[pct-l] ** Water & Trail Report Big Bear Area

[Bill Batchelor]

Just returned from a hike with my son around the Big Bear Area.

First, for those not intimate with the trail yet - orientation

When entering into the San Bernardino Mountains you climb from the valley
"Cabazon" or Gorgonio Pass.  Climbing into the San Bernardino's you reach a
high point about 42 miles in called Onyx Summit at PCT mile 252.  From
there, you descend into the Big Bear valley and lake area and wrap around
the north side of the lake.

We hiked from that high point, Onyx Summit Mile 252, to mid way along the
lake - road 2N09 mile 277 (actually hiked out Cougar Crest Trail just before
road 2N09).

First a quick nod to Erik of www.pctatlas.com   He lives in that area and is
willing to help hikers out with rides.  He gave us a lift so we could leave
our car at the far end.  He does not monitor this list though.  To reach
him, contact via his web site.

Train conditions were in general immaculate.  All blow downs on the first 15
miles were cleared.  Any remaining blow downs on the second 15 miles were
easy to walk around or step over.  There is plenty of snow on upper
elevations of many peaks, but the PCT is completely clear.

Water:

Arrastre Trail Camp mile 256
The piped water is dry.  Arrastre creek flowing and clean.  Creek comes
above ground just before this camp though and is flowing nicely.  Further
down trail PCT crosses creek multiple times each with more water.

Doble Trail Camp
Piped water: #1 dry, #2 dripping.  #2 Pipe holds 2 liters then stops for
hours of reloading.  Spring/well metal cover above pipe holding water -
filterable - lots-a-floaties.   This would be a real nice place for angels
to drop off water caches.

Van Dusen road crossing / Caribou Creek mile 274
Creek flowing strong.  Great camping and break area except within view of
often used dirt road.

Best to all,

Pink Gumby