Middle Control Road - Big Bear

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4.2/5 (23 reviews)
Redlands, California (San Bernardino County)
Last Updated: 05/05/2023

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 (23)
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100
Open
Rated 4/5
Visited: 09/02/2023
Difficulty Accuracy: Spot On

The trail is not currently possible to begin from the northern trailhead (waypoint 1) due to the storm and significant amount of debris covering the road. We began the trail from the southern trailhead (waypoint 5) off highway 38. The trail is wide and could be done by most cars. No 4WD is required. There were several waterfalls along the trail, the first (from southern start) is the tallest. The whole trail is through the forest so no distant lookouts. The trail is great all the way to the bridge at the end of the trail (north end) and then it is impassable. I would guess this part of the road will not be open for many months due to the amount of debris and high volume of water still flowing through the creek. There is plenty of room to turn around anywhere along the trail.
Trail Review: Middle Control Road - Big Bear - Chedder
Trail Review: Middle Control Road - Big Bear - Chedder
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Open
Rated 4/5
Visited: 08/11/2023
Difficulty Accuracy: Easier

Pretty little drive on the way to Clarks Grade. Loved the waterfall right at the beginning off 38, but man there were a lot of biting bugs out. Just a pretty drive on a dirt road.
Open
Rated 4/5
Visited: 06/23/2023
Difficulty Accuracy: Spot On

Short connector trail, nice scenery and no trail concerns. Nice little waterfall at the end!
Trail Review: Middle Control Road - Big Bear - Angie Sunderland
Trail Review: Middle Control Road - Big Bear - Angie Sunderland
Open
Rated 5/5
Visited: 05/24/2023
Difficulty Accuracy: Spot On

This trail is 100% graded. Few ruts from water but smooth overall, with a beautiful waterfall near the end!
Trail Review: Middle Control Road - Big Bear - David Martinez
Trail Review: Middle Control Road - Big Bear - David Martinez
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Official Crew
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125300
Open
Visited: 05/05/2023

Trails are officially open https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd1095216.pdf

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