The Gatekeeper at the John Bull trail head. Intelligently designed, there are 4 routes through these rocks, each suited for various types of vehicles, tire size, and capability. The USFS maintains a "1 in 1" policy for this trail, meaning, a vehicle with 31" tires and at least one locker will be able to make it through. - NextStepDesigns Photo Galleries

I was joined by SCLR buddies Matt Norton (Disco II) and Steve Perry (D90) for a nice run up to Big Bear. We ran Gold Mountain and then John Bull. These trails were quite a bit more worn than last year, but lots fun. We cruised through without any difficulties, but the trail demands careful wheel placement and your full attention or it could get real expensive real fast. Our little group made it through unscathed and ready for more!

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nwoods > On the 330 up to Big Bear. 38 degrees, snow, dense fog...Oh My! We were seriously second guessing the wisdom of choosing this particular day as we ascended the mountain. However, once we reached the Arrowhead area, the sun came out and it was quite nice all day.

nwoods > The first challenge on Gold Mountain trail. Sort of a gate keeper.

nwoods > Nathan cruises up the shelf in the wife's new Jeep.

nwoods > Steve Perry dangles a wheel for the camera

nwoods > Short wheelbase is such an advantage!

nwoods > Matt's longer wheelbase Discovery II spins a wheel, but then climbs the shelf easily.

nwoods > Rock field along the Gold Mountain Trail.

nwoods > The tail end of the Gold Mountain Trail

nwoods > Towards the start of the John Bull trail. The first few miles are just plan dirt roads.

nwoods > The Gatekeeper at the John Bull trail head. Intelligently designed, there are 4 routes through these rocks, each suited for various types of vehicles, tire size, and capability. The USFS maintains a "1 in 1" policy for this trail, meaning, a vehicle with 31" tires and at least one locker will be able to make it through.

nwoods > Steve's D90 picks a route through the Gatekeeper

nwoods > Testing sidewall grip. 33" BFG MT's

nwoods > Matt's squeezes the longer Disco II through a pivot point.

nwoods > Matt's Disco II cruised through the rocks easily.

The Gatekeeper at the John Bull trail head. Intelligently designed, there are 4 routes through these rocks, each suited for various types of vehicles, tire size, and capability. The USFS maintains a "1 in 1" policy for this trail, meaning, a vehicle with 31" tires and at least one locker will be able to make it through.