John Bull

John Bull earned its reputation as Southern California’s answer to Moab, dropping into the Holcomb Creek drainage through a series of granite ledges and boulder fields that separate posers from players. The trail’s infamous off-camber wall and waterfall obstacle have claimed countless oil pans and egos, while the granite chutes demand precise wheel placement and nerves of steel. What started as a mining access route now serves as Big Bear’s premier technical challenge, where weekend warriors learn the difference between wanting lockers and needing them.

Expert difficulty requires a well-built rig with armor, lockers, and winch — plus the skill to use them without destroying the environment or your truck. Late spring through early fall offers the best conditions, though snow can close access roads into December. No permits required, but this is sensitive habitat where careless driving brings unwanted government attention. Success here means joining the ranks of serious rock crawlers, while failure often means expensive recovery bills and wounded pride.