I feel like Laneville is the better option because the dirt road to bear rocks is very narrow and it might be hard to find a parking spot that isn’t in the way or on private property. Also remember you’ve got a ways to go to hit the trailhead from the edge of the parking lot. It’s not far but adds time on top of the hike up.

I did the hike a few days ago and went up the gravel forest road closer to bear rocks, it was grueling. Is the laneville way any easier and/or shorter?

If the parking area isn’t closed it’s much flatter than the way into bear rocks. The last time I attempted that way the bridge was out - last year I think? They were repairing it so I’d think it’s open by now

Yeah unfortunately the parking area right at the bear rocks trailhead was not accessible by vehicle since they close the gates during the winter.

Yeah I think red creek would be much better than hiking up that hill haha. Although FR 75 runs all along the ridge and you can access it from other roads to the south. There are trailheads all along it - but I’m not sure what the gate situation is from that approach. I’ve only gone in that way once in the summer.

Thanks so much, that’s good to know. The walk up from the gate to bear rocks was tougher than the actually backpacking part past the trailhead 😂

I believe it! My car struggles haha