Wow, that's a long time. Granted I have a less efficient and larger Edgestar fridge, but I'm happy to have only 2 days of runtime. Thanks for the info, I think I'll look into a grp 65 more seriously now!
LX470 Family Adventure Rig
- Thread starter Bretthn
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- #202
Just an update. We just did a trip from Greensboro, NC to Washington DC and back through Virginia Beach. The LX is still driving like a new car. this past week I cleaned her up real nice, changed the oil, greased the diveshafts, and rotated the tires. Sitting a bit over 198,000 miles now.
I did notice that the Cooper ST Maxx are starting to dry rot. I don't usually use any tire dressing but I may need to start to keep the rubber hydrated. They are only about 2/3 to 1/2 worn. I would hate for them to rot out before I get their full life out of them.
Hoping to get her geared up for a trip soon. Can't decide if I want to take her out to Cape Lookout and the Outer Banks or make a trip to Thurmond, WV (ghost town).
I did notice that the Cooper ST Maxx are starting to dry rot. I don't usually use any tire dressing but I may need to start to keep the rubber hydrated. They are only about 2/3 to 1/2 worn. I would hate for them to rot out before I get their full life out of them.
Hoping to get her geared up for a trip soon. Can't decide if I want to take her out to Cape Lookout and the Outer Banks or make a trip to Thurmond, WV (ghost town).
I grew up near Thurmond. Beautiful country miss the green hills.
My good friend is from Thurmond and is now a city council member. We used to stay at his house there every weekend in the summer and raft. Good times.
Yup, the rafting was fun. Doesn't happen to be the Dragen family does it?
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- Thread starter
- #208
Thank you. Everything I know about the Lexus came from the great people on this site, ExpeditionPortal, and Google.
- Thread starter
- #209
Got up early yesterday and decided to take the Lexus out on a safari.
Hadn't been to Lazy 5 Ranch in a couple of years and this was Kratai's first trip.
This guy followed us for quite a while and jumped up in my window every time we stopped to feed and pet another animal.
The giraffes were the big hit as always.
Another great adventure. We got the roof top tent mounted today. Ready to do some camping next weekend. I will follow up with another post with the tent upgrades we made today.
Thanks for viewing as always!
Brett
Hadn't been to Lazy 5 Ranch in a couple of years and this was Kratai's first trip.
This guy followed us for quite a while and jumped up in my window every time we stopped to feed and pet another animal.
The giraffes were the big hit as always.
Another great adventure. We got the roof top tent mounted today. Ready to do some camping next weekend. I will follow up with another post with the tent upgrades we made today.
Thanks for viewing as always!
Brett
- Thread starter
- #210
We mounted the roof top tent a couple of weeks ago along with the awning. Before throwing it on the roof I finally made some additions I have been meaning to do for a couple years.
I wired up some led lights, some USB ports for charging devices, and a 12 volt outlet for running a fan.
These additions made a world of difference on our last camping trip.
I wired up some led lights, some USB ports for charging devices, and a 12 volt outlet for running a fan.
These additions made a world of difference on our last camping trip.
- Thread starter
- #211
With the constant on and off rain we have been having lately we debated making a trip last weekend to Western North Carolina. Finally we decided to make the trip on Friday evening after work. It's about a two and a half hour drive for us. We also stopped off in Boone for dinner.
We hit the northern end of NC105 (a dirt forest road that runs the western ridge the length of Linville Gorge) after dark. There is a lot of hiking and primitive campsites along the approximate 13 mile stretch. They were calling for rain Friday night so we were able to find a campsite fairly easy. We couldn't have gotten luckier on the spot as it was beautiful the next morning.
The only issue we had setting up in the dark was trying to get the Lexus level for the tent. I had to make a good stack of rocks under one set of tires. It got me thinking about carrying something more convenient. I have seen someone using a yellow plastic stack of RV leveling blocks before. What does everyone else use?
I am not a breakfast person unless I am camping. Watching the sunrise around a campfire with a good cup of coffee and a healthy breakfast was a great way to start the day.
We set up the hammock and relaxed for a couple hours.
We also shot a $2.00 slingshot that we picked up at Mast General Store the night before while in Boone. I have to say it is my new favorite camping accessory.
We were starting to see a lot of traffic by 10:30am and knew there was no way we were going to get this site back if we left to go hiking like we originally planned. We debated just staying at this site all weekend but eventually packed up and headed to look for some waterfalls.
We hit the northern end of NC105 (a dirt forest road that runs the western ridge the length of Linville Gorge) after dark. There is a lot of hiking and primitive campsites along the approximate 13 mile stretch. They were calling for rain Friday night so we were able to find a campsite fairly easy. We couldn't have gotten luckier on the spot as it was beautiful the next morning.
The only issue we had setting up in the dark was trying to get the Lexus level for the tent. I had to make a good stack of rocks under one set of tires. It got me thinking about carrying something more convenient. I have seen someone using a yellow plastic stack of RV leveling blocks before. What does everyone else use?
I am not a breakfast person unless I am camping. Watching the sunrise around a campfire with a good cup of coffee and a healthy breakfast was a great way to start the day.
We set up the hammock and relaxed for a couple hours.
We also shot a $2.00 slingshot that we picked up at Mast General Store the night before while in Boone. I have to say it is my new favorite camping accessory.
We were starting to see a lot of traffic by 10:30am and knew there was no way we were going to get this site back if we left to go hiking like we originally planned. We debated just staying at this site all weekend but eventually packed up and headed to look for some waterfalls.
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- Thread starter
- #212
After packing up camp we headed for Hunt Fish Falls which is only about an hour or so drive on more dirt fire roads.
Its only supposed to be a mile hike to the falls but it is some steep rocky terrain. I felt like my toes were going to burst through the front of my shoes before we made it to the bottom. I am also guessing it is more than a mile and maybe closer to two. When we got to the falls it was all worth it.
We walked down river checking out all of the smaller falls and views while trying to find a good spot to set the hammock and have some lunch.
After a couple beers and the temperature rising into the high 70s I got the bright idea to cool off. I knew the water was too cold for me to gingerly walk in....
It was freezing!
After drying off we made the climb back to car. This small hike is no joke. We ran into a family with some small kids and parents nor kids looked happy.
There is not much for parking for this hike and when we got back the car was hot as hell. We were committed to not running AC all weekend as it only makes it that much hotter at camp. At least in my opinion. Well we broke that deal and had to run the AC for a bit to cool things off.
We headed back towards our campsite that we had that morning with very low hopes that we would get it again but thinking there would be something available.
After driving the length of the gorge and finding nothing we thought we might actually have to get a hotel room for the night. I would just as soon stay at a hotel than a crowded campground. I knew it was a longshot but there were a couple more options. I headed north on 221 looking to see if there were gates open for some other forest service roads. No such luck there either. We then headed back southeast towards Wilson Creek. Every site we came across was also full. The weather started to turn and it was looking like rain. We convinced ourselves that we would get a hotel room in Boone and have a nice dinner while checking out the sites in town. Low and behold just before we turned around we came across a great site and the firepit was still smoldering. I guess the rainclouds got the best of someone and they packed up early.
We quickly got the fire going and started on dinner.
Our campsite backed right up to the creek and was almost as good as the one we had the night before.
Knowing that it was likely going to rain while we slept and may still be raining in the morning we packed up everything that night.
It did pour on us while we slept but the creek was so loud we couldn't tell the difference between it and the rain. We stayed cool and dry and slept well. It was just a sprinkle in the morning. Couldn't have asked for anything better.
We got cleaned up, packed the tent, and headed out to try to get some cellular service as we were meeting some friends to hit some more technical trails that day.
This was another great site that we will be back to again this year. My only concern is that if it were any warmer there may be a good bit of mosquitos.
Its only supposed to be a mile hike to the falls but it is some steep rocky terrain. I felt like my toes were going to burst through the front of my shoes before we made it to the bottom. I am also guessing it is more than a mile and maybe closer to two. When we got to the falls it was all worth it.
We walked down river checking out all of the smaller falls and views while trying to find a good spot to set the hammock and have some lunch.
After a couple beers and the temperature rising into the high 70s I got the bright idea to cool off. I knew the water was too cold for me to gingerly walk in....
It was freezing!
After drying off we made the climb back to car. This small hike is no joke. We ran into a family with some small kids and parents nor kids looked happy.
There is not much for parking for this hike and when we got back the car was hot as hell. We were committed to not running AC all weekend as it only makes it that much hotter at camp. At least in my opinion. Well we broke that deal and had to run the AC for a bit to cool things off.
We headed back towards our campsite that we had that morning with very low hopes that we would get it again but thinking there would be something available.
After driving the length of the gorge and finding nothing we thought we might actually have to get a hotel room for the night. I would just as soon stay at a hotel than a crowded campground. I knew it was a longshot but there were a couple more options. I headed north on 221 looking to see if there were gates open for some other forest service roads. No such luck there either. We then headed back southeast towards Wilson Creek. Every site we came across was also full. The weather started to turn and it was looking like rain. We convinced ourselves that we would get a hotel room in Boone and have a nice dinner while checking out the sites in town. Low and behold just before we turned around we came across a great site and the firepit was still smoldering. I guess the rainclouds got the best of someone and they packed up early.
We quickly got the fire going and started on dinner.
Our campsite backed right up to the creek and was almost as good as the one we had the night before.
Knowing that it was likely going to rain while we slept and may still be raining in the morning we packed up everything that night.
It did pour on us while we slept but the creek was so loud we couldn't tell the difference between it and the rain. We stayed cool and dry and slept well. It was just a sprinkle in the morning. Couldn't have asked for anything better.
We got cleaned up, packed the tent, and headed out to try to get some cellular service as we were meeting some friends to hit some more technical trails that day.
This was another great site that we will be back to again this year. My only concern is that if it were any warmer there may be a good bit of mosquitos.
- Thread starter
- #213
Sunday after packing up camp at Wilson Creek we met up with a fellow Expo member Dorton to do some light trail riding. Actually it is a public road that people drive everyday to go to work and back home. I am so jealous of the people that live out here.
Dorton showed up in his new ride and jealousy instantly ensued. His new Tacoma is beautiful and I believe he has a garage full of new parts just waiting to go on as we speak.
This was my first time taking this trail from south to north. I have come down this drop a handful of times but this was my first time climbing it. Pictures do not do it justice. It is a bit scarier in person for someone without sliders.
Thanks to some really good spotting the Lexus climbed it with little effort or drama. The suspension and drivetrain on the Lexus are still completely stock to this day. Even after 3 years it amazes me how capable these things are in stock form.
Enjoy the short video.
Dorton's Tacoma climbed it in crawl control while he sipped his latte. :coffeedrink:
The rest of the trail was easier yet just as fun.
Besides becoming extremely envious of Dorton's new ride, this trail day gave me the itch to find some new places to explore. Currently looking for other places relatively close to home. Debating on heading back up to George Washington National Forest this weekend to do some exploring and camping.
Dorton showed up in his new ride and jealousy instantly ensued. His new Tacoma is beautiful and I believe he has a garage full of new parts just waiting to go on as we speak.
This was my first time taking this trail from south to north. I have come down this drop a handful of times but this was my first time climbing it. Pictures do not do it justice. It is a bit scarier in person for someone without sliders.
Thanks to some really good spotting the Lexus climbed it with little effort or drama. The suspension and drivetrain on the Lexus are still completely stock to this day. Even after 3 years it amazes me how capable these things are in stock form.
Enjoy the short video.
Dorton's Tacoma climbed it in crawl control while he sipped his latte. :coffeedrink:
The rest of the trail was easier yet just as fun.
Besides becoming extremely envious of Dorton's new ride, this trail day gave me the itch to find some new places to explore. Currently looking for other places relatively close to home. Debating on heading back up to George Washington National Forest this weekend to do some exploring and camping.
- Thread starter
- #214
Continuing to get ready for camping in GWNF next weekend and got my storage drawer put back in the Lexus today. Before throwing it in the wife and I did some major organizing work for the kitchen utensils. I have always stored them in a couple small rubbermaid containers that seem to always get buried by everything else and were a chore to find, especially in the dark. Not a problem anymore!
With the gap from the drawer slides and the notch I cut from the side of the drawer we have a total of 1.5 inches of space which worked perfectly. I am thinking of storing a small cutting board on the other side but I first need to replace the crappy round one that came with an old pan set.
I'm hoping to add some dividers to the drawer tomorrow and also paint the interior white. The white interior will hopefully make finding items a little easier. The dividers are definitely needed in a drawer this large and should have been added a long time ago to prevent everything from just piling on top of eachother.
Brett
With the gap from the drawer slides and the notch I cut from the side of the drawer we have a total of 1.5 inches of space which worked perfectly. I am thinking of storing a small cutting board on the other side but I first need to replace the crappy round one that came with an old pan set.
I'm hoping to add some dividers to the drawer tomorrow and also paint the interior white. The white interior will hopefully make finding items a little easier. The dividers are definitely needed in a drawer this large and should have been added a long time ago to prevent everything from just piling on top of eachother.
Brett
great looking build!! I enjoy seeing familiar areas to me
Can you go over in more detail how you installed raingler net? I just purchased and am not happy with current set up, seems like I am missing something.
Simple fridge slide
I couldn't justify paying $300+ for a tray and a set of hinges so I just picked up some 100# drawer slides for $15 and mounted them to some scrap wood and angle iron I had laying around. It will work until I decide what our needs are for a drawer/organization system. Sorry for the crappy pictures. The humidity today was crazy and every time I stepped outside to take pictures my lens would fog up. For the photographers out there, what do you do to prevent that or solve it? Will post some better pictures later.
By the way, we have been using the fridge for the last couple trips and it has been an awesome addition to our adventure gear! It has also been pretty handy for taking lunch and drinks to work and for keeping cold refreshments for after mountain bike rides.
- Thread starter
- #217
With weather being in the 90s already in North Carolina we started making plans to head for higher elevation about a week before the 4th of July weekend. Since we were just in Pisgah National Forest a couple weeks ago camping, I wanted something different. We decided to do George Washington National Forest. I have only ever camped up there in the winter and wasn't sure it would be any cooler but it had to be better than a weekend at the beach.
We left the house in Greensboro, North Carolina about 1pm on Friday with a 4 hour drive ahead of us just to get to the first trail. Mostly highway but some scenery so it wasn't too bad and it sure beat the hell out of working a full day.
Once we hit Harrisonburg, VA we took highway 33 west to Skidmore Fork Rd where the pavement ends and gravel begins. The plan was to check out Switzer/Skidmore Lake to see if there was any camping around it. As we were coming down out of the switchbacks towards the lake we could catch small glimpses and it was beautiful. I cant wait to head back in the winter when the leaves have fallen for a better view.
When we got to the lake, there were no campsites and you're not allowed to swim. We stopped and took in the view before heading on. It is not often that you get to see a beautiful lake like this without having a bunch of mansions dotting the along the waters edge.
We left the lake about 5:30 and decided to head towards Flagpole Knob to catch the sunset and find a campsite. (I can tell you that AT&T stops working as soon as you hit the north end of Skidmore Fork RD) We started using GAIA GPS with maps that I had downloaded ahead of time once we left the lake. We followed Skidmore Fork south until it turns into Dunkle Hollow Rd. It gets a little confusing as there are some small reroutes where there is some logging going on but nothing that isn't noticed within a couple hundred yards. We turned down a couple small roads to explore them a ways before returning to Dunkle Hollow. We even checked out this dry river bed for a ways but it didn't run into anything exciting.
Dunkle Hollow continues to run south weaving back and forth between a small creek. I don't think the water was any deeper than 24 inches in any of the crossings.
Before Dunkle Hollow runs into US Forest Service Road 85 it gets a bit tight and overgrown. The switchbacks get a bit steeper and rougher and the temperature begins to plummet. We went from 90 degrees in Harrisonburg to 75 degrees at over 3000 feet. Seeing the temperature drop like this was like winning the lottery for me. I hate camping when the temps are above 75 while you are sleeping.
Just when I was feeling happiest I look at a small campsite to my left that had a large fire burning and no vehicle. First thought was hikers, then I took in the 25 person tent and 2 large coolers... Not hikers... We had just passed some guys going the opposite direction in a Jeep not too far back and maybe there was someone in the tent tending to the fire. While I'm taking this in and debating going into the campsite to make sure the fire was being cared for and if not put it out, Kratai says "BEAR" My first reaction was, "are you sure it wasn't a deer?" Her reply with rolled eyes "are there black deer?"
So we drive on for a while in silence. Me wondering if this means she is not going to be willing to camp and how to make her comfortable. Before this trip and while camping in Pisgah I had already talked to her about bears and how they will not bother us but that we do not want to be cooking bacon on the tailgate and leaving food out around our campsite.
I finally broke the silence and asked her if she was worried or if we needed to get a hotel instead of camp. She said no but didn't sound as exciting about camping as she did before. I told her we would have a big fire and an open campsite and that the bears are not going to bother us. They are more scared of us than we are of them. We would be safe and smart. We were also packing some protection that we would keep close at hand. It wasn't long before the great views of the natural springs in the mountains and sun cresting over the peaks made us both forget the bear. We kept driving and occasionally stopping for pictures.
Once Dunkle Hollow ends on FSR85 you head west maybe a 1/4 mile and you will run into the side road taking you to Flagpole Knob. I think we got to Flagpole Knob at about 7pm. I was expecting to see a half dozen tents and vehicles but it turned out that we had the place entirely to ourselves. We stopped at the large fire pit at the center of the knob and the view was spectacular. I had been 2 winters ago but the view in the winter is not the same. The elevation hear is 4350 feet and the temperature was already 70. We decided to set up camp rather than just watching the sunset and moving on since we had everything to ourselves.
We worked a bit to find the best spot to park the Lexus so we had a good view of the sunrise in the morning. I set up the tent and Kratai started cleaning up the trash around the fire pit left by others. We were able to burn most of it but what we couldn't we packed out with us.
Just when I finished setting up the tent I heard an engine and began to wonder if we decided to stay too early. "We should have enjoyed the view and given it a while. Here come a dozen hellions to drive us away from this spot"
It turned out to be a local couple in a Chevy pickup. We offered them a beer but they were already covered and offered us some moonshine in return. I kindly declined the moonshine only because I didn't know them but it was a tempting offer. They hung out for about 15 minutes then headed on.
We got settled in and enjoyed the view around a nice fire.
We even had a small buck that hung around our campsite for about two hours. He had no fear at all of us. We had a bluetooth speaker playing music the whole time and the more I drink the louder I get. None of it phased him. At one point he was across our fire, not more than 10 feet away from us.
The wind picked up here on the Knob and the temperature dropped below 60. We had a pair of jeans each but other than that all we had packed were t-shirts and shorts. We got that fire roaring but the wind wasn't allowing us to enjoy any of it's warmth. We turned in a bit early and slept like babies.
We slept so well that we missed the sunrise and unzipped the door of the tent around 7am. It still made for a great first site!
I got the fire going while Kratia made some breakfast. I'd like to have a view like this from our kitchen everyday.
It was still in the high 60s by the time we finished breakfast. We stayed around the campfire enjoying our coffee, letting our food settle, and just enjoying the amazing view. With this weather, I cannot think of any time I have ever been this comfortable camping. I could have used a hoodie but it wasn't too bad. Much better than being too hot. I love camping but 9 times out of 10 I am too hot. Up here things were perfect.
We had a lazy morning sitting around the fire and taking pictures. We did throw a frisbee for a while too.
Around ten the first Jeep showed up. Two guys but they stuck to themselves taking photos and wouldn't so much as return a good morning.
Shortly after another couple showed up in a Jeep. They stopped to comment on the tent and ask some questions about the trails. When they left I decided we should move on. We set up the annex so we had some privacy for bathing and I think this is only the second time I have ever used it.
After cleaning up and packing we decided to head n to Reddish Knob.
Shortly after leaving our campsite we came across two old foundations and steps. I wish I knew the history behind these things. If anyone knows please chime in.
We left the house in Greensboro, North Carolina about 1pm on Friday with a 4 hour drive ahead of us just to get to the first trail. Mostly highway but some scenery so it wasn't too bad and it sure beat the hell out of working a full day.
Once we hit Harrisonburg, VA we took highway 33 west to Skidmore Fork Rd where the pavement ends and gravel begins. The plan was to check out Switzer/Skidmore Lake to see if there was any camping around it. As we were coming down out of the switchbacks towards the lake we could catch small glimpses and it was beautiful. I cant wait to head back in the winter when the leaves have fallen for a better view.
When we got to the lake, there were no campsites and you're not allowed to swim. We stopped and took in the view before heading on. It is not often that you get to see a beautiful lake like this without having a bunch of mansions dotting the along the waters edge.
We left the lake about 5:30 and decided to head towards Flagpole Knob to catch the sunset and find a campsite. (I can tell you that AT&T stops working as soon as you hit the north end of Skidmore Fork RD) We started using GAIA GPS with maps that I had downloaded ahead of time once we left the lake. We followed Skidmore Fork south until it turns into Dunkle Hollow Rd. It gets a little confusing as there are some small reroutes where there is some logging going on but nothing that isn't noticed within a couple hundred yards. We turned down a couple small roads to explore them a ways before returning to Dunkle Hollow. We even checked out this dry river bed for a ways but it didn't run into anything exciting.
Dunkle Hollow continues to run south weaving back and forth between a small creek. I don't think the water was any deeper than 24 inches in any of the crossings.
Before Dunkle Hollow runs into US Forest Service Road 85 it gets a bit tight and overgrown. The switchbacks get a bit steeper and rougher and the temperature begins to plummet. We went from 90 degrees in Harrisonburg to 75 degrees at over 3000 feet. Seeing the temperature drop like this was like winning the lottery for me. I hate camping when the temps are above 75 while you are sleeping.
Just when I was feeling happiest I look at a small campsite to my left that had a large fire burning and no vehicle. First thought was hikers, then I took in the 25 person tent and 2 large coolers... Not hikers... We had just passed some guys going the opposite direction in a Jeep not too far back and maybe there was someone in the tent tending to the fire. While I'm taking this in and debating going into the campsite to make sure the fire was being cared for and if not put it out, Kratai says "BEAR" My first reaction was, "are you sure it wasn't a deer?" Her reply with rolled eyes "are there black deer?"
So we drive on for a while in silence. Me wondering if this means she is not going to be willing to camp and how to make her comfortable. Before this trip and while camping in Pisgah I had already talked to her about bears and how they will not bother us but that we do not want to be cooking bacon on the tailgate and leaving food out around our campsite.
I finally broke the silence and asked her if she was worried or if we needed to get a hotel instead of camp. She said no but didn't sound as exciting about camping as she did before. I told her we would have a big fire and an open campsite and that the bears are not going to bother us. They are more scared of us than we are of them. We would be safe and smart. We were also packing some protection that we would keep close at hand. It wasn't long before the great views of the natural springs in the mountains and sun cresting over the peaks made us both forget the bear. We kept driving and occasionally stopping for pictures.
Once Dunkle Hollow ends on FSR85 you head west maybe a 1/4 mile and you will run into the side road taking you to Flagpole Knob. I think we got to Flagpole Knob at about 7pm. I was expecting to see a half dozen tents and vehicles but it turned out that we had the place entirely to ourselves. We stopped at the large fire pit at the center of the knob and the view was spectacular. I had been 2 winters ago but the view in the winter is not the same. The elevation hear is 4350 feet and the temperature was already 70. We decided to set up camp rather than just watching the sunset and moving on since we had everything to ourselves.
We worked a bit to find the best spot to park the Lexus so we had a good view of the sunrise in the morning. I set up the tent and Kratai started cleaning up the trash around the fire pit left by others. We were able to burn most of it but what we couldn't we packed out with us.
Just when I finished setting up the tent I heard an engine and began to wonder if we decided to stay too early. "We should have enjoyed the view and given it a while. Here come a dozen hellions to drive us away from this spot"
It turned out to be a local couple in a Chevy pickup. We offered them a beer but they were already covered and offered us some moonshine in return. I kindly declined the moonshine only because I didn't know them but it was a tempting offer. They hung out for about 15 minutes then headed on.
We got settled in and enjoyed the view around a nice fire.
We even had a small buck that hung around our campsite for about two hours. He had no fear at all of us. We had a bluetooth speaker playing music the whole time and the more I drink the louder I get. None of it phased him. At one point he was across our fire, not more than 10 feet away from us.
The wind picked up here on the Knob and the temperature dropped below 60. We had a pair of jeans each but other than that all we had packed were t-shirts and shorts. We got that fire roaring but the wind wasn't allowing us to enjoy any of it's warmth. We turned in a bit early and slept like babies.
We slept so well that we missed the sunrise and unzipped the door of the tent around 7am. It still made for a great first site!
I got the fire going while Kratia made some breakfast. I'd like to have a view like this from our kitchen everyday.
It was still in the high 60s by the time we finished breakfast. We stayed around the campfire enjoying our coffee, letting our food settle, and just enjoying the amazing view. With this weather, I cannot think of any time I have ever been this comfortable camping. I could have used a hoodie but it wasn't too bad. Much better than being too hot. I love camping but 9 times out of 10 I am too hot. Up here things were perfect.
We had a lazy morning sitting around the fire and taking pictures. We did throw a frisbee for a while too.
Around ten the first Jeep showed up. Two guys but they stuck to themselves taking photos and wouldn't so much as return a good morning.
Shortly after another couple showed up in a Jeep. They stopped to comment on the tent and ask some questions about the trails. When they left I decided we should move on. We set up the annex so we had some privacy for bathing and I think this is only the second time I have ever used it.
After cleaning up and packing we decided to head n to Reddish Knob.
Shortly after leaving our campsite we came across two old foundations and steps. I wish I knew the history behind these things. If anyone knows please chime in.
- Thread starter
- #218
From Flagpole Knob we continued on FSR85 going southwest and ran into pavement after a while. I think Reddish Knob is right at 4500 feet. As soon as you hit the pavement there are signs for Reddish Knob Spur. It is paved all the way to the top. About halfway up the graffiti starts too. It's too bad there is this much vandalism up there but at the same time we tried to get some artsy shots with it.
These first shots are at an overlook about halfway up Reddish Knob Spur. We have started using the sunroof and tent to get better views and it is making me want to build a new roofrack a lot sooner than my wallet will allow me to.
From the top of Reddish Knob you have unobstructed 360 degree views for miles. It was a beautiful clear day and I don't think it could have been any better for this spot. I bet we got 200 pictures between the two of us up here but here are a couple we liked the most.
The graffiti I spoke of earlier.
After taking in all there was to see at Reddish Knob we headed further south looking for FSR95. It is a nice bit of gravel road that follows the Little River. I had camped with some friends out this way a couple years ago and was looking for a particular spot that had a nice creek bed behind it.
We ran into a bit of gravel and some old 1 lane bridges with local kits swimming. It got me thinking a swim would be nice and my hopes of finding the perfect campsite and taking a dip skyrocketed.
The first campsite we came to was packed with 4 vehicles and just as many tents. The next campsite we saw was also occupied and so were the next 10 campsites we came to. These are all primitive campsites but it seems the nicely groomed gravel roads and proximity to paved roads made these a lot more appealing to campers than the area we were in the night before.
Around 2pm we started seeing some empty sites but they were trashed, small, or not near water. I began to give up on my hopes of having a cool creek to take a dip in. The elevation in this area is much lower and the temperatures were bordering 80 degrees. We either needed water or needed to head higher. We finally decided that we would stop for lunch at the next empty site we saw regardless of how crappy it was. We were both hungry and just needed to stretch our legs.
We found an empty spot and pulled in. We didn't even take time to look around. I didn't see any signs of water and it was a bit warm. We just pulled out the table and stove and started boiling some water for some noodles.
We enjoyed ate and after looking around a bit decided this site wasn't too bad, it was actually quite nice. We even found there was a small creek running behind it.
We quickly set up camp and got the fire burning so we could relax the rest of the day.
We brought a speaker and couple beers down to the creek with our chairs. We set the chairs up right in the water. It was cold but wonderful. I think we sat in the creek drinking, talking, and listening to music for about 2 hours. It was great. My wife had seen a picture of some people sitting in chairs in a shallow stream and had the idea. I highly recommend it to anyone who hasn't done it before. It's pretty relaxing.
After cooling off in the creek we started in on dinner. We had already decided that this was going to be our last night so we had two nights food to finish off. We grilled some bone in chicken thighs, that Kratai had filleted and seasoned at home, steak kabobs, and some corn. Before starting our fire we had modified it into a "keyhole" shape so we could have the big fire on one end and harvest the good coals for cooking down at the other end.
I bought this grill contraption at Bass Pro about 3 years ago after seeing a buddy use one but this was the first time I had used ours. It worked great!
Dinner was awesome that night and we didn't pack up nearly as many leftovers as we probably should have.
We had a nice fire burning off two nights worth of wood as well.
We slept in again the next morning while it rained a bit. Once the rain stopped we had another great breakfast and set up the hammock to lounge around for a bit before finally packing up to make the long trip home.
This was an awesome weekend and we will be back to the area several more times this year.
Our faithful Lexus also turned 200,000 miles as we pulled in the driveway... After one extra lap around the block.
Hope you enjoyed reading. I saved the coordinates for the last campsite fore anyone interested.
-Brett
These first shots are at an overlook about halfway up Reddish Knob Spur. We have started using the sunroof and tent to get better views and it is making me want to build a new roofrack a lot sooner than my wallet will allow me to.
From the top of Reddish Knob you have unobstructed 360 degree views for miles. It was a beautiful clear day and I don't think it could have been any better for this spot. I bet we got 200 pictures between the two of us up here but here are a couple we liked the most.
The graffiti I spoke of earlier.
After taking in all there was to see at Reddish Knob we headed further south looking for FSR95. It is a nice bit of gravel road that follows the Little River. I had camped with some friends out this way a couple years ago and was looking for a particular spot that had a nice creek bed behind it.
We ran into a bit of gravel and some old 1 lane bridges with local kits swimming. It got me thinking a swim would be nice and my hopes of finding the perfect campsite and taking a dip skyrocketed.
The first campsite we came to was packed with 4 vehicles and just as many tents. The next campsite we saw was also occupied and so were the next 10 campsites we came to. These are all primitive campsites but it seems the nicely groomed gravel roads and proximity to paved roads made these a lot more appealing to campers than the area we were in the night before.
Around 2pm we started seeing some empty sites but they were trashed, small, or not near water. I began to give up on my hopes of having a cool creek to take a dip in. The elevation in this area is much lower and the temperatures were bordering 80 degrees. We either needed water or needed to head higher. We finally decided that we would stop for lunch at the next empty site we saw regardless of how crappy it was. We were both hungry and just needed to stretch our legs.
We found an empty spot and pulled in. We didn't even take time to look around. I didn't see any signs of water and it was a bit warm. We just pulled out the table and stove and started boiling some water for some noodles.
We enjoyed ate and after looking around a bit decided this site wasn't too bad, it was actually quite nice. We even found there was a small creek running behind it.
We quickly set up camp and got the fire burning so we could relax the rest of the day.
We brought a speaker and couple beers down to the creek with our chairs. We set the chairs up right in the water. It was cold but wonderful. I think we sat in the creek drinking, talking, and listening to music for about 2 hours. It was great. My wife had seen a picture of some people sitting in chairs in a shallow stream and had the idea. I highly recommend it to anyone who hasn't done it before. It's pretty relaxing.
After cooling off in the creek we started in on dinner. We had already decided that this was going to be our last night so we had two nights food to finish off. We grilled some bone in chicken thighs, that Kratai had filleted and seasoned at home, steak kabobs, and some corn. Before starting our fire we had modified it into a "keyhole" shape so we could have the big fire on one end and harvest the good coals for cooking down at the other end.
I bought this grill contraption at Bass Pro about 3 years ago after seeing a buddy use one but this was the first time I had used ours. It worked great!
Dinner was awesome that night and we didn't pack up nearly as many leftovers as we probably should have.
We had a nice fire burning off two nights worth of wood as well.
We slept in again the next morning while it rained a bit. Once the rain stopped we had another great breakfast and set up the hammock to lounge around for a bit before finally packing up to make the long trip home.
This was an awesome weekend and we will be back to the area several more times this year.
Our faithful Lexus also turned 200,000 miles as we pulled in the driveway... After one extra lap around the block.
Hope you enjoyed reading. I saved the coordinates for the last campsite fore anyone interested.
-Brett
- Thread starter
- #219
These are some sweet looking tires and I can't wait to see how they look and perform on a Land Cruiser.
If you are interested in a good review, please help me to win a set from the ExpeditionPortal/Cooper Tire writing contest. All you have to do is click on the link below and vote for the "GEORGE WASHINGTON NATIONAL FOREST ADVENTURE"
You already read the story in my last trip report above.
COOPER DISCOVERER Round 4 Entries and Voting Poll Thread - Expedition Portal
Thanks for everyone's help and support.
Brett
Got up early yesterday and decided to take the Lexus out on a safari.
Hadn't been to Lazy 5 Ranch in a couple of years and this was Kratai's first trip.
This guy followed us for quite a while and jumped up in my window every time we stopped to feed and pet another animal.
The giraffes were the big hit as always.
Another great adventure. We got the roof top tent mounted today. Ready to do some camping next weekend. I will follow up with another post with the tent upgrades we made today.
Thanks for viewing as always!
Brett[/QUO
Hi Brett. Larry from Roanoke, VA here. I have a 2000 LX470 and a 2000 Land Criuser 100 series. I have a roof top tent and an ARB awning. I'm interested in seeing pictures and getting info on the brackets you used to mount your awning.From Flagpole Knob we continued on FSR85 going southwest and ran into pavement after a while. I think Reddish Knob is right at 4500 feet. As soon as you hit the pavement there are signs for Reddish Knob Spur. It is paved all the way to the top. About halfway up the graffiti starts too. It's too bad there is this much vandalism up there but at the same time we tried to get some artsy shots with it.
These first shots are at an overlook about halfway up Reddish Knob Spur. We have started using the sunroof and tent to get better views and it is making me want to build a new roofrack a lot sooner than my wallet will allow me to.
From the top of Reddish Knob you have unobstructed 360 degree views for miles. It was a beautiful clear day and I don't think it could have been any better for this spot. I bet we got 200 pictures between the two of us up here but here are a couple we liked the most.
The graffiti I spoke of earlier.
After taking in all there was to see at Reddish Knob we headed further south looking for FSR95. It is a nice bit of gravel road that follows the Little River. I had camped with some friends out this way a couple years ago and was looking for a particular spot that had a nice creek bed behind it.
We ran into a bit of gravel and some old 1 lane bridges with local kits swimming. It got me thinking a swim would be nice and my hopes of finding the perfect campsite and taking a dip skyrocketed.
The first campsite we came to was packed with 4 vehicles and just as many tents. The next campsite we saw was also occupied and so were the next 10 campsites we came to. These are all primitive campsites but it seems the nicely groomed gravel roads and proximity to paved roads made these a lot more appealing to campers than the area we were in the night before.
Around 2pm we started seeing some empty sites but they were trashed, small, or not near water. I began to give up on my hopes of having a cool creek to take a dip in. The elevation in this area is much lower and the temperatures were bordering 80 degrees. We either needed water or needed to head higher. We finally decided that we would stop for lunch at the next empty site we saw regardless of how crappy it was. We were both hungry and just needed to stretch our legs.
We found an empty spot and pulled in. We didn't even take time to look around. I didn't see any signs of water and it was a bit warm. We just pulled out the table and stove and started boiling some water for some noodles.
We enjoyed ate and after looking around a bit decided this site wasn't too bad, it was actually quite nice. We even found there was a small creek running behind it.
We quickly set up camp and got the fire burning so we could relax the rest of the day.
We brought a speaker and couple beers down to the creek with our chairs. We set the chairs up right in the water. It was cold but wonderful. I think we sat in the creek drinking, talking, and listening to music for about 2 hours. It was great. My wife had seen a picture of some people sitting in chairs in a shallow stream and had the idea. I highly recommend it to anyone who hasn't done it before. It's pretty relaxing.
After cooling off in the creek we started in on dinner. We had already decided that this was going to be our last night so we had two nights food to finish off. We grilled some bone in chicken thighs, that Kratai had filleted and seasoned at home, steak kabobs, and some corn. Before starting our fire we had modified it into a "keyhole" shape so we could have the big fire on one end and harvest the good coals for cooking down at the other end.
I bought this grill contraption at Bass Pro about 3 years ago after seeing a buddy use one but this was the first time I had used ours. It worked great!
Dinner was awesome that night and we didn't pack up nearly as many leftovers as we probably should have.
We had a nice fire burning off two nights worth of wood as well.
We slept in again the next morning while it rained a bit. Once the rain stopped we had another great breakfast and set up the hammock to lounge around for a bit before finally packing up to make the long trip home.
This was an awesome weekend and we will be back to the area several more times this year.
Our faithful Lexus also turned 200,000 miles as we pulled in the driveway... After one extra lap around the block.
Hope you enjoyed reading. I saved the coordinates for the last campsite fore anyone interested.
-Brett
I enjoyed the info and photos of your trip very much.
larrylash@hotmail.com
