Trail Overview

This is the 2nd more intense trail off Schweitzer Creek Road, the other is Boardman Lake Trail. This trail is a bit more technical than Boardman Lake and a bit longer in distance. Similarly, there are large loose rocks and deep ruts to navigate but offers much more stunning scenery including a bridge overlooking Black Creek and a small waterfall near the end. This trail also gains more elevation quickly. No cellular service was noted with AT&T on this trail. The temperature cooled off dramatically toward the end going from a cool 79 degrees to 68 degrees.

Photos of Bear Lake Trail

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Difficulty

Large loose rocks, deep potholes, large uneven ruts, and occasional steeper incline. Not many turnouts on this section and it was well traveled. The edge offers a bit of exposure as it's very soft moss and not a wide road.

Technical Rating

zach floyd

Nov 22, 2025

Open

Temps were in the low 40's, light rain and overcast. Fun easy trail with a few lightly technical areas with rocks, ruts and puddles. Not many potholes to watch out for which was nice. Short hike to bear lake at the top but it was raining enough that I decided to come back another day to check out the lake.

Patrick Hopkins

Jul 11, 2025

Open

Beware if some raod maintenance with large trucks and excavators. Day after rain, so puddles and no dust!!! Great ride!

Amin Stankovski

May 05, 2025

Open

Some large potholes and smaller rocks. Minor road erosion leading to narrow sections with incline. Erosion has been marked with ribbons by forest service. Fallen trees have been cleared by forest service. Fully accessible by most stock AWD/4WD vehicles.

Ray Gills

Jan 18, 2025

Open

Some mud below 1800 ft, patches of packed snow and ice above. Nothing much a regular clearances AWD can't manage. Couple people camped at the end of the road for a night or two.