Recent snow and rain have caused many trails to be temporarily closed. Please check with the local agencies for the most up-to-date information.

Middle Control Road - Big Bear

4.2/5 (18 reviews)
Redlands, California (San Bernardino County)
Last Updated: 03/18/2023

Trail Information

Highlights

Middle Control Road might not sounds like the worlds most interesting trail, but don't let this name fool you. The trail zig zags down the mountain providing some amazing views across the valley floor. Along the route there are plenty of options to get out of the 4x4 and hike the area. Also along the route is a beautiful waterfall which could easily be a place to stop when looking for inspiration... Whether you love off-road or you're looking for one of the most scenic drives in the area, I would recommend Middle Control Road as one of your next stops.

Trail Difficulty and Assessment

Trail Navigation

Trail Reviews

4.3/5 (18 reviews)
Official Crew
106150
Temporary Closure
Visited: 03/18/2023

The forest service has deemed the San Bernardino Forest unsafe for public off-roaders to use until June 30th. For more information on this: https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd1095216.pdf If you disagree with the complete forest closure, please call (909) 382-2682 and ask to speak to the head ranger. You can also contact the head office in Washington,DC, and voice your concern there. (202) 912-7055 Another person you could contact your senator and express your feeling - (949) 598-5850 (Alex Padilla) or (202) 224-3121 (DC switch board) If you are unhappy with this at all, please make sure you sign up for the local off-road collations (Cal4wheel, and Corva). Feel free to reach out to them and ask what you can do. Cal4Wheel - (916) 381-8300 CORVA - 916-710-1950
Open
Rated 5/5
Visited: 01/21/2023
Difficulty Accuracy: Harder

The falls (waypoint 4) has now flooded the trail, making a small river spitting the path in half. Also immovable rocks have fallen down making it even harder. Impassable as of now…at least in a stock Jeep. Good luck!
Open
Rated 4/5
Visited: 07/08/2022
Difficulty Accuracy: Easier

I have been going up and down this road for the last ten years, usually on two wheels or in my uncles truck. They live in Angelus Oaks. Now I have a Jeep and this road was as smooth as I have ever seen it. A group of 6 or 7 Jeep’s came with and we all congregated with our feet in the cool waters of the Santa Ana River. Beautiful escape from the heat below.
Official Crew
106150
Open
Visited: 05/09/2022

The trail should be open now.
Official Crew
106150
Temporary Closure
Rated 5/5
Visited: 04/04/2022
Difficulty Accuracy: Spot On

multiple reports of the trail being temp closed.

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