****UPDATED FOR 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023****
Hello Kokopelli team members!
Congratulations on selecting this adventure. Cruise Moab 2019 is almost here! This Monday double-overnight Kokopelli Trail run to Cruise Moab departs Monday April 17. We are all in for a grand adventure with a great group! This is a long post, but should cover most stuff.
This thread will serve as our initial meeting place. We will coordinate our times, make cyber-introductions and start the process of getting to know each other. For 3 days we are going to work as a team, look out for each other, break bread, camp and laugh. We'll be doing that over one of the most beautiful and exciting trails in the world!
The Trip:
We will cover around 150-miles with no gas stations, no stores, limited cell service, and little traffic.
Please ensure that you are fueled up and have 5 extra gallons in a safe, leak-proof container stored outside your vehicle. Your closest last fuel is 20 miles East in Fruita, CO. To the west, Thompson Springs is 48 miles. Some of you may have vehicles you know will not need extra fuel for 150 miles of wheeling (even considering you don't get the same mileage as the highway!). We want the extra fuel in case we need to backtrack or have any other reason for extra mileage. Do not assume you will only be driving point-to-point. If you absolutely have no way to carry an extra fuel container outside your vehicle, please discuss with me. Usually we have other vehicles that can help out with roof-rack or pickup truck bed space.
The Plan:
Sunday Night: (Optional) Many people camp near the trailhead. There are also hotels available nearby to the East in Grand Junction and Fruita, CO, and farther to the West in Green River, UT. Camping nearby Rabbit Valley (Rabbit Valley Motorized Area | BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT) is at the Jouflas Campground (BLM dedicates Jouflas Campground in honor of local ranching family): 39°10'33.6"N 109°01'19.9"W (or 39.175903, -109.022320)
The Jouflas Campground is a first come first served primitive camping area From Exit 2 off I-70, travel south just over a half mile and turn right. If that area happens to be full (that's' doubtful) you can camp in any designated camp area. There is good cell service in that area.
I'm going to check out a slightly different camp area just North of I-70 this year. If you wantto remote camp Sunday (I encourage it) give a call or text Sunday when you are heading towards Rabbit Valley.
Monday Morning: Meet at the Rabbit Valley I-70 Exit North side of I-70. Its less busy and has a pit toilet.
Tech Inspection will run from 8:00 AM till we finish. Tech requirements may be viewed HERE. The sooner we are ready, the sooner we hit the trail. Drivers Meeting 9:00ish and departure as soon as we can! We make sure you are all there before we go. There is cell service in Rabbit Valley so call me (I e-mailed you my number) if you are having any issues.
Monday night's camp will be at Fish Ford near the Colorado River ( 38°55'22.0"N 109°14'50.2"W 38.922763, -109.247287 ). We'll arrive in camp in the late afternoon with plenty of daylight to set our first remote camp and relax for what is always a great evening. This is primitive camping so we will not have a place to dump trash until late on day two. There is a primitive pit toilet.
Tuesday: Wheels up 8:30 AM. We'll travel through the desert, cross Cisco Wash and onto a portion of Dome Plateau. We will make our way through Yellowjacket Canyon and see amazing views and dinosaur prints. Our lunch stop is a great place to hike around and take amazing photos of the La Sal Mountains and some small arches. We'll exit the trail near the famous Dewey Bridge.
Tuesday Top Of the World: Top of the World is an out and back trail. It typically will take a few hours to complete and we are making it optional for you because you’ll already have had one and a half days on the trail. Some may choose an overland-style relaxing evening at camp. On the other hand, I will lead the group up to TOtW no matter how many. TOtW ends at one of the most photogenic spots in the region. The group usually does not get back to camp until after dark. It will be challenging driving, especially after two full days on the trail. You can expect to hit your sliders and bumpers. The ledges have been getting dug out and this trail is harder now than it has been in the past. It's a driveshaft and u-joint eater, so you must stay vigilant. One trip a few year's ago was nicknamed "Brokeopelli Expedition" because of all the damage they had along the way. Remember: this is just the start of your Cruise Moab and you don’t want to break.
Tuesday night's camp: Roberts Bottom. 10 minute drive from Dewey Bridge pit toilets.
Wednesday: Wheels up 8:30 AM for another full day. The day is beautiful scenery and moderate wheeling. Hopefully you already know we are not doing the infamous Rose Garden Hill. RGH has gotten harder every year and its not really overlanding to run it. W will drive a few miles along the Colorado River and up the spectacular Onion Creek Road to re-join the Kokopelli trail and then traverse the northern flank of the La Sal Mountains and arrive into Moab via Sand Flats Road. Either way, we will arrive to Moab in time to go to the Cruise Moab Headquarters and set up camp or check into your hotel. In the even we arrive late for any reason, you can always check-in at registration Thursday AM.
General Information:
Vehicle Inspection: This is a TLCA Sanctioned Event. All vehicles must pass the TLCA tech inspection at Rabbit Valley. Get there early to get teched-in and meet your team. Make sure your vehicle is really in tip top shape. We are traveling in a remote area well away from civilization and there are very few bail-out areas. Even if you bail to pavement you are still FAR from “civilization”. More information HERE
Communications: Everyone must have a well-functioning FRS/GMRS radio. FRS/GMRS is a Cruise Moab requirement and vitally important for these long distance overnight runs. Having a HAM radio is even better. If you are not licensed, you can still listen - bring a borrowed or buy an inexpensive unit (learn basic operation and how to charge/replace batteries). I will have both (KØFZJ). We will talk a lot along the route. Frequency TBD.
Fuel: Please ensure that you are fueled up and have 5 extra gallons in a safe, leak-proof container stored outside your vehicle. Your closest last fuel is 20 miles East in Fruita, CO. To the west, Thompson Springs is 48 miles. Some of you may have vehicles you know will not need extra fuel for 150 miles of wheeling (even considering you don't get the same mileage as the highway!). We want the extra fuel in case we need to backtrack or have any other reason for extra mileage. Do not assume you will only be driving point-to-point. If you absolutely have no way to carry an extra fuel container outside your vehicle, please discuss with me. Usually we have other vehicles that can help out with roof-rack or pickup truck bed space.
Food: You must be self-sufficient.
Water: 1 gallon per person per day for drinking is the minimum rule of the desert. Bring more if you plan on doing dishes, showering etc. There is no drinking water available on the trail. The mighty Colorado runs muddy and we are only close a few times. Have more than one container so if one leaks you don't lose all your water.
Toilets: For number 1: Urinating in a disturbed or stable area (i.e. trail, rock, dry drainage) is preferred. Don't pee on plants and flowers. For number 2: BLM mandates that all solid waste be removed. We will have just one portable/packable toilet available (you keep the used bags!), so please bring your own system. Most outdoor stores and online shops have “wag bags.” Any bag works, but that powder removes the smells like magic! You will pack out all solid waste. I like to store trash in a tub on my roof. We will stop at vault toilets where they appear. There is a vault toilet about a 10-minute drive from camp on Wednesday night, and we will stop at those in the afternoon on Wednesday.
Pets: Please feel free to bring your friendly and well behaved pet. Dogs that could possibly bite are better left at home. We are a long way from medical facilities and a dog-bite could be hard to deal with. Both camp locations are primitive and there are cattle, sheep, fox, coyote, skunks, turkeys, snakes, scorpions, and other desert critters in the area. There may be sheep dogs with the herds and they are not friendly. Do not let your dog tangle with them. Do not approach them. They are working. The sheep may also be birthing during this time, so keep your dog away from the sheep. Be sure to bring a leash and clean up after your dog.
Trailers: Off-road trailers are welcome if it can handle the trail and you can handle it. The terrain is tough in several spots. Please let me know if you're thinking of bringing a trailer so we can discuss it. Plan B is to drop your trailer in Moab before the trip.
Firewood: We recommend encourage that you bring at least one bundle of fire wood. More is better. Nights this time of year can be very cold and sitting around a warm campfire talking Cruisers and Trucks is nice!
Firearms: Abide by applicable laws. We are traveling in Colorado and Utah. Keep in mind this is a TLCA Sanctioned 4x4 event. There will be no recreational shooting at any time during this run. Be responsible and keep your weapons safely secured.
Alcohol, Marijuana, Drugs: Consuming alcohol, any illegal drugs, and any drugs or other products that impair your abilities is strictly prohibited before and while on the trail, as is being under the influence in any way while on the trail. This applies to drivers and passengers. Camp after the day is done is the place to responsibly and lawfully enjoy an adult beverage if you choose. Violation of this rule on trail will see you immediately removed from the group.
Behavior: Intoxicated, rude, offensive, disrespectful, or otherwise inappropriate behavior, or a violation of any applicable rules or laws, as determined in the in the sole and subjective discretion of the Trail Leader, is grounds for immediate removal from the group. There may be no warnings or second chances. If you don't like this rule, we'll gladly switch or refund you now.
Health Issues: If you have any health issues that may require emergency assistance, please let your Trail Leader know privately or share it with our group during our Driver's Meeting. Bring extras of any needed medication. By registering for this trip, you are acknowledging and agreeing that you are in suitable physical condition for this rigorous trip and that you will be far from any medical services, even by helicopter.
Colorado and Utah both have “Search and Rescue Cards” which can help to reduce or eliminate SAR charges. Google them. I have both.
Medical/First Aid: I have some first aid training and I carry an Outer Limit Supply first aid kit. I encourage everyone to carry a first aid kit and be trained howto use it. If you feel comfortable about it, please let us know if you have medical training so we know our available resources should a situation arise. We are in remote areas and medical needs can become very serious very quickly and backcountry response times are long. Your Trail leader will be carrying a satellite device in case of emergencies but they do not always work. SAFETY FIRST!
Your Vehicle: We are traveling in a remote area. Please ensure that your vehicle is in top running condition. If you cannot pass Tech Inspection on Tuesday morning, you cannot participate. Please review the vehicle minimum requirements and forms at Cruise Moab - Vehicle Requirements
Liability Waivers: You are required to sign a liability waiver for yourself and any minors. This will be presented to you at the trailhead. If you want to see a copy in advance please e-mail Cruise Moab Registration.
Trash: You will pack out what you pack in. This includes all human waste and all trash, all food scraps. Paper is ok in the campfire. We always leave camp and the trail better than we found it. Don’t hesitate to announce on the radio that you’re stopping to pick up a bottle or beer can. Let's do our part to make sure this trail stays beautiful and open for the next generation.
Camp: Respect others in camp. Have fun, but don’t disturb the folks who climb turn in early. If you like to sleep early, don't park near the main campfire.
Have Fun: This expedition is a once in a lifetime trip for some folks. We will stop for photos at all the best places. Bring your camera and smile.
Please post up and make an introduction. Feel free to ask questions, tell a little about yourself and your vehicle, or just say hello. This is a trip of a lifetime!
Some reading on our Route: Kokopelli's Trail | BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT
Hello Kokopelli team members!
Congratulations on selecting this adventure. Cruise Moab 2019 is almost here! This Monday double-overnight Kokopelli Trail run to Cruise Moab departs Monday April 17. We are all in for a grand adventure with a great group! This is a long post, but should cover most stuff.
This thread will serve as our initial meeting place. We will coordinate our times, make cyber-introductions and start the process of getting to know each other. For 3 days we are going to work as a team, look out for each other, break bread, camp and laugh. We'll be doing that over one of the most beautiful and exciting trails in the world!
The Trip:
We will cover around 150-miles with no gas stations, no stores, limited cell service, and little traffic.
Please ensure that you are fueled up and have 5 extra gallons in a safe, leak-proof container stored outside your vehicle. Your closest last fuel is 20 miles East in Fruita, CO. To the west, Thompson Springs is 48 miles. Some of you may have vehicles you know will not need extra fuel for 150 miles of wheeling (even considering you don't get the same mileage as the highway!). We want the extra fuel in case we need to backtrack or have any other reason for extra mileage. Do not assume you will only be driving point-to-point. If you absolutely have no way to carry an extra fuel container outside your vehicle, please discuss with me. Usually we have other vehicles that can help out with roof-rack or pickup truck bed space.
The Plan:
Sunday Night: (Optional) Many people camp near the trailhead. There are also hotels available nearby to the East in Grand Junction and Fruita, CO, and farther to the West in Green River, UT. Camping nearby Rabbit Valley (Rabbit Valley Motorized Area | BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT) is at the Jouflas Campground (BLM dedicates Jouflas Campground in honor of local ranching family): 39°10'33.6"N 109°01'19.9"W (or 39.175903, -109.022320)
The Jouflas Campground is a first come first served primitive camping area From Exit 2 off I-70, travel south just over a half mile and turn right. If that area happens to be full (that's' doubtful) you can camp in any designated camp area. There is good cell service in that area.
I'm going to check out a slightly different camp area just North of I-70 this year. If you wantto remote camp Sunday (I encourage it) give a call or text Sunday when you are heading towards Rabbit Valley.
Monday Morning: Meet at the Rabbit Valley I-70 Exit North side of I-70. Its less busy and has a pit toilet.
Tech Inspection will run from 8:00 AM till we finish. Tech requirements may be viewed HERE. The sooner we are ready, the sooner we hit the trail. Drivers Meeting 9:00ish and departure as soon as we can! We make sure you are all there before we go. There is cell service in Rabbit Valley so call me (I e-mailed you my number) if you are having any issues.
Monday night's camp will be at Fish Ford near the Colorado River ( 38°55'22.0"N 109°14'50.2"W 38.922763, -109.247287 ). We'll arrive in camp in the late afternoon with plenty of daylight to set our first remote camp and relax for what is always a great evening. This is primitive camping so we will not have a place to dump trash until late on day two. There is a primitive pit toilet.
Tuesday: Wheels up 8:30 AM. We'll travel through the desert, cross Cisco Wash and onto a portion of Dome Plateau. We will make our way through Yellowjacket Canyon and see amazing views and dinosaur prints. Our lunch stop is a great place to hike around and take amazing photos of the La Sal Mountains and some small arches. We'll exit the trail near the famous Dewey Bridge.
Tuesday Top Of the World: Top of the World is an out and back trail. It typically will take a few hours to complete and we are making it optional for you because you’ll already have had one and a half days on the trail. Some may choose an overland-style relaxing evening at camp. On the other hand, I will lead the group up to TOtW no matter how many. TOtW ends at one of the most photogenic spots in the region. The group usually does not get back to camp until after dark. It will be challenging driving, especially after two full days on the trail. You can expect to hit your sliders and bumpers. The ledges have been getting dug out and this trail is harder now than it has been in the past. It's a driveshaft and u-joint eater, so you must stay vigilant. One trip a few year's ago was nicknamed "Brokeopelli Expedition" because of all the damage they had along the way. Remember: this is just the start of your Cruise Moab and you don’t want to break.
Tuesday night's camp: Roberts Bottom. 10 minute drive from Dewey Bridge pit toilets.
Wednesday: Wheels up 8:30 AM for another full day. The day is beautiful scenery and moderate wheeling. Hopefully you already know we are not doing the infamous Rose Garden Hill. RGH has gotten harder every year and its not really overlanding to run it. W will drive a few miles along the Colorado River and up the spectacular Onion Creek Road to re-join the Kokopelli trail and then traverse the northern flank of the La Sal Mountains and arrive into Moab via Sand Flats Road. Either way, we will arrive to Moab in time to go to the Cruise Moab Headquarters and set up camp or check into your hotel. In the even we arrive late for any reason, you can always check-in at registration Thursday AM.
General Information:
Vehicle Inspection: This is a TLCA Sanctioned Event. All vehicles must pass the TLCA tech inspection at Rabbit Valley. Get there early to get teched-in and meet your team. Make sure your vehicle is really in tip top shape. We are traveling in a remote area well away from civilization and there are very few bail-out areas. Even if you bail to pavement you are still FAR from “civilization”. More information HERE
Communications: Everyone must have a well-functioning FRS/GMRS radio. FRS/GMRS is a Cruise Moab requirement and vitally important for these long distance overnight runs. Having a HAM radio is even better. If you are not licensed, you can still listen - bring a borrowed or buy an inexpensive unit (learn basic operation and how to charge/replace batteries). I will have both (KØFZJ). We will talk a lot along the route. Frequency TBD.
Fuel: Please ensure that you are fueled up and have 5 extra gallons in a safe, leak-proof container stored outside your vehicle. Your closest last fuel is 20 miles East in Fruita, CO. To the west, Thompson Springs is 48 miles. Some of you may have vehicles you know will not need extra fuel for 150 miles of wheeling (even considering you don't get the same mileage as the highway!). We want the extra fuel in case we need to backtrack or have any other reason for extra mileage. Do not assume you will only be driving point-to-point. If you absolutely have no way to carry an extra fuel container outside your vehicle, please discuss with me. Usually we have other vehicles that can help out with roof-rack or pickup truck bed space.
Food: You must be self-sufficient.
Water: 1 gallon per person per day for drinking is the minimum rule of the desert. Bring more if you plan on doing dishes, showering etc. There is no drinking water available on the trail. The mighty Colorado runs muddy and we are only close a few times. Have more than one container so if one leaks you don't lose all your water.
Toilets: For number 1: Urinating in a disturbed or stable area (i.e. trail, rock, dry drainage) is preferred. Don't pee on plants and flowers. For number 2: BLM mandates that all solid waste be removed. We will have just one portable/packable toilet available (you keep the used bags!), so please bring your own system. Most outdoor stores and online shops have “wag bags.” Any bag works, but that powder removes the smells like magic! You will pack out all solid waste. I like to store trash in a tub on my roof. We will stop at vault toilets where they appear. There is a vault toilet about a 10-minute drive from camp on Wednesday night, and we will stop at those in the afternoon on Wednesday.
Pets: Please feel free to bring your friendly and well behaved pet. Dogs that could possibly bite are better left at home. We are a long way from medical facilities and a dog-bite could be hard to deal with. Both camp locations are primitive and there are cattle, sheep, fox, coyote, skunks, turkeys, snakes, scorpions, and other desert critters in the area. There may be sheep dogs with the herds and they are not friendly. Do not let your dog tangle with them. Do not approach them. They are working. The sheep may also be birthing during this time, so keep your dog away from the sheep. Be sure to bring a leash and clean up after your dog.
Trailers: Off-road trailers are welcome if it can handle the trail and you can handle it. The terrain is tough in several spots. Please let me know if you're thinking of bringing a trailer so we can discuss it. Plan B is to drop your trailer in Moab before the trip.
Firewood: We recommend encourage that you bring at least one bundle of fire wood. More is better. Nights this time of year can be very cold and sitting around a warm campfire talking Cruisers and Trucks is nice!
Firearms: Abide by applicable laws. We are traveling in Colorado and Utah. Keep in mind this is a TLCA Sanctioned 4x4 event. There will be no recreational shooting at any time during this run. Be responsible and keep your weapons safely secured.
Alcohol, Marijuana, Drugs: Consuming alcohol, any illegal drugs, and any drugs or other products that impair your abilities is strictly prohibited before and while on the trail, as is being under the influence in any way while on the trail. This applies to drivers and passengers. Camp after the day is done is the place to responsibly and lawfully enjoy an adult beverage if you choose. Violation of this rule on trail will see you immediately removed from the group.
Behavior: Intoxicated, rude, offensive, disrespectful, or otherwise inappropriate behavior, or a violation of any applicable rules or laws, as determined in the in the sole and subjective discretion of the Trail Leader, is grounds for immediate removal from the group. There may be no warnings or second chances. If you don't like this rule, we'll gladly switch or refund you now.
Health Issues: If you have any health issues that may require emergency assistance, please let your Trail Leader know privately or share it with our group during our Driver's Meeting. Bring extras of any needed medication. By registering for this trip, you are acknowledging and agreeing that you are in suitable physical condition for this rigorous trip and that you will be far from any medical services, even by helicopter.
Colorado and Utah both have “Search and Rescue Cards” which can help to reduce or eliminate SAR charges. Google them. I have both.
Medical/First Aid: I have some first aid training and I carry an Outer Limit Supply first aid kit. I encourage everyone to carry a first aid kit and be trained howto use it. If you feel comfortable about it, please let us know if you have medical training so we know our available resources should a situation arise. We are in remote areas and medical needs can become very serious very quickly and backcountry response times are long. Your Trail leader will be carrying a satellite device in case of emergencies but they do not always work. SAFETY FIRST!
Your Vehicle: We are traveling in a remote area. Please ensure that your vehicle is in top running condition. If you cannot pass Tech Inspection on Tuesday morning, you cannot participate. Please review the vehicle minimum requirements and forms at Cruise Moab - Vehicle Requirements
Liability Waivers: You are required to sign a liability waiver for yourself and any minors. This will be presented to you at the trailhead. If you want to see a copy in advance please e-mail Cruise Moab Registration.
Trash: You will pack out what you pack in. This includes all human waste and all trash, all food scraps. Paper is ok in the campfire. We always leave camp and the trail better than we found it. Don’t hesitate to announce on the radio that you’re stopping to pick up a bottle or beer can. Let's do our part to make sure this trail stays beautiful and open for the next generation.
Camp: Respect others in camp. Have fun, but don’t disturb the folks who climb turn in early. If you like to sleep early, don't park near the main campfire.
Have Fun: This expedition is a once in a lifetime trip for some folks. We will stop for photos at all the best places. Bring your camera and smile.
Please post up and make an introduction. Feel free to ask questions, tell a little about yourself and your vehicle, or just say hello. This is a trip of a lifetime!
Some reading on our Route: Kokopelli's Trail | BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT
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