Death Valley over Easter [Archive]

Desertcrawler

12-18-2008, 12:42 PM

Looks like this trip will be a go. I've been doing some route planning, and it look like we will get some good drives in along with some great campsites.

Day 1 - Leave Bishop, cross Steele Pass. Highlights will be Eureka Sand Dunes, Marble Bath, and soaking in the Hot Springs

Camp first night - at the Warm Springs in Saline
No night run, but probably will be plenty of entertainment at the Hot Springs!

Day 2 - Leave Warm Springs, climb Lippencott Grade, check out the Racetrack, stop at Panamint Springs for an Arrogant Bastard and some fuel.

Highlights are Lippencott Grade, Racetrack, Teakettle Junction

Camp Second night - Minnietta Cabin in the Panamints
May do a possible night run to watch the sunset at Lookout City, time allowing

Day 3 - Head towards Striped Butte.

Highlights are Ballarat, Goler Wash, Mansons cabin at Barker Ranch, Striped Butte, etc...

Camp Third night -- Geologists cabin near Striped Butte
May do an evening/night run to explore the area and all the cabins around there.

Day 4 - Head out towards Furnace Creek and Stovepipe wells.

Highlights would be the Warm Springs camp and Talc mine, plus I need to do a bit more research on that side of the mountain range. Worst case, we will end up at Scotty's castle and take a tour!

Set your Tivo for this episode http://www.history.com/shows.do?action=detail&episodeId=389142 for some recent history on Mansons cabine..

NCLR101

12-26-2008, 06:47 PM

sounds awesome, count me in
Thommy

lilcrawler

12-27-2008, 05:48 PM

We will be putting a formal trip request together soon. We have at least 4 or 5 rigs interested, so this looks like a go. Would you prefer to leave Big Pine on Friday morning or on Saturday?

HMBRover

12-27-2008, 06:34 PM

We will be putting a formal trip request together soon. We have at least 4 or 5 rigs interested, so this looks like a go. Would you prefer to leave Big Pine on Friday morning or on Saturday?

Doesn't matter to us. :D

How do you propose getting to Big Pine? Tioga pass won't be open that early in the year. Through Bakerspatch is the only way I see.

PCRover

12-27-2008, 08:51 PM

HMBRover

12-28-2008, 02:37 PM

I think I would go this way (http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&saddr=pacifica,+ca&daddr=37.601176,-122.195435+to:I-205+E+to:CA-88+to:bishop,+ca&hl=en&geocode=%3B%3BFWLoPwIdMh7B-A%3BFf5RSQIdcmjN-A%3B&mra=dpe&mrcr=0&mrsp=1&sz=8&via=1,2,3&sll=38.091337,-120.443115&sspn=3.026157,4.685669&ie=UTF8&ll=37.952861,-120.393677&spn=3.031879,4.685669&z=8) via SR88 and US395 instead of through Bakersfield, then come back over Tehachapi.

That way looks good - shorter than going south and avoids going north on 395 where all the LA skiers are trying to get to Mamouth. Depends on the weather a bit, though.

The way we usually go to DVNP is to go to Bakersfield and then across 178 through Ridgecrest. But the stretch from Ridgecrest up to Bishop would make it much longer.

jarrodw

01-07-2009, 09:45 PM

I am not familiar with Death Valley. I know for the normal spots a stock rover would be fine. Would a stock rover be okay for this trip?

-Jarrod

Desertcrawler

01-08-2009, 08:52 PM

Stock Rover should be fine...

The tougher spots (one each day) will be:

Dedeckera Canyon (over Steele Pass)

Lippincott Grade (heading from Saline Valley to the Racetrack)

Mengel Pass (heading past Charlie Mansons canyon towards Geologist Cabin)

I wheeled all of those in a stock rover, which had running boards. The running boards got messed up due to some big rocks but that was it..

Linus Tremaine

01-28-2009, 01:50 PM

What route do you plan to take from racetrack back to panamint springs? I assume over hunter mountain? This is a very easy track as long as there is no snow.

Goler wash is usually pretty easy unless we come after a large rain. If thats the case it could be a really challenging route.

Going down the other side from the pass into stripped butte is a little difficult, but going down it is possible in a stock rig. Up might be a little too hard. I put a dent in the rear quarter of my truck coming down that pass but a little more rock stacking would have prevented that. I also did lippencott over new years, its in pretty good shape. I cant think of any land rover that couldnt get through. Some explorers were coming down with extended front drop arm things and they had a really hard time because of how wide their track was, but they made it.

HMBRover

01-28-2009, 02:05 PM

Here's what today's Morning Report has to say about Hunter Mountian:

"Hunter Mountain Rd..Open; barely passable, 4x4 high clearance with chains required due to snow and ice."

Just about right! :D

Ref: Death Valley National Park Morning Report (http://www.dvnha.org/morning_report/Morning.pdf)

Linus Tremaine

01-28-2009, 04:13 PM

We did it over new years. It was 8 - 12 inches at the top with one drift two feet deep. We had to dig through that one- no chains needed, but almost.

I wonder if it has gotten more snow since then.

Desertcrawler

01-28-2009, 09:00 PM

I am assuming we will be taking Hunter Mountain -- some may bail do to heading back the Southern way, but I know at least one rig is gonna be trailered as far as Big Pine so I'll be plotting a return thataway..

Goler isn't too rough (at least for the past few years) -- but Mengel does have some challenges on the other side. I'm not worried about getting a stock rig through there, with proper rock stacking. We will have a rig with a winch, just in case, but as you say we will be taking that obstacle going the downhill way.

I've toyed around with the idea of exiting Warm Springs via the backside of Cerro Gordo -- have you ever done that? We did it once, there was about 3 feet of snow heading up it, and it got quite scary.

Linus Tremaine

01-29-2009, 06:17 PM

I have only exited the warm springs canyon on the main road. I would like to sometime go up johnson canyon which is just a little north on the west side road from the exit of warm springs canyon. That should probably be saved for another time. I want to visit hungry bills ranch. I understand you have to walk to it.

Anyway- I think our geography is mixed up. Cerro Gordo is in the Inyo mountains and is usually accessed from the owens valley. I guess its about 20 miles east from lone pine. The road goes all the way through and meets saline valley road near lees flat.

Desertcrawler

02-05-2009, 09:47 AM

Day 1 - we would leave Big Pine, see Eureka Dunes, take Steele Pass and end up at Hot Springs. Camp there...

Day 2 - Leave Hot Springs, head up Lippencott Grade, check out Race Track, head towards Panamint Springs Resort, gas up there, then head out towards Mengels Cabin nearby and camp there overnight.

Day 3 - Leave Mengels, head thru Ballarat, head up Goler Wash, check out all the cabins (including Charlie Manson's) - head over Mengel Pass and camp out at the Geologist Cabin (or one of the other ones close by if that one is occupied).

Day 4 (this is the one I am still figuring out) - Leave Geologist, head towards Furnace Creek (gas up there), then head out on Hunter Mountain Road after a little highway driving and complete the loop back to Big Pine. Adding drive back to Bay Area would be a bit extreme, perhaps we camp or hotel at Big Pine or someplace that evening then finish the drive home on Day 5.

I would expect if we had anyone joining us from SoCal, they might decide to head different directions on Day 4.

I've just started a new job, so am thinking days for this will be Friday - Monday (and part of Tuesday) with the option to cut it short and make it back early if needed...

Gotrovr

02-05-2009, 11:52 AM

New job, what, I thought this off-road stuff was your job :D

Frans

02-22-2009, 08:29 AM

Can anyone show up and take the trip with you guys? I have just finished re-building my engine and this trip would be great as it would give me enough time to run 'lumpy' through it's paces and work out any kinks before the trip...

This trip sounds like alot of fun, and it goes through some great areas.

I am a proud owner of a series 109 3 door bought from Ike (pangolin 4x4)
Chevy short block engine carb fitted
Forward control tranny
Stage 1 front axle
Salisbury rear axle
Central diff lock
Homemade sliders, skid plates

- future mods:
on board air via a York A/C compressor
Perhaps a rear locker, have not decided
CB radio
Rear swing away fuel & storage box carrier

Disco2Guy

02-22-2009, 09:37 AM

Welcome Frans-
Non-members are allowed to go on one trip as a guest with the club. You'll need to fill out the trip form and meet the basic requirements for equipment for the trip (i.e. CB radio, spare tire).

Frans

02-22-2009, 11:23 AM

Gotrovr

02-22-2009, 12:48 PM

That sounds great!

Is there a list of the 'basic requirements'?
Thanks
Frans

long debate and much discussion on "basic requirements"

Basically it boils down to personal preferences for gear and such except for the following vehicle minimum requirements.

Vehicle:
In good working order; lights, parking brake, low range, etc.
current insurance and registration
seat belts for all passengers
spare tire sized to match existing
front recovery point

Trip Leader can recommend additional requirements

TigerDan

02-23-2009, 07:42 AM

Put me down as interested and considering it...:D

Desertcrawler

03-14-2009, 04:20 AM

Just started new job -- had to make sure I could get time off...

We will be leaving Big Pine at 9am on Good Friday -- finishing trip at Furnace Creed around noon on Monday -- some may want to extend and take Walker Pass back to Big Pine, others highway...

Just submitted trip details for approval, look for a posting soon on the trip board and make sure you sign up@!

RON CT110

03-14-2009, 06:32 AM

Chuck,

I received an email from Tim Godsmith (from Portland Land Rover Club); Tim has joined us twice on our Oregon trip led by David Bregman (Brian, Dan and I can tell you Tim a great guy); he has a D1 XD but in the garage/insurance canceled and asking if he can join this trip as a guest and can take his 2005 BMW X3.

He wants me to check w/the trip leader first if ok to attend, and also wants to know if his X3 can handle the route/trail you have in mind. I know X3s are all wheel drive like the Freelanders w/o the low range. I asked Tim if he has recovery points front/back and type of tires - waiting for his response.

In the meantime, what do you think Chuck (let's say he has recovery points and decent AT tires)?

Desertcrawler

03-14-2009, 07:09 AM

I've talked to desert rats who've done this sort of stuff in a 2WD pickup. I think the wildcard variable is skill of driver. If he's an experienced offroader, and if the BMW has good front and rear recovery points, I'm sure we can get it through. The key will be how much ground clearance it has versus the type of 4WD systems-- there will be rocky spots on trail where you need to watch your diff on a stock D1 or D2 -- if the XD has ground clearance issues I would not reccommend it.

There are essentially 3 tough obstacles, 1 per day. The rest of the ride is pretty straightforward, a combination of some tight squeezes and rocky trail providing the excitement in spots, along with some whoopy-do's and washboards on the dusty trail. Think Mojave Road type conditions, generally.

From an obstacles perspective, the three challenging spots are:

The first is Dedekera Canyon (the waterfall). Read here for a recent description http://www.gbr.4wdtrips.net/4x4/steelepass.html

The second is Lippencot Grade. Here is a recent description
http://www.gbr.4wdtrips.net/4x4/lippincott.html

Note that the grade seems to have gotten easier. We are going up it, which will make it more challenging.

The third is Mengel Pass. Goler Wash used to be a challenge, but really isn't any more. The tough part is getting over the pass. We will be going down it (like the forerunner in this link)
http://www.deathvalley.com/dvtalk/messages/405288.shtml

Bottom line is that if the guy is an experienced fourwheeler, and isn't afraid of a few dings on his rig, he should be able to make it through. If his XD has clearance issues, and early on he cracks his diff on a rock however, --- it may be a long trip for him...Having never done the Oregon trip, I don't know how to compare it to other trips. I would call this a cross between the Gold Lake rocky trails (not the real tough spots where General Lee was borne though) and the Mojave trail on a scale of difficulty.

Also -- depending on what the rains have done the trails can change dramatically. I'm gonna check conditions as things get closer.

PCRover

03-14-2009, 08:46 AM

I have been out on moderate trails with a similar style "SUV" before and it took us hours dragging the vehicle over obstacles that others in proper trail rigs just drove up. The vehicle also took some bumper and undercarriage damage as well. The main issues were improper tires with poor traction in loose dirt, and lack of ground clearance.

The idea of taking a BMW on this trip seems crazy to me, but everyone has there own ideas on what they want to do with there vehicles...

Desertcrawler

03-14-2009, 07:01 PM

Here would be my thoughts on this...

a)Someone who is going on this run needs to sponsor Tim, and have a detailed discussion with him related to the condition of his vehicle and it's abilities. Not knowing anything about the BMW, I'd be worried that we'd be causing pretty serious damage to a high priced rig. Once we are on this trail, there won't be any turning back...

b)We will need to keep up a fairly good pace to make our nightly campsites. So we need to make sure whoever the guest driver is that they are able to navigate the trails at an acceptable pace.

c)Front and rear recovery points are a clear necessity for any rig like this. I suppose if it wheels like a Freelander, it could make it. But it would probably need some "yanks" along the way...

So Ron if you are going and want to sponsor Tim, please do so after checking things out with him carefully and we will make a call. I can't be his sponsor (I already have a guest going) so would need someone else.

RON CT110

03-15-2009, 10:58 PM

Ok, just heard back from Tim; been sharing info to him from this post.

His BMW X3 has recovery points and Tim actually have been to Moab and many other trips on his FJ40 (experienced 4wheeler) and XD in Oregon, but to be on the safe side, he decided to take his 97 D1 XD all things considered.

Supposively Tim wants to take the BMW X3 for the comfort/long drive from Oregon to CA Death Valley and hoping the trail would be easy for AWD yet scenic.

However, with the 3 difficult areas you mentioned Chuck, Tim doesn't want to trash his DD BMW X3. He will take his D1 out of storage/garage, insure and take it on this trip.

He is checking to make sure the dates/time off will work out for him.

I originally never planned on taking this trip since the dates conflict with my son's birthday weekend (Sunday April 12) plus the Shop Day in Oakland on 11th.

Tim just heard about the trip and emailed me if he can join. Anyone going on this trip, know Tim, and willing to put him as your guest. He is a great guy and welcomed us when NCLR was up in Oregon twice.

Chuck, I can PM you Tim's email; I will also ask Tim to sign-up and post (non-members can reply here).

Thanks!

Here would be my thoughts on this...

a)Someone who is going on this run needs to sponsor Tim, and have a detailed discussion with him related to the condition of his vehicle and it's abilities. Not knowing anything about the BMW, I'd be worried that we'd be causing pretty serious damage to a high priced rig. Once we are on this trail, there won't be any turning back...

b)We will need to keep up a fairly good pace to make our nightly campsites. So we need to make sure whoever the guest driver is that they are able to navigate the trails at an acceptable pace.

c)Front and rear recovery points are a clear necessity for any rig like this. I suppose if it wheels like a Freelander, it could make it. But it would probably need some "yanks" along the way...

So Ron if you are going and want to sponsor Tim, please do so after checking things out with him carefully and we will make a call. I can't be his sponsor (I already have a guest going) so would need someone else.

TigerDan

03-16-2009, 07:26 AM

I'm planning to go at this point and would be glad to sponsor Tim as my guest. Be good to see him again, he really is a great guy.

Desertcrawler

03-16-2009, 08:56 AM

So right now our list of rigs looks like:

1. Chuck & Family Desertcrawler
2. Barry & Family (chuck's guest)
3. Brian & Mrs (HMBRover)
4. TigerDan (probable)
5. Tim (TigerDan's guest) - probable.

I know we had some other folks interested as well, including Linus & others...

If you are planning on going, make sure and register using the official registration tool on the website. I believe we are capping this trip at 10 rigs, as of now we have 3 of the 10 spots committed..

LCPDX

03-17-2009, 02:27 PM

Gotrovr

03-17-2009, 03:51 PM

you are more than welcome, be safe on the long drive to Bishop

Desertcrawler

03-17-2009, 04:46 PM

Will you register up for yourself and Tim? Since he isn't a NCLR member, he can't register himself for the trip..

If, for some reason, you can't make it you can then reduce number of rigs down to 1...

Desertcrawler

03-17-2009, 04:47 PM

you are more than welcome, be safe on the long drive to Bishop

Cmon El Presidente, don't see your name on the registration list...

TigerDan

03-17-2009, 06:04 PM

Okay Chuck, I've registered for myself and Tim. This looks like fun, I've never been to Death Valley and never done a desert wheeling trip. Although, I've camped at Calico before and that's as close to the desert as I've been.

Gotrovr

03-17-2009, 08:06 PM

Cmon El Presidente, don't see your name on the registration list...

Easter Sunday is an annual family tradition where I soak a 26 lb Turkey in a salt/brine solution the night before and barbeque him on Easter. If I go, I'm sure the natives will be restless and will looking for your phone number.

RON CT110

03-19-2009, 09:46 PM

Hey folks,

Thank you all for allowing me to participate on this expedition, am looking forward to it!

I plan to drive the 1997 XD solo from Portland and will be on HWY 395 from Reno to Bishop. Will provide personal communication details at a later date when requested.

Regards!

Welcome Tim! How's Portland weather treating you! Have fun on this trip - hope to see you in Oregon once David/Brian gets the planning going.

C yah!

Linus Tremaine

03-21-2009, 07:45 PM

I really would like to make this trip. Im still not sure that its out of the question at this point. Just cant say at this point.

I also dont want to beat up my truck. I have been over mengle pass and am sure thats not a problem. I know a 109 can make it through steel pass but Ive never done it, the other tight spot I know nothing about.

It would be nice to have another series on the trip to help motivate me to go!

TigerDan

03-21-2009, 08:13 PM

Sorry Linus...that's just a little too far to take my Series at this point...it'll have to be the Rangie.:D

SLOHybrid

03-23-2009, 12:52 PM

Chuck,

Still no job for me and if the guilt does not get me I am tentatively considering this wonderful trip if that's ok?

Cheers!

Nathan.

astateofmike

03-23-2009, 03:29 PM

Chuck,

Still no job for me and if the guilt does not get me I am tentatively considering this wonderful trip if that's ok?

Cheers!

Nathan.

Bullocks. Screw the guilt, get your mancation on man! Just go! Life will still be waiting when you get back!

Gotrovr

03-23-2009, 04:27 PM

Your Man Card is more valuable than money, so put it back in your wallet ;)

Desertcrawler

03-23-2009, 06:09 PM

Chuck,

Still no job for me and if the guilt does not get me I am tentatively considering this wonderful trip if that's ok?

Cheers!

Nathan.

We have 5 spots locked down, 3 tenative (including yours).

I think I'm counting Linus and Gary as tenatives, but I haven't seen their registration come through on the official site. We need Linus to recruit another Series rig to come along with him--he is looking for company of the leafer variety I think...

Once you are sure, please register on the front club page so we can have an accurate count. I am planning on going to the Morg, so if you have any more questions about gear/etc let me know then.

Rlgubert

03-26-2009, 09:19 PM

TigerDan

03-26-2009, 11:11 PM

Things are looking good for me. Got the bugs worked put of the 4.2 swap and the new engine is running strong. Should have enough miles on it by the time this trip rolls around to feel fully comfortable with it. Can't wait...:D

Desertcrawler

03-27-2009, 06:43 AM

Chuck - I am planning on trying to find the group on the trail. I will be leaving Cedar City, Ut sometime Friday early afternoon. Let me know if I should register on the official trip, and the best way to find you guys on Sat.

Randy

Go ahead and register, and make points as to your planned arrival.

It should'nt be too hard to find us Saturday night -- we will be staying at Minnietta Mine cabin -- unless it fills up. If it is full, we will probably then move to Ballarat (and stay at the campground there). As date gets closer, I'll post up directions to Minnetta.

It would help if you could estimate an ETA if you were driving to Pananamint Springs Resort.

We will have a website loaded with both APRS and SPOT tracking, so i you go to panamint, and their internet is working, you could find us on-line.

Essentially, our route from the Hot Springs to Minnietta via Lippencott Grade will be fairly straightforward -- you could enter in from the Panamint Side, head towards us, and then turn around once we meet. I'd suspect sometime just before noon we will be hitting "The RaceTrack".

What type of Radio Communication will you have? Ham, FRS, CB? We will have all three in our rolling "shacks" and can also set up some frequencies to monitor you on.

Finally, we can also leave a note on the message board at Panamint Springs Resort. I hope to be gassing up with the group there by 4 or 5pm on Saturday. But as you know, YMMV in desert travel and with groups in event we have a breakdown.

I can tell you that cell phone coverage will be sporadic. I suspect we will be attempting to access internet, though, when we hit Panamint Springs.

Desertcrawler

03-27-2009, 06:46 AM

Looks like about a 6 hour drive for you to Panamint Springs. If you did that, spent the night there, and woke up early in the morning, you could probably catch us as we were starting to ascend Lippencott grade as you would not need to be breaking camp, etc...

Another option would be to head towards the Racetrack, which looks like about 8 hours from you, via Beatty. You could try and meet us as we come up Lippencott Grade. I think you can access it quicker from Beatty, and the roads are essentially graded gravel that 2WD can do. Then you could join us mid-day Saturday. There is a spot called "TeaKettle Junction" which is a perfect place to leave a message for each other. If no message -- we are still coming your way..

I will post some GPS points later. WIth a bit of judicious planning, you may be able to find us....

Do be careful though, the Park Service WILL issue speeding tickets, and with the open desert roads they can see and calculate your speed from miles away, then get you as you join the main road. I've never seen a park ranger out in the backcountry but once, however I've heard stories. Te speed limit on umarked back country roads is 25 MPH, higher on some of the county roads.

Of course, there are other reasons for not driving too fast. Here is a picture of one LandRover that is now nicknamed 'Flipper' for an obvious reason who was driving too fast on Saline Springs road...the whoopie doos can catch people unaware...

Desertcrawler

03-27-2009, 05:18 PM

I've gotten several requests as to where to stay, the first night, in Big Pine. We will be meeting at the Breakfast place (8 if you want to eat, 9 if you are ready to depart) on Friday morning.

http://bigpine.com/index.php?page=lodging

The above link shows hotels in Big Pine. I just booked us a room at the Big Pine Motel. The other two, according to the lady I booked with, are equal in quality. If you don't like that type of "roadside motel" and are looking for something fancier, I'd suggest staying in Bishop, then waking up early on Friday and driving to meet us in Big Pine.

My rate, which was with a AAA discount, was $63 per night for a room with two beds. Interestingly, they are almost sold out (it is the opening day of fishing season) so it is probably worth calling to get a reservation now.

Desertcrawler

03-27-2009, 05:22 PM

If this works right, the attached link to Google Maps will show you the best way to get to Big Pine from the Bay Area...

http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&source=s_d&saddr=Woodside,+ca&daddr=Big+Pine,+California&geocode=&hl=en&mra=ls&sll=39.470125,-96.196289&sspn=24.22825,44.648438&ie=UTF8&z=8

SLOHybrid

03-29-2009, 07:05 PM

Bullocks. Screw the guilt, get your mancation on man! Just go! Life will still be waiting when you get back!

OK! I am going but can we possibly sneek some Krawling in too Chuck pleeez

My Mancation LMFAO

Thanks Mike and Will:)

LCPDX

03-30-2009, 12:36 AM

Ok, will meet up with the main group Friday at 9 am in Big Pine. Thursday I will drive from Vegas to Bishop and overnight there. Wouldn't want to miss any of the sights!

Hi gang,

Looks like I will be lounging poolside in Vegas before this expedition so can anybody shed some light on best way to be at the start/meeting point or should I convoy with NCLR069?

Desertcrawler

03-30-2009, 05:09 AM

Best place to meet us will be on Friday, 9am, at the restaraunt in Big Pine. Our first destination will be the Eureka Sand Dunes, which can be accessed from the public roads. So we could possibly rally up in that vicinity as well. You would have to figure out how to get there from the Nevada side. From Eureka, we head into Steele Pass and on to the Warm Springs in Saline Valley.

I believe that NCLR069 is planning on heading towards Panamint Springs Hotel, then waking up real early in the morning and heading towards the Hot Springs via South Pass entrance. THere is a detailed description of that run (I think it is about 40 miles) in many of the offroad books, particularly the Northern California BackCountry Adventures book by Massey, I believe.

We would be meeting up with him right below Lippencott Grade, or possibly even further in towards the springs.

FInally, if you want to camp with us Saturday night and don't want to wheel Friday or Saturday too much, Panamint Springs Resort is a good place to meet up.

I'd suggest talking with NCLR069 on this thread, figure out his timetable, then do the same with yours. It should not be too hard to find us coming in from the Springs, but you wll miss Steele Pass which is one of my favorite, remote, runs.

Desertcrawler

03-31-2009, 06:18 AM

Thought trip participants might be interested in the attached Fresno Bee article. It gives a good overview of Saline Valley, where we will be camping for our first night.

http://www.fresnobee.com/local/story/1292403.html

We will be trying to camp up near the "Palm Springs" , away from the more developed area. Make sure to pack yourself a swimsuit for the hot tubs!

P.S. - Note that at the springs there is usually a whole camp of individuals -- so we will be sharing this camp with others, a eclectic mix of desert rats , 4 wheelers, and people who have come to get away from it all. For that first night, anyway, you will need to bring a pretty liberal and accepting attitude. Even though this is a National Park camprground, most rules (such as the one banning nudity) are not enforced. You'll find it not uncommon to see people taking a walk in the desert (or a soak in the tubs) wearing nothing but their Nike's and a smile!

Desertcrawler

03-31-2009, 06:22 AM

Here is a site showing Pix of where I hope to have us camp the second night.

http://www.ubehebe.com/minietta_cabin.htm

The cabin is first come, first serve -- there is a chance we may run into others who have "staked their claim" before us. If this is the case, we will move our group over to the ghost town of Ballarat, where we will set up camp out on the desert floor..

http://www.desertusa.com/mag99/apr/stories/ballarat.html

Desertcrawler

03-31-2009, 06:29 AM

I hope to again "stake our claim" at the Geologist Cabin. Pix below are in the link...

http://deathvalleyinaweek.com/day7/Geologist%20Cabin/index.htm

For a little recent history of the area, note that the Geologist Cabin was the last place visited by the infamous "German Tourists" who disappeared back in 1996. Here is a link with some details...

http://www.websleuths.com/forums/showthread.php?t=41771

Hopefully, we will be able to scare off any ghosts!

SLOHybrid

03-31-2009, 11:37 AM

The Geologists cabin looks interesting... I think it needs a load of LRM mags in the library though.

I hope to again "stake our claim" at the Geologist Cabin. Pix below are in the link...

http://deathvalleyinaweek.com/day7/Geologist%20Cabin/index.htm

For a little recent history of the area, note that the Geologist Cabin was the last place visited by the infamous "German Tourists" who disappeared back in 1996. Here is a link with some details...

http://www.websleuths.com/forums/showthread.php?t=41771

Hopefully, we will be able to scare off any ghosts!

TigerDan

04-01-2009, 10:25 AM

Due to loss of job (and necessary income) I have to bow out.

Brian, would you be willing to sponsor Tim as your guest, since you know him from the Oregon trip?

HMBRover

04-01-2009, 01:29 PM

Sorry to hear of your job situation, Dan. We'll miss you on the trip. Sure, I'll sponsor Tim, no problem.

SLOHybrid

04-01-2009, 08:39 PM

I am sorry but that is no excuse I have been out of a job for over 6 months now and yes I initially had a sense of guilt considering this trip but look @ it this way if you had a job you definately would not be able to go... so do it and go and enjoy it while you can that's my excuse:):)

Due to loss of job (and neccessary income) I have to bow out.

Brian, would you be willing to sponsor Tim as your guest, since you know him from the Oregon trip?

PCRover

04-01-2009, 09:57 PM

I have a job and that is why I will not be attending this trip. It can work both ways...

TigerDan

04-01-2009, 10:27 PM

It's the "Necessary Income" part of my above post that makes the difference here. My finances haven't recovered from the loss of my last job (I've only had this one since November) and I just have no reserves. About all I can do right now is piss in the tank, and somehow I don't think that's gonna get me very far...:D

And Brian, thanks. I hated to say I'd sponsor him as a guest and then have to back out...

LCPDX

04-02-2009, 12:12 AM

G'day NCLRC members.

Dan, I understand your situation and am sorry to hear you will not be on this trip but am confident you will be on another one soon. Thanks be to you and Brian for your offering to sponsor me as a guest on this expedition!

Keep on truckin!

Tim

Desertcrawler

04-02-2009, 06:33 AM

So sorry to hear about your situation & impact on the trip.

I'd offer you a shotgun seat if I had room -- we will miss you at the campfire. The guy going with me (Barry) has a full up rig as well so no room there.

You will have to live vicariously through the exploits as we post them on the web page!

SLOHybrid

04-02-2009, 06:21 PM

I have a job and that is why I will not be attending this trip. It can work both ways...

I think I already said this but yes if I had a job I would not be attending either hence me taking advantage of this:)

Sorry you can't come Dan and best of luck on the JOB hunt

RON CT110

04-02-2009, 08:07 PM

Chuck/Brian,

Jim aka Mr Video has 2 SPOT devices; he will be at the MORG/ready to pass on the SPOTs to either one of you.

Ready for your to activate and use for this Death Valley trip. Call or PM if you want a quick orientation on activating these devices (or MORG this Saturday if you can activate them sooner).

You will need a credit card (cc) to complete registration/activation; won't get charge as the promo code (I will send it to you on a sep PM or email) will waive the subscription and tracking charges.

And please print and read the user guide (pdf format) - covers how to use the SPOT and program the distribution list for "I am Ok" and "Help" (a copy of this is in ea box, but good to pre-read if you want to use for Sat MORG): http://www.findmespot.com/en/downloads/SPOT_UsersGuide_2007_10_16.pdf

I would have activated them for you if had the club cc number, but that's ok - it's easy to activate; should take you 10-15 mins ea.

HMBRover

04-05-2009, 04:44 PM

Here are some repeaters I found in the west Death Valley area. I'll look at what there is along 395 as well. Of course if we're close in we can use the NCLR official simplex frequency: 146.460.

W6IY 146.940-/103.5 Silver Peak
W6IY 147.060+/103.5 Silver Peak
K6RFO 146.760-/----- Mazourka Peak
K6RFO 147.210+/----- Ridgecrest
WA6YBN 146.640-/----- Ridgecrest
WA6YBN 145.340-/100.0 Ridgecrest

Desertcrawler

04-06-2009, 11:38 AM

170.100 Death Valley National Park

169.550 Death Valley National Park

163.100 Death Valley National Park

168.350 Death Valley National Park

461.025 Xanterra (Death Valley)

466.025 Xanterra (Death Valley)

Xanterra is the consessionair in the valley (Stovepipe Wells store and motel; Furnace Creek motel, restaurant, etcetera).

If you go to my webpage at http://www.gbr.4wdtrips.net/4x4/scannerfreqs.htm you will find a list of frequencies for Inyo County, and more.

I am not 100% positive, but I think there is a HAM repeater at Rogers Peak and near Cerro Gordo Peak.

Here is another nice list with a map of repeaters

http://ham-shack.com/repeater_ca.html

And another http://www.qsl.net/wa6ybn/rpt.html

Desertcrawler

04-07-2009, 07:42 AM

I got messages over the weekend from a individual from the San Diego Land Rover Club and a new, prospective member. Sounds like both will be meeting up with us in Big Pine. Makes the size of the group 8 rigs, and about 15 - 20 people.

Remember, if you can, to bring your bag of marbles, an old teakettle if you have one, and a bottle of bleach....

Looking forward to the trip -- except for the packing...

HMBRover

04-07-2009, 09:42 AM

HMBRover

04-07-2009, 10:18 AM

For you who are planning to go over Hwy 50 to Big Pine there is snow in the Thursday forecast from about 20 mi east of Placerville on Hwy 50 to Hwy 395 and then again from Mono Lake to just north of Bishop on Hwy 395. Maybe 150 miles total.

I'm considering going south on I-5, through Bakersfield, past Lake Isabella and then up Hwy 395 to Big Pine. It's about 480 miles vs 400 miles on the northern route and rainy but no high altitude and therefore no snow.

Desertcrawler

04-07-2009, 03:48 PM

I now have portable HF antennas for both 40 and 20 meters so we'll potentially have communications back home. Gary, are you up for a schedule on 40 meters say around 9:00 PM? What's your favorite frequency??

We've got some HF guys here in my local radio club. Once you set frequencies and times, post em up and I'll see if they can try with some of their long range stuff..

PCRover

04-07-2009, 07:27 PM

Brian, 40 meters at 21:00 is pretty full of broadcast signals and is usually sketchy for anything but local contacts. Earlier in the day would be better. Can you operate while moving?

Desertcrawler

04-07-2009, 08:04 PM

Have questions on SPOT activation. Is there a promo code for me to use? And what should I use for the usernames?

PCRover

04-07-2009, 08:32 PM

Maybe on the codes, Check with Ron.

Use NCLR003 and NCLR004 names.

SLOHybrid

04-07-2009, 10:09 PM

RON CT110

04-08-2009, 08:06 AM

Have questions on SPOT activation. Is there a promo code for me to use? And what should I use for the usernames?

Didn't want to post sensitive info here; more on this on this link plus I posted the promo codes here, and suggested password (cap locks off): http://nclrclub.org/forum/showpost.php?p=7544&postcount=56

HMBRover

04-08-2009, 01:47 PM

Chuck - Regarding Spots, if you have two of them working, I'll get one from you in Big Pine.

For those going over Hwy 50 to Big Pine ... Be advised that Hwy 89 is closed for the winter over Monitor Pass between Hwy 4 and Hwy 395. Alternate route is to go to Gardnerville, NV and catch Hwy 395 there.

As of 1:45 PM there are no other road closures or restrictions on the Hwy 50 route from the Bay Area to Big Pine. 40% chance of light snow is forecast for the route about 4500 ft. Accumulations less than 1 inch.

Guess I'll go that way. :)