Features:

This used to be a popular hike that has easy access from Hwy 12. You will need a Discovery Pass to park at the trailhead.

This hike basically follows a Forest Service road that was washed out during the winter of 1996. The trail attempts to follow the washed out road, but in several places there are no signs of the road left. And yet, from time to time you will cross by or over culverts that are artifacts of the washed out road.

This trail follows a seasonal stream which at times provides beautiful little ponds along the way. The trail crosses the stream bed several times in the 3 miles that are cleared of brush. However, usually by mid-May, the stream drys up.

This hike can be done year round, however in the depths of winter, the road crews plow HWY 12 and leave an impassable berm where the parking area is located.

There are no serious vistas or other dramatic benefits of hiking this trail. However, during most of the year, it is a pleasant modest hike with spring wildflowers and birds to enjoy. NOTE: by the end of April and until winter, this trail is frequented by rattlesnakes and bull snakes. This could be a problem for pets or small children.

At approximately three miles, another seasonal stream crosses the trail. The trail is maintained up to this point and if you climb just a few feet up the embankment, there is a nice clear area to rest. This little "landing" is the destination for most hikers.

Rattlesnake crossing the Bear Canyon trail

Bullsnake crossing the Bear Canyon trail

How to get there:

   Trailhead:   N46.7063, W120.8894 (click for directions)