time -not how you look.
As far as the details on the skiing, there are more than 75 different trails to run, from beginner to black diamond, so you are guaranteed to be satisfied. The skiing can be fast and furious because there are 23 lifts and four high speed chairs; and it doesn't have to end when the sun goes down. On certain nights of the week, night skiing, skiing under the lights is available - another terrific experience. Ski equipment can be rented at the mountain or from many of the ski shops in town.
Snow Tubing at Alpine Slide
If you've never tubed, don't be alarmed, it is the modern day equivalent to sledding. You careen on an inflated inner tube down a snow covered hill specifically constructed for tubing. Parents and children can attach their tubes together by holding on to create a "tube train" ensuring a ton of laughs.
The Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain offers unlimited all day passes for $20. Night tubing is also available from 5 pm - 9 pm on Friday, Saturday and holidays for $14. You don't have to bring a thing, but your snow appropriate clothing and snow boots. The tubes are provided.
The best design feature at Alpine Slide is the moving sidewalk. If you've ever had to walk up a hill after sledding or tubing down one, you know it can be tiring. Here, a moving sidewalk takes everyone and their tubes back up to the top of the hill for ride after ride of fun. For more information on the Alpine Slide, visit alpineslideatmagicmountain.com or call 909.866.4626.
Where to stay
Overlooking and on the shore of Big Bear Lake, the Marina Resort Hotel is a perfect choice for visitors anytime of the year. Located near the town's main thoroughfare, and only blocks from the ski mountain, the hotel provides a great view of the lake and the mountains in the distance. Rates during ski season run around $120 per night; $160 on weekends, but rates are subject to change.
The Marina Resort offers guests a pool, whirlpool, boat slips, volleyball court - all in this small, cozy hotel with less than 50 rooms.
Find out more about Big Bear Lake:
For more information and special offers including how to get a $25 gas card visit the Big Bear Lake Convention and Visitor's Bureau or call 800.4BIGBEAR.
