Bike Trails

Riders load their bikes and themselves on the chair lifts that take them to the top of the mountain. Once at the top, they can negotiate the miles of trails that will eventually lead them to the bottom. The cyclers can ride the trails for free, but lift tickets cost $7 for one-way and $16 for an all-day pass.

Riders make any last minute adjustments at the provided tool benches before heading back to the bottom.

However, just a hop, skip and a jump from Long Beach cyclists can find a place pleasing to the eye and great for riding: Big Bear.

Big Bear Valley offers a great deal more than just winter fun. It has 40 miles of road trails for mountain bike enthusiasts. Ski lifts will get riders to the heart of the trails.

Snow Summit has been offering summer use of the lift since its opening in 1989. Open weekends until late October, Team Big Bear Mountain Bike Center offers all that is needed to ride the trails.

From the top of the Scenic Sky Chair, at 8,200 feet, riders can enjoy the clear skies, the beauty of nature and a barbecue lunch at the View Haus. The trails head off in different directions and a map might be needed.

Team Big Bear also sponsors mountain biking events, including national events such as NORBA's National Championships. People looking for out-of-control, no-guts-no-glory races can register for or attend the upcoming Downhill Mania on Sept. 24 and 25.