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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 2 of 2 Submit your own review 
Reviewed by Marc on 6/11/2006 Good hike, I would take the first 1/2 mile of the trail slowly as it is a climb. I had my 18 month old in a backpack and we stopped at least 3 times for a water break. The views from the top are awesome and worth the trip. The trail can be a little confusing to follow though as people have made side trails through the brush. We had to ask a hiker coming down for the correct way. 
Reviewed by Bryan on 9/25/2005 We took a 3-year old and my pregnant sister-in-law. I'd like to say we made it to the top, but we decided to stop at a rock formation half-way up the top. I agree it is a short hike, but that first half mile can be brutal for a 3-year old and a preganant lady! I've done this hike on my own many times before and never could I imagine such beauty so close to the trailhead! The hike would be worth it even if it was an out and back with no destination. The castle rock formation at the end is absolute icing on the cake. For those less outdoorsy types, check out the back way to castle rock via car and a short hike by the champion lodgepole pine. However, nothing beats the beauty and majestic scenery of this short but favorite hike. Enjo
Reviewed by april on 9/4/2005 its such a good hike and it is awsome im 12 and i can do it
Reviewed by Scott on 5/9/2005 This is a great hike, one of my favorites in SoCal. A terrific workout and an adventurous class 3 scramble up the back side of Castle Rock, from where you get awesome views of Big Bear Lake. You can also continue up the main trail past Castle Rock rising to an elevation higher than the summit of Castle Rock (getting even better lake views as a result, with the Rock in the foreground). I also enjoyed resting in the sandy, rocky area at the first level area after the initial climb from the trailhead--it's a good lunch spot.
Reviewed by Rick on 11/29/2004 The trailhead for this hike was easy to find; there is a large sign. My girlfriend & I hiked on 10-23-04. The views are spectacular. The trail is easy to follow even for the elderly (There was an elderly lady that made it to the top with a little help) Take a snack because you can sit on the edge and enjoy the views while enjoying a picnic. Take binoculars and you can see Butler's Peak @ the top to the north(another hike I want to do). There are a couple streams to walk along. Many nice views. Sign are posted on the gound and on trees. If you feel lost, stop and look for a sign. Still easy to follow. Highly recommend. 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 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||