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 Reporter |
Summary: If you only have one hour to spend in Big Bear, this is the trail for you. It is actually less than 1.5 miles, but you may want to explore around the area just a bit. You get inspiringly incredible views of Big Bear Lake from the vantage point on top of Castle Rock. The climb isn't for the feint of heart though, and acrophobics should steer clear. The trail itself is very steep, and you gain 600' in about half a mile. However, it is so short, it can't be called anything but easy. To get to the top, you must scramble, and there isn't an "easy" route up, but the west side offers the least challenge. The area is beautiful and after 2 minutes on the trail, you no longer hear the buzzing of cars on the 18 which is also a definite plus. Trailhead: Take the 18 East to Big Bear, a little more than a mile from the Bridge over the dam you will see the trail on your right and a turn-out on the left. There is no trailhead parking, although 6-9 cars could park here comfortably. The trail is well marked where it is not easy to follow. Once you get to Castle Rock, you'll want to follow the trail (the main one) around to the west side where it is easier to get up. Unless you are a skilled climber, don't attempt the east face. (Lat:34.2311 Lon:-116.96181) Trail Guides for Castle Rock Trail - Big Bear: Best Hikes With Dogs - Southern California by Allen Riedel (Mountaineers books) California Hiking by Tom Sinestra and Ann Marie Brown (Avalon Travel) San Bernardino Mountain Trails - 100 Hikes in Southern California by John W. Robinson (Wilderness Press) Best Seasons: Year-Round User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Bikes, Ranger Contact: Mill Creek Ranger Station (909) 794-1123 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Allen Riedel, who has posted 123 other hikes on this site. To visit this reporters web site, click here. Trail Reviews Page 1 of 2 Submit your own review 
Reviewed by Tim on 9/3/2009 This is a very forested trail which made for a cooler hike than anticipated. It was at least 85 but under the trees it dropped about 5 to 10 degrees. Make sure to take plenty of water. I had a three year old that made it up and was ahead of me the whole time, pretty good for his first hike. As long as you take your time it’s a very enjoyable hike. It was a slightly hazy day but as the sun set over the treetops they turned orange, the view was just indescribable. I took some amazing photos that will make very nice wallpaper. If you’re ever in the area don’t miss a chance at an amazing hike.
Reviewed by pft on 3/31/2008 a very easy trail i smoke a pack a day n made it up just fine my girlfriend has asthma and she made it up wonderfully. The trail is well marked even in the snow and the peak is beautiful 1 hour is a good goal but dont expect it if youre pregnate or with a 3 year old or a whiny girl. Next time i will surly bring a rope and harness for a bit of top rope now that i know there is an anchor. I give it an A+ a great training hike 
Reviewed by Viewer on 9/25/2007 Did this hike about a month ago. First half is very steep and the second half levels off; good, quick hike. Get there early to get a parking spot just off the side of the hwy. Careful with rattlesnakes, I encountered a black rattlesnake on my way down, it was hidden below a rock and definitely caught me off guard. 
Reviewed by John on 7/16/2007 Really nice trail. The immediate accent is a good workout, make sure you take some water. The trail was poorly marked in spots. We had some instances where we had to guess which way to go. The view at the top was great! Took a picnic and sat at the top, well worth the effort of getting up there.
Reviewed by AK on 5/13/2007 We really enjoyed this hike. We did it with a 4 year old who had never hiked before, and we had to be very careful of her footing on some of the steeper and rockier parts. There are parts of the trail that are hard to find. One of the signs was behind some rocks and difficult to see. But, following the footprints, we were able to stay on the trail. We're definitely doing this one again!
Reviewed by Barbara on 4/15/2007 Warning: This trail is very poorly marked. There are many areas in which there are long stretches on rocky terrain with no trail markers. We got off the trail and wound up having to follow a stream through thorny bushes to get back to the main road. What a nightmare!
Reviewed by Jlo on 10/21/2006 600' Elevation is a decent cardio. The view was great on the rock. Its nice to se BBlake full again. Very steep beginning and the upper thighs get a work out coming down. Short but definitely sweet. jlo
Reviewed by David Sample on 7/14/2006 Exelent Hike!!!! I am planning to hike this trail again. The final view is very rewarding and the trail is very enriching as well. A personal favorate. Take some water and a camera. Hope you enjoy it as much as I did. Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: California Hiking, California Trails, California Hikes, San Bernardino County Hiking, San Bernardino County Trails, San Bernardino County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||