Black Bear Road

Dogs Leashed

Features River/Creek · Views · Waterfall · Wildflowers

The first few switchbacks are pretty slick, lots of loose rock.

To get to the trailhead in the summertime, drive up the road to Bridal Veil Falls and park at the top - as far as you feel comfortable going. The road up is not a leisurely drive, you'll need a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle.

Black Bear Road, which is a one-way road that is a notorious jeep trail, is one of the more difficult mountain passes in the country to my knowledge. It is pretty easy to follow and moderately trafficked. When you cross the creek the first time there is some really cool old mining equipment, as well as incredible views of the valley off the trail to the left.