Often called the mini Rubicon Trail, John Bull is one of the most challenging trails in the San Bernardino Forest. Totaling over 4.5 miles long, expect to spend a full day on this straight-through trail. Overall, the trail doesn't gain much altitude but continuously hovers between 7,500 and 8,150 feet above sea level, making it one of the highest trails in Southern California.

The trail is commonly divided into two segments due to the change in difficulty and the ease of access from intersecting trails. The first segment, referred to as Little John Bull or John Bull East, is the first 1.5 miles along the eastern side of the trail. This section of the trail is a straigh-through shot between 3N02 and 3N32, taking between 30 minutes to 2 hours to complete. Hovering around 7,500 feet above sea level for the entire section, the trail surface comprises mainly dirt trails with a few sections of rocky areas ranging up to 18 inches tall. The most popular obstacle of this section is the V-Notch, where you straddle a 3-4 feet deep notch alongside a tree. Because the notch is entirely optional, this section of trail is perfect for newer drivers and stock high-ground clearance 4WD vehicles or for those looking to expand into the intermediate area and get some rock crawling experience.

The second segment of the trail, John Bull Trail, is longer and much more difficult than the first segment. At just under 3 miles long, this segment often takes 3 to 6 hours to complete. The John Bull Trail section, starts as you arrive at the infamous "Gate Keeper," off of 3N32. Once there, you will start crawling your way up a boulder field with rocks the size of potato sacks. The trail is full of large boulders, tight turns, rock gardens, ledges, and small squeezes between trees. While traversing the trail, you will find it is mostly loose dirt with minimal traction. Ground clearance is your friend on this trail, as you will want a good breakover angle to get over several of the obstacles. Because of that, short-wheelbase vehicles tend to fare better, but an adequately armored vehicle with a moderate lift and larger tires can make this trail. Rock sliders, at least one locker, and a winch are not required but highly recommended.

There is no right or wrong way to run the trail, but most run it east to west. While driving the trail, always pay attention to areas you could pull off in. If you come across a group going in the opposite direction, you may have to back up to those locations.

Jeep Badge of Honor Trails