Lake Tahoe’s winter season just got a lot more interesting, and adorable. A local black bear named Charlie decided to make an unexpected debut at the Heavenly Ski Resort’s holiday ice rink before its official public opening.

Charlie, a well-known local bear who often roams the village during nighttime and early morning hours, took center stage at the Shops at Heavenly Village’s outdoor ice rink this past Thursday. The bear’s ten-minute ice adventure became an instant local sensation, capturing the imagination of resort staff and visitors alike.

According to Dreu Murin, a spokesperson for the Shops at Heavenly Village, Charlie has become something of a local celebrity. “He has become somewhat of a local celebrity, often wandering through the village at night or early mornings on a stroll,” Murin told local media. “I guess he wanted to try it out”.

Interestingly, Charlie seemed to be a model ice rink visitor. He followed the unspoken rules of the rink, no shoes, no carrying children, and created a memorable moment for the resort staff. The Shops at Heavenly Village emphasized the critical point that visitors should not attempt to feed or interact with Charlie or any other wildlife in the area.

The incident highlights the unique wildlife interactions that make Lake Tahoe such a special destination. While the bear’s impromptu performance was charming, it also serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting wildlife and maintaining a safe distance.

For those eager to hit the slopes, the Heavenly ski resort is set to open for skiing and snowboarding on Friday, November 21. Visitors can look forward to potentially catching a glimpse of Charlie during their winter adventures, though hopefully from a safe and respectful distance.

While Charlie’s ice rink escapade was delightful, it’s a playful reminder that in Tahoe, nature always finds a way to surprise and entertain us.