The Discovery Center is once again offering their annual guided snowshoe tours! After a brief overview of snowshoeing, a naturalist will take you out on the trails to explore the winter ecology and natural history of the Big Bear Valley. Because the tours are limited to 12 people, reservations are recommended. Snowshoes and additional transportation are provided.
Big Bear California is only two hours from Los Angeles, but its altitude makes it a perfect winter destination. At the lake level, Big Bear receives an average of 61.8 inches of a snow each year.There are plenty of places to snowshoe for both beginners and experts, and no matter where you go, you’re sure to be dazzled by the spectacular winter scenery.
Your naturalist guide will be able to answer any questions you have about the birds, animals, plants and animal tracks you’ll encounter. They’ll also share interesting info along the way, such as how the white fir tree’s needles are rich in vitamin C or how willows produce the same ingredients found in aspirin.
The Big Bear Valley is teeming with life, including deer, chipmunks, squirrels, raccoons, beavers and bats. During the winter months you’ll also be able to spot bald eagles, which winter in the area between November and April. The region’s unfrozen lakes allow them to catch easily accessible birds and fish. Look for eagles at the top of dead trees, where they have an excellent view of the water, but be careful not to disturb their habitat.
All tours depart from the Big Bear Discovery Centre, located on North Shore Drive (Highway 38).
Rates: Adults/$35, Children (8-12) $25
Dates: Saturdays 9am-12pm & 1pm-4pm, Sundays 9am-12pm; December 18 through March 6. Additional tours scheduled for: Sunday, December 26; 1pm-4pm & Sunday, January 2; 1pm-4pm.
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