Hey gang, I posted this on the UC board, but thought it might do well here too...
For those that have never been on this run before and will be participating 2 or 3 days, I have a few pointers. For those that have done this trip, these are good reminders.
First of all, this is not a typical wheeling event with major obstacles around every corner, but we can be on the trails for 5-8 hours a day. Most stock vehicles can do this trip. Rear lockers are not a must, but those that have run without them, wished they'd had them. In any case, everyone helps everyone, and if a strap is needed, don't feel embarrassed. The worst this trail ever gets is muddy (with recent rains) and becomes difficult for some hill climbs. Expect some areas to be off-camber and some to be a bit rocky. Pinstriping can occur in the wooded areas of the trails. Make sure you have a proper spare tire. I cannot think of a time in recent years that someone did not change a tire (myself on two occassions). Bring extra gas cans if your truck burns gas the way mine does at 3 mph for six hours.
Secondly, this is primitive camping. There are no nearby port-o-johns, showers, or electrical hook-ups. You will need to pack ALL of your food for the weekend and some means of preparing it. You will not have an opportunity to go back to town and stock up or get take-out.
Leaving camp or your group is reserved for emergencies only.
It is very likely you
WILL be out of cell phone range. Bring your HAM/CB radios, or FRS/GMRS radios at a
minimum. If we have caravans of 8+ rigs, trail communications will be key to arriving safely and timely at camp.
We can be several hours from the nearest town, depending on what trail we are on. Please be knowledgeable about your onboard First Aid kits should you need them. And above all, just be safe on this trip.
In the past, the weather has varied from very windy & chilly to warm & sunny. We'll keep an eye on the weather forecasts up until we depart and try to prepare everyone for the conditions. Plan to bring a good outer shell and insulating under layers. On some previous trips the camps have been extremely windy and unsafe for campfires. So you need to be able to bundle up warmly in case we cannot safely keep a fire going. Don't forget to bring a folding chair too. Another tip I have for windy weather is to bring an extra tarp if you are tent camping. It can be set up as a wind deflector, as the high mtn winds seem to blow right thru a standard tent.
We'll have great views from several spots on the trails and definitely at the camps. Bring your camera and extra batteries.
Also, dogs are welcome, if well behaved
