Snowshoeing in Big Bear

   A snow covered forest floor, brisk fresh air and snowshoes are the essentials needed for a race in the snow. On Saturday, February 6 Big Bear sets the course with a 5K and 10K snowshoe race. Big Bear’s Team SOLE in partnership with the Big Bear Valley Events Resource Office present the 3rd Annual Snowshoe the Bear. The race challenges athletes from the sound of the gun all the way to the finish line. It begins in Big Bear Village and ascends into the forest on snow-covered trails south of the Village. The course meanders through the woods and descends back to a welcoming, festival atmosphere in the heart of the Village.

   It’s a family-friendly event, which also includes a kids’ race, exhibit booths, live music, product-sponsor giveaways, pre and post race festivities.  Prizes are awarded to the top male and female racers in both the 5K and10K races. The event is open to all ages and skill levels. In fact, beginners are encouraged to sign up to get a feel for the easy-to-do sport.

   “Snowshoeing is a great sport that everyone can do.  The 5k course is a great start for first timers, kids and families while the 10k course will challenge every level or athlete,” said Paul Romero, event organizer for Snowshoe the Bear. “It’s really about getting out, having fun and enjoying the great outdoors in the snow.”

   Participants are expected to bring their own snowshoes.  A number of local sporting goods stores such as Goldsmith’s Board Shop and Bear Valley Bikes have rentals with poles available from $12 - $15.  Rentals are limited so it is highly recommended to reserve snowshoes in advance.

   Snowshoe the Bear is Saturday, February 6. Same Day registration is from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. in the Village at Big Bear Lake. The 10K race starts at 10 a.m., and the 5K race starts at 10:15 a.m. At 12 noon is the kids’ race and EXPO event. An awards ceremony and raffle take place from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. The cost is $25 per person for the 5K and $45 per person for the 10K. The kids’ event is free. Participants may register online in advance at www.snowshoethebear.com or call 909-224-9315.  Additional details are also available online.

   For all there is to see and do in beautiful Big Bear Lake, make lodging reservations or request a free Visitors Guide log on to www.bigbear.com or call 1-800-4-BIG-BEAR (800-424-4232).

Would you like to comment on this article in Bear Valley News? Just send us an email to PR@bearvalleynews.com. Let us know if you would like us to put it in a letter to the editor and if you want your name printed.

Back to Front Page