Some quick updates, notes, and tips for the upcoming Holiday Week...
WEATHER
Following our HUGE Thanksgiving storm, mother nature has more snow for us over Christmas week. Here are the current snow totals. Keep in mind that the current forecast might change over the next few days.
Monday: 3-5 inches
Tuesday: 1 inch
Wednesday: 2-6 inches
Thursday: 1-3 inches
Unlike Thanksgiving, it is nice that this storm is spread out over several days which should make travel and shoveling much easier. Again, keep an eye on the weather as it very well might change. Other than the usual weather websites, you might want to check out our local weatherman's report at www.BensWeather.com .
Also keep in mind that daytime temps will only be in the 30s next week. So bring your cold weather gear!
SKIING & SNOWBOARDING
The ski resorts have been adding to our Thanksgiving snow by making snow during most days and every night this week. Most runs are currently open and I would expect even more to be open if the expected snow arrives next week.
Conditions should be incredible!
If you want to check out current conditions, here's the live cam from Snow Summit:
https://www.bigbearmountainresort.com/winter/mountain-information/web-cams/summit-base-cam
(You can also use the live cam to see how long the lift lines are too before deciding whether to head to the slopes!)
It is well worth waking up VERY early and getting to the slopes before the madness begins. Christmas week is one of busiest times of the year and it's well worth beating the crowds to the slopes.
HOT TIP: If you have someone who can drop you off at the slopes, DO IT! Parking lots will be full well before the slopes open. Use back roads to get less trafficked and closer drop off locations to the resorts. For example, here's the one I personally use to get to Snow Summit. There are similar routes approaching from the west as well.
DRIVING
Remember that there are 3 ways into Big Bear.
THE FRONT WAY - the 210 to 330 to 18, over the Dam approaching Big Bear from the west. This is always the busiest way into Big Bear and usually the quickest when there is no traffic.
THE BACK WAY - the 10 to the 38 through Redlands and through Angeles Oaks. Less traveled but a little longer.
THE LUCERNE WAY - take the 15 over Cajon Pass, through Vicorville/Apple Valley. Considerably longer but MUCH less traffic and road conditions are usually less of a concern due to less snowfall on the high desert side of the valley.
Use websites like Google Maps, Cal Trans, Waze, etc. before heading up the hill to decide which way is best!
BRING YOUR CHAINS! Even if you have 4WD or AWD, always carry chains in your car.
HOT TIP: Locals always have an extra jacket, set of gloves, winter hat, water, food etc. in their cars during winter time. You never know when you might get stuck!
ENTERTAINMENT
Do not miss the Village lights over the Holidays, especially if it's snowing. There's nothing more Big Bear than walking through the Village with all the trees lit up, snow falling, and smiling visitors abound. Grab some hot cocoa at Copper Q and sit by the fire pit. (Or have a Hot Toddy, Irish Coffee, or Brandy by the fire pit at Oakside Restaurant if that's more your speed.) Don't miss the Christmas Tree at the Village center at the corner of Village Drive and Pine Knot!
Here's something different to do! Believe it or not, we have some very talented local actors in Big Bear. Some of them put on the comedy event of the year with their CHRISTMAS CAROLE ASKEW performance. Always hilarious, for kids and adults alike. Performances the Friday and Saturday night (20th and 21st) at 7:30 and Matinee this Sunday the 22nd at 2:30 and City Hall. More info below.
FOOD AND EATING
I usually recommend a few restaurants. But per a client's request, I will name my TOP 5 FOOD DISHES in Big Bear! It's really hard to rank these, so in no particular order.....
1) The Kracken Bowl at The Local Tropicali - https://www.osotropicali.com/
2) Lamb Masala at Himilayan Restaurant - http://www.himalayanbigbear.com/
3) Avocado Bomb at Big Bear Lake Brewing Company - https://www.facebook.com/BigBearLakeBrewingCompany
4) Roasted Caesar Salad with Grilled Salmon at 572 Social - http://www.572social.com/
5) Turkey/Steak Sliders at Oakside - http://www.oaksiderestaurant.com/
DISCLAIMER: To each, their own! These recommendations are per my preferences. But you'd be hard pressed to find a local who would speak ill of any of my aforementioned culinary suggestions!
Also, if you are planning to eat ANYWHERE in Big Bear this week, MAKE RESERVATIONS IF POSSIBLE!
I really hope you get a chance to visit Big Bear this upcoming week. With snow on the way and our resorts in great condition, it should be a Holiday Week to remember!