Most people have not been enjoying all the recent cold weather and rain we have been receiving. For the majority of people it means they have to stay inside and can’t do anything outside. However, for those who ski and snowboard the cold and rain means the mountains will be receiving snow, and that is exactly what has been happening.
This past Wednesday was opening day at Bear Mountain and the snowboard and ski season has officially started. The temperatures have been cold enough to produce some natural snow and the snow machines have been running to produce a 1-2 foot snow base which is enough snow to open some of the lower runs and park features. It will be a few more weeks before the whole mountain opens but for die hard riders, anytime on the mountain is better than no time.
Southern California is home to a variety of different mountains to ride on. There is Mt. Baldy in Upland which is one of the smallest mountains in the southern California area and is more for beginners or those who only go out once in a while. There is also Mountain. High located in Wrightwood. It is the closest resort to most people in the southern California area and the easiest to get to. Beware if you are a skier though, Mountain High is mostly snowboarders and skiers rarely visit this resort. If you snowboard and love park features though, this is the place for you! Every run is littered with rails, jumps, jibs and a variety of other features for snowboarders from beginners to experts to enjoy.
If you want to experience the very best riding in southern California, it is worth it to take the drive to Bear Mountain. There are three different routes to get there depending on where you are coming from and it is the biggest mountain with the most runs and variety of terrain for both skiers and snowboards to enjoy. It is located in the Big Bear Lake area of San Bernardino and consists of two different mountain to ride; Bear Mountain and Snow Summit.
Bear Mountain is more for snowboarders and contains more park runs with features for those who like to do more aggressive and freestyle riding. There are also canyons for those who like to blaze their own trail through the trees and two half pipes for those who really want to take their riding to the next level. Snow Summit is better for beginners and skiers as most of the mountain is open groomed runs.
If you are looking for your own gear, I recommend checking out an annual convention called Ski Dazzle that will be taking place December 1-4 at the Los Angeles Convention Center. They offer the best deals and you receive a free lift ticket to either Bear Mountain or Snow Summit with the $20 admission price.
No matter which mountain you choose to go to or your style of riding, there is nothing like getting out and riding down a mountain. It’s best to get up early and be one of the first people on the slopes. You will get the freshest snow and be the first to make your mark on the freshly groomed trails. You will also be able to get a few runs down the mountain before the lift lines start getting long and the mountain gets crowded. All the resorts offer season passes and are definitely worth it if you plan on going more than four or five times throughout the season. Hope to see everyone out on the slopes this season!
When I saw the headline, I didn't have to think twice that Tom would be the one writing about this.
ReplyDeleteI really like this post. I always feel bored when winter comes because I feel like there is nothing to do. I've always wanted to try snowboarding but did not know much about it or where to go. Your tips are great about the best places to go. I also like that you included information about the ski convention. You seem really passionate about snowboarding, which makes it more tempting to check out.
ReplyDeleteThe first time i went snowboarding was in Big Bear, it was SOOO much fun and i absolutely loved it! I injured myself by falling from the top of the mountain and rolling all the way down to the bottom of it, but it was still so much fun!
ReplyDeleteThis is so true! we can't stay inside in hibernation, eating all winter long...we have to get out and enjoy the short winters we have.
ReplyDeleteI always go to Mt. High every year to goof around in the snow but, I've never gone snowboarding. It sounds like a lot of fun and I'm definitely going to make a priority to snowboard this Winter.
ReplyDeleteI have been snowboarding and skiing once and I hate the cold, but this article made me want to go out and try it again. Nice work.
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