Mile 0.0: Start at the south end of the parking area, on signed Bear Valley Trail. The wide trail initially edges past a meadow, but soon it heads under the shelter of a Douglas fir, California bay, alder, and tanoak forest. Mile .2: Junction with Mount Wittenberg Trail. Continue straight on Bear Valley Trail. Mile .8: Junction with Meadow Trail. Continue straight on Bear Valley Trail. Mile 1.5: Divide Meadow. This broad flat grassy valley is framed by tall stands of Douglas fir. The trail keeps to the right of the meadow, descending slightly. Mile 3.8: Under a canopy of Douglas fir, alder, and California bay, Baldy Trail departs to the right. Continue straight on Bear Valley Trail. Bikes are not permitted past this point, so if you've cycled this far, lock up your bike and proceed on foot. Ahead, the vegetation becomes incredibly lush, and you might see a variety of ferns, as well as coast live oaks, Douglas fir, and gnarled buckeyes. Mile 4.1: Back in grassland, Bear Valley Trail ends at a junction with Coast Trail. Bear left, toward Arch Rock. Mile 4.2: Junction. Continue straight, following the sign, "to Arch Rock." Mile 4.4: Arch Rock. A rough path to the left descends to the arch, but you may be instantly draw to the bluff. Be sure to keep a close eye on children, as a steep drop-off is completely unfenced. Enjoy the views west, south, and north, and when you're ready, retrace your steps to the trailhead. Mile 8.8: Back at the parking lot.
