Offroad Holiday in California (or vicinity) -- Rubicon?

[FelipeA]

I'll be in California for a few days for work in early november and was planning on taking a 8-10 day offroading holiday with my gf after. I'd need some kind of "package" in which I could arrange for a vehicle (FJ40?), and some basic camping gear... Does anyone have some thoughts on who/what company I could contact that organizes these trips? So far, Google has come up with a link to...

http://www.4x4abc.com/4x4training/expert-training.html

The site is very comprehensive and trip itineraries on the Rubicon trail look good. The gentleman who owns the company seems to be very well versed in his job. However he doesn't seem to have a schedule for November (too late in the season, I assume).


Does anyone know of similar programs in California or Washington? It'd be some sort of advanced 4x4 training, preferably rock related.

Thanks in advance,

FelipeA

 

[Cruiserdrew]

I have run into Harold Pietschmann several times on the Rubicon Trail. He runs a good operation, and is very deliberate and safety conscious. He gives his clients tons of hands-on attention and usually walks the trail to guide them over every inch of it. I've normally seen him there in August.

November on the Rubicon would mean cold and snow most years-it isn't going to work.

More realistically, you might want to rent an SUV like a Jeep, and tour Death Valley. The weather should still be OK, and while the trails are long and often remote, are not very difficult.

Very few if any companies would rent a Rubicon capable truck. In fact, I've never heard of one. The risk of injury/death/stupid redneck abuse is just too high.

Bill Burke does 4x4 training in Rovers. You might search what he is doing in November.

 

[alvarorb]

Felipe,

You can always come and do Surf and Turf.

http://www.realcruiser.com/surfnturf/index.php

Regards

Alvaro

 

[FelipeA]

Thanks for the suggestions!

 

[esh]

Felipe,

A fellow club member has been building his business for doing tours like this. I bet he would be up to setting up a trip and vehicle to match what you're looking for. He is based in southern Washington State but he knows trails from Washington to California, and is an excellent driver/guide. He also does plenty of deep winter Rubicon runs so a November run would be easy for him.

Can check him out here-

http://www.4wdadventuretours.com/

I am not affiliated in a professional manner with him, just in the Cascade Cruisers with him.

Whatever you end up doing, hope you enjoy your time up in this countryside!