Big Bear Solar Observatory
If you are coming to Big Bear this weekend, check your route before heading up. Highway 18 is closed from Running Springs to the Big Bear Dam. Alternate routes are Highway 38 from Redlands or Highway 18 from Victorville through Lucerne Valley. They are hoping to re-open Highway 18 sometime late today (Friday). Hopefully the warmer weather and beautiful sunshine will make their job easier.
The weather for today and Saturday will be mostly sunny, the weekend high temperatures are expected to hover in the mid-fifties. Bring your sun screen!
With high temperatures in the mid-fifities, the best time to hit the slopes is in the early morning. With over night temperatures expected to be around freezing, the morning snow is firm and deep. Once the sun starts to drop in the afternoon, the snow sets up nicely.
Not interested in snowboarding or skiing? The Discovery Center sponsors snowshoe tours on Saturday and Sunday. Cost is $35 adults and $25 ages 8-16, which includes snowshoes, pole, water and snacks. Reservations are recommended.
We’ve received over a hundred inches of snow this year (about 30% above average). Driving off-road is sketchy unless you are prepared. Carry chains, a tow rope, warm clothes, a cell phone and food. There will be ice, snow and large drifts. Last time we went out in conditions like this, we encountered people stuck in the snow without 4 wheel drive.
Hiking will be best off a dirt road right now. The temperatures are starting to rise and melt some of the snow we’ve received in the last few weeks. For a quick walk, try the Alpine Pedal Path at Stanfield Cutoff and the North Shore.
Hiking on a trail will be difficult. Although the wind has blow the snow around, we have an average coverage of two feet on the ground with drifts of several feet. Be sure to have tall boots, waterproof pants, water, a cell phone and sun screen –at 7,000 feet the sun and wind conditions will affect your skin quicker.
If you’re not the outdoor type, head into the Village and check out the shopping. Mill Creek Trading Company carries Pendleton, Ugg and Carhartt. They’ve been a Village fixture for years, will an experience staff and a great selection of women’s and men’s clothing. There are a couple of art galleries and Village Theaters has five screens in the Village.
Snowy Conditions
