Big Bear Guide

The #1 Travel Guide to Big Bear, California including Activities, Recreation, Dining, Shopping and Events. Big Bear Tourism Authority

Big Bear Snow Play is Now Open For Winter Season

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Want Snow? Big Bear Snow Play Has Plenty Of It

Big Bear Snow Play is now open for business with three full-length snow-tubing runs. The snow-covered hills come just time for Thanksgiving weekend. Recent evening weather conditions have allowed for great snowmaking, and the tubing park has got a jump-start on the winter season.

“We’re happy to announce the white stuff is in Big Bear now!” declared Big Bear Snow Play General Manager Bruce Voigt. “We’re ready to kick off the winter season with snow-tubing fun for the whole family.”

Big Bear Snow Play has ski-resort quality snowmaking systems to assure there is snow for snow-tubing thrill seekers. The park grooms its runs nightly, which ensures optimum sliding conditions. As winter continues, Big Bear Snow Play will eventually blanket its runs with more than 20 feet of snow, and open eight runs. The snowmaking is good enough to keep snow coverage through April.Big Bear Snow Play Where Kids Have Fun

Big Bear Snow Play provides two Magic Carpet uphill lifts. These lifts are comprised of a large moving conveyor belt, similar to an airport terminal people mover that transports riders to the top. The purpose of Magic Carpet rides is to eliminate the stress of climbing the hill, which equates to more downhill fun. For added comfort, one of the Magic Carpet rides comes equipped with a Plexiglass cover. This is perfect for those snowy, chilly days. There is even a “kiddie area” for the youngest riders. Big Bear Guests can warm up inside the heated base lodge, where they will find a family-priced snack bar and video games.

Snow tubing in Big Bear

For More Information

Big Bear Snow Play is open daily for snow tubing from 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. All-day passes including tube rental and Magic Carpet lift are $35, and guests are free to come and go as they please. Big Bear Snow Play is located at 42825 Big Bear Blvd. (three miles east of Big Bear Village, next to Motel 6). For more information call 909-585-0075 or visit BigBearSnowPlay.com.

Big Bear Snow Tubing at Alpine Slide – Winter Gets Early Start

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Snow Tubing Hills Covered in Snow

Big Bear’s first snowstorm of the season delivers! Snow tubing hills at Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain are completely covered with the white stuff. A recent snowstorm brought fresh snow to Big Bear, which is combined with two weeks of prior snowmaking efforts. This boosted snow levels at Alpine Slide’s snow play area. Moreover, the snow-tubing park reported that its snow base is two to four feet. It even expects to add to it with more snowmaking. Ideal snowmaking conditions with cold temperatures and low humidity are anticipated to remain consistent all week.

Ski-resort quality, snowmaking fan guns at Alpine Slide are expected to fire up again. Furthermore, the snow play area will continue at every opportunity to build on its base. Alpine Slide is now open for the 2019-2020 winter season! Big Bear’s favorite snow tubing provides a fun outing for families this weekend. Also, midweek is a great time to play in the snow.  

Snow Tubing at Alpine Slide

Snowmaking at Snow Play Area in Big Bear

Alpine Slide has ski-resort quality snowmaking! Of course, this means there’s always snow for snow tubing enthusiasts. Furthermore, it grooms its runs each night, which makes ideal sliding conditions for the following day. Watch as winter continue. Both Mother Nature and Alpine Slide will cover the snow tubing park with more white stuff. Of course, this will eventually stack up to 15 to 20 feet of snow. 

Want to get in more downhill fun? Well, Alpine Slide makes it easy to get to the top of the hill. Ride its Magic Carpet lift. That’s right, the moving conveyor belt eliminates the stress of climbing the hill. Furthermore, it provides more opportunity for having fun on the slopes. For added comfort, the Magic Carpet ride comes equipped with a Plexiglass cover. It shields guests from winter-weather conditions.

More Family Fun Activities in Big Bear

This family-friendly recreation area gives all ages an opportunity to enjoy the spirit of winter with other attractions. First, check out the Alpine Slide ride. It resembles the Winter Olympics luge / bobsled. Riders navigate their own individually controlled sleds down a quarter-mile-long-concrete track, with high-banked turns and long straight-aways. Each sled has Teflon runners, ball bearing wheels, control handle and brakes. Next, take flight! The new Soaring Eagle ride gives thrill-seekers an opportunity to fly like a bald eagle. Once at the top, take in views of Big Bear Lake from high above. In addition, there’s an 18-hole miniature golf course, go-karts and arcade. All outdoor attractions are open during the winter (weather permitting). Take cover at the heated-base lodge. Here you’ll find a family-priced snack bar. Also, it makes for a great place to take a break. Be sure to warm up with a cup of hot cocoa.   

Big Bear Family Fun at Alpine Slide Snow Tubing Park

Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain is Open Daily – See Hours of Operation, Locations, Contact Info, etc.

Get on the mountain! Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain is open daily for snow tubing from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Also, night tubing is slated to begin Friday, November 29, and will be open every Friday, Saturday and holiday nights from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Moreover, the other attractions at Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain, which includes the Alpine Slide, Soaring Eagle ride, mini-golf and go-karts are open Monday to Friday from 10 a.m.- 4 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to dusk. Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain is located at 800 Wildrose Lane (just off Big Bear Blvd.). For pricing, height requirements, and general information call 909-866-4626 or visit AlpineSlideBigBear.com.

Furthermore Big Bear has other great recreation activities. Click here for more fun-filled activities: https://www.bigbearguide.com/recreation-activities/. Also, be sure to check out these great dining options: https://www.bigbearguide.com/dining/.

WINTER ACTIVITIES IN BIG BEAR

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Experience Snow Close to Home – Winter Recreation & Things to do in Big Bear

Winter is here! Now is the time to take advantage of Big Bear’s snow-covered mountains. Therefore, many people choose this favorite mountain town for the array of winter-related recreation activities. These winter activities in Big Bear appeal to all ages and skill levels. For instance, there’s snowboarding, skiing, snow tubing, snowshoeing, backcountry off-roading, ziplining, helicopter sightseeing tours and horseback riding. Here’s a full list of things to do in Big Bear. 

SKIING & SNOWBOARDING – SNOW SUMMIT & BEAR MOUNTAIN: 

The one place in Southern California that’s certain to deliver a flurry of frosted fun is Big Bear Lake. Home to Southern California’s two premier ski resorts, Snow Summit and Bear Mountain. Snow Summit is the place for everyday skiers and riders. In addition, it’s for those in search of a friendly, laidback winter playground. There’s plenty of room to roam from the popular face of the mountain to peaceful, isolated trails with ideal ski conditions away from the pack. Bear Mountain attracts every level from first-time snowboarders and skiers to freestyle enthusiasts. It has been pushing the progression of winter sports for more than 75 years, and is home to the only halfpipes, highest lift served peak (8,805 feet), and the largest beginner ski and snowboard area in Southern California. Both resorts set itself apart from other Southern California’s ski areas because of their quality snowmaking and slope grooming. 

EQUIPMENT RENTAL SHOPS (SKI & SNOWBOARD): 

Whether it’s on a trial basis for first time beginners, or advanced skiers / riders that wish to demo the latest and greatest equipment. Big Bear’s ski and board shops are ready to outfit guests for high performance on the slopes. The rental shops make it easy to get in and get out. Therefore, more time can be spent on the slopes. Most rental shops carry today’s hottest gear and clothing trends, too. The top rental shops in town are Goldsmith’s Sports, LeRoy’s Boardshop, Getboards Ride Shop and Blauer Boardshop.  

SNOW TUBING – BIG BEAR SNOW PLAY AND ALPINE SLIDE BIG BEAR:

 

Experience the thrill of inner tubing down snow-packed slopes! Therefore, these slopes are all about good times! Snow tubing in Big Bear’s winter wonderland is the ultimate outdoor family outing. It creates memories that last a lifetime. Moreover, Many families have made sliding down the slopes of Big Bear Lake an annual tradition. Both Big Bear Snow Play and Alpine Slide Big Bear, provide Magic Carpet uphill lifts. These lifts make snow play a cinch. The Magic Carpet lifts are comprised of a large moving conveyor belt, which are similar to an airport terminal people-mover. In other words, an easy ride to the top of snow-packed slopes. The purpose of Magic Carpet rides eliminates the stress of climbing the hill, which in turn provides opportunity for more downhill fun! Also, there’s an extensive snowmaking system Plus, nightly grooming ensures excellent coverage on all runs.

GLOW TUBING:  

Big Bear Snow Play lights up after dark! How you ask? With its unique snow play experience called glow tubing. Furthermore, Big Bear Snow Play transforms white snow-covered hills into a rainbow of colors every Friday, Saturday and holiday nights from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. It adds another dimension to the fun because of these spectrum of colors that glow tubing provides. 

SNOWSHOE TOURS:  

Want more winter activities in Big Bear? Experience the serenity of the winter forest on snowshoes. A trek into the open country via snowshoes is a great way to enjoy the true bliss of Big Bear Lake’s winter scenery. Moreover, this rapid growing winter sport is easy to learn. Plus, it provides a casual workout at one’s own pace. Moreover, Action Tours offer snowshoe tours that are suitable for both beginners and experienced enthusiasts. For instance, tours offer guests an opportunity to experience Big Bear’s scenic winter landscapes. Also, an expert tour guide leads tours. Guest learn about winter ecology, animal tracking, flora and fauna. Take a trip on snowshoes. It’s worth it!

HORSEBACK RIDING: 

Another way to explore Big Bear’s peaceful winter setting is by horseback. A relaxing ride into the wilderness is a splendid way to connect with nature and enjoy the pleasantries of the fresh mountain air. Saddle-up for either an hourly, half-day, or sunset ride through National Forest areas. There are horses and mountain trails to suit all riding abilities. Reservations are suggested. Also, kids love the petting zoo and pony rides that are available on site. 

BIG BEAR OFF-ROAD EXPERIENCE: 

Imagine the thrill of driving an off-road vehicle in the backcountry. Big Bear Off-Road Experience does just that. This unique company gives its customers the chance to get behind the wheel of a Jeep or Can-Am. A great way to experience the thrill of 4×4 action in the backwoods, even in the snow!  This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance for many people. Some might compare it to an opportunity to speed around a NASCAR racetrack in a race car. Big Bear Off-Road Experience offers both Jeep and Cam-Am tours. In addition, sightseeing trips, beginner-friendly introductions to off-roading, and novice to advanced rock-crawling trips.  

ZIPLINING ABOVE THE SNOW:  

Another Big Bear winter activity is ziplining. Action Tours in Big Bear has grown quite a reputation for introducing new ways to experience fun in the snow. Ziplining is ideal for thrill seekers, families and groups. This adventure takes guests high above snow-blanketed canyons for a surefire adrenaline rush. Get on and zip across the white stuff in a flash! At first glance these zips may look intimidating. However, once nerves cool and adrenaline kicks in, its all hoots and hollers from there forward. 

SKY HIGH TOURS VIA HELICOPTER:  

Helicopter tours offer a completely different way to experience the snow. See the scenery from a bird’s point of view. Helicopter Big Bear offers sightseeing flights from the vantage point of a helicopter cockpit. Witness the beauty of the San Bernardino National Forest. In addition, there are landmarks, points-of-interest, lakes, ski resorts and more. There are miles and miles of the serene snow-covered landscape. These aerial views are certain to leave passengers breathless.

FREE TROLLEY RIDES TO VARIOUS WINTER ACTIVITIES AND ATTRACTIONS: 

The Free Big Bear Trolley gives guests a ride to a wide range of winter activities in Big Bear Valley. This new service is provided by Mountain Transit. It offers three convenient routes. Get a free ride to and from most attractions, including the ski resorts, snow-tubing parks, the Village, Boulder Bay, restaurants, supermarkets and more. Moreover, Riders are allowed to bring snow gear onto the trolley. The free-to-ride trolley service is daily from 6:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Riders can download an app for real-time tracking. 

BIGBEARGUIDE.COM – RESOURCE FOR BIG BEAR’S ACTIVITIES ALL YEAR: 

BigBearGuide.com is a user-friendly website that’s designed to improve the guest experience of Big Bear Valley. It has relevant information about places to eat, shop and recreate all-year round. It’s a great source for winter activities in Big Bear. For all there is to see and do in beautiful Big Bear Lake, log onto BigBearGuide.com

Southern California’s #1 Oktoberfest Returns to Big Bear

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Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest is back! Southern California’s #1 Oktoberfest returns for nine consecutive weekends, September 6 to Nov. 8, 2025. The true spirit of Bavaria comes to life in Big Bear. Break out the lederhosen and dirndls and cluck the night away to the Chicken Dance! 

Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest, Beer, German Festival, Beer Festival
Prosit to Southern California’s Top-Ranked Oktoberfest!

Consistently Ranks as a Top 10 Oktoberfest Celebration in America

This sincerely is Southern California’s most authentic Oktoberfest, because it takes pride in being the closest thing to the original one. In fact, year after year it always ranks as one of the top 10 best Oktoberfest celebrations in America! Hence, Big Bear Lake is situated in an alpine setting with miles of pine trees, mountains, and a town-square village that reflects the scenery of the Bavarian Alps of Germany. Other key factors that continuously puts Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest high on the charts is it brings bands direct from Bavaria. It serves a variety of beer imported from Germany. Dance troupes perform customary dances. The sausages are from a German butcher in Los Angeles, and fresh apple strudel is delivered weekly from a German bakery in Newport Beach! Hence this is why it stays true to its German roots.  

Real German Bands Take Center Stage at Oktoberfest

This year, Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest steps up its game with an entertainment lineup that brings more Bavarian-style oomph, or in musical terms oom-pah-pah, than ever before. The 55thAnnual Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest features different bands from Germany. Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest’s audience is treated with a unique blend of traditional German polkas, sing-alongs and of course the Chicken Dance. Expect a fair share of classic rock covers, country hits and today’s dance favorites. See why these German bands help create the same vibe and pageantry of the original Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany. 

Great Selection of German Beer

Enjoy ice-cold German beer served at eight bars and beer gardens. Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest has gained a great reputation for serving a wide selection of German beers. Also, the Tiki Bar serves uniquely crafted beers and micro brews, which are ideal for beer connoisseurs. Be sure to pick up a commemorative stein at the merchandise stand. Something about beer in a traditional stein just makes beer taste that much better. 

Pour beer, beer fest, oktoberfest
A Variety of German Beer Flows at Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest

German Food Fit for a King

Come hungry, because this festival serves up a German feast fit for a king. Enjoy scrumptious sausages with lots of home-style sauerkraut piled on. Sauerkraut is just one of several side dish options. There are also potato dumplings, beer cheese soup, and colossal, mega-sized pretzels. Try the street tacos, various flatbread pizzas, hamburgers and veggie burgers, too. Save room for desert because the fresh German apple strudel with warm vanilla sauce drizzled on top is a dream come true for taste buds! Yum!!!

Contests Enhance the Fun-Filled Atmosphere

Fun competitions and contests at Oktoberfest include log sawing, stein holding, shoot & yodel, a version of beer pong, and stein carrying. A contest unlike any other in the country is the beer stein-carrying contest. It makes the winning Oktoberfest queen work hard for her title. Therefore, the woman who carries the most one-liter beer steins wins the queen title. Past Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest queens have lifted and carried up to 80 pounds of full beer steins. 

Oktoberfest has enhanced its kids’ play area! There are several different giant inflatables, which keeps youngsters entertained during the festivities. The Fun Zone is geared for kids of all ages. It’s located outside, under a canopy of trees near the sports bar. 

Sports Beer Garden – Sporting Events, Fire Pits and Cornhole

College football, NFL games and World Series playoffs are shown on big screen TVs. In this area you’ll find two fire pits. These of course add to the mountain charm. Also, the popular bean-bag game cornhole is readily available in this sports-themed section, which adds yet another fun aspect to this fan-favorite German festival. 

Free Shuttle Service and Lodging

When it’s time to retire for the evening be sure to catch a ride back on the free shuttle. The shuttle service drives guests safely to their lodge or cabin. Since the shuttle is free why not stay the night! Big Bear Cool Cabins has provided lodging in Big Bear for more than 20 years. Please note, they offer over 350 homes and cabins to choose from. Therefore, it makes it simple to book an overnight stay. For rentals visit BigBearVacations.com.

The Scoop for Oktoberfest Tickets and More

The 55th Annual Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest begins Saturday, September 7. It then runs nine consecutive weekends (Sat. & Sun.) through Saturday, November 2, 2019. Festivities takes place at Big Bear Lake Convention Center, 42900 Big Bear Blvd. Tickets are on sale now. You should pre-purchase tickets in advance, especially October dates. To purchase tickets or general information, log onto BigBearEvents.com, or Facebook, or call 909-585-3000.  

For all other activities happening in Big Bear this fall check out Big Bear Guide’s recreation page.

 

Summer Tubing – Same Thrill Minus The Snow

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Tubing Resumes in Big Bear Even Though Snow Has Melted Away

Big Bear Summer Tubing, a mountain tubing experience, is now open for the summer season! Sliding down slopes in Big Bear no longer ends after the snow melts away. This summer Big Bear presents a novel tubing experience. It’s the same thrill of snow tubing, but without the actual snow. The same tubing hills at Big Bear Snow Play have transformed into Big Bear Summer Tubing. This new outdoor adventure is certain to get ecstatic hoots and hollers from riders of all ages. Nonetheless, whether you’re a young tot, teenagers or adult, you’re bound to have fun.

“It’s official, families now have access to mountain tubing all year round,” said Big Bear Snow Play Director of Operations Scott Voigt. “Thanks to the innovative mSnow Tube Wax that makes it all possible.”

How is Summer Tubing Possible?

It’s only natural to consider tubing a winter-only activity. Moreover, when it comes to the warmer summer months, water-based slides come to mind. However, Big Bear Summer Tubing delivers a whole new way to experience gravity-defying family fun. It has durable tube slides that are 300 feet in length (similar to the length of a football field). Big Bear Summer Tubing slides are made with a synthetic surface that uses mSnow’s Tube Wax™, which are completely water-free, and require no irrigation. There’s a total of three tubing lanes, and each lane has bumper side rails to keep tubes on course as gravity pulls the tubes to the base.

Magic Carpet Lift – Easy Ride to the Top

As a convenience, Big Bear Summer Tubing makes it a cinch to get to the top of the hill with its Magic Carpet Lift. The large moving conveyor belt (similar to an airport terminal people-mover) comfortably and quickly transports guests with tubes in tow to the top of the hill. This eliminates the stress of climbing, and provides more opportunity for downhill fun!

Plus…There’s a Speedway & Ropes Course!

Other attractions on site are Big Bear Speedway and Big Bear Ropes Course. Big Bear Speedway delivers a real racing experience with full-featured SODI RT8 Karts, which look like miniature Formula 1 race cars, complete with innovative technology designed to handle twists and turns with precision. Compete against the clock while reaching speeds of up to 30 mph. Big Bear Ropes Course is an aerial adventure that sends participants on a self-guided tour through more than 30 obstacles spread over 6,400 square feet on two levels that are 12 to 35 feet in the air!

Big Bear Summer Tubing is now open for 2025 summer season. The recreation area is located at 42825 Big Bear Blvd. (three miles east of Big Bear Village, next to Motel 6). For hours of operation, general information, including height requirements and pricing for each attraction, please visit BigBearSnowPlay.com or call 909-585-0075.

 

MINESHAFT COASTER – NEW EXCITING THRILL RIDE IN BIG BEAR

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California’s First & Only Mountain Coaster is Mineshaft Coaster

Mineshaft Coaster is a roller coaster thrill ride! It is commonly referred as a mountain coaster, which is built directly into the mountainside. It allows riders the freedom to control the speed of the ride, which can reach up to 30 mph. The new Big Bear ride is family-friendly. Therefore, all generations can enjoy it. Mineshaft Coaster is the first and only mountain coaster in California! Of course, this is great news for those seeking something new.

Mineshaft Coaster carts are fastened to the track. Therefore making it very safe. It can accommodate one or two persons. Two people in a single cart must be from the same household. Each cart comes equipped with a side-lever braking system. This allows a rider full control of the cart. First, this feature gives individuals the ability to go at their own pace. However, riders can reach max speeds of 30 mph if they choose.

Mineshaft Coaster is quite big! It’s a steel track that stretches 5,300 feet in length. It spans several acres along the natural curvatures of the mountain. The ride presents a variety of thrill-ride features, too. These include steep drops, rollers, dips, twists, hairpin turns, tunnels, bridges and 360-degree corkscrews. The ride is estimated to last about eight minutes. Mineshaft Coaster is fun from start to finish.

The ride presents a variety of thrill-ride features, too. These include steep drops, rollers, dips, and twists. Furthermore, there are hairpin turns, tunnels, bridges and 360-degree corkscrews. The duration is estimated about eight minutes. Depending of course on the speed of the rider.

Fully Prepared for Covid-19

Alpine Slide is fully prepared for Covid-19. Therefore, it is following necessary CDC guidelines. For example, physical distancing policies and multiple hand-sanitizer stations throughout the park. Moreover, the staff wears face coverings. Plus, there is continual disinfection of high-touch points and guest-flow signage. Also, Alpine Slide pro-actively encourages guests to wear face coverings. Furthermore, Mineshaft Coaster is a unique ride during the coronavirus pandemic. Why? It’s mainly because of its individual carts, which provides a fixed way for social distancing in place. 

Mineshaft Coaster opened in July. Hence making it the park’s sixth summer attraction. Other attractions include the Alpine Slide ride, a double waterslide, the Soaring Eagle ride, a go-kart track and miniature golf. Most importantly, the company’s top priority is the health and safety of both guests and staff.

Mineshaft Coaster Details

Height requirement for a solo rider is over 54”. However, passengers that are 38” and above may ride with a driver 18 years or older. Furthermore, the driver must be at least 54” tall. Another point, is passenger may not obstruct driver’s view. Maximum combined weight is 375 lbs. Moreover, max weight varies with weather conditions. 

The cost is $20 per person (54” and above), per ride; and children who are at least 38” and below 54” in height are $10 per person, per ride. Alpine Slide is located at 800 Wildrose Lane (just off Big Bear Blvd.). Alpine Slide is open daily. Operating hours are Sunday through Thursday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Guests are encouraged to call ahead for operating hours. Note: operating hours may change throughout the year. For more details call 909-866-4626 or visit AlpineSlideBigBear.com.  

New Trill Ride in Big Bear Lake – Mineshaft Coaster

For more thrilling activities in Big Bear check out https://www.bigbearguide.com/recreation-activities/

BIG BEAR WELCOMES YOU WITH OPEN ARMS

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Welcome to  Big Bear – Enjoy!

You’re destined to fall in love with Big Bear and the beauty that surrounds. Big Bear Guide is an user-friendly guidebook and website designed to improve your experience of our mountain resort with relevant information about places to eat, shop and recreate during your visit. Your guide comes complete with…

  • Key places to eat, shop, do, and play
  • Event listings to help you plan a fun outing
  • Insider tips and interesting tidbits
  • Maps including hiking/biking trails, Snow Summit and Bear Mountain chair lifts and ski trail runs, lake map, and an overall street map
  • Real Estate section

Look around…there’s so much to take in. Be sure to capture your trip on your smartphone or camera and share it with the world on Facebook, Snap Chat, Instragram and Twitter. Use hash tag #BigBearGuide.  Now that you’re here get out and discover our little slice of heaven. 🙂

Use these links to find what you are looking for during your stay…

When in town be sure to pick up the handy-dandy guidebook as various locations throughout Big Bear Valley. Look for the Big Blue G. 

Be sure to let everyone know that you…LOVE THIS PLACE! 

Big Bear Ropes Course Takes Family Adventure to New Heights

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Big Bear Lake Introduces Big Bear Ropes Course

Big Bear Ropes Course is a new recreation feature this summer that reaches new heights with a high-octane obstacle course that towers 35 feet off the ground! This state-of-the-art aerial adventure designed to give families an exhilarating yet challenging experience all bundled into one.

Big Bear Ropes Course is far from an ordinary family day at the park. Instead, this two-story obstacle course that spires high above Big Bear allows participants to face an array of challenges and features. In fact, Big Bear Ropes Course stretches over 6,400 square feet. Many of its features exposed to nothing but air! There are a variety of suspension bridges, some with wide-open gaps, some with nothing but two-inch round cables to scramble across, yet another that overhangs on a curving structure with dangling ropes to grasp onto. All in all there are 37 different obstacles on this towering two-level ropes course. There is even an airborne element added to the equation for those who wish to experience the joy of flying. The Sky Rail Zipline stretches 80 feet and bananas out onto a ledge, enhancing the overall excitement.

“Nothing but thrills! Were bringing a whole new excitement to Big Bear,” said Big Bear Ropes Course Director of Operations Scott Voigt.

Big Bear Ropes Course

 Big Bear Ropes Course Safety Features

While some features teeter and other features wobble, participants need not fret about falling, because they’re at the utmost level of protection. There is an advanced safety system, which includes a five-point, full-body harness. It connects to a safety line. And that safety line has a slider puck inserted into a continuous belay track system. Each participant is fully secured at all times from start to finish. The slider puck can only be inserted or taken out of the track by a certified operator at either the entrance and exit of the ropes course.

Big Bear Ropes Course is a self-guided excursion, and participants can conquer the two-level course in a variety of combinations at their own pace. Some participants may choose to push the limits and try to do all the obstacles, or hone in on a few favorites along the course. There are certified operators on the ropes course at all times in case any participant requires assistance. It should take most participants about 15 to 20 minutes to get through this action-packed obstacle course.

Join in on the Family Fun Adventure

Big Bear Ropes Course anticipates to make its debut the last week of June or first week of July. Once Big Bear Ropes Course officially opens to the public, it will remain open all-year round (weather-dependent). Participants must be at least 42” tall. Participants 42” to 48” must be accompanied by an adult 18 years or older. Maximum weight for an individual cannot exceed 300 lbs. The cost is $12 per person, per round. Please call ahead to get current operating hours, as operating hours may change throughout the year.Big Bear Ropes Course is located at 42825 Big Bear Blvd. (the same location as Big Bear Speedway / Big Bear Snow Play). For more information call 909-585-0075 or visit BigBearRopesCourse.com.

Family Fun Adventures

 

Find other family fun attractions in Big Bear here: https://www.bigbearguide.com/recreation-activities/

Big Bear Lake Maifest – Memorial Day Weekend

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Say Hello to Oktoberfest’s Little Sister – Big Bear Lake Maifest

Oktoberfest in May? Yep!

Big Bear Lake Maifest is the little sister to Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest. The organizers of Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest conceived this novel idea when they learned about numerous celebrations that occur every spring throughout Germany called Maifest. These traditional German festivals date back to the 18th century. This is when villagers and townspeople celebrated the end of winter and the arrival of springtime. This winter, Big Bear enjoyed its best season in years with more than 80 inches of snow, and now it’s ready to welcome a long-awaited spring with open arms. In doing so, Big Bear’s Maifest will deliver a scaled-down version of Oktoberfest to revelers Saturday, May 17 and Memorial Day Weekend, May 24 & 25, as well as Saturday, May 31. While Big Bear Lake Maifest is on a much smaller scale than her big sister Oktoberfest, there is one thing for certain and that is Maifest packs a big punch!

 

UNIQUE TO BIG BEAR LAKE MAIFEST:

  • Festive Maypole – Adorned with Colorful Ribbons
  • Customary Maypole Dances Performed by Die Gemütlichen Schühplattler
  • Maibock (Traditional German Springfest Beers)
  • Maibowle (Champagne-style punch)

COMBINED WITH OKTOBERFEST FAVORITES: 

  • Sizzling Bratwursts Hot of the Grill
  • Homemade Sauerkraut
  • Fresh Pretzels
  • Apple Strudel w/ Vanilla Sauce
  • Live German Bands
    • Bavarian Beergarden Band – May 21
    • Die Sauerkrauts – May 28
    • Hazelnuss Das Music – May 29
  • Log-Sawing Contests
  • Stein Holding Competitions
  • Kids’ Fun Zone

GET A FREE WARSTEINER GIFT: 

Those who come dressed in traditional German attire like a Lederhosen or a Dirndl receive a free gift, compliments of Warsteiner Beer!

Big Bear Lake Maifest is Saturday, May 21 and Saturday, May 28 and Sunday, May 29 (Memorial Day Weekend), from 1 p.m. to 10 p.m. each day. The weekend festivities take place at The Big Bear Lake Convention Center, home to Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest, located at 42900 Big Bear Blvd. Admission is $14 for adults, $11 for seniors (62+), and $6 for kids (3 to 12 years of age). To pre-purchase tickets online or for general information, log on to BigBearEvents.com, or Facebook, or call 909-585-3000. For other fun things to do in Big Bear be sure to check out the recreation and activities page.

Other Big Bear links of interest:

Big Bear Dining

Retail in Big Bear Shopping

Big Bear Real Estate 

 

TARZAN BOAT – NEW FLOATING WATERPARK ON BIG BEAR LAKE

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Unique, Floating Waterpark is the First of Its Kind on the West Coast

This summer Captain John’s Fawn Harbor and Marina introduces a new attraction on Big Bear Lake not seen anywhere else on the West Coast. It’s called Tarzan Boat, a jungle-themed, floating waterpark that features six different stimulating ways get a wet fix.

“Tarzan Boat is not a typical nautical vessel by any means,” said Serena Saunders, owner of Captain John’s Fawn Harbor and Marina. “It’s a mobile, floating water park that features a variety of ways to get your kicks on the lake.”

Features include Monkey Jump, a six-foot high platform, and Gorilla Jump, a 12-foot high platform. Both allow participants to free fall into the lake. There are two Olympic-grade trampolines on board, Monkey Bounce and Gorilla Bounce. Participants get airborne on these trampolines before splashing into the water. The Gorilla Bounce can launch jumpers up to 20 feet above the water’s surface. The Tarzan Swing, which is accessed from the 12-foot platform, adds to the excitement. It’s a rope swing that extends over the lake to give participants the opportunity to swing high above the water like Tarzan. Rounding off the boat’s attractions is the Jungle Slide. This curvy, tube slide, which is also accessed from the 12-foot platform, shoots people out like a rocket into the water. Two ladders on each side of the vessel provide easy entrance back onto the bow deck so swimmers can access unlimited water fun.

“Tarzan Boat will be the hot spot on Big Bear Lake this summer for families, couples and groups,” added Saunders. “It provides continuous fun for all ages, which naturally fits our theme here at Captain John’s.”Floating waterpark in Big Bear LakeTarzan Boat, The Floating Waterpark

Safety First

The floating waterpark anchors approximately 100 yards from Captain John’s Fawn Harbor and Marina, adjacent to the town of Fawnskin on the north shore. The water depth is 10 to 12 feet at the anchor point. An electric, jungle-safari cruiser shuttles guests from the marina docks every hour on the hour.

On the shuttle ride over, marina staff addresses Tarzan Boat’s safety rules to the guests. Two fully certified lifeguards are on board the Tarzan Boat at all times, and the boat comes equipped with life jackets for every person on board. A paying adult must accompany participants 12 years of age and under. Also, anyone 12 years and under must pass a swim test before playing on the boat’s features, and must wear a life jacket at all times. Tarzan Boat can accommodate up to 30 people at a time. Headfirst diving or flipping is not allowed. However, jumping, 360-degree twists, and cannonballs are all permitted.

Here’s How to Book Your Day of Fun Aboard the Tarzan Boat

Tarzan Boat is scheduled to open to the public Saturday, May 27. It will remain open through September. Hours of operation are daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with multiple sessions throughout the day. General admission pricing is per person, and can either be booked in advance or by walk-in. Rates are $25 for one hour, $40 for two hours, $50 for three hours, and $60 for four hours. The Tarzan Boat is available for private groups of 11 to 20 people, for either two or three-hour sessions, or groups of 21 to 30 people for four-hour sessions. Private party rental rates are $480 and up. Private parties must book the Tarzan Boat at least 24 hours in advance. All pricing, rules and restrictions are subject to change.

Captain John’s Fawn Harbor and Marina is located at 39369 North Shore Drive (Hwy. 38) in Fawnskin. To book a session aboard the unique Tarzan Boat, floating waterpark, call 909-866-6478 or online at FawnHarbor.com.