i just got back from some trail runs in the big bear area...john bull and gold mountain...i went with about 10 vehicles ( all jeeps ) and was the only jk there ...... we all got through with some very good spotting for some a little winching...the weather was perfect and so was the company... was going to camp but opted for the hotel.....can't wait to go again...
here are a couple of pics..

 

Nice. That last picture is insane! What is that, a three-foot drop???

 

Would you recommend those trails for a good weekend trip? Although you didnt camp did you happen to see what the camping was like? Like a campsite with a bunch of other people or are you completely on your own?

Got a buncha questions because we've been wanting to head to big bear to do some wheeling/camping, but havent been able to make it yet and wanted to know where we would be going.

 

if you guys are going to bigbear, let me know!

I would not try doing John Bull, remember the one noobie run where i went up the axle breaker, well that's what gold mountain is like except a little easier.

but john bull is trail damage for sure!

 

there are many very nice camping areas in the area... all well maintained ... and the roads also well marked...john bull and gold mountain are best done with at least a small group as there are no by passes...but doable, the rock sliders doing their job several times...

i went with a moderate size group and they camped at pine knot ... a well developed camp spot on the edge of town...

the only jk in the group an no lockers

 

one thing about driving you don't get to see the gory details....this is a rough trail but doable for most...

 

im surprised you did john bull with no lockers! nicely done!

 

Absolutely, John Bull is no BS It is the one of the toughest trail on the mountain. 2 doors 35" minimum/ 4 door 37" minimum. If you dont want to suffer carnage!! Be prepared for long delays as fools with stock 4WD pickups try it as well. But a well prepared person will have a great time. A winch is mandatory on John Bull if your going to try with limited mods. I saw a stock X up there 2 years ago and he was on the side of the rocks with a broken axle Have fun and be safe

 

Surely, you'll see a thread about it when wefirgure out what trails to hit and when we finally go. But the next camping trip will be to jacumba. Just need a good free weekend And I'll start a thread To organize a trip

 

thanks
there were several tjs and yjs all lifted many open diffs also 3 cherokees one w/only sliders ( winched that one twice ) and one w/7" lift.... my 2d jk has limited slip rear , 3" ome lift & 32's . would not consider the run w/o a lift and other vehicles in company....