Mojave Event Easter Weekend - registrants

[Desertcrawler]

Please use this thread to provide any updates on your registration status or when/where you plan to meet up with us for the Mojave Trail Trip over Easter Weekend.

To officially register, you need to go here http://nclrclub.org/index.php?option=com_attend_events&Itemid=132

If you are not a member, and are interested/planning on going as a members guest, post your request in this thread.

If you have questions about the trip/route, etc you should go here:http://nclrclub.org/forum/showthread.php?t=67 or here http://nclrclub.org/forum/showthread.php?t=86

Use those threads for general commentary, I am trying to figure out who is actually committed to going on this thread.

[Desertcrawler]

Ok, I've updated and think we have our final list of rigs...looks like a total of 7 of us

Meeting at Tehapachi

1. Chuck Mobraten (NCLR025) aka DesertCrawler + Linda, Marla, Tyler
2. Gary Young (NCLR002) aka PCRover
3. Bill Wester (NCLR052) aka NCLR052 & Sean Wheeler (NCLR078) aka LATeapx
4. Nicholas Tan (NCLR059) aka CodyNT

Gary, I think you, Nicholas, and I could convoy up together as we all are leaving Bay Area around 3pm. I'd suggest we try and use Casa de Fruta as a rallying point -- and use cell phones to hone in on locations. Whoever is running late can drive a little faster to catch up!


Meeting us at Avi Casino (or meeting us at Oatman for Lunch)

3. Hugh Wilton (NCLR038)
5. Brian Hunt (NCLR019) aka HMBRover
5. Stefano Watson


Can't make it this time:

Michael Arnold (NCLR043)
Ron Boston (NCLR026) aka Ron CT110 + the margarator + Tim Goldsmith (NCLR026)
David Cortes (NCLR082) aka DCProven (attending Sunday only so far)


This should be a great trip with lots of photo opps. And with only 7 rigs, we should be able to make better time than with a larger group.. I will miss the Margarator and the chance to meet more folks though...

[codynt]

Just registered. Add another tent cot to the list... :)

[Desertcrawler]

We have 7 confirmed registrants, though rumour has it El Presidente may be bailing on this trip. If you actually plan on going, please make sure you have registered according to the official registration system.....I need to complete some paperwork this week and send it in with an estimated number of rigs to get it approved, the smaller the number, the easier the process, -- but I don't want to cut anyone out who may still be thinking about this trip seriously.

[astateofmike]

Yeah, I am not going to make it this time sorry. Other commitments are just killing my off roading this year...and boarding...

[dcproven]

It looks like I can just join you guys Sunday, do I need to still register for that?

David.

[astateofmike]

I'd say that you were "on your own" and happen to meet up....but I'd think it will be a safer bet to include you in the permit request as it will avoid confusion on the trail if authorities are met.

[Desertcrawler]

Go ahead and register -- just indicate your plans for Sunday only. I'm going to use the registration list to ask people for things like cell phones, etc as time gets nearer.

[dcproven]

OK, you got it!

[PCRover]

Will, Don't forget to unregister through the Website link. There is a "Cancel Registration" option.

[PCRover]

Chuck, are you going to send me the trip GPS files or did you get it figured out?

[HMBRover]

Gary,
I put together a file of waypoints for the trail and sent a spreadsheet to Chuck. I guess he's still traveling so probably hasn't had a chance to do anything with them. I can send you the same file, a .csv, a Garmin Data Base file or a .pcx file. What would you like??

[Gotrovr]

Will, Don't forget to unregister through the Website link. There is a "Cancel Registration" option.

done... and not happy about having to miss out

[PCRover]

Thanks Brian, that would be great if you could send them, or post them here on the forum.

[Desertcrawler]

Let em merge em up and see what we have...

[RON CT110]

Now that I Shaver Lake trip and my family Hawaii vacation are completed, I can now see/plan pass February! :)

Just registered!

Who has AAA plus card here?

Since this is for stock vehicles, I am taking my 04 D2 and rolling up the windows (dust free wheeling this time)! :D

Ok, tent cot, and margarita maker (and perhaps rum filled watermelon, and just plan watermelon for the kids) (and no drink and driving of course) here are come...

[PCRover]

Great news Ron! Glad you can make it. I heard a rumor that you had a lift put on the DII???

[HMBRover]

Since this is for stock vehicles, I am taking my 04 D2 and rolling up the windows (dust free wheeling this time)! :D

FYI: An '04 D2 is a lot more water tolerant than your old D1. :D:D

[RON CT110]

Rumor is true, and I am not denying it! :D

Now time to source out MTRs one size up from stock, and 16s for D2!

And Rovertym custom rear bumper to deal with the longer D2 rear overhang, , Rovertym sliders....when does it end! :)


Great news Ron! Glad you can make it. I heard a rumor that you had a lift put on the DII???

[RON CT110]

FYI: An '04 D2 is a lot more water tolerant than your old D1. :D:D

I sure hope so; I noticed the rubber seal between the hood and engine bay on my D2 (non on my D1); nice feature!

Certainly, I will have to "tread" cautiously this go around thru the water crossing!

I was telling Tony; I had great luck on my D1 not breaking down on-road!

And the only 2x times that I had a break down (more driver error): were breaking a rear axle shaft, and ECU getting wet on the Mojave!

Want to keep a good record clean on the D2! :)

[dcproven]

Don't worry I'll pour water on the ECU for you... :D

I mean in your D2, the D1 knows how it's done :D

David.

[RON CT110]

Lol! D1 sure knows! That was a huge power splash I made last year thru the water crossing. Sounds like you need to repeat it! :D

Don't worry I have AAA plus for you! :)

Look forward wheeling with the D1 again! Too bad you are not camping the nite before, I heard rumor there is a watermellon filled with rum waiting for you during camp fire and after dinner dessert!


Don't worry I'll pour water on the ECU for you... :D

I mean in your D2, the D1 knows how it's done :D

David.

[Desertcrawler]

Now that sounds like the trip is complete!

I've updated based on latest registrants, looks like we will have a great time.

I'm sending in the form this weekend for BLM approval, and will keep everyone posted on results or special rules.

I have two GPS files that I will be playing around with, so we should be able to have those of you that need waypoints the info you will need. I am updating it with some of the GPS spots from Bill Manns books...

[LATEAPEX]

Hey so i have decided to not take the Turd on this trip. Instead i will be attending in Bill westers (NCLR052) rig.

[Desertcrawler]

Please update the main registration page if you haven't already. I've updated status of rigs and participants on the first post of this thread.

Heard from NPS, they had a few questions about our permit -- apparently needed GPS coordinates of campsites. Spoke with BLM about Afton Canyon -- if we stay in prepared sites it will be $6 per night, otherwise there is a group camp spot we can stay at for free. He also said that he felt that we could make it across Soda, things have been drying up over the past several weeks. Lets keep our fingers crossed!


-C

[Desertcrawler]

Hey so i have decided to not take the Turd on this trip. Instead i will be attending in Bill westers (NCLR052) rig.


Sean, does that mean you will be co-pilot with Bill? You had also said something about a buddy with a Yota -- is he showing up too? If there is another rig coming, go ahead and register using the official system..

[PCRover]

Anything I need to do?

[Desertcrawler]

Maybe drop the trip limit down to 12 rigs...that is what I told the NPS.

[Desertcrawler]

It is a tradition in the Mobraten household to have an easter egg hunt on Easter morning...

So we are expecting the Easter bunny to show up and hide eggs on Saturday night. There should be lots of good hiding places right near our campground.

Let us know if other kids are coming as well so we can give the Bunny a bit of advance warning on what to expect...

[PCRover]

Done!


Maybe drop the trip limit down to 12 rigs...that is what I told the NPS.

[Desertcrawler]

We have 10 confirmed rigs, and the NPS has called me to let me know our application processing is in the works with a few more easily answered questions.

Only 2 spots remaining, so if you are gonna go make sure you sign up soon! Especially you "tenatives" like TonyDII!

[Desertcrawler]

Here are the folks registered in the official system - one rig per
http://nclrclub.org/index.php?option...nts&Itemid=132

1. Chuck Mobraten (NCLR025) aka DesertCrawler + Linda, Marla, Tyler
2. Gary Young (NCLR002) aka PCRover
3. Hugh Wilton (NCLR038) aka ??
4. Michael Arnold (NCLR043) aka Arnival
5. Brian Hunt (NCLR019) aka HMBRover
6. Nicholas Tan (NCLR059) aka CodyNT
7. Bill Wester (NCLR052) aka NCLR052 & Sean Wheeler (NCLR078) aka LATeapx
8. Ron Boston (NCLR026) aka Ron CT110 + the margarator
9. David Cortes (NCLR082) aka DCProven (attending Sunday only so far)
10. Tim Goldsmith, guest of Ron Boston (NCLR026)

Here are folks who seem to be going.are interested but haven't registered yet

Mike Crowder ( NCLR081) aka DiscoX
Tony Cerrone (NCLR003) aka Tony

We have been given approval for up to 15 rigs and 30 people, so all is looking good from Park Service side. I did want to make sure everyone knew of a few regulations we must agree to...

a)Any pets must be on leash at all times while in the park
b)No target shooting in the park
c)All human waste must be buried 6 inches under dirt or packed out
d)All drivers must bring along proof of insurance for their vehicles, subject to inspection by the Ranger if necessary


We got the permit! I'm assuming all rigs are insured -- we need to be prepared to show ranger proof on insurance. I will be sending out more information soon -- via the Private Message feature. So log in!

[Desertcrawler]

I've sent a personal email to each participant who is officially registered for the trip. I did not have Tim Goldsmith's email so if someone does please PM it to me. The emails were sent to the email address you registered for NCLR with. If you do not get an email, make sure you have registered using the registration system, and, if you have, send me a PM with the email you would like me to use..

Thanks!

DesertCrawler

[HMBRover]

Nancy and I will be leaving the Bay area early on Wednesday and camping in Death Valley National Park (Texas Springs CG?) Wednesday and Thursday nights. We'll meet the group at the Avi Casino on Friday around noon. Anyone want to check out the pup fish with us in DVNP?? It's about 250 miles from Furnace Creek to the Avi Casino so we'll be making an early start Friday AM.

[LCPDX]

Greetings from Portland!

Am honored to join you folks on this expedition and look forward to meeting you all! I will be flying in from Portland. Need to get that airline ticket bought asap so if someone could ring Ron (I do not have his tel. #) and have him call my cell so we can confirm arrival and departure times, I would appreciate it.

Best contact info for me is: tim@perfpro dot com (this address is checked daily)

Thanks!

Tim Goldsmith 503-944-9866
1997 XD Disco (OME medium w/Goodyear Silent Armors)
1978 FJ40 (seriously modified)
1978 FJ40 (absolutely stock)
1967 FJ45 (absolutely seriously rusted out)



I've sent a personal email to each participant who is officially registered for the trip. I did not have Tim Goldsmith's email so if someone does please PM it to me. The emails were sent to the email address you registered for NCLR with. If you do not get an email, make sure you have registered using the registration system, and, if you have, send me a PM with the email you would like me to use..

Thanks!

DesertCrawler

[DiscoChef]

Nancy and I will be leaving the Bay area early on Wednesday and camping in Death Valley National Park (Texas Springs CG?) Wednesday and Thursday nights. We'll meet the group at the Avi Casino on Friday around noon. Anyone want to check out the pup fish with us in DVNP?? It's about 250 miles from Furnace Creek to the Avi Casino so we'll be making an early start Friday AM.

Brian, I know your not staying at the AVI Casino but just FYI- THAT PLACE STINKS!! literally, i stayed there last year with my son and niece for the trip with SCLR and regreted it tremendously! the beds smelled of really bad B.O. Made for a really long night!

Have a great trip.

BTW- Someone should bring a NCLR sticker to put on the flag pole!

[HMBRover]

Ewww! That sounds nasty. As with all casinos, I only stop to meet people in the parking lot, use the restrooms or, if I know it's good, have a cheap meal.

I have a couple spare stickers.

Tim - Glad you are coming. It will be good to see you again.

[Desertcrawler]

Would it be possible to get the "club banner" as well? I think a great "money shot" would be our rigs lined up in the middle of Soda Lake, holding the NCLR banner.

[Desertcrawler]

Ewww! That sounds nasty. As with all casinos, I only stop to meet people in the parking lot, use the restrooms or, if I know it's good, have a cheap meal.

I have a couple spare stickers.

Tim - Glad you are coming. It will be good to see you again.

If we get an early start on Friday, and make it to the Avi area in time, we may take a little detour to Oatman (about 15 minutes away) to grab lunch and check out the Ghost Town. Othewise, I suppose we will need to put up with Casino food!

We do have some people planning on meeting us at Avi for a 2pm departure (ie Brian who comes the way of the Desert Pupfish) -- so we won't want to hit the trail any earlier than that..

[RON CT110]

Ok Tim, will talk today about firming up your flight arrangements!

In the meantime, who is leaving when and what time!

Looks like Brian is leaving Wednesday; meeting us at the AVI Casino Friday!

From what Enrique's is saying, AVI doesn't sound too appealing; I might just meet folks at the AVI Casino and just drive staight prior from the Bay Area to AVI (perhaps sleeping @ rest stop on I5 or 58 along the way)!

Anyone one else leaving from the Bay Area:

Thursday a.m.?

How about Thursday late afternoon?

Please post; like to caravan if timing works out!

Also Chuck, you can take off one more vehicle on the list; Tim (my guest from the Portland Land Rover club; drives a 97 D1 XD) is actually flying down from Portland and riding with me!

He can perhaps relieve me with from driving if we decided to drive from the Bay Area Thursday day nite and straight to meet everyone @ AVI Casinos!

This trip is just around the corner (next week); time to pack and get logistics ironed out!

[Desertcrawler]

To my knowledge, no-one is staying at Avi.

We are leaving Bay area about 3pm, then heading to Tehapachi where we will overnight. I think Gary is planning on convoying down with us/meeting us along I15. Then we leave Tahapachi early in the am, with plenty of time to make Avi (which is closest rally point to trailhead) in time for the 2pm start. We will also be possibly taking a side trip to Oatman for lunch, time allowing...

[HMBRover]

Chuck,
I'm shooting to be in the Avi area about the same time you are and can hook up by phone along the way. Oatman sounds cool!

[Desertcrawler]

Attached is the final APPROVED! Mojave permit. It includes another map which shows our planned campsites in more detail.

We do have one participant who will be joining us on Sunday morning (8am) there, so we may need to post up GPS coordinates once we get there or give him a call with them. I am pretty sure we will get cell phone coverage cause we are only about 20 miles from Baker at that point, I think...

[Gotrovr]

wtg Chuck.... you guys are officially good to go :)

[astateofmike]

No spilling of liquids/haz mat? That's a condition? Do they give any sympathy if the stupid truck leaks?

Take a few tarps or trash bags to lay under leak old trucks, just in case...eek.

[PCRover]

Cool Chuck, we are all set to go now!

[Desertcrawler]

If you didn't get my email, I will need to send it to you again (a different email) so let me know.

Also, don't forget to pack your NCLR sweatshirt. We will be doing some climbing and I haven't got current road conditions, but here is a pic at one of the passes from February 1st of this year...

http://www.vimeo.com/667564

[RON CT110]

Chuck and team,

I am going to bow out of this trip; I am working on a complex project/service implementation with one of my biggest accounts and things are not going well with the implementation this week.

Backing out the install to identify the problems and pushed it next week; I need to be local to supervise this (my bread and butter - pays for me Hawaii trip, toys and Land Rovering (smile))!

Anyways, I am sorry to have to bow out of this trip. Lots of planning on your behalf and really was looking forward to this trip with the gang margarator and all. I enjoyed last year's trip to the Mojave and was looking forward to a repeat!

And if anyone has room, let Tim know (Land Rover Club from Portland).

I told Tim that I have to bow out of this trip. If you have room, Tim will need a pick-up at either SFO or Oakland Airport Thursday and drop him off at the conclusion of the trip. PM Tim and let you two work it out. Here's his contact info:

tim@perfpro dot com

Tel 503-944-9866

[Desertcrawler]

too bad you can't make it. I'll miss you even more than the margarator!

I'd bring Tim if I could, but I've already got 3 others in my rig and no more room whatsoever. I think Gary is in the same boat -- and Brian is heading down early and going through Death Valley..

Maybe one of the other guys will have room? Not sure...

[lilcrawler]

once you work it out with him, post here so we know what the final outcome is...

[HMBRover]

Yeah, sorry, we're full up and leaving early. :(

[Desertcrawler]

I heard from Nick, and he has room and is leaving from San Francisco on THursday. So hopefully the two of them can work it out and Tim can still make it. I'm really gonna miss the Margarator though!

P.S. I know already we will want a nice blazing campfire every night and maybe morning, so anyone who can carry extra wood please do. I've got about 3 cords here at the house, could even bring some down to Franks on Monday if people want some -- I am just real worried about space...

[LATEAPEX]

We will have some room in our rig for some :cool:

[Desertcrawler]

We will have some room in our rig for some :cool:

I am not sure if Tim is going to make it or not -- but if someone wants to give him a call maybe we can talk him into coming...

[LATEAPEX]

ah i was talking about the firewood.. :cool:

[PCRover]

Test fit the Eez-Awn today, seems to work perfect. Only 5 days till departure!

[HMBRover]

Lookin' good, Gary. Mine goes back on top tomorrow. :)

BTW: I have a duffel bag full of firewood. Hope I can find a place to put it.

[Desertcrawler]

I'm gonna print out everybody's questionnaire responses and will send out a contact list to all trip participants. I am in the middle of trying to pack up right now! Of course, I have a total of 3 tent cots to bring -- so it is gonna be pretty full in our rig..

Don't forget the firewood! As much as you can bring..

[astateofmike]

How many rigs you guys have going? Had I known I'd not be working, I might have made a push to take this trip.....in retrospect...

[PCRover]

Ron dropped out so there is room for you Mike!

[astateofmike]

Except for it being Easter........I can't believe I have green beer and Good Friday within the same 7 day period....weird to say the least...

[Desertcrawler]

How many rigs you guys have going? Had I known I'd not be working, I might have made a push to take this trip.....in retrospect...


I have to figure exact count, I expect between 8 and 10. Haven't gotten some paperwork back from a couple -- may mean they aren't making it -- not sure. Sounds like a good sized group for this run...

[Desertcrawler]

Ok, I've updated and think we have our final list of rigs...looks like a total of 7 of us

Meeting at Tehapachi

1. Chuck Mobraten (NCLR025) aka DesertCrawler + Linda, Marla, Tyler
2. Gary Young (NCLR002) aka PCRover
3. Bill Wester (NCLR052) aka NCLR052 & Sean Wheeler (NCLR078) aka LATeapx
4. Nicholas Tan (NCLR059) aka CodyNT

Gary, I think you, Nicholas, and I could convoy up together as we all are leaving Bay Area around 3pm. I'd suggest we try and use Casa de Fruta as a rallying point -- and use cell phones to hone in on locations. Whoever is running late can drive a little faster to catch up!


Meeting us at Avi Casino (or meeting us at Oatman for Lunch)

3. Hugh Wilton (NCLR038)
5. Brian Hunt (NCLR019) aka HMBRover
5. Stefano Watson


Can't make it this time:

Michael Arnold (NCLR043)
Ron Boston (NCLR026) aka Ron CT110 + the margarator + Tim Goldsmith (NCLR026)
David Cortes (NCLR082) aka DCProven (attending Sunday only so far)


This should be a great trip with lots of photo opps. And with only 7 rigs, we should be able to make better time than with a larger group.. I will miss the Margarator and the chance to meet more folks though...


I updated main trip page with the above. We've got 7 rigs. I beleive I have everyones cell phones, and will distribute to the group once I get back into town on Wednesday night, so check your emails!

[HMBRover]

All packed up and ready to head for DVNP Wednesday early. Looks like we're going to have great weather.

Furnace Creek Wednesday Hi=88 Lo=57, Thursday Hi=87 Lo=56, no rain, little wind.

Needles/ Avi Casino, CA Friday Hi=83

Fort Piute (elevation 3570 ft) Friday Hi=63 Lo=47 Saturday Hi=64 Lo=48, no rain, no wind forcast but expect NW 5-10

Willow Wash (elevation 5445 ft) Saturday Hi=61 Lo=40 Sunday Hi=64 Lo=41, no rain, no wind forecast but expect NW 5-10

Baker, CA Sunday Hi=81 Lo=48 Monday Hi=82 Lo=49, no rain.

Have a safe trip, everyone!

[PCRover]

The weather looks perfect, hope it holds up! Drive safe and we'll see you Friday.

[RON CT110]

Ron dropped out so there is room for you Mike!

It is too late to get back in!

As for work, my team identified the problem this week, and going for the re-install tomorrow and on-watch Friday.

If all goes well with work/client, I can leave Sat a.m. and meet the rest @ Hole-in-Wall campground (GPS tells me it's about 7 hrs drive) near Fenner, CA.

I can still salvage my itch to go by wheeling all day Sunday with the group, camping Sunday nite + whip out the Margarator, and hopefully do the famous water crossing again Monday w/o having to use AAA/tow service - and then go our separate ways!

I have a call Tuesday in LA so I have to stay, return Wed, and won't be doing the caravan back.

Hummm! This seems to be Dejavu from last year! Met the rest (Dbregman, Enrique, SCLR folks....) at Hole-in-the Wall campground, great time till the water crossing that got my ECU wet on my D1 at that time! Dbregman towed my D1 to service-able road, Enrique helped me with planning and RoverMack drove me to LA so I can attend my client call the next day. What a trip!

Lol! Maybe I should just stay home!

Nahhh! Let me know if I can still get back in; I will know also tomorrow after the install worked or not!

Sent a PM to Tim; if he is still up for it; I can pick him up at the OAK airport Sat a.m. and drop him off at Ontario Airport on Monday back to Portland. Like I said, I need to stay in LA for a client call.

Let me know!

[PCRover]

Of course your still in Ron!

We have 7 trucks meeting on Friday so you will make it 8 on Saturday.

We were really missing the Margerator, we discussed possible replacements but it wasn't going to be the same. Glad to hear your back in, at least for some of it anyway.

[RON CT110]

Of course your still in Ron!

We have 7 trucks meeting on Friday so you will make it 8 on Saturday.

We were really missing the Margerator, we discussed possible replacements but it wasn't going to be the same. Glad to hear your back in, at least for some of it anyway.

Greatttttttttttt! Will know for sure tomorrow!

I will also respond to Chuck's email/questionaire e.g. yes I have CB 7....

And will give out my cell #; need to get atleast Gary, Chuck and Brian's cell so I can blanket message you guys Sat a.m. if I can go, and if yes, when I am leaving the Bay Area (to give my ETA) and be sure to meet up Sat eve.

Need to confirm if you guys will end up @ Hole in the Wall campground or elsewhere also!

This dessert driving scene inspired me: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cGaIMYmGBLw less the camels! He! He! Heard they are stubborn!

[PCRover]

Looks we will be leaving around 1:00PM tomorrow if things go well with packing in the morning. We'll see you all in Tehachapi Thursday night or at the trailhead Friday, and hopefully on the trail Saturday for Ron!

[LATEAPEX]

Bill and i will be leaving the bay tomorrow afternoon heading towards Tehachapi. is there a specified time and place in Tehachapi friday where we will be meeting?

My Cell which will be on in the duration of the trip is 650 279 6606

[Desertcrawler]

So far the Tehapachi crew are planning on meeting up there that evening, leaving in the morning. I'm pretty sure all of us are leaving the Bay this afternoon -

Gary is hoping to pack up and leave at noon...

I am hoping to pack up and leave by 3 .....

Nicholas is planning to leave sometime that afternoon (not sure when yet) and sounds like you are as well.

I will send an email with all contact info, and give calls to the 3 of you once we hit the road. If we want to convoy, easiest I've found is to rally up at a gas stop along the way. Usually the first one I use is at Casa de Fruta if you know where that is...we will be there around 4, 4:30 if all goes to plan. I'm gonna try and push as hard as I can to make it there to Tehapachi in time to get a good nights sleep -- but will probably stop around 6 or 7 for dinner along the way -- whether it is fast food or not depends on how quick we get out of the Bay!

[codynt]

I'll be leaving SF ~1:30pm and making a stop along the way, so depending on traffic, should be near Gilroy ~4pm. Haven't finished packing yet! :o

[LATEAPEX]

So far the Tehapachi crew are planning on meeting up there that evening, leaving in the morning. I'm pretty sure all of us are leaving the Bay this afternoon -

Gary is hoping to pack up and leave at noon...

I am hoping to pack up and leave by 3 .....

Nicholas is planning to leave sometime that afternoon (not sure when yet) and sounds like you are as well.

I will send an email with all contact info, and give calls to the 3 of you once we hit the road. If we want to convoy, easiest I've found is to rally up at a gas stop along the way. Usually the first one I use is at Casa de Fruta if you know where that is...we will be there around 4, 4:30 if all goes to plan. I'm gonna try and push as hard as I can to make it there to Tehapachi in time to get a good nights sleep -- but will probably stop around 6 or 7 for dinner along the way -- whether it is fast food or not depends on how quick we get out of the Bay!

Bill is picking me up from my work around 4:00-4:30 in morgan hill. and we will start the trip from there. i dont think we will make it to Casa in time to meet you guys. most likely we will just head straight throug to Tehachapi. unless we could possibly meet for dinner somewhere along the way

[Desertcrawler]

Here is a text of an email sent to all registered participants. It contains last minute trip information. In interest of personal privacy, I've not posted peoples cell phones, but the email contains them..

Ok, we are now confirmed with our 8 rigs. Here is the final trip list, with contact information, as I have it. Please email me back with any changes/additions. I am leaving at 3pm from the Peninsula, and overnighting in Tehapachi as originally planned if I can get my rig packed in time. If you have any last minute questions, call me at home (650-529-1220) or cell (650-208-1175) before 2pm. Once we hit the road, I will dial up everyone using the contact information below in case there are any changes…




Brian Hunt
Avi, 2pm be Oatman for lunch)
CB7 and FRS 7.1

Stefano Avio
Avi Casino, 2pm (may join at Oatman for lunch?)
FRS 7.1

Ron Boston
Willow Wash campsite (Sat night)
CB7

Nick Tan
Tehapachi (convoy from Bay?)
CB7 and FRS 7.1

Hugh Wilton

Avi Casino, 2pm (may join at Oatman for lunch?)
CB7 (handheld)

Gary Young

Tehapachi (convoy from Bay?)
CB7, FRS 7.1, Ham, Sat Phone

Bill Wester

Tehapachi (convoy from Bay?)
CB7, FRS 7.1

Chuck Mobraten
Tehpachi (convoy from Bay?)
CB7, FRS 7.1






More information on Rally Points:



-some of us will meet up along the road on the way to Tehapachi. Those of us staying at the La Quinta I would suggest we meet up that night or first thing in the morning (8am?) in front of the check-in desk.



-Avi Casino I am not familiar with but we will choose a location and all be standing out by our rigs in the parking lot where the Rovers will be visible to people coming in from the Highway. If you are there early, it is about a 15 minute drive to Oatman – we can plan on meeting there for lunch around noon or so.



-Ron, you are meeting us at the toughest place to describe. I will do some research, send you a separate email. Perhaps we can get Gary to use his sat phone and call you once we arrive if cell phones don’t work. What time will you be arriving, do you think? If you get there before us – I’ll need to give you even MORE detailed directions. This is not Hole in the Wall – it is not a prepared campsite. It is near the end of a big long lava flow, the place I am thinking of has a sheltered little spot with a fire pit… more to follow. If you have the Mojave Road Guide, the place I am describing would be just east, I believe, of where the KelBaker road crosses the Mojave Trail (I am pretty sure it is at Mile 83.6 of the trail.)…. N35.18476 W115.85033. Note that KelBaker is described as a major road between Baker and Kelso – so you will want to head to Baker, and take it about 15 miles to where it crosses the Mojave trail.





As you can tell, majority of us have CB’s except Stefano – I will have some extra FRS receivers if anyone needs one so we’ve got both covered. Gary Young is set with every communications device known to mankind, so in the event of emergency we should be able to contact the outside world no matter where we are.



It looks like weather is forecast with highs in the 70’s , lows in the 50’s – but things change quick in the desert so I’d plan on highs in the 50’s and lows in the 30’s just in case. We will also have very windy campsites, most likely, when sun goes down, so come prepared.



Gary, if you could connect with Ron – he is joining us Saturday night and will probably be the only one I am most worried about connecting with logistically since I am not sure cell phone coverage exists at our rally point, Willow Wash…



I have attached an excel list of waypoints, prepared by Brian.. I have another list I will send out once I get it uploaded which I think can be converted to Garmin format…



I am still madly trying to start packing… so hope I haven’t left anything out. Email me back if you think I have!

[Gotrovr]

You guys have a safe trip, take lots of pics :D

[RON CT110]

-Ron, you are meeting us at the toughest place to describe. I will do some research, send you a separate email. Perhaps we can get Gary to use his sat phone and call you once we arrive if cell phones don’t work. What time will you be arriving, do you think? If you get there before us – I’ll need to give you even MORE detailed directions. This is not Hole in the Wall – it is not a prepared campsite. It is near the end of a big long lava flow, the place I am thinking of has a sheltered little spot with a fire pit… more to follow. If you have the Mojave Road Guide, the place I am describing would be just east, I believe, of where the KelBaker road crosses the Mojave Trail (I am pretty sure it is at Mile 83.6 of the trail.)…. N35.18476 W115.85033. Note that KelBaker is described as a major road between Baker and Kelso – so you will want to head to Baker, and take it about 15 miles to where it crosses the Mojave trail.

Thanks Chuck!

Received your email to meet @ the Willow Wash Campsite Sat nite.

I am leaving the Bay Area @ 10am on Sat plus 7 hours drive; should be there by 5pm before it gets dark (important for me so I have some wiggle room to find you guys w/daylight).

Let me also know if you guys need supplies e.g. more ice, more wood, etc...; I can pick them up on the way!

The GPS coords I got from another site for Willow Wash is: 35°10'10''N 115°49'16''W; check this site: http://www.socalcamping.com/newcampgroundtemplate.asp?camp_id=84

Our gps coords are pretty close; will have CB7 on! And cell(s) on!

I will take I15 to Baker, exit Kelbaker Rd!

Also I'm using my wife phone (reason below) so don't be surprised, if the VM is not mine and sexier voice! :D

But hummm! Cards might not be right for me this time, and few things telling me not to go that threw me off (threw our buddy Tim from Portland off/my bad)....

- Got this client install disaster last week
- My Prius got broken into and someone took my cell phone, CDs, among others.... last week. Reason I am using my wife's cell phone and a back-up prepaid phone I picked up for Shaver Lake trip.

Will call your cell and leave back-up msg for Brian/Gary when I leave or not Saturday, and when I arrive @ Willow Wash. CB7 on! And both Cell will be on (one is Verizon and the other Sprint)!

Hope all goes well! Drive safe, and have fun!

[dcproven]

Ron,
it sucks about the Prius... I hope you can make it, I had to cancel the trip myself.

Have fun guys and bring back lots of pictures!

David

[Desertcrawler]

We now have invaded the La Quinta, there is a:

D1 (Stefano)
D2 (Chuck)
D110 (Bill)
Rangie (Nick)
LR3 (Gary)

out in the parking lot, with everyone safely tucked in bed, getting ready to head out to Oatman in the am. We plan on "wheels up" at 8am - with a convoy during the 4 hour drive to Oatman. Still have Brian and Hugh to to meet there, and then Ron with his Margarator Saturday night..

This will probably be the last post for a while, as we go "off the grid" so to speak for the next 3 days. If you don't see any posts by Tuesday morning, call the NPS and send out the search dogs -- we've been captured by the Piutes or stranded in the middle of Soda Lake someplace...

[lilcrawler]

It is freeeeeeeeeeeezing. Last shower for 140 miles :eek:...

[lilcrawler]

Here is a trip report from a few days ahead of us Dad and I just found on the internet. Weather in the 70's and 80's, desert flowers in bloom, can cross Soda lake, but still lots of WATER CROSSINGS!

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?p=1890241#post1890241

Now if Mom and Marla will just hurry up and finish getting ready we can go have some breakfast!

[RON CT110]

I know it sucks! Insurance will cover the broken window; this is the 2nd time for the Prius (break-in); both in San Francisco in the last 3 years, and during client calls/day light! I'll just take a cab next time!:)

The bad news is that I decided not go to the Mojave trip this morning.

I called Gary's Sat phone, Chuck, Brian and even Nick's cell phone 8am this morning to let them know of my status and make sure they are aware that I am not going.

Must still be sleeping or out of range, just got voice messages.

I will try again later and keep my phone handy especially around 5pm+ when they would be looking or expecting for me!

Will be spending some time @ home wtih the LR starting a car wash and finisnihg up mini projects!

Ron


Ron,
it sucks about the Prius... I hope you can make it, I had to cancel the trip myself.

Have fun guys and bring back lots of pictures!

David

[PCRover]

Got your message Ron, No problem. We will catch you later when we get home, sending this from my cell.

Gary

[PCRover]

.....

[Desertcrawler]

All 7 rigs made it through the trail. We are back in Tehapachi getting a burger and using the flushies.

No carnage, Gary left early and will probably post first pix. We won't be home till late Monday. Good time had by all, or so I think!

[PCRover]

We are back, but have been to busy to post anything yet. Maybe later tonight.

It was a super trip!

Great work on organizing it Chuck!

[NCLR038]

Chuck, Thank you for all of your work preparing and leading the trip. I don't think you could have done it without Linda. My son & I had a great time!!
Thanks again,
Hugh

[HMBRover]

We arrived safely home about 7:00 PM. Chuck, thanks for the super job of organizing and leading this trip. It was great: new friends and old, good food, bad roads and excellent weather. One for the record books!

[codynt]

A great trip, got back a few hrs ago and spent a couple of hrs unpacking and cleaning the inside of the truck. Great trail-leading by Chuck, Linda, Tyler, and Marla, and it was great meeting everyone. Will work on getting some pictures up

[lilcrawler]

We played around in the spot that Ron fryed his electronics last year...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i__NXWqdrDk

Lets see who's power splash is bigger, Rons or the D110's

pix and trip report to come

[RON CT110]

Cool vid!

Ha! Ha! The 110 (Bill's) gets a 10 for great entrance and splash for sure!

I have to compare the picture from my trip last year; Humm; D1 made a big splash, but ECU got wet (started back up next day) - see pic. Penalty points! :D

Bill's 110 diesel is probably more water proof! :) Gonna have to bring my diesel 110 next year to accompany his!

Needless to say, looks like fun times! Keep pics/report coming!

[LATEAPEX]

Ya that was me driving Bills CT110.. it was a blast! :D

[PCRover]

I loved Bill's 110 and looking forward to seeing your 90 when it is done.

[LATEAPEX]

sorry for the delay on the pics i promised. on the way home from the trip i was infomed that my really good friend was killed this weekend in a motorcycle accident so i have been kinda distracted.

here are all the pics taken.. i have not had time to edit or delete doubles.

maybe some could be used in the trip report or photo gallery. i know there are some good ones in here somehwere. including some really cool night shots of some of the rigs :cool:

http://s10.photobucket.com/albums/a135/lateapexsti/Mojave%2008/?start=all

[RON CT110]

Sorry to hear about your friend!

I looked at your photo link; great pics! Will compliment I am sure the trip report Chuck or someone will put together! I think with the great photos and a good trip report, you guys should submit this to a LR magazine!

[codynt]

Sorry to hear, LATEAPEX. Pasting another photos link here for completeness - http://picasaweb.google.com/ntantcr/MojaveMarch2008

Just saw a pic of the bow wave I got through that last water crossing :)

[Desertcrawler]

Sorry to hear, LATEAPEX. Pasting another photos link here for completeness - http://picasaweb.google.com/ntantcr/MojaveMarch2008

Just saw a pic of the bow wave I got through that last water crossing :)

awesome shots. I heard about the motorcycle accident on the Meno Recce list -- terrible tragedy.

[LATEAPEX]

awesome shots. I heard about the motorcycle accident on the Meno Recce list -- terrible tragedy.

Im editing some of the shots now and deleting the duplicates. i will post a new link with some of the completed photos later today.

My friend on the bike was Ilya with the Yoda that was suppose to attend out mojave trip with us and had to back out at the last moment.

He was caught in the middle of someone elses accident and had nowhere to go from what the witnesses have stated.

R.I.P Ilya

[LATEAPEX]

Ok guys i finished the photos now.

here are the updated pics
http://s10.photobucket.com/albums/a135/lateapexsti/Mojave%2008/?start=all

Let me know if you want a full resoloution copy of a specific photo.

[PCRover]

Great pictures everyone!

Sorry to hear about the accident, awful news to return to.