Official Bald Mountain Trail "Tread Lightly" Recreation Rescue Friday Aug 1

[LandRonB]

Trip Details

 

• Trip Leader: Ron Boston

• Trail Leader: TBD

• Date/Time: Friday August 1, 2008 8am

• Brief Description: Bald Mountain is located at 7,828 ft elevation in the Sierra National Forest.

 

The area is known for abundant outdoor activities including backpacking, 4-wheeling and camping.

 

Having said this, “Tread Lightly” is urgently seeking VOLUNTEERS for an important project in the Sierra National Forest to help maintain Bald Mountain Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) trail in California.

 

Plenty of press will be there to record your hard work, so we need a great showing!

 

Volunteers will be needed to help clear a short trail re-route and also to help fence off some areas.

 

We will also be digging holes, laying pipe, pouring cement and filling in holes. Let's help maintain Bald Mountain OHV trail.

 

• Volunteer Agreement Form (please download, sign and bring with you on Friday): http://www.treadlightly.org/volunteeragreement.pdf

 

• Maps/Links to Bald Mtn and Shaver Lake/Camp Edison Areas: http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/sierra/proje...ction-map5.pdf

 

• Meeting Location: ”Tread Lightly” Mountain Base Camp: http://www.treadlightly.org/high20sierra20map.pdf

 

• Directions to Meeting point Friday August 1:

- Directions from SF Bay Area: head South on Hwy 99. Take the Hwy 145 exit. Cut thru town on 145 (aka E Yosemite Ave). Continue on 145E for about 20 miles. Right on 206 (3 miles). Left on Millerton (5.7 miles). Left on Auberry Rd (9.3 miles)(Gas Station/Biker Bar on the Right Corner for Visuals). Left on 168. Continue on Hwy 168 East to Shaver Lake (about 20 miles). Turn right on Dinkey Creek Rd. About 12 miles turn left on Rock Creek Road to tee. Turn left. Base camp is about 1 ½ miles.

 

- Directions from the Camp Edison: Go passed Ken’s Market and look for Dinkey Creek Rd on the left hand side. Turn left on Dinkey Creek Rod. About 12 miles turn left on Rock Creek Road to tee. Turn left. Base camp is about 1 ½ miles.

 

Detailed Plan

 

• Starting Time:

- Thursday Night, July 31: Optional Camping: I personally made a reservation at Camp Edison; my camp site allows 4 (max 8) people, and 2 vehicles (with extra vehicle parking avail). Additional space might be avail if you contact Camp Edison 559-841-3134. Cabins outside Camp Edison are avail for a fee (might req 2 night mins): http://www.goshaverlake.com/

 

 Direction to Camp Edison @ Shaver Laker from the North: Head South on Hwy 99. Take the Hwy 145 exit. Cut thru town on 145 (aka E Yosemite Ave). Continue on 145E for about 20 miles. Right on 206 (3 miles). Left on Millerton (5.7 miles). Left on Auberry Rd (9.3 miles)(Gas Station/Biker Bar on the Right Corner for Visuals). Left on 168. Continue on Hwy 168 East to Shaver Lake (about 20 miles). Camp Edison is 1 mile past Ken's Market on the right.

 

- Friday 8am, Aug 1: Recreation Rescue “Trail Maintenance”

 If camped at Camp Edison, need to leave camp by 7am.

 This is a work day not a wheeling day. BRING: Work gloves, safety glasses, hat, sun block, bug spray, a light rain jacket or poncho (just in case it rains), work shirt, work pants, work boots or foot wear, a day or belt pack, hand sanitizer, and a shovel. Also, be sure to wear boots of some type, preferably a hiking boot, while working on the trail.

 Meet at Tread Lightly Base Camp at 8am: http://www.treadlightly.org/high20sierra20map.pdf

 Light breakfast provided

 Lunch provided

 Around 5pm head back to Camp; get ready for camp fire dinner

 

- Sat 8am, Aug 2: Optional Wheeling at Bald Mountain

 Early a.m. B-fast

 Break Camp and Check Out of Camp

 Leave Camp and meet at the Bald Mtn trail head

 Directions: From Camp Edison, get back on Hwy 168W, turn left on Dinkey Creek Road east 9.1 miles, Turn Left on Rock Creek Rd, go north 3.4 miles, and turn left on Forest Road 9S43. GPS Coordinates Lat: 37 6 4.7 Long: 119 10 7.8

 Be at the start of Bald Mountain Trail by 9am, air down, etc… and let’s have fun on the trail and head-out to the Bald Mountain Look-Out

 Lunch

 Head back home

 Reverse directions from Bald Mtn to SF Bay Area

 

• Wheeling/Trail Schedule: Saturday 9am, Aug 2

• Ending time: Saturday 1pm; Aug 2

 

• Radio Requirements, Channels to use: CB 7

• Entrance Fee’s, Camping Fee’s (if applicable):

- No Entrance Fee to Bald Mountain

- Camping for a fee @ Camp Edison, and Cabin Option Avail

http://www.sce.com/CommunityandRecreation/Camping/

http://www.shaverlakerentals.com

http://www.shaverlakevacationrentals.com

 

Vehicle Requirements

 

• Detailed Vehicle Requirements for Friday August 1: Open to all stock vehicles. No wheeling; just volunteer work to do trail maintenance work at Bald Mountain. However, make sure to bring the following personal items: Work gloves, safety glasses, hat, sun block, bug spray, a light rain jacket or poncho (just in case it rains), work shirt, work pants, work boots or foot wear, a day or belt pack, hand sanitizer, and a shovel. Also, be sure to wear boots of some type, preferably a hiking boot, while working on the trail.

 

• Detailed Vehicle Requirements for Optional Wheeling Saturday August 2: Open high clearance 4x4 vehicles. Stock vehicles can park/take shot-gun/help spot during Bald Mtn wheeling if not wanting to wheel their vehicle on Bald Mountain

 

• Required Safety Equipment: Fire extinguisher, CB (channel 7)

 

• Required Recovery Equipment: Strong recovery points (front and rear), Hi-lift Jack (at least one vehicle carry one), winch (at least one vehicle equipped)

 

• Misc Required Equipment: Metal shovel, first aid kit, repair tools (to suit your vehicle), tire gauge and tire pump/air compressor (at least one vehicle carry one)

 

Weather Forecast and Trail Conditions

 

• Weather Forecast for the trip dates: Highs in the 70s/Lows in the 40s; Sunny with 0% chance of rain (need to update this week before the actual trip)

 

• Expected Trail conditions: Dry/Dusty

 

• Clothing Suggestions: Hot Weather clothing – bring sun-block, hat, gloves and plenty of water. Bald Mountain and Shaver Lake is over 5000 ft in elevation and can get cold at night so bring a jacket

 

• Special Weather Clothing Suggestions: Hot

 

Property Information

 

• Camp Edison

- Shaver Lake, CA 93664

- Phone: 559-841-3134

- FAX: 559-841-3193

- Check-in: 12noon

- Check-out: 11am

- Wi-fi is avail at Camp Edison: SSID is set to LINKNGO

- Rates: Hourly $3.00, Daily $6.00, and Weekly $16.00

- Also Shower card avail at the check-in booth

 

Services

 

• Public Safety Agencies with Telco numbers for the trip area:

- California Department of Forestry & Fire Protection (559) 841-3360, Paramedics (911), local Sheriff (559) 855-2369 or 800-522-0086

• Nearby Towing and Repair Services info:

- Eagle Towing (559) 841-2727

• Gas/Service Station Locations in the area:

- Filling station about 1 mile away from Camp Edison on highway 168/cross street Dinkey Road

• Others:

- Eastside Mobile Locksmith (559) 299-6484

- Ken's Clothing & Gifts (559) 841-3242

- Shaver Lake Auto Center and Repairs (559) 841-3810

- Shaver Lake Hardware (559) 841-3298

- Shaver Lake Sports, LLC - sporting goods/rentals (559) 841-2740

 

Food / Meals

 

• Thursday Optional Camping: meal plans is BYO or bring your own.

• Friday: light breakfast and lunch provided during Recreation Rescue; dinner BYO.

• Saturday: meal plans is BYO.

• We can talk about pot luck for Thursday, but no biggie if we don't. Ken's Market is before the camp turn off - you can buy last min items or if you forget to bring supplies.

 

Other Info

 

• Bring your camera and extra batteries

• Tent/sleeping bag if camping

• Extra garbage bags

• Emergency food/supplies

• Sun-block/sun-screen (protect your skin expected to be sunny)

• GPS Unit optional certainly map of the area and compass

• Drinking water during camping/trails

• Nights might be cold - bring extra blanket and warm clothing

• Full size spare and/or tire repair kit

__________________

 

Pictures below from last year's trip to Shaver Lake/Bald Mtn

[LandRonB]

Attendees / Camping Thur / Rescue Friday A.M. / Camping Friday / Saturday Wheeling (last update 07/26/08)

 

Ron CT110 / Yes = Camping Thur / Yes = Rescue Friday A.M. / Yes = Camping Friday / Yes = Saturday Wheeling

 

phil RRS / Yes = Camping Thur / Yes = Rescue Friday A.M. / Yes = Camping Friday / Yes = Saturday Wheeling

 

Leigh DII / Yes = Camping Thur / Yes = Rescue Friday A.M. / Yes = Camping Friday / No = Saturday Wheeling

 

Jim DI / Yes = Camping Thur / Yes = Rescue Friday A.M. / Yes = Camping Friday / No = Saturday Wheeling

 

Gary D90 / No = Camping Thur / No = Rescue Friday A.M. / Yes = Cabin Friday / Yes = Saturday Wheeling

 

Please register so I can add you name, and let me know any corrections.

[LandRonB]

Caravan/Meeting Point

 

I am planning to leave my house 8am Thursday, July 31 (will pm all attendees my cell phone #). Options for caravan are:

 

- We can caravan (meeting point = exit Willow Ave on Hwy 80E/gas station across (both premium/diesel avail). Continue to 4E, 680E, 580E (pass thru Livermore), 205E/120E (pass thru Tracy), and then 99S (continue directions detailed in the trip sheet).

 

- Or if you are coming from the S. Bay, we can meet at Exit 154/Central Madera - meet&greet and gas up. This exit will take us East on track to 145/206 and then 168 to Shaver Lake.

 

Gas Stops

 

* Hercules, CA (top off)

- Union 76 on Willow Ave. Exit Willow Ave on Hwy 80E (city of Hercules, CA).

- Reset Odometer to "0"

 

* Madera, CA (fill-up)

- Chevron. Exit 155/Central Madera.

- From Hercules, CA to Madera, CA. Total miles = 165 miles / 2 hrs 40 mins

- Optional gas stop @ Costco in Fresno

 

* Shaver Lake, CA (Optional)

- Union 76. 2 miles from Camp Edison

- From Madera, CA to Shaver Lake Camp Edison = 54 miles / 1 hr 10 mins

- Comments: mountain climb last 20 minutes to Shaver Lake Camp Edison on hwy 168

 

Gas Stops on the Return

 

* Shaver Lake, CA (Optional top off)

- Union 76. 2 miles from Camp Edison

- Reset Odometer to "0"

 

* Madera, CA (fill-up)

- From Shaver Lake, CA to Madera, CA. Total miles = 54 miles / 1 hrs 10 mins

- Comments: downhill first 20 minutes from Shaver Lake Camp Edison on hwy 168.

[LandRonB]

I need the attendees, and volunteer tracker (not going on this trip but willing to monitor for emergencies) to send me (pm) their cell # and carrier e.g. Verizon. I will program the numbers in my Spot Satelite Messager, and send messages:

 

Opportunity to use the Spot (non-emergency) - will use "I am Ok" button

- When I arrive at the Caravan point in Hercules, CA eta 8am

- When I arrive at the meeting point in Madera, CA eta noon

- When I arrive at camp Edison Thursday eta 1pm

- Arrive at the Recreation Rescue base camp Friday August 1 8am

- Arrive at the start of the trail Bald Mtn Saturday Aug 2 9am

Spot message(s) will include my GPS cordinates in longs/lats & time stamp

 

Hopefully will not run into any emergencies and no need to use the "Help" or "911" button on the Spot

 

The Spot basics: http://www.findmespot.com/MediaCenter/BasicUserSteps.aspx

 

Medical Trip Leaders (having taken Wilderness First Aid): Leigh or Ron

[LandRonB]

Tread Lightly representatives as wells off-road magazine coverage, National Forest and other 4x4 club volunteers will be at this event!

 

Please wear your NCLR shirt! Let's show our NCLR colors! Break-fast and Lunch Friday Aug 1 provided by Hummer!

 

Comments: weather is expected to be highs in the 70s both Friday Rescue mission, and Sat wheeling! Elevation @ Bald Mtn can range from 5000 base to the top 7800 ft.

 

Temp drops at night @ Camp Edison (elevation 5000 ft) bring layers!

[LandRonB]

Friday Aug 1 is just around the corner! We're still on for this trip! Yippie!

 

Thursday

 

Attendees, make sure to print the trip sheet on this page (loaded w/valuable info) before you head out, and directions to Shaver Lake Camp Edison. Meet at Camp Edison Thursday!

 

Don't forget to bring your NCLR shirt to wear on Friday Aug 1 or on the trail!

 

And print the maps to the rescue base camp for Friday Aug 1 8am meeting point: http://www.treadlightly.org/high20sierra20map.pdf

 

Friday

 

From Camp Edison, we'll head out to the rescue base camp at 7am; need to be at rescue base camp at 8am for the kick-off. Light b-fast will be provide and then lunch courtesy of Hummer!

 

Bring the work items recommend in the trip sheet e.g. gloves, sunglasses...

 

Bring extra water and power bar for snacks; I tend to need a power bar or two for energy while working on the field!

 

If you get to the Rescue base camp after 8am, the logistic person is Mark Cave from Cal4wd; Mark is handing-out the assignments and can point you to our location/assignment for NCLR (I will also carry a portable CB 7).

 

Otherwise, if coming after 5pm Friday, just meet us at Camp Edison

 

Sat

 

Wheeling at Bald Mtn! We need to break camp by 8am and hit the trail by 9am! Yippie! Head home by 1pm.

 

Other Details

 

I will be sendng via PM soon the campsite number I booked @ Camp Edison;

 

I will be leaving Thursday 8am those wanting to caravan; otherwise, will just meet you @ Camp Edison. I don't mind being there early as Trip Leader. Plus I like to setup camp early if I can, and crack a few cold ones waiting for the rest to show up. Camp site is paid - will just split ($32 per day) among the 2-3 users!

 

Hot shower, electricity and wireless connection is avail - hot shower a plus especially after a hard day on the field Friday!

 

Ken's Market and Union 76 is a mile away from camp for last min food items or gas fill-up!

 

Don't worry about the volunteer forms; I printed blanks for NCLR attendees, and you can sign and submit it on Friday when we check-in!

 

I also printed and will hand-out a map and trail description of Bald Mtn for the optional wheeling Saturday!

 

Ok, time to pack and get ready!

[Phil.]

i managed to get my truck packed up last night. i'll be dropping the kids off at school then a quick stop at trader joe's/peet's/gas before hitting the road. i should be leaving sunnyvale around 10am. i was hoping to catch up to you at madera, but i doubt it. i'll have my CB on to 7 anyway or you can call me.

[LandRonB]

Good company, good recreation rescue to keep our great outdoors like Bald Mountain beautiful, healthy and open to the public by doing trail maintenance and doing projects for environmentally sustainable outdoor recreation!

 

And we had a blast wheeling Saturday on the very same trails we worked on the previous day!

 

More details on this....(trip report coming soon)!

 

Also if you have photos to share, I'd like copies of the Tread Lightly kick-off, working on the trail, camp site photos, group photo @ Shaver Lake and wheeling Saturday. Like to put together a slide show for this trip and future PR re: trail maintenance!

 

Hope Jim (and brother Kevin) was able to get home safely (lower radiator burst climbing the step grade to Shaver Lake on hwy 168)

 

And likewise for Leigh, phil and Gary!

 

Happy Trails!

[Phil.]

wanted to get a very public thank you to ron for planning and organizing such a great trip. it's just what i needed to wrap up my vacation. x2 on the good company of all.

 

leigh/jim/kevin - you were missed on saturday!

 

i also wanted to note that hanging around ron and the CT110 is like being around a celebrity b/c it seemed like every other person would stop and stare.

 

all my pics are posted to Flickr

 

group photo at camp edison marina

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3146/2730192293_2332d5c072_d.jpg

 

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3218/2730196573_a5a736cdc7_d.jpg

 

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3233/2731029540_f172ed62c6_d.jpg

 

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3181/2731031438_5c52e9b753_d.jpg

 

this is part of the trail we closed off

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3246/2730199635_e8e3c7f4c9_d.jpg

[MrVideo]

I finally have time to write up a short report on the Restoration for Recreation project sponsored by Tread Lightly. Read their report here http://www.treadlightly.org/page.php/programs-r4r-hummerrecreationrescue

 

I left San Jose with my brother, Kevin and a full tank of gas and loads of optimism. Our trip began rather uneventful enough. Found our way to the 145 & 168 junction when we stopped at a store nearly the same time as Ron. I then followed him up the 4-lane highway. It was a good thing we were in radio contact. About 2,800 ft, my Rover begins to get warm. I mention it to Ron, not a minute later, he reports small amounts white smoke. Not long after that, we pulled over when my Rover lost all it's coolant. Good thing for AAA. About an hour + later, I was being towed to Camp Edison...just 6 miles away.

 

Many frantic calls were placed. Our first guess was a water pump. Gary was coming up the next day, so Ron called to order a part to go. With my Rover in camp, we proceeded to setup the tents before it got totally dark. Cooked up some quick meals and out came the mini keg. Lots of great conversations around a warm fire and bright stars above.

 

The next morning, we posed for a group photo before heading out to the work site. Kevin & I climbed into Leigh's Discovery, Phil rode in Ron's CT110 and we motored up the mountain. We met the group and did introductions, grabbed a doughnut and more coffee. Tasks were assigned and we head out.

 

Once we got to the site, we could see the damaged area we were about to restore. First task, unload the dozens of bags of cement and move the water containers near the work area. There were people digging, welding, hammering and all kinds of 4 wheel drive vehicles paraded about bringing more supplies. 3 new Hummer 3Ts brought lunch to the whole crew in a cooler that filled the truck bed.

 

We felt good about the work we did, but we needed to get back to work on my Disco. Back at camp, we began taking off the hoses, when we discover the bottom hose is split. We didn't ask Gary to bring one of those. Took the hose to the only auto parts store around. They had a repair kit that worked and we went back to install the fix. In the mean time, I was calling my wife letting her know the situation. She found the hose I needed in Fresno at Stearling Auto and they can have it for me tomorrow morning.

 

As Ron & Phil headed out to go wheeling, I turned south west for the slowish drive to Fresno. We made it to Fresno, picked up the new hose and drove back to San Jose on the fixed hose. We replaced the hose in about 20 minutes. Now the real questions begin. Why did it over heat in the first place?

 

Today, removed the heads to find a blown gasket at the #8 cylinder. Resurfacing the heads, getting new water pump & radiator and she'll be back on the road by Friday if all goes well.

 

Ron, Phil & Leigh were solid support and companionship through the entire trip. Even though there were some technical issues, I still enjoyed my time out in the fresh air.

 

I shot some great footage of the repair work. Will edit it soon. In the mean time, here are some photos.

[dcproven]

Shaver Lake is always something!

That grade is a killer, I remember my RRC problems going up that hill...

I wish I could have gone, but I am glad you guys did a great service to everybody and had fun at the same time.

 

Great work!!

 

David.

[Phil.]

jim - glad to hear your truck's getting fixed and thanks for the link to the tread lightly article on the clean up. that pic of the trail looks familiar tho i wish mary woulda asked if she could use the pic.

[MrVideo]

I am happy to report that my Rosie is back and running as strong as ever. Nothing that a few $'s wouldn't take care of. I was very surprised at the lack of damage found when the heads were removed. After hitting some considerable high temps, I was prepared for worse. Had the heads resurfaced and pressure tested...all good. I decided to replace the water pump and radiator at the same time as well as all hoses, plugs, ignition wires and air & fuel filters.

 

She now runs so smooth. I can't wait to take her up a hill at full speed...with the AC on!!!

 

I snapped a few pics if you're really interested in seeing new parts on an engine.

[LandRonB]

Been out traveling with the kids on vacation (south coastal trip): 2 days @ Lego Land (camped at South Carlsbad SB), 1 day @ San Diego Zoo (hotel), 1 day camping @ Pismo Beach, and a day trip to Montery and a 1 day hotel stay in Santa Cruz/Santa Cruz Beach Board Walk (good to have hotels in between camping w/the kids).... this past week since the rescue mission trip. Sorry for the delay writing the trip report!

 

Anyways, good write-up Jim and good to hear your Rosie is back and even better condition w/new parts!

 

By the way phil, I shared with Mary our NCLR site, this post and some of photo links. Mary from Tread Lightly liked the photo you took of the trail re-route/fence end result.

 

She actually asked but I've been out traveling with the kids at Lego land, camping @ Pismo, etc.. after our trip - forgot to pass it on to you. Oops!

 

She needed it for her report and said that if it's a problem, just let me know so I can let her know.

 

As Jim pointed out, his truck broke down on the steep climb/portion of Hwy 168 (going up to 5000 feet elevation) on Thursday.

 

Let me also add to Jim's report that we go by the saying "no man left behind"; we waited till the tow truck got there and towed Jim's truck to camp/safety. More on this later...

 

My Trip Report

 

I’ve been on Bald Mountain trail in the Sierra National Forest four times with the Northern California Land Rover (NCLR) club since our first recce trip last year.

 

Twice, I have completed the Bald Mountain trail loop from South to North, and then North to South. My favorite is the North loop where the trails are more challenging (driving up granite rocks vs down). If you like the Hollister cement stair steps, you'll like Bald Mountain's many granite stair steps. The 3rd trip was a snow run February this year; this is a story unto itself (see Keptin’s teaser video soon to be completed: http://www.kep1.com/images/Site%20Media/Videos/Shaver%20Lake%202008.divx)! My 4th visit is an important rescue mission!

 

Two weeks before this event, Monica Clay, the Communication and Marketing Manager for Tread Lightly, sent me an email asking if NCLR club would be interested in participating. The notice was short (2 weeks), but figured it would still be worth asking and gauging interest.

 

Sure enough, a small group from NCLR responded to include Jim aka Mr. Video, Leigh aka SFDiscoII and Phil as phil to volunteer for the Tread Lightly Recreation Rescue; they were able to take Friday off or had time Friday to help out on this important recreation rescue mission. Gary aka PCRover joined us Saturday for the optional 4wheeling on the very same trail.

 

The project was under the umbrella of Tread Lightly and funded by Hummer. It entailed the improvement and stabilization of an existing four wheel drive trail. A half-mile section of the trail receives heavy run-off during storm events, leading to trail erosion; water diversion need to be dug up to re-direct water to nearby creeks. Also cheater-routes needed to be fenced off. Finally, a brochure and map of the trail will be created to guide public along this restored designated route.

 

Thursday Night Optional Camping

 

Most of us left the Bay Area Thursday afternoon, and made it to Camp Edison Thursday night. Phil (in a Ranger Rover Sport) made it to Camp Edison first. I followed (in Camel Trophy Defender 110) along with Jim (Discovery I) and his brother Kevin, and then followed by Leigh (Discovery II) and Gary (RRC) on Friday late afternoon.

 

Jim and I caught up on the road at a gas stop before making a left on Auberry Road (about 25 miles to Camp Edison). Jim has never been to Bald Mountain; I was glad to have caught up with Jim (likewise for Jim) and helped lead the way to camp. It can get confusing around the Millerton Road/Auberry Road area, and it was a good reminder to make directions as clear as possible for attendees.

 

You'd think end of story - settled in camp and got ready for a busy next day! Nope! Jim and I left the gas stop, and then headed up to Camp Edison. Saw the sign "left" to Shaver Lake and started the mountain climb on our Land Rovers to a high point of 5000 feet elevation (we could taste the cold beer waiting for us at camp).

 

We got close to the top of the grade/climb and all of a sudden, I saw white smoke coming out of Jim's truck; he confirmed the same thing on the CB. We pulled over; noticed the expansion tank was bone dry out of coolant. We poured coolant and saw water coming out of what we suspected at that time a broken water pump (turned out to be a busted lower radiator hose upon closer inspection later).

 

Jim phoned AAA, and provided the towing service company previous researched for this trip, and listed on the trip sheet (saved time as AAA needed to look up that information). I looked up local towing servicing that accepted AAA in preparation for the trip; good reminder to have such info handy in case of emergencies.

 

While waiting for tow service, I called and updated phil, Gary and Leigh. I was successful reaching Gary re: to bring a water pump for Jim's 96 D1 (later found out Jim actually needed a lower radiator hose instead). We also called Mike (aka Astateofmike) as he seems to be avail all the time (lol), and ask if he could get a hold of Leigh (forgot to write Leigh's number before leaving the house). Mike is a trooper and agreed to do so!

 

Finally, the tow truck came (towed Jim's D1 to camp) with an escort service from local CHP (see pic 1). The tow truck driver was concerned about tight spots at camp - Jim agreed to have his truck dropped off in the overflow parking lot at Camp Edison. 20 mins later, we arrived at Camp Edison; tow truck driver dropped off Jim's truck in the overflow parking.

 

I headed to our camp site to update phil. Phil volunteered to pick-up Jim and his brother at the overflow parking lot. To my surprise Phil came back with Jim's truck behind him! Jim decided to drive his truck for a short distance and park his truck at camp for easier access vs about ½ mile away in the overflow parking lot – plus wasn't right to leave it there I suppose!

 

Leigh pulled into the camp site not long after we got there. Everyone was busy setting up their tents. Jim pretty much relaxed and decided to enjoy the night and deal with his truck tomorrow. Way to go Jim. For me, the magic of my tent cot = took me 5 mins to setup. In the meantime while folks were finalizing their tent set-ups, phil fired up the charcoal grill, and started cooking/grilling a large slab of tri-tip. Phil also started passing around cold beers. Way to go phil!

 

To supplement the festivity, I proceeded to tap the mini-keg of Heineken (been sitting in the cooler iced all afternoon - tasty). Camp fire going, dinner and drinks on hand after a long drive while enjoying our trail stories and a clear night - this is what camping is all about. Jim and Kevin took a hike to check out rest of the camp; we all notice the stars were so bright before calling it the night. Time to get ready for a long day's work tomorrow!

 

Friday Recreation Rescue Mission

 

6:00am. Time to wake up. Good thing my alarm clock worked; otherwise, I would have been in bed till noon! I notice Jim was up this early also - he started making coffee! What a trooper he is! Phil, on the other hand, was the last one to get up – great to see folks enjoy their sleep! Needless to say, we were all ready by 7am, took a quick group photo and then headed out. We made it to Recreation Rescue base camp on the dot 8am. Dinkey Creek Road was paved and smooth; Rock Creek Road was paved but lots of pot holes.

 

We were greeted by group of Hummer enthusiast including a gal name Bebe who shared with us great information about the Rubicon trail and other famous trails such as Fordyce and Dusy Ershiem. She loves to wheel and it shows w/her knowledge of trails! There were also Jeeps and other brands from various clubs.

 

Donuts and coffee were provided as we waited for the event to kick-off.

 

Finally, the US Forest Service and Tread Lightly kicked-off the event w/a short talk re: the purpose of the rescue mission, what they needed from us and then provided instructions; They also laid out the activities for the day which was not clear to me at first. I asked for further clarification and got a better understanding. The rescue mission needed folks to run the two augers (power digging tool) and dig holes for the metal post/concrete, to do welding (experienced welders only), and to install/lay metal pipes for fencing. This particular project entailed welding metal pipes (about 6" diameter) together to create a series of fence designed to keep OHV users out of certain areas.

 

They have enough volunteers for this job so our group (NCLR) volunteered for the water diversion project which entailed digging out soil even or lower than the trail and to create a path leading to the creek.

 

The idea behind this is to re-direct water during heavy rain "off the trail" thus preventing further erosion.

 

Jim and his brother Kevin did manual digging (hard core) for the post/fence while the rest of us worked on the water diversion project.

 

Two US Forest Service workers were assigned to monitor and manage the water diversion project; one of them drove a Jeep with a winch and needed to clear fallen trees. Leigh had ask if he needed help hooking up tree straps and so forth. The Forest Service declined and said that he should be doing that (concerned about safety). I said in my mind that this guy doesn't know not too long ago we were clearing fallen trees during the Oregon Trail trip and had plenty of experience. But understood re: safety concerns so we focused on the digging!

 

Funny, it didn’t seem like working at all when you are talking about four wheeling among enthusiast while digging and shoveling! I want to follow-up on a trip to Rubicon shared by Bebe, the gal from the Hummer club; she said there is a route ideal for stock vehicles with high clearance! Humm - peaked my interest!

 

Lunch came and everyone headed towards the new Hummer SUT (Sports Utility Truck) carrying boxed lunch and sodas!

 

We wrapped up lunch and continued to do some more digging, and shoveling for a short while.

 

Fixing Jim’s broken truck was in the back of our minds and we agreed to head back to camp a lil after 3pm.

 

We said our good byes and well wishes to the rest of the group involved in the rescue mission, and then headed back to camp. Along the way, I picked up firewood ($5 for a large bundle) and a pint of Ben & Jerry’s ice cream at Ken’s market (perfect after a hot day working out in the sun).

 

See Tread Lightly report of the rescue mission: http://www.treadlightly.org/page.php/programs-r4r-hummerrecreationrescue; can you spot Leigh shoveling dirt (clue: wearing a white hard hat)! Or check out pic 2 below! Also glad to see our club name mentioned in Tread Lightly's website!

 

There was a picture from the inside of my CT110 follow and looking at the back of Leigh’s truck - Mary from Tread Lightly took that photo. Phil and I were proud to drive Mary from Tread Lightly to the rescue sight. Of course, no pressure on me to Tread lightly while driving Mary on the trail! Lol!

 

Back at camp around 4pm, shower was a priority being dusty, dirty and sweaty from all the digging and shoveling dirt. Thank goodness for hot shower avail at Camp Edison - felt refreshed after. Jim’s priority was to get his truck working. He discovered the problem was a busted lower radiator hose connected to the water pump, and not the water pump itself. Apparently, it had cracked/burst during the steep claim on Hwy 168.

 

It was too late to ask Gary to bring a replacement hose instead since he was only 30 mins close to Camp Edison. Jim called around town and no one in Shaver Lake carried the correct replacement lower rad hose for Jim’s D1 (funny, one store had the upper radiator hose but not the lower one).

 

Instead we came up with the idea of cutting out the bad section of the busted hose, and using a metal pipe sleeve to bridge the gap secured by metal hose clamps. The idea behind this temp solution is to get Jim home where he can actually get OEM replacement or correct part, and also have a professional look at his truck!

 

While Jim continued working on this truck, I tried setting up my new Hammock/being new to me, took me a while. Took a lil break and drove Jim to the town Napa Auto Parts store where he was able to source out parts for the temp solution. We actually passed Gary on the way to the Auto Parts store. Didn’t stop - figured guys back at camp will update Gary on the situation.

 

Got back with the parts. Gary and the rest (phil, Kevin and Leigh) where enjoying the mini-keg of Heineken already (plenty left over from yesterday). We understand priority for these guys! Lol! While Jim installed his make shift solution, I finally finished wrapping the harness around the trees and got my hammock up; however, it was already getting dark to enjoy it so I just left it hanging (will have to remember to setup it up first thing first). Instead I focused on building the camp fire instead (used my special blow torch powered by standard propane can; camp fire was ready in less than 1 min), making dinner and joining the Heineken crowd, and to enhance the festivity, I took out the new Margarator and made margaritas (see pic 3 & 4)! All I can say was that I had a good night sleep!

 

Prior to calling the night out, we all agreed to wake up a lil later and get moving by 9am (since no trail work or maintenance neeeded to be done).

 

Saturday Wheeling at Bald Mountain

 

8am. Wake up time! Although some of us were up earlier, this was a good day to get up late considering Friday’s hard work, and camp fire dinner and festivity. Jim started brewing coffee and making bacon. Leigh whipped out his Jet Boil and started making more bacon – he said bacon helps him deal with hang-over. No hang-over for me – but the bacon was tasty needless to say. I was suggested to Leigh to come up with a cook book called “Jet Boil and Me” – outdoor cooking! He seemed to be open to the idea – perhaps sell millions of copies to outdoor gear heads like us (make tons of money). Lol!

 

After breakfast and packing up our stuff, we all headed to Camp Edison's marina for a group photo (see pic 5). I pointed out to the group that this is a really nice area to swim, soak up the sun and enjoy the beach next time with families!

 

We said our good-byes; Leigh and Jim (and his brother Kevin) headed for home, and then phil and I met with Gary at his cabin rental.

 

Phil, Gary and I stopped at one of the two gas stations in town (Union 76) for cold drinks and packed lunch. I topped off the diesel powered CT110 – I was not surprised that the price of diesel was close to $6.00 ($5.89) at Shaver Lake (always been expensive refueling here but I wanted to get a few more gallons in the tank just in case).

 

We headed off to Bald Mountain, turned left on Dinkey Creek Road from Hwy 168, drove for about 10 miles, turned left on Rock Creek, drove for another 3 miles till we got the start of the trail for Bald Mountain. It seemed like a shorter drive this time (about 1/2 hr) vs the other day (took us almost an hour)! Maybe it was our eagerness to hit the trail got us there faster.

 

Before hitting the trail, I aired down to about 15 psi; Gary aired down to about 25 psi I believe. Which later he reported wishing that he aired down lower for better tire foot print on Bald Mountain granite.

 

Off we went and about 400 yards from the start of the trail, there was a fork on the road. The trail on the left is the South Loop, and the one on the right is the North Loop. I explained to phil and Gary on the CB that the South Loop was where we did trail maintenance yesterday and that it’s the easier trail - mostly dirt and short climbs. The North Loop is more challenging and where Frank (aka FrankD90) broke his drive shaft among other parts on the last trip to Bald Mountain. Excellent choice – Gary (and phil concurred) picked the North Loop!

 

Not too long on the trail, we encountered a nice long steep climb – mostly dirt road with rock debris. There was a short vertical section that required proper tire placement on a large boulder otherwise the vertical rock face would kept your tire spinning.

 

Then followed by a rocky decent, and then crossed a small creek (this section was in our NCLR brochure) (see pic 6). This time no fallen tree which sat (in a 45 degree angle) inches from the roof rack in the past. Must have been cleared by the US Forest Service.

 

We proceed to climb granite stair steps (pointed out where Frank broke his drive shaft) and took the by-pass route; by all means not an easy route but easier!

 

I made a wrong turn (left); I was looking at the map and got slightly disoriented; I should have made a right (visible clues were stacked rocks which were there most of the time and some of the time left you guessing).

 

Anyways, after looking at the map, compass and GPS, we finally got back on track; check out Gary's RRC on top of the mtn (see pic 7 taken from phil website). I decided (which I should have done in the first place) to enter the GPS coordinates of all the mile marker previously recorded on the trail guide I was using to plan for this trip. GPS coords helped tremendously because the stack rocks (suppose to be trail markers) weren't always there – some got knocked off and some there were none all. There was another granite stir climb (more challenging then the previous) after the we made the correct turn to the right!

 

There were a lot of other challenging areas in the North Loop including a rock crawl over a tight spot where you had to keep your line right otherwise say good bye to your under carriage! Needless to say, Gary, phil and my truck made it w/o any carnage (see pic 8 & 9).

 

Got to the top/Look-out Tower, and the view of the look out tower was spectacular; even though, I’ve there several times, it was still breath taking as ever! Clear and blue skies – you can see yonder Shaver lake clearly (see pic 10)!

 

We proceeded to head back (start of the trail) on the South Loop, pointed out to Gary the areas we did trail maintenance along the help of other groups on Friday. In fact, we caught up with the two of the US Forest Service guys still pouring cement in the last several holes left unfinished from Friday’s work. We waited for them to finish and several trucks to passed by and then off we continue on the South Loop.

 

There was one area in the South Loop that would present a challenge for stock vehicles - a ledge/rock drop off where you would need to go slow and have at least a 2” lift and good departure angle (or have the air suspension up) otherwise you'd drag the rear badly. To the right, will get your diff hung up so you had to stay the course and drive down the rock drop. Gary's lifted RRC, my stock CT110, and Phil's RRS made the drop off w/o any carnage! Phil was happy with his recent mods: sliders and more under carriage protection!

 

We got back to the start of the trail; aired up (I like Gary’s CO2 setup – he aired my two left tires faster than I can air up one)! We said our good byes; had a great time both during the rescue mission and wheeling on Bald Mountain!

 

I wanted to thank Jim and his brother, Leigh, phil, and Gary for driving all the way down to Shaver Lake, and making this a great PR trip, and great wheeling trip Sat!

 

Until next time – Watch out for Return to Bald Mountain; or perhaps check out the other trails in the area such as Red Mountain and Swamp Lake next time!

 

Cheers!

[PCRover]

Great report Ron! I am going to copy it to the NCLR website.

[dcproven]

Very nice write up!!! as always.

 

I thought we had a date here in SoCal????

You forgot my phone number again??

 

Take care.

 

David.

[Phil.]

nice write up ron. not a huge deal 'bout the pic. i was mostly worried that she img src'd the Flickr photo without linking to the Flickr photo page as that's against the terms of service, but she copied one down and uploaded it to their site directly.

[LandRonB]

NP Gary!

 

And good to hear phil!

 

David, funny you asked (hey I have your number on my directory); my wife and kids wanted to visit your place (Max/Jake remember your girls from the last Shaver Lake trip - they had fun), but I needed to jam to pismo after Lego Land/SD Zoo and snag a camping permit (heard from the Ranger that only issue 1000 and it was very close to that number); so we powered thru 101 and missed Thousand Oaks/Westlake Village area! Man, would have been great to enjoy San Miguel, your wife's cooking, Balot w/you, kids hang out, etc...

 

I am planning to visit again with the wife/kids - this time to visit Universal Studios; kids are very interested in the Sponge Bob ride!

 

Plus I have a reason to visit - my Prius is in LA (left it there for client calls/fly and drive my Prius vs renting a car). The car pool sticker on my Prius helps get in/out since your traffic in LA or S. Cal is horrible even with using carpool! Ok, complaining off! Smile!

 

See you buddy!

[LandRonB]

Great report Ron! I am going to copy it to the NCLR website.

 

Thanks Gary! I re-read my trip report and suppose it's ok now (made sev corrections e.g. spelling/typos). You can skip the prologue and use the contact from "My Trip" and down (colored blue text)!

 

Perhaps for next year - we can put a group together to recce Red Mountain or Swamp Lake trails near Shaver Lake! C yah!

[MrVideo]

It's long over due, but now you can enjoy our Bald Mountain adventure August 1st with Tread Lightly.

This was actually my first project with my new high definition camera and it took a while to find a program to edit my high def video. Of course to put it on the web degrades the video to VHS quality. The audio also ends early.

Here's the link:

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-7465173746754937997&hl=en

 

I'm thinking of burning a DVD of my raw high definition video of our MORGs that I've attended if anyone would be interested.

 

Also, Google will be closing Google videos very soon. Any video currently on their servers will stay, but you will not be able to upload new material.

[LandRonB]

Good job Jim!

 

I like it; potential PR video to share with Tread Lightly and NCLR club members; want me to share with Mary from Tread Light and copy you on my email; you can add to the detail or address her questions!

 

Ron

 

It's long over due, but now you can enjoy our Bald Mountain adventure August 1st with Tread Lightly.

This was actually my first project with my new high definition camera and it took a while to find a program to edit my high def video. Of course to put it on the web degrades the video to VHS quality. The audio also ends early.

Here's the link:

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-7465173746754937997&hl=en

 

I'm thinking of burning a DVD of my raw high definition video of our MORGs that I've attended if anyone would be interested.

 

Also, Google will be closing Google videos very soon. Any video currently on their servers will stay, but you will not be able to upload new material.