Well, I was up in Big Bear with the famdamily for a relaxing picnic in Holcomb Valley and decided to check out John Bull:



NO SNOW!

Planning on going this Saturday, the 30th.

The 330 is still closed but we can take the 18 or the 38. We can meet at the discovery center around 9:30am. Depending on how many people go or how early we get started, we can hit up Gold Mountain after.

Going:

1. thrshr01
2. Goldfish
3. JOHN ACEVEDO
4. tiny e and big l +1

Maybe:

1. svx93
2. saravonshep
3. johnjruiz06
4. deckhand100
5. serveapurpose
6. Puck Jr

 

Is this something a newbie with mostly stock could do?

 

This looks pretty fun, better check the calendar. Need lockers on this??

 

The Gatekeeper (shown in the pic) sure is nasty after the harsh winter. I tried running it last weekend and got rejected. I could have eventually made it with some care planning (read rock stacking) but it was getting close to dark. We had already run a couple of trails that day. There was still snow, ice and mud which made it real hard. The OP's pic shows it is nice and dry now. It should be good to go.

I have 3" lift with Toyo MT's and I kept slipping off the rocks. The rectangle in the pic below is the part that wouldn't let us pass. Three of us tried it and none of us got through. The rock in the circle was the main culprit for getting high centered or axle blocked. With it dry, it should be much easier. I plan on going in a few weeks to actually get through it.

 

I've heard of stock X's going through this trail so lockers aren't necessary. Trail damage is highly likely for stock Jeeps though.

It's almost completely dry, there was a puddle about 2 ft in dia by a rock (forgot which one) but shouldn't be too bad. I would have gone through it today but I was with my family and there were no one else around to pull me out incase I get stuck so I didn't risk it.

So what say you?

 

I would recomend getting some rock rails.Go on you tube and type in john bull trail in big bear and check it out . I heard the " gate keeper " which is the picture that was shown with all the rocks ,is one of the tough areas... someone correct me if I'm wrong.

 

If I can get my 35's before then I'll goI'll have to let you know towards the end of next week

 

Yes, the picture is of the Gatekeeper. It is the hardest part of the trail. I agree that rock rails are a must for a stock Wrangler. Just too much risk of tearing up the rocker panel without them. Those rocks are huge in the picture. I have a lot of rock rash to prove it.

 

I can't go next weekend, but you guys should have fun. Just be careful getting through the Gatekeeper and it should be smooth sailing from there.

 

still waiting for my break lines but i def wan to go! i want to say put me down as going but i will have to get my break lines and then ill be there!

peter