Bear Divide Trail

Very beautiful place! I came out here for a run, and the sight was just astonishing! It stretches on for miles all the way from Newhall to Valencia. If you think you have seen or know all you need to know about Newhall and Valencia then you clearly haven’t been on this trail!

The face of «The Bear» is one of, if not the most, rewarding hikes in Santa Clarita. I have hiked it six times so far, and have yet to get bored with it.
Once you start on the trail, after several hundred feet you will be given the option to go right for the switchbacks or to continue straight on the more direct and strenuous route.
I personally like to do the full loop: go straight up, attack the bear, and run the switchbacks on the way back down.
The incline is really tough and your muscles will probably get tight and even shakey at moments. However, you can stop for breaks and turn around to take in the beautiful views of the valley. Be encouraged by your progress and aim to reach that water tower at the very top.
From there, you’ll see the Nike missile launch sites, the fire station, and a side of Santa Clarita that you will love.
If you decide to take the switchbacks on the way down, you’re in for a treat. The trail is absolutely beautiful and shaded with trees looming over. Just note that it can be very very narrow in some parts.
It’s hard to say how long the hike is, maybe give yourself 1.5−2 hours. (Unless you run the way down and you’ll make it in less time) Bring water. And enjoy a good workout!

I cannot believe that this was my very first time exploring my own back yard. I have literally lived with such an amazing playground and never before ventured up this way. I am so glad today I finally took advantage of this opportunity.
The bear divide hike is really a great work out; just make sure you take the trail that looks the most intimating. I was told I had an option of a scenic route or a more challenging one, I am glad I did not choose the scenic route. When you see the fork in the road, you will easily be able to decipher which is which. It is really worth the workout and the view. As we started our climb I instantaneously felt the burn. My thighs, gluts and calves were getting an amazing workout. As long as you bring a partner, water and take a few moments to appreciate the view you can make it to the top, and you’ll be glad you did.
Once you reach the top you can venture past Los Angeles County Fire Camp No. 9. and continue to the Nike Base that housed the radar system that acquired and tracked the targets and guided the missiles. The view here is also gorgeous. If you are lucky enough you may even see the helicopter land on the helipad. I fully embraced my inner child as observed with amusement and aw as the helicopter landed.
Or you can go the opposite direction of the fire station, and follow the paved road. This will eventually lead you the entrance of the old missile base. Unfortunately I was on a time frame and did not have time to explore the missile base, but I will be back.
Overall this is was an amazing hike; great workout, awesome view, and some history too. I forgot to turn my GPS on, but I would say we roughly hiked 5miles. However, you can continue past the Nike Base and increase your hike for as long as you like. There are endless trails to explore.

The Bear Divide trail starts near the Bear Divide US Service Fire Station. It’s a 2 mile roundtrip hike up the north face of the San Gabriels to the Los Angeles County Fire Camp 9. You’ll encounter a large water tank at the top of the mountain.
From the top you will also be able to view the decommissioned Army Nike missile launch sites. According to an article that I read on the topic, Nike-​Hercules nuclear missiles were stored, maintained and prepared for launch beneath underground launch doors located at these sites. LA-​94 and LA-​98 were two out of 16 Nike-​Hercules missile sites constructed to protect the Los Angeles area in case Soviet planes or missles were to invade Los Angeles airspace. The sites are now fenced off by a radar systems company.
After you start the trail at 800 feet you will be given the option to climb the more strenuous face of the bear or its friendlier backside. The face is steep and challenging. The backside is a more scenic leisurely stroll.
At the top there are great views of the San Fernando Valley, the Santa Clarita Valley, the Ojai Range, and the Antelope Valley
To get to the trail you drive south on Sand Canyon, past Placerita Canyon, continuing into the Angeles National Forest. Drive along the winding road, about 3 miles, and you will eventually see the sign for the Bear Divide US Forest Service Fire Station on the right. Turn right and head ¼ mile to the turnout on the right.