At Tahoe’s Heavenly Mountain Resort, a charismatic black bear named Charlie has captured the attention of locals and visitors alike. Known for being a regular at the resort, Charlie made quite the entrance as he was the first on the ice rink when it opened for the season on Thursday. Unlike the typical figure skater, Charlie’s furry frame and sharp claws make for an unusual, yet entertaining sight on ice.
Charlie, affectionately referred to by locals and visitors, was seen enjoying his time on the rink for about 10 minutes, showcasing an impressive duration that surpasses a typical Olympic long-form routine. According to Drue Murin from the Shops at Heavenly Village, Charlie’s playful antics have helped him gain a celebrity status in the area. “He has become somewhat of a local celebrity, often wandering through the village at night or early mornings on a stroll,” Murin remarked, noting that Charlie had decided to give skating a chance.
While Charlie brings joy and excitement to the community, Murin stressed the importance of enjoying his antics from a safe distance. Visitors are reminded not to approach bears with food or engage them in any way, including asking for figure skating tips.
As festive activities unfold, Heavenly Ski Resort has announced that the official opening date for skiing and snowboarding will be November 21. This season, guests can look forward to both winter sports and the enchanting presence of local wildlife like Charlie, creating a unique experience in the beautiful Tahoe area.