The
John Bull Trail has the solid reputation as one of the toughest and most challenging trails in the
Big Bear mountains of
San Bernardino County. This trail should only be done with in a group of well-equipped short-wheelbase vehicles. Lockers are recommended, but not always required. The entire trail is strewn with boulders of various sizes. There are a number of sharp drop-offs along the way. Be prepared for scratches, dings and flat tires. This trail is not for stock SUV's.
The trail is part of the "Adopt a Trail" program through the National Forest Service, and has been adopted by the
So Cal Broncos (east end) and the
Waywegos 4 Wheel Drive Club (west end).
Running the trail west to east is somewhat easier, there is a campground at the western starting point. Most off-roaders prefer to start at the east end of the trail. The official start point is off of the
Burnt Flats Trail (3N02), although many catch it at the end of 3N32.
Around April/May 2009 the ends of the trail has had more boulders pushed in to make more difficult "gateways".