[pct-l] Bailing out at Big Bear??

[Amanda L Silvestri]

Jalan
  
There are a number of places where you can bail-out both approaching and leaving Big Bear.  I don't have my map handy but there here are a few: 
   
  Fish Creek Camp Ground is at the end of a dirt road that will eventually take you to HWY 38.  Go North (right) to Big Bear, go South (left) to Yucaipa.
  Jump-off Point's exit road is an extension of this same dirt road to HWY 38.
  Onix Peak in very near Hwy 38.  Just bear left.
  As you swing West around Big Bear (from the South) you will cross HWY 18.
  Van Dusen Rd. leads down to HWY 18 as does Cougar Crest Trail and Holcomb Valley Rd.
  There several dirt roads that lead to Fawn Skin and Green Valley Lake, both communities are on or near HWY 18 with traffic.
   
  At the Deep Creek Bridge to can continue going straight and slightly up hill to meet Hook Creek Rd.  There isn't much traffic there, but it will eventually take you into Lake Arrowhead.  Turning left shortly past the bridge, there is a dirt road that will take you back up to Green Valley Lake, past a campground or two.  This is a long walk and I would not do it until the season is more in swing and there will be more traffic. 
   
  If you need medical attention, cross Deep Creek Bridge and fork to the right as the valley divides.  An up hill hike will take you to a campground behind Lake Arrowhead Hospital. 
   
  After Deep Creek Hot Springs your options fade a bit.  There is a road at the end of the Mohave Damn that can take you to Hisperia, but that is away from the trail.  Crossing only the first section of the Damn and staying on the trail will bring you to HWY 173.  Rides here can take you past Lake Silverwood to the intersection with HWY138.  A ride here can take you to the 15 FWY at Cajon Pass.
   
  If you are thinking of bailing, I would get a Forest Service Map with all the recreation trails and dirt roads clearly indicated, $8.00 at any National Forest Service Office.  There is an excellent NFS office in Idyllywld,
   
  Good luck
   
  Amanda