Champion Lodgepole Pine Trail review for family walkers

The Forest Service describes an easy one-mile round trip with 14 numbered interpretive posts leading to one of California's largest recorded lodgepole pines.

Visitors focus on the tree and quiet meadow rather than expansive scenery. The direct trail is different from the longer route that reaches the tree from Castle Rock.

The Champion Lodgepole Pine Trail is currently closed. Access to the trail and its approach roads is subject to confirmation from the Forest Service. The Forest Service's Line Fire closure order included this trail and the roads leading to it.

When open

When access is permitted, the route is about 1 mile round trip and is considered easy. The Forest Service describes a gentle path that follows a small stream toward a large lodgepole pine. This destination tree is situated beside a meadow that is known for its spring wildflowers.

The approach to the trailhead involves dirt Forest Roads 2N10 and 2N11. These roads can have uneven surfaces, rocks, and dips. A vehicle with high clearance is recommended for this approach. The direct trail is accessible only when these forest roads are open to motor vehicles, and snow can also affect their accessibility.

A connecting Bluff Mesa Trail can be accessed when both trails are open. This trail continues through stands of Jeffrey pine. Spring wildflowers may appear in the meadow next to the large pine when the area is open for visitors.

Trailhead information

The trailhead for this walk is the Champion Lodgepole Pine Trailhead. It is reached via Forest Road 2N10, located about 4.5 miles from the junction of Tulip Lane and Mill Creek Road off Highway 18. From there, Forest Road 2N11 continues for about 1 mile to the trailhead.

Trails in San Bernardino National Forest

Since the Champion Lodgepole Pine Trail is presently closed, you might consider other routes in the San Bernardino National Forest. The Cougar Crest Trail to Bertha Peak offers a trek of about 7.3 miles round trip. This path is rated as moderate to difficult and provides summit views.

For an easier outing, the Alpine Pedal Path is a paved trail spanning approximately 5.3 miles round trip. It is suitable for strollers and wheelchairs.

Another option is Grays Peak Trail, a moderate to difficult path covering about 6.9 miles round trip. This trail is best for lake views from April to October.

The Pineknot Trail to Grand View Point is a moderate, approximately 7.5-mile round trip hike. It is recognized for its forest walk leading to a panorama.

The path ahead

If the Champion Lodgepole Pine Trail were open, it would offer a straightforward walk. The route from the trailhead to the notable tree spans 0.3 miles. Along this segment, the elevation gain is approximately 100 feet. This part of the trail is considered easy and is best suited for a short family outing.

For those seeking a longer experience, the trail could continue beyond the large pine. An additional 0.4 miles would lead to the Bluff Mesa Trail 1W16. This extension would involve a further elevation gain of about 300 feet. The total round trip, if both sections were accessible, would measure 1 mile.

Points of interest

The destination of the main path is a tree identified by the Forest Service as one of California's largest known lodgepole pines.

Currently, the Champion Lodgepole Pine Trail is closed. The closure is in effect under the Line Fire order.

The trail is located about 5 miles from Snow Summit's main address. It is accessed via Forest Road 2N10 and then Forest Road 2N11. The trailhead is specifically named the Champion Lodgepole Pine Trailhead.