Let’s face it, some of us are creatures of the night. Just the other night the call of the wild lured me into the darkened forest for a hike to the top of Castle Rock. My buddy, Danny Morale, and I set out to conquer Castle Rock Trail a little after 9 p.m. Foolish some might say, but a true outdoor adventurer knows a nighttime hike is a real treat. 

At first it seemed a bit intimidating, not knowing what might be lurking out there. However, the only thing waning in the midst of the cool September night was a mellow half moon and sleepy pine trees.

We parked my truck at a turnout on Hwy 18, about one mile east of Big Bear Dam.  The west end of Big Bear Lake at this time of night is practically asleep, with the exception of nocturnal animals of course.

We saw four raccoons at Danny Morale’s house before we set out for our adventure. Next, we saw a coyote staring us down at the edge of the highway near the trailhead. Of course, we know one coyote is not a threat. It’s when there are three or more in a pack that raises the level of caution! Nonetheless, the coyote went about his business sniffing the ground in search of road kill or some other furry delicacy. 

Up ahead the trailhead shimmered in the moonlight. It was a half moon, but provided enough support to help us find our way. Obviously, moonlight acts as a natural guide for nighttime hikes; but it’s also important to know some basic essentials before setting out into the dark, untamed forest. First, one should experience a trail in the daylight before wondering aimlessly at night. Without any knowledge of a trail beforehand may leave a hiker reliant on pure instinct, which could take away the enjoyment of the hike. Familiarity of a trail on the other hand gives one security, confidence and less stress. In this case, Danny and I both know Castle Rock Trail by the back of our hands, so navigation was not an issue.

Another important factor for night hikes is never go alone. Make sure to do the trek with a friend or at least a canine companion.  Remember, the more folks on a trip, usually means more fun all around. Even if you are hiking with a group of people it is always wise to let a family member or comrade know where you plan to hike and how long you’ll be gone.

Headlamps are another essential. These handy devises give nighttime hikers more assurance and free hands. The reason I like free hands is because I prefer to hike with hiking sticks. Other important tools for the hike includes a hydration pack filled with water, a pocketknife, cell phone, a pullover and a pair of workout or mountain bike gloves. 

One benefit of hiking to Castle Rock at night is the numerous directional signs posted on trees and rocks to direct hikers on the right path. Every 100 yards are so our headlamps picked up the signage, which helped us find our destination.
It took us about 15 to 20 minutes to get to the base of Castle Rock. From there, we “freestyled” to the top of the towering boulders and witnessed a view of Big Bear Lake that most people will probably never see. A light mountain breeze briskly swept through causing us to zip up our pullovers. It was a clear night and we could see the silhouettes of the north shore’s south facing slopes with just enough illumination from house lights around the valley. We sat in amazement as we observed a grand view of the alpine lake resting quietly beneath a starry sky.  

Getting There:
Castle Rock Trail is about 1 mile east of Big Bear Dam on the south side of Big Bear Blvd. (Hwy 18) Just across from Papoose Bay. Parking is about 40 yards east of the trailhead on the north side of Big Bear Blvd. (Hwy. 18) at the highway turnout.  

Howl at the Moon,

Daniel Pea