John Bull Jr.: A raw, ledged ridge ride into Big Bear’s backcountry

BIG BEAR LAKE JEEP FIELD GUIDE

John Bull Jr.: A raw, ledged ridge ride into Big Bear’s backcountry

A 3.5‑hour intermediate off‑road loop through hill climbs, ledges and a steep descent, useful for anyone planning what to bring and how the trail flows.

John Bull Jr.: A raw, ledged ridge ride into Big Bear’s backcountry.

Duration
Contact operator
Location
Big Bear Lake
Operator
Big Bear Off-Road Experience
Category
Jeep
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

John Bull Jr. threads into the Big Bear backcountry as an intermediate off‑road trail that tests vehicle control with a demanding hill climb, exposed ledges and a pulse‑raising descent, all inside a compact 3.5‑hour experience.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

An intermediate trail with technical obstacles
THE ROUTE

An intermediate trail with technical obstacles

The John Bull Jr. route is classified as intermediate and features multiple obstacles and boulder sections that force drivers to apply learned off‑road techniques as they progress along the trail.

Hill climb and electrifying descent
THE CHALLENGE

Hill climb and electrifying descent

A standout section is a challenging hill climb studded with obstacles, followed by an exciting ledge and a steep, heart‑pounding hill descent that make the loop memorable.

Backcountry vistas for cameras and GoPros
THE PHOTO OPS

Backcountry vistas for cameras and GoPros

Because the trail ventures far into Big Bear’s backcountry, riders will find multiple opportunities for dramatic photos and action footage—bring cameras and mountable devices to capture the run.

What the day feels like

What the drive feels like

Expect a focused, technical outing where guests put recently learned skills to work: probing lines over boulders, negotiating a steep climb, edging across a ledge and then committing to a brisk downhill run, all within a roughly three‑and‑a‑half hour window.

An intermediate trail with technical obstacles

THE ROUTE

An intermediate trail with technical obstacles

The John Bull Jr. route is classified as intermediate and features multiple obstacles and boulder sections that force drivers to apply learned off‑road techniques as they progress along the trail.

Hill climb and electrifying descent

THE CHALLENGE

Hill climb and electrifying descent

A standout section is a challenging hill climb studded with obstacles, followed by an exciting ledge and a steep, heart‑pounding hill descent that make the loop memorable.

Backcountry vistas for cameras and GoPros

THE PHOTO OPS

Backcountry vistas for cameras and GoPros

Because the trail ventures far into Big Bear’s backcountry, riders will find multiple opportunities for dramatic photos and action footage—bring cameras and mountable devices to capture the run.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this outing suits — and who it doesn’t.

1
Active FamiliesAges 10 and older.
2
Families with toddlersToddlers are allowed provided they are at least 18 months old; parents should notify the operator in advance to request an appropriate car seat.
3
Parents of infantsNot suitable for infants younger than the 18‑month minimum; infants under that age cannot participate.
4
Guests requiring child restraintsThe operator can provide appropriate car seats if notified ahead of time—plan to communicate child seat needs when booking.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Duration

The experience lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes.

What to Bring

Bring cameras and GoPros, comfortable walking shoes, outdoor clothing, sunscreen and hats to make the most of photo and action opportunities.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the John Bull Jr. tour?

The tour runs approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes.

What is the difficulty level of the trail?

John Bull Jr. is an intermediate trail that includes a challenging hill climb, ledge sections and a steep descent.

What is the minimum age for children on the tour?

Children must be at least 18 months old to participate.

Can the operator provide car seats for toddlers?

Yes—if you will be bringing a toddler, let the operator know ahead of time so they can provide an appropriate car seat.

What should I bring to the tour?

Bring cameras or GoPros, comfortable walking shoes, outdoor clothing, sunscreen and hats.

Is gratuity included in the tour price?

Tour price does not include gratuity.