This article is sponsored by Bear Mountain, the People's Park of Southern California.  To learn more about Bear Mountain visit Bearmountain.com.

While most ski resorts try to maximize on-snow time, Bear Mountain prefers seeing its skiers and snowboarders vaulting through the air.

No, this isn't your run-of-the-mill mountain. 

Home to three halfpipes--including Southern California's only superpipe--a bevy of terrain parks and 165 features, from jibs to jumps, rails to boxes, Bear Mountain caters to snowsports enthusiasts with a taste for adventure. 

But just because Bear Mountain boasts so much exciting terrain doesn't mean newbies are neglected. With 70 percent of its nearly 200 developed acres devoted to beginners and intermediates, plus plenty of parks dedicated to those of us just learning how to rip, the popular California resort is geared toward all abilities and ages, making it the perfect day trip or weekend for LA skiers and boarders. It's no wonder they call it the people's park.  

And let's not forget the 550 acres of undeveloped natural terrain -- a veritable paradise full of bowls, chutes and glades that opens anytime mother nature rolls through with a snowstorm. Even if the snow doesn't fly, Bear Mountain is never in danger -- thanks to a $12 million snowmaking system, plus an abundance of water thanks to nearby Big Bear Lake, Bear Mountain delivers Southern California's most dependable ski conditions. 

The Ski School 
There's no better way to explore Bear Mountain's varied terrain while perfecting your turns than by taking a lesson from one of its world-class ski and snowboard instructors. Whether your taking the plunge from the mountain's 8,000-foot summit, learning how to wedge in Southern California's largest beginning area or putting your kids in Little Bear, you can rest assured that you and your family will be in good hands. In fact, Bear Mountain is so serious about teaching everyone to learn how to ski and ride, they're offering beginners the "Big" Deal, an exclusive package that includes two days of lift tickets and group lessons for only $89. 

Dining
With so much terrain at your ski tips, it's easy to work up an appetite. Luckily Bear Mountain offers a tasty slope-side spread. From burgers at Rail View BBQ to Mexican grub and pizza at Silver Mountain Eatery, you can fuel up on calories for a full day of skiing and boarding, or caffeinate at West End Java before hitting the halfpipe. By the time the lifts stop spinning, make you way to Bear Bar, where après-ski rages on a 13,000 square foot sun deck. 

And for dinner, don't forget Evergreen International Seafood & Steak Restaurant, home to the best surf and turf and views of Big Bear Lake in town.

The Accommodations 
Look no further than Big Bear Vacations. With over 300 vacation rentals, from cozy cabins to luxurious lakeside properties with full concierge services, there's something for everyone, no matter your budget. Choose amenities like outdoor hot tubs, pool tables and fireplaces, or even a romance package. So give one of their certified vacation planners a call at 888-945-3023 to help you plan your getaway.

For more information on Bear Mountain, including lodging, lift ticket prices and lesson booking information, visit Bearmountain.com.

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