We are going back to Big Bear CA for a multi-day trip. Be prepared for possible damage on the trails! We had to make several trail repairs last year.
Trails may change as we get closer to the date!
On Saturday we will run Gold Mountain and John Bull. On Sunday we will be running Holcomb Creek Big Bear Trail. On Saturday, we will meet at 8:00 AM at Hwy 18 & Forest Road 3N69 at the open area. 34°16’27.5″N 116°49’09.9″W. We will discuss the meet-up for Sunday on Saturday.
Gold Mountain is a great way to make your way over to John Bull or Jacoby Canyon. The majority of the trail is easy to moderate at best, but there are a few sharp rock ledges without any bypasses which give this trail its more difficult rating. Open for the full year, snow can make this trail very exciting if not impassable without a winch. The trail twists and turns as it weaves itself up and over the mountain, which can make it difficult for full-size trucks to maneuver through it; although not recommended it has been done. About halfway through the trail you will come up to a large opening with nothing but rocks to drive on, this section is not difficult but makes for a great picture opportunity. When traveling North on 3N69, you will be connected to 3N16 – Holcomb Valley Road at the end of the trail. Go left to follow to 3N10 – John Bull
John Bull 3N10 – Commonly referred to as the mini Rubicon Trail, John Bull is one of the most difficult trails in the San Bernardino Forest trail system. Large boulders, tight turns, and small squeezes between trees are just some of the obstacles you will encounter. Once you arrive at the infamous “Gate Keeper” you will start crawling your way up boulder fields with rocks the size of small cars. Mixed with loose dirt, traction is minimal and ground clearance is your friend. Short wheelbase vehicles tend to fare better, but a properly armored SUV or pickup truck can make it through without many hang-ups. There is no right or wrong way to run the trail, but most run it west to east. There are a few areas where it would be tricky to get by a group of vehicles that are going the opposite way.
Holcomb Creek Big Bear Trail 3N93
Holcomb Creek (3N93) is arguably the hardest rock crawling route on the mountain range. It is comprised of 5 rock gardens, several water crossings, a washed-out pass, several steep hill climbs with obstacles on them, and much more. This trail is waiting to cause havoc on your vehicle. 3N93 also provides many splendid views of the area including the Chair of the Jeep Gods, running waterfalls, Holcomb Creek, and dense forest on the west end. Be ready for some of the best wheeling and relaxation you can get in Southern California.
In the winter, it does snow on this trail. Since the trail is on the north side of the mountains, snow does stick for long periods of time. If you are up for the challenge, then this trail goes from the easy line being ranked a high 5 to 6 in dry and perfect conditions to the easy line being a mandatory 10+ in less than perfect conditions.
The trail is harder going East to West.
Side Note: If the middle rock garden is dry which is common in the later summer months. The trail’s difficulty drops down to a 5.
Trail Rating: Difficult – Stock vehicles not allowed!, 2 Door Jeeps require a min of 33″ tires, winch, lockers and skids plates highly recommended. 4 Door vehicles require min of 35″ tires winch, lockers and skids plates highly recommended.
Please indicate if you are going to camp, RV, or get a hotel. We need a count for a potential campground.
***There are inherent risks and dangers while off-roading. Summit 4×4 Club is not responsible for any risks of injury, harm, medical conditions, or property damage to participants. All participants (on behalf of him/her self and his/her minor children) are responsible for their own safety and assumes all liabilities, and waives any and all damages against Summit 4×4 Club (including its organizers, hosts, sponsors, and members).***
