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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
1,034 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
28.2 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
8-11h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

Clark’s Grade to Big Bear Hike

Measurement:

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Table of contents

The Clark’s Grade to Big Bear Hike is a long and challenging adventure in the San Bernardino Mountains that will see you traverse a rugged OHV Trail to reach Big Bear Lake. While out on the trail, you will climb steadily uphill along the road to reach the Skyline Ridge, before descending through the forest to arrive at Big Bear Lake. Hikers should take note that this is a one-way trail, so you will need to arrange a pick up at the end point of the route.

Route Description for Clark’s Grade to Big Bear Hike

Whether you are after a very lengthy day-hike or want to experience the San Bernardino Mountains on a multi-day backpacking adventure, the Clark’s Grade to Big Bear Hike is a great route that will provide gorgeous views of the SoCal landscape. Make sure to take extra caution along this route and keep to the side of the path, as it is primarily used by off highway vehicles that will need room to safely maneuver.

Setting out from the trailhead, you will follow the road to the northeast and descend into the Santa Ana River Valley, where you will cross over to the other side of the river. From here, you will begin the steep climb uphill into the mountains that will bring you up to the Skyline Ridge for incredible views of the surrounding landscape.

After taking in the views, you will continue along the road as it gradually descends through the forest and brings you past a series of Yellow Post campsites. Eventually, the terrain will steepen a bit and you will cover the last stretch of woodland terrain on the way into Big Bear Lake to complete your adventure along the Clark’s Grade to Big Bear Hike.

Getting to the Clark’s Grade to Big Bear Hike Trailhead

The trailhead for the Clark’s Grade to Big Bear Hike can be found along Middle Control Road, just 0.7mi northeast of Angelus Oaks.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    Yellow Post 25, Yellow Post 27

  • When to do:

    April-October

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes

  • Family friendly:

    No

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    Low

  • Route Type:

    One Way

Clark’s Grade to Big Bear Hike Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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