Big Bear and Snow Summit season passes, good now through 2012, go on sale Monday

Big snow this season in Southern California’s mountains means ski season may last into April. Maybe that’s reason enough to think about buying a season pass -- good for the rest of this season and all next year -- for Bear Mountain and Snow Summit.

The deal: The Screamin’ Deal Season Pass goes on sale Monday and is good at sister resorts Bear Mountain and Snow Summit for the rest of the 2011 winter season and all next season. Prices for a midweek/non-holiday pass start at $249 midweek for adults and $199 for children and young adults 13 to 21. Other types of season passes include midweek and Sunday, an Anytime Pass and a night skiing pass. Prices don’t include tax.

When: The offer begins Monday and continues through May 31 (after that, season passes increase).

Details: Consider that lift tickets for a day cost $56 for adults and $36 for children and young adults. So about five midweek visits to the resorts between now and the end of the 2012 season will pay for the pass. This year, make sure you check the directions to Big Bear and Snow Summit because Highway 330 has been closed. The website lists alternate routes.

Contact: Bear Mountain/Snow Summit season passes, (909) 866-5841