OverviewBear Dome is located in the John Muir Wilderness just North of Florence Lake. It is a pretty impressive dome and looks like it would be an awesome climb. I have not climbed it yet, I made this page with hopes to gather as much info as I can, especially from anyone who has climbed it. Im planning on doing it as soon as I can. We'll see what the weather does. If anyone has information about Bear Dome that they'd like to share it would be appreciated. Getting There One access is off of the Bear OHV Route. The OHV road isn't too bad, any stock 4x4 should be able to handle it, last time I was up it I didn't even need the four wheel drive. The trail from Bear Diversion Dam is not well maintained at all. The most important thing is just to look for the markers along the trial. You cross the creek below the dam and follow the trail East up the hill through alot of manzanita. The trail is marked with stacked rocks and some yellow flagging. The dome is visible for the majority of the hike.
Another access is from the Hooper Diversion Dam. The Hooper OHV Route is passable with any truck with a little bit of clearance. Any stock 4x4 shouldn't have a problem. The trail takes off up the hill to the left of the dam. The trail is in pretty good condition and easy to follow. You can see Bear Dome from the trail.
No matter which approach you decide to take there is some cross country hiking required to reach the base of the dome. Both trails will get you close enough for it to not be too hard to navigate. If you are not confident in your navigational and cross country skills do not attempt.
Red TapeSince its in the wilderness you need a permit if you plan on camping. The fee is $5 a person per night if you make reservations. They are free if you just pick them up the day before you go up. The Forest Service offers them on a first come first serve basis. You can pick them up at any Sierra National Forest Ranger Station. There are no established campsites so use Leave No Trace practices.
Sierra National ForestWhen To ClimbThe Forest Service locks all the gate to the road into Edison and Florence and also the gates to the OHV Routes as soon as it might snow, usually in early November. Check with the Forest Service to make sure that the roads are open.
Sierra National ForestCurrent ConditionsOnce again check with the Forest Service and the weather for Huntington Lake, CA.
Sierra National Forest
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John Muir Wilderness
