JohnTheLuck
Member
Thanks Ray, you also inspired me with some places on your adventure thread. That's the goal of this forum, an invaluable source of ideas.
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JohnTheLuck's Adventures Thread
- Thread starter JohnTheLuck
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Thanks Ray, you also inspired me with some places on your adventure thread. That's the goal of this forum, an invaluable source of ideas.
JohnTheLuck
Member
Day 34:
Start point: Ridgecrest, CA
End point: Ridgecrest, CA
Distance driven: 180 km
Distance hiked: 3.3 km
We got up with a sky almost completely overcast. We destinations of the day were south of Ridgecrest and the Red Rock Canyon SP, an area extremely rich in mining history. And again, the choice of photos is hard to do, so get ready for another photo fest!
To begin, we traveled the Last Chance Canyon Road to Bonanza Gulch, climbing in the hills where a gold rush took place in the late 1800s, and another in early 1900s. Several remains were accessible on the sides of the road.
As we reached Bonanza Gulch, the sky began to clear. We saw several cabins and an abandoned post office.
Then, an old cabin adopted by a club of 4x4 of the corner. According to DesertUSA, "Some of the old cabins along the trail – a few dating back to the 1890’s – have been preserved under the auspices of the BLM Adopt A Cabin program. This program enables volunteers to restore and maintain selected cabins. Visitors to the area can stay in some of the more habitable cabins on a first come, first serve basis."
Further on, we visited Bickel Camp, a kind of open-air museum where a large number of mining artifacts found in the surrounding area are grouped together.
Continuing on the road, we went to the Burro Schmidt Tunnel, hand-dug by a miner for more than 30 years. The tunnel is about 800m long and stands out on the side of the mountain on the Burro Schmidt Lookout point of view.
We returned to the truck by a trail climbing the mountain to descend over the Burro Schmidt Camp, with a breathtaking view of the surrounding valley.
Back on Last Chance Canyon Road, we have reached an exceptionally colorful area of brown, pink and white rocks. It looked like a huge sundae of Neapolitan ice cream, offered by Mother Nature!
Further on, the white hills of the beginning of the day reappeared, along with other mining excavations.
Even further, we reached a rocky slope indicated in our book. There was no mention of the steep inclination and the obstacles that made it up.
It would have been foolhardy to attempt the descent, given that we did not know if another return option was practicable. So we turned around and returned to the starting point to join the spectacular Opal Canyon Road, descending to reach Last Chance Canyon Road lower than the steep slope that had blocked us.
We finally managed to reach Last Chance Canyon Road and the bottom of the steep slope. It would probably have been possible in case of absolute necessity to go up, but it is a risk that I did not want to run.
Thus, we have been able to explore Last Chance Canyon a little further, which was still photogenic.
Further, this road becomes more difficult with large boulders and a V-shaped crossing. We turned around to continue our day by going to Red Rock Canyon SP to do some hiking trails. Unfortunately the sun was low and most of the cliffs were all in the shade. We will definitely return to this park during a future trip.
Tomorrow we will explore the area north of Ridgecrest.
.
Start point: Ridgecrest, CA
End point: Ridgecrest, CA
Distance driven: 180 km
Distance hiked: 3.3 km
We got up with a sky almost completely overcast. We destinations of the day were south of Ridgecrest and the Red Rock Canyon SP, an area extremely rich in mining history. And again, the choice of photos is hard to do, so get ready for another photo fest!
To begin, we traveled the Last Chance Canyon Road to Bonanza Gulch, climbing in the hills where a gold rush took place in the late 1800s, and another in early 1900s. Several remains were accessible on the sides of the road.
As we reached Bonanza Gulch, the sky began to clear. We saw several cabins and an abandoned post office.
Then, an old cabin adopted by a club of 4x4 of the corner. According to DesertUSA, "Some of the old cabins along the trail – a few dating back to the 1890’s – have been preserved under the auspices of the BLM Adopt A Cabin program. This program enables volunteers to restore and maintain selected cabins. Visitors to the area can stay in some of the more habitable cabins on a first come, first serve basis."
Further on, we visited Bickel Camp, a kind of open-air museum where a large number of mining artifacts found in the surrounding area are grouped together.
Continuing on the road, we went to the Burro Schmidt Tunnel, hand-dug by a miner for more than 30 years. The tunnel is about 800m long and stands out on the side of the mountain on the Burro Schmidt Lookout point of view.
We returned to the truck by a trail climbing the mountain to descend over the Burro Schmidt Camp, with a breathtaking view of the surrounding valley.
Back on Last Chance Canyon Road, we have reached an exceptionally colorful area of brown, pink and white rocks. It looked like a huge sundae of Neapolitan ice cream, offered by Mother Nature!
Further on, the white hills of the beginning of the day reappeared, along with other mining excavations.
Even further, we reached a rocky slope indicated in our book. There was no mention of the steep inclination and the obstacles that made it up.
It would have been foolhardy to attempt the descent, given that we did not know if another return option was practicable. So we turned around and returned to the starting point to join the spectacular Opal Canyon Road, descending to reach Last Chance Canyon Road lower than the steep slope that had blocked us.
We finally managed to reach Last Chance Canyon Road and the bottom of the steep slope. It would probably have been possible in case of absolute necessity to go up, but it is a risk that I did not want to run.
Thus, we have been able to explore Last Chance Canyon a little further, which was still photogenic.
Further, this road becomes more difficult with large boulders and a V-shaped crossing. We turned around to continue our day by going to Red Rock Canyon SP to do some hiking trails. Unfortunately the sun was low and most of the cliffs were all in the shade. We will definitely return to this park during a future trip.
Tomorrow we will explore the area north of Ridgecrest.
.
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MAST4R
New member
Hmm...faith in your vehicle you lack...I wonder if the terrain around Montreal has something to do with that 
If it is a legal track, no matter how steep, the 4R will climb it--unless there are huge rock obstacles to require very large tires and extra clearance or something else that is extraordinary or extreme. Steepness and difficult rocks alone won't stop the 4R.
But, yes, middle-of-nowhere is not a place to experiment if you are not used to steep hills. My first truly steep hill was a on a short trail. The Jeep drivers where telling me that my Subaru cannot make it. Yeah, right. Needed to maintain momentum in the absence of low range but it was like a launch pad. Street tire pressure, too.
If it is a legal track, no matter how steep, the 4R will climb it--unless there are huge rock obstacles to require very large tires and extra clearance or something else that is extraordinary or extreme. Steepness and difficult rocks alone won't stop the 4R.
But, yes, middle-of-nowhere is not a place to experiment if you are not used to steep hills. My first truly steep hill was a on a short trail. The Jeep drivers where telling me that my Subaru cannot make it. Yeah, right. Needed to maintain momentum in the absence of low range but it was like a launch pad. Street tire pressure, too.
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JohnTheLuck
Member
Hmm...faith in your vehicle you lack...I wonder if the terrain around Montreal has something to do with that
If it is a legal track, no matter how steep, the 4R will climb it--unless there are huge rock obstacles to require very large tires and extra clearance or something else that is extraordinary or extreme. Steepness and difficult rocks alone won't stop the 4R.
But, yes, middle-of-nowhere is not a place to experiment if you are not used to steep hills. My first truly steep hill was a on a short trail. The Jeep drivers where telling me that my Subaru cannot make it. Yeah, right. Needed to maintain momentum in the absence of low range but it was like a launch pad. Street tire pressure, too.
Yes faith in the 4R may be lacking because of the flat terrain around Montreal. In fact, the 4R is a trip vehicle only. It sits in the garage at home the remaining of the time. Sad destiny for such a vehicle!
Yesterdays, there was two tracks on the steep hill, one sandy on which I was when trying to climb (photo op only!), and the other was clean rock but with too high steps.
Even today, we turned around because of another steep ascent but water flowing from melting snow mixed with sand made the surface slippery so I lost traction. My KO2 are showing some age now. Maybe I should have air-down more but wifey said turn around...
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MAST4R
New member
I think that's fantastic. I wish mine were used weekends/trips only. But my commute is too short to justify a third vehicle in the house.
Since you have E-load tires, you should definitely air down for challenging terrain. What psi were you running?
Your real worry should be a tilted enough spot or a rocky+slippery enough spot at some angle to rotate the front following an abrupt loss of traction. Locker and crawl control should prevent that. It is really an issue if just using A-trac and nothing else. I have been surprised how easily the 4R can be thrown a couple feet around if only using low range or low range plus A-trac. Haven't had that happen with the locker on. Crawl control is also ultra aggressive at halting slippage and thus incredibly effective.
Just never get sideways.
Rock on...and maybe get some sleep! You have been posting at some crazy hours
Southern Cal was not at all on my radar, except for the Mojave road, but your thread is making me reconsider! And I like steep hills... I also like the open space. I love the Sonoran Desert and its vegetation but really all that brush can be too much.
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JohnTheLuck
Member
Day 35:
Start point: Ridgecrest, CA
End point: Ridgecrest, CA
Distance driven: 212 km
As planned, we explored the area north of Ridgecrest, with a small incursion into Death Valley NP.
When planning the trip, I added Slate Range Road as a shortcut to avoid a long detour that we should have traveled twice. This road climbs into the Slate Range Mountains and then descends into the Panamint Valley.
The description of Peter Massey's book indicated many exceptional views of Panamint Range, but we were surprised by the beauty of these grandiose landscapes.
After a rather steep and sometimes intimidating descent, we crossed an area with rocks of volcanic origin, and our progression was extremely slow and bumpy.
We then reached the beginning of Goler Wash, running through a narrow canyon. The description in another book indicated that the condition of the road could be from easy to difficult depending on the maintenance and conditions. Unfortunately, we were blocked by a steep climb with big sharp rocks and lack of traction by the presence of water and sand. We did everything but I promise myself to go one day.
We then traveled the Wingate Road near the lake in Panamint Valley. Along the way, we passed close to a modern gold mine that showed no signs of activity.
Near the mine, we saw a group of four wild burros, descendants of those used in the mines and often released into the wild when they were closed. Although they are apparently numerous, it was the first time we saw them.
We then reached the almost ghost town of Ballarat. I say almost ghost because there seems to be only one general store and several ruins.
We then made the long, steep climb to Pleasant Canyon Road, a place that also has a lot of remains.
The bottom of the canyon where the road runs has in some places enough water to allow dense vegetation to grow, leaving only a narrow passage to the road.
Continuing, we reached Clair Camp with its many vestiges, unfortunately a few times in a lamentable state. On the other hand, other constructions presented interesting artifacts.
After exploring Clair Camp, we decided to continue much higher up to Rita's Camp. My mother Rita reportedly said that we should have had a sweep in the cabin ...
While we started the route at 300 meters above sea level, Rita's Cabin is at 1927 meters, at which we started to see traces of snow on the ground, a question of not losing the habit ... Conifers were beginning also to push.
On the way down, we took an alternative track to avoid the densest vegetation area. The high shelf road overlooks the canyon from above and offers a breathtaking view.
Finally, on the way back, we saw beautiful lenticular clouds lit by the setting sun.
tomorrow, we leave Ridgecrest to continue our trip a bit to the north.
.
Start point: Ridgecrest, CA
End point: Ridgecrest, CA
Distance driven: 212 km
As planned, we explored the area north of Ridgecrest, with a small incursion into Death Valley NP.
When planning the trip, I added Slate Range Road as a shortcut to avoid a long detour that we should have traveled twice. This road climbs into the Slate Range Mountains and then descends into the Panamint Valley.
The description of Peter Massey's book indicated many exceptional views of Panamint Range, but we were surprised by the beauty of these grandiose landscapes.
After a rather steep and sometimes intimidating descent, we crossed an area with rocks of volcanic origin, and our progression was extremely slow and bumpy.
We then reached the beginning of Goler Wash, running through a narrow canyon. The description in another book indicated that the condition of the road could be from easy to difficult depending on the maintenance and conditions. Unfortunately, we were blocked by a steep climb with big sharp rocks and lack of traction by the presence of water and sand. We did everything but I promise myself to go one day.
We then traveled the Wingate Road near the lake in Panamint Valley. Along the way, we passed close to a modern gold mine that showed no signs of activity.
Near the mine, we saw a group of four wild burros, descendants of those used in the mines and often released into the wild when they were closed. Although they are apparently numerous, it was the first time we saw them.
We then reached the almost ghost town of Ballarat. I say almost ghost because there seems to be only one general store and several ruins.
We then made the long, steep climb to Pleasant Canyon Road, a place that also has a lot of remains.
The bottom of the canyon where the road runs has in some places enough water to allow dense vegetation to grow, leaving only a narrow passage to the road.
Continuing, we reached Clair Camp with its many vestiges, unfortunately a few times in a lamentable state. On the other hand, other constructions presented interesting artifacts.
After exploring Clair Camp, we decided to continue much higher up to Rita's Camp. My mother Rita reportedly said that we should have had a sweep in the cabin ...
While we started the route at 300 meters above sea level, Rita's Cabin is at 1927 meters, at which we started to see traces of snow on the ground, a question of not losing the habit ... Conifers were beginning also to push.
On the way down, we took an alternative track to avoid the densest vegetation area. The high shelf road overlooks the canyon from above and offers a breathtaking view.
Finally, on the way back, we saw beautiful lenticular clouds lit by the setting sun.
tomorrow, we leave Ridgecrest to continue our trip a bit to the north.
.
JohnTheLuck
Member
I think that's fantastic. I wish mine were used weekends/trips only. But my commute is too short to justify a third vehicle in the house.
Since you have E-load tires, you should definitely air down for challenging terrain. What psi were you running?
Your real worry should be a tilted enough spot or a rocky+slippery enough spot at some angle to rotate the front following an abrupt loss of traction. Locker and crawl control should prevent that. It is really an issue if just using A-trac and nothing else. I have been surprised how easily the 4R can be thrown a couple feet around if only using low range or low range plus A-trac. Haven't had that happen with the locker on. Crawl control is also ultra aggressive at halting slippage and thus incredibly effective.
Just never get sideways.
Rock on...and maybe get some sleep! You have been posting at some crazy hours
Southern Cal was not at all on my radar, except for the Mojave road, but your thread is making me reconsider! And I like steep hills... I also like the open space. I love the Sonoran Desert and its vegetation but really all that brush can be too much.
I normally run the KO2 at 32 psi, and air-down at 23psi on trails. This add a lot of comfort, but maybe this is not low enough to increase traction for such hills.
Today in Goler Wash, I had the locker and low range but didn't used A-Trac or crawl control. I was very worried about the descent on our way back. We could have just throw many rocks onto the trail to fill the deep holes but our time is limited and have a lot better to do. I originally planned to complete the day with a small portion of Pleasant Canyon but we were able to drive much further.
My wife was more scary than me!!! Follow the orders and turn around...!!!
MAST4R
New member
I love shelfroads! My favorites by far. Alone with the eagles.
20-23 should be enough with good tires in normal conditions but Goler Wash is a bona fide difficult trail in that section per Wells so if the conditions are bad, it would be a challenge. Therefore, you may have needed like 15 psi plus rock or mogul mode on MTC in addition to the rear locker.
There is no shame in turning around on a difficult trail in bad conditions
On my first offroaded Subaru, I had to turn around on one easy trail and on every moderate trail I tried. But I never got stuck, never needed help, never broke anything. On my next, I had to turn around on many moderate trails though I also completed a bunch.
On the 4R, I made a huge mistake not to turn around on the second trail we did in it and that's when it got pinstripped head to toe. So, later I did turn around on another trail with excessive brush. SAY NO TO EXCESSIVE BRUSH LOL.
JohnTheLuck
Member
Day 36:
Start point: Ridgecrest, CA
End point: Lone Pine, CA
Distance driven: 251 km
Distance hiked: 2.7 km
We left Ridgecrest under a slightly cloudy sky, while the weather forecast announced a gradual cloudiness with sustained winds. We traveled a part of the US 395 along the fabulous chain of Sierra Nevada. Our first stop was Little Lake Overlook, a view of a lake at the foot of a small volcanic cone.
Then, located nearby, we traveled a short trail to Fossil Falls Scenic Area, where an ancient river during the last ice age excavated and carved rocks of volcanic origin.
As we approached our next destination, beautiful meadows near Owens Lake offered a great view.
We then saw the Cottonwood Creek Charcoal Kilns, ovens formerly used to produce charcoal to provide fuel for the gold, silver, and copper mills located farther away because the wood resources of their surroundings were exhausted.
After reaching Lone Pine and halting to the Visitor Centor for a short time, we headed to Cerro Gordo Road, climbing the Inyo Mountains to reach the mining ghost town of Cerro Gordo, 1500 meters higher.
Along the way, we passed the ruins of the tramway, an air transport system then used to carry ore and replenishment between Cerro Gorde and Keeler far below.
Arrived at Cerro Gordo, we met Robert Desmarais, a son of a ancient resident of the city of Desmarais near Quebec who emigrated here. Robert, the caretaker, guardian, mayor, fireman, policeman, carpenter, guide, miner, and so on is a man who is a delight to listen to anecdotes and stories. He knows the history behind this museum of mining history of California. He kindly opened the doors of different buildings and told us about people's lives and their work. It is a visit not to be missed, and the landscapes are simply sublime.
We had originally planned to continue the road and down to the Saline Road in Death Valley NP. Unfortunately, this road is not practicable now due to the presence of snow in the canyons facing north. We then turned back, completely satisfied with this superb visit. During the descent, we made frequent stops to contemplate the magnificent view, while the clouds had invaded the Sierra Nevada.
.
Start point: Ridgecrest, CA
End point: Lone Pine, CA
Distance driven: 251 km
Distance hiked: 2.7 km
We left Ridgecrest under a slightly cloudy sky, while the weather forecast announced a gradual cloudiness with sustained winds. We traveled a part of the US 395 along the fabulous chain of Sierra Nevada. Our first stop was Little Lake Overlook, a view of a lake at the foot of a small volcanic cone.
Then, located nearby, we traveled a short trail to Fossil Falls Scenic Area, where an ancient river during the last ice age excavated and carved rocks of volcanic origin.
As we approached our next destination, beautiful meadows near Owens Lake offered a great view.
We then saw the Cottonwood Creek Charcoal Kilns, ovens formerly used to produce charcoal to provide fuel for the gold, silver, and copper mills located farther away because the wood resources of their surroundings were exhausted.
After reaching Lone Pine and halting to the Visitor Centor for a short time, we headed to Cerro Gordo Road, climbing the Inyo Mountains to reach the mining ghost town of Cerro Gordo, 1500 meters higher.
Along the way, we passed the ruins of the tramway, an air transport system then used to carry ore and replenishment between Cerro Gorde and Keeler far below.
Arrived at Cerro Gordo, we met Robert Desmarais, a son of a ancient resident of the city of Desmarais near Quebec who emigrated here. Robert, the caretaker, guardian, mayor, fireman, policeman, carpenter, guide, miner, and so on is a man who is a delight to listen to anecdotes and stories. He knows the history behind this museum of mining history of California. He kindly opened the doors of different buildings and told us about people's lives and their work. It is a visit not to be missed, and the landscapes are simply sublime.
We had originally planned to continue the road and down to the Saline Road in Death Valley NP. Unfortunately, this road is not practicable now due to the presence of snow in the canyons facing north. We then turned back, completely satisfied with this superb visit. During the descent, we made frequent stops to contemplate the magnificent view, while the clouds had invaded the Sierra Nevada.
.
JohnTheLuck
Member
Day 37:
Start point: Lone Pine, CA
End point: Lone Pine, CA
Distance driven: 293 km
Distance hiked: 5.7 km
To avoid the greyness and rain today around Lone Pine, we headed for Death Valley NP on the other side of the Panamint Range, which normally block the humid air.
Obviously, when we go up at altitude we reach the clouds. As we reached the Father Crowley Overlook viewpoint, famous for frequent passages of fighter jets down the canyon, the visibility was kind of poor.
While descending towards Death Valley, the sky showed beautiful clearings. We made a stop at Stovepipe Wells Ranger Station to get the most up to date trails conditions. Unfortunately, the heavy rains of January and February caused a lot of damage and many of the ones we wanted to travel in the western part of the park are currently closed:
- Titus Canyon Road: closed
- Cottonwood and Marble Canyon Roads: closed
- Saline Valley Road: closed
- Emigrant canyon to Skidoo Road: closed
- West Side Road: closed
- Butte Valley Road: closed
Disappointed a bit, we then headed for Mesquite Flats Sand Dunes to climb one of the highest dunes of this place.
Then we headed on Panamint Valley Road towards Panamint Sand Dunes.
Considering the distance much greater than it appears, we rather continued on the road which becomes extremely rocky because it is not maintained. Our destination was Big Four Mine located in a canyon. Arrived at the border of the Wilderness zone we continued on foot according to the instructions. The progression was quite difficult because it was necessary to climb an alluvial cone formed of rounded rocks and whose slope is quite steep. As we advanced in the curved canyon narrowed and our destination revealed itself.
We have tried to reach the highest ruins, but the erosion had removed the paths formerly used by the miners and it would have been very imprudent to try to climb the wall composed of unstable rocks. So we gave up and started our return, so much easier.
As we returned to Panamint Valley Road, the Panamint Dunes were finally lit by the setting sun, as well as beautiful hills.
Near the top of the Panamint Range, we could finally see the road we had traveled down the valley.
Tomorrow, we will improvise a bit and explore the north of Lone Pine toward Bishop CA. If anyone have good suggestion, they are welcome!
.
Start point: Lone Pine, CA
End point: Lone Pine, CA
Distance driven: 293 km
Distance hiked: 5.7 km
To avoid the greyness and rain today around Lone Pine, we headed for Death Valley NP on the other side of the Panamint Range, which normally block the humid air.
Obviously, when we go up at altitude we reach the clouds. As we reached the Father Crowley Overlook viewpoint, famous for frequent passages of fighter jets down the canyon, the visibility was kind of poor.
While descending towards Death Valley, the sky showed beautiful clearings. We made a stop at Stovepipe Wells Ranger Station to get the most up to date trails conditions. Unfortunately, the heavy rains of January and February caused a lot of damage and many of the ones we wanted to travel in the western part of the park are currently closed:
- Titus Canyon Road: closed
- Cottonwood and Marble Canyon Roads: closed
- Saline Valley Road: closed
- Emigrant canyon to Skidoo Road: closed
- West Side Road: closed
- Butte Valley Road: closed
Disappointed a bit, we then headed for Mesquite Flats Sand Dunes to climb one of the highest dunes of this place.
Then we headed on Panamint Valley Road towards Panamint Sand Dunes.
Considering the distance much greater than it appears, we rather continued on the road which becomes extremely rocky because it is not maintained. Our destination was Big Four Mine located in a canyon. Arrived at the border of the Wilderness zone we continued on foot according to the instructions. The progression was quite difficult because it was necessary to climb an alluvial cone formed of rounded rocks and whose slope is quite steep. As we advanced in the curved canyon narrowed and our destination revealed itself.
We have tried to reach the highest ruins, but the erosion had removed the paths formerly used by the miners and it would have been very imprudent to try to climb the wall composed of unstable rocks. So we gave up and started our return, so much easier.
As we returned to Panamint Valley Road, the Panamint Dunes were finally lit by the setting sun, as well as beautiful hills.
Near the top of the Panamint Range, we could finally see the road we had traveled down the valley.
Tomorrow, we will improvise a bit and explore the north of Lone Pine toward Bishop CA. If anyone have good suggestion, they are welcome!
.
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MAST4R
New member
It looks like California's desert took a lot more rain than what we did. We had a super wet winter by our standards but nothing like what I hear/see about California. I am sure that makes planning challenging.
It is very hard to plan trips in and through Death Valley due to how far each interesting place is from any of the others. Are you going back in at all? There are some pretty cool things to do in the central area of the park even without offroading.
Or you can go get back to some snow on Mammoth Mountain!
We have always been express from Death Valley to Mammoth. So I have no idea if there is anything worthwhile in between...
Have you already done trails 37, 38, and 44 in Wells?
In general, what you are experiencing may be a little more exaggerated than usual due to the rains, but in my experience it is normal that on an offroad trip one ends up doing less than planned. If everything else is fine, then one gets sick!
It is very hard to plan trips in and through Death Valley due to how far each interesting place is from any of the others. Are you going back in at all? There are some pretty cool things to do in the central area of the park even without offroading.
Or you can go get back to some snow on Mammoth Mountain!
We have always been express from Death Valley to Mammoth. So I have no idea if there is anything worthwhile in between...
Have you already done trails 37, 38, and 44 in Wells?
In general, what you are experiencing may be a little more exaggerated than usual due to the rains, but in my experience it is normal that on an offroad trip one ends up doing less than planned. If everything else is fine, then one gets sick!
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JohnTheLuck
Member
I still have a four days left in Lone Pine Area, then we move to Pahrump to explore the eastern part of DVNP for five days. We already done many things in DVNP during two previous trips without the 4R. We plan to do some hiking when will will be in Pahrump.
Darwin Falls is open, but they don't know the trail condition from Darwin. We will find out probably Monday.
Wells Trail 37: Movie Road will be done Monday morning;
Wells Trail 38: We did the easy part of Swansea-Cerro Gordo Road, the eastern easy Cerro Gordo yesterday. The moderate part have some fresh snow from yesterday night and today;
Wells Trail 44: Pleasant Canyon was done two days ago, a really nice trail.
What worries me is next Thursday and Wednesday, the current prevision calls for about 2 inches of rain total in Lone Pine, and about half of that in Armagosa.
JohnTheLuck
Member
Day 38:
Start point: Lone Pine, CA
End point: Lone Pine, CA
Distance driven: 432 km
Distance hiked: 3.0 km
As expected, the sky was completely clear when we got up. The roofs were white with frost and the sun was already beginning to melt.
Continuing our improvisation caused by the road closures at Death Valley NP, we decided to explore the north of Lone Pine by picking up some of the points of the trip we planned to do in August 2018 but which we had to cancel.
Our first destination of the day was Alabama Hills Recreation Area, an extraordinary place that is very often used for movies or other filming. Just this morning, we had to slow down because a filming was taking place involving the brand new pickup truck based on the Jeep Wrangler.
We walked the short hike to Mobius Arch.
Landscapes composed of varied rock formations followed one another.
We climbed on a promontory offering an exceptional panoramic view. Thanks [MENTION=116387]Unner[/MENTION] for this one!
Here, a multitude of old mines were visible, including this one with its remains in excellent condition.
After leaving Alabama Hills, we took the US 395 road along the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Further, we drove the Marzouka Canyon Road climbing toward the Marzouka Peak.
When we started this route, we knew that we were going to reach the altitude where snow was present. We hoped it was melted on the road, but we were wrong. We turned around when conditions became more precarious with slopes heading down the cliff.
Going down, we made a small detour to go on Santa Rita's Flat.
Back on the US 395 heading north, we made a quick stop at the Tinemaha Reservoir Overlook, overlooking a tank used to store water for Los Angeles.
Then we took the CA 168 toward the mountains. We quickly joined the snow. Note the reddish chippings used as abrasive on roads, and who originate from a nearby volcanic cones; an ecological and efficient solution. At this point, the road has only one lane.
Further down at a much lower altitude, we took the Eureka Road in the southern part of Fish Lake Valley to reach Eureka Valley in Death Valley NP. [MENTION=137107]Ray Dunakin[/MENTION], you certainly recognize this location? Thanks!
We were a bit in a hurry because we wanted to reach the Eureka Sand Dunes before the sun disappeared behind the high mountains on the west side. These dunes, located in a rather remote place of Death Valley NP, are the highest in California.
We only had time to walked and reach the beginning of the dunes. We will certainly be back later during another trip.
.
Start point: Lone Pine, CA
End point: Lone Pine, CA
Distance driven: 432 km
Distance hiked: 3.0 km
As expected, the sky was completely clear when we got up. The roofs were white with frost and the sun was already beginning to melt.
Continuing our improvisation caused by the road closures at Death Valley NP, we decided to explore the north of Lone Pine by picking up some of the points of the trip we planned to do in August 2018 but which we had to cancel.
Our first destination of the day was Alabama Hills Recreation Area, an extraordinary place that is very often used for movies or other filming. Just this morning, we had to slow down because a filming was taking place involving the brand new pickup truck based on the Jeep Wrangler.
We walked the short hike to Mobius Arch.
Landscapes composed of varied rock formations followed one another.
We climbed on a promontory offering an exceptional panoramic view. Thanks [MENTION=116387]Unner[/MENTION] for this one!
Here, a multitude of old mines were visible, including this one with its remains in excellent condition.
After leaving Alabama Hills, we took the US 395 road along the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Further, we drove the Marzouka Canyon Road climbing toward the Marzouka Peak.
When we started this route, we knew that we were going to reach the altitude where snow was present. We hoped it was melted on the road, but we were wrong. We turned around when conditions became more precarious with slopes heading down the cliff.
Going down, we made a small detour to go on Santa Rita's Flat.
Back on the US 395 heading north, we made a quick stop at the Tinemaha Reservoir Overlook, overlooking a tank used to store water for Los Angeles.
Then we took the CA 168 toward the mountains. We quickly joined the snow. Note the reddish chippings used as abrasive on roads, and who originate from a nearby volcanic cones; an ecological and efficient solution. At this point, the road has only one lane.
Further down at a much lower altitude, we took the Eureka Road in the southern part of Fish Lake Valley to reach Eureka Valley in Death Valley NP. [MENTION=137107]Ray Dunakin[/MENTION], you certainly recognize this location? Thanks!
We were a bit in a hurry because we wanted to reach the Eureka Sand Dunes before the sun disappeared behind the high mountains on the west side. These dunes, located in a rather remote place of Death Valley NP, are the highest in California.
We only had time to walked and reach the beginning of the dunes. We will certainly be back later during another trip.
.
JohnTheLuck
Member
Day 39:
Start point: Lone Pine, CA
End point: Lone Pine, CA
Distance driven: 267 km
Distance hiked: 7 km
We got up early to hike another trail in Alabama Hills Recreation Area, to avoid the clouds forming in front of the Sierra Nevada. This trail leads to Withney Portal Arch, visible from afar on the top of the ridge.
Then we went back to Father Crowley Overlook in Death Valley NP to expect to see fighter jets flying low into Rainbow Canyon. During our wait of one hour and 30 minutes, only aircraft at very high altitude passed in this corner. So we left empty-handed, despite the fact that the canyon is very beautiful anyway (Later in the day, we saw from a distance a jet in this canyon...)
Continuing our journey, we reached the small town of Darwin located in the mountains. The closure of the mine has also had a devastating effect on the city, although not yet abandoned, it seems to have remained frozen in time.
We then started driving Darwin Canyon Road, a beautiful canyon with interesting layers of rocks.
We made a slight detour to see the China Garden Springs, a small oasis with a pond with reeds and swimming goldfish. And yes, close to Death Valley NP!
All along Darwin Canyon Road, remnants of ancient mines were visible.
Towards the end of Darwin Canyon Road, we joined from the beginning of the hiking trail to Darwin Falls. At the beginning of the trail, we had doubts about what we would see since we were walking in a dry wash. Hard to believe we would see something as unexpected as a fall.
After returning to the 4Runner we still have around two hours of daylight, we decided to go through the south part of Saline Valley Road, indicated as closed but on which we saw several other vehicles. This nearly 150 km route reaches two high passes, South Pass and North Pass. Based on our travels of the last days, we knew in advance that there would be no snow in South Pass, unlike North Pass. With the time we had left, we simply went to South Pass without stopping too much.
We joined South Pass without encountering any difficulty. I sometimes think that the Rangers find it easier to close the roads to avoid having to rescue someone with unsuitable vehicles. From South Pass, the view was simply outstanding.
Tomorrow and Wednesday, the weather forecast is not very pleasant with rain sometimes quite strong with total accumulation nearing 5 cm. We will still have to improvise, hoping that this rain will not have a negative effect on our off-road trails.
.
Start point: Lone Pine, CA
End point: Lone Pine, CA
Distance driven: 267 km
Distance hiked: 7 km
We got up early to hike another trail in Alabama Hills Recreation Area, to avoid the clouds forming in front of the Sierra Nevada. This trail leads to Withney Portal Arch, visible from afar on the top of the ridge.
Then we went back to Father Crowley Overlook in Death Valley NP to expect to see fighter jets flying low into Rainbow Canyon. During our wait of one hour and 30 minutes, only aircraft at very high altitude passed in this corner. So we left empty-handed, despite the fact that the canyon is very beautiful anyway (Later in the day, we saw from a distance a jet in this canyon...)
Continuing our journey, we reached the small town of Darwin located in the mountains. The closure of the mine has also had a devastating effect on the city, although not yet abandoned, it seems to have remained frozen in time.
We then started driving Darwin Canyon Road, a beautiful canyon with interesting layers of rocks.
We made a slight detour to see the China Garden Springs, a small oasis with a pond with reeds and swimming goldfish. And yes, close to Death Valley NP!
All along Darwin Canyon Road, remnants of ancient mines were visible.
Towards the end of Darwin Canyon Road, we joined from the beginning of the hiking trail to Darwin Falls. At the beginning of the trail, we had doubts about what we would see since we were walking in a dry wash. Hard to believe we would see something as unexpected as a fall.
After returning to the 4Runner we still have around two hours of daylight, we decided to go through the south part of Saline Valley Road, indicated as closed but on which we saw several other vehicles. This nearly 150 km route reaches two high passes, South Pass and North Pass. Based on our travels of the last days, we knew in advance that there would be no snow in South Pass, unlike North Pass. With the time we had left, we simply went to South Pass without stopping too much.
We joined South Pass without encountering any difficulty. I sometimes think that the Rangers find it easier to close the roads to avoid having to rescue someone with unsuitable vehicles. From South Pass, the view was simply outstanding.
Tomorrow and Wednesday, the weather forecast is not very pleasant with rain sometimes quite strong with total accumulation nearing 5 cm. We will still have to improvise, hoping that this rain will not have a negative effect on our off-road trails.
.
JohnTheLuck
Member
Day 40:
Start point: Lone Pine, CA
End point: Lone Pine, CA
Distance driven: 187 km
Distance hiked: 4.3 km
The rain was back today with important quantities expected tonight. As Death Valley NP was to also receive rainfall, we decided to stay near Lone Pine a bit without a well-defined plan.
Our first destination was natural areas developed by the Los Angeles Department Water and Power on the shores of Owens Lake. Since the 1920s, this lake has been a source of fresh water for the city, and the lake is now much lower than in the early 1900s, removing a significant portion of the marsh. The City of Los Angeles has developed structures to restore some of these wet areas and also reduce the severe dust problem caused by the drying up of the lake.
After walking a few pedestrian trails near the water, we went onto the Horseshow Meadows Road, at least until the gate closed during the winter. We still gained enough altitude to have a good point of view over the Owens Valley.
Finally, as the rain started more steadily, we visited the Manzanar National Historic Site, one of the ten Japanese concentration camps during the Second World War. While the war was declared against Japan, President Roosevelt issued a presidential statement ordering all persons originating from Japans, 62% of whom were US citizens, to be relocated and detained in these camps until the war ended. Thus, more than 110,000 people have been affected, regardless of their rights stipulated in the US Constitution. In 1988, President Reagan signed the Civil Liberty Act ordering compensation for all survivors of these camps.
While the camp was built in a hurry following the presidential order, the living conditions were very difficult for those who had to abandon everything they could not carry with them. Over time, the inhabitants of Manzanar have been able to improve their quality of life and several gardens have been built to decorate the area. For others, Manzanar was their last home.
Tomorrow, rain is still expected in the morning. We will leave Lone Pine to head to the east side of Death Valley NP.
.
Start point: Lone Pine, CA
End point: Lone Pine, CA
Distance driven: 187 km
Distance hiked: 4.3 km
The rain was back today with important quantities expected tonight. As Death Valley NP was to also receive rainfall, we decided to stay near Lone Pine a bit without a well-defined plan.
Our first destination was natural areas developed by the Los Angeles Department Water and Power on the shores of Owens Lake. Since the 1920s, this lake has been a source of fresh water for the city, and the lake is now much lower than in the early 1900s, removing a significant portion of the marsh. The City of Los Angeles has developed structures to restore some of these wet areas and also reduce the severe dust problem caused by the drying up of the lake.
After walking a few pedestrian trails near the water, we went onto the Horseshow Meadows Road, at least until the gate closed during the winter. We still gained enough altitude to have a good point of view over the Owens Valley.
Finally, as the rain started more steadily, we visited the Manzanar National Historic Site, one of the ten Japanese concentration camps during the Second World War. While the war was declared against Japan, President Roosevelt issued a presidential statement ordering all persons originating from Japans, 62% of whom were US citizens, to be relocated and detained in these camps until the war ended. Thus, more than 110,000 people have been affected, regardless of their rights stipulated in the US Constitution. In 1988, President Reagan signed the Civil Liberty Act ordering compensation for all survivors of these camps.
While the camp was built in a hurry following the presidential order, the living conditions were very difficult for those who had to abandon everything they could not carry with them. Over time, the inhabitants of Manzanar have been able to improve their quality of life and several gardens have been built to decorate the area. For others, Manzanar was their last home.
Tomorrow, rain is still expected in the morning. We will leave Lone Pine to head to the east side of Death Valley NP.
.
JohnTheLuck
Member
Day 41:
Start point: Lone Pine, CA
End point: Pahrump, NV
Distance driven: 520 km
When leaving Lone Pine this morning, we felt like we would have a dull day with no history and no interest. The threatening clouds still let out a few drops and the sky showed no sign of a possible clearing. Well, we were wrong, again!
After passing Father Crowley Overlook and the clouds in Rainbow Canyon, we started the long descent to Panamint Valley. As we approached the bottom of the valley, we noticed that the color of the stretches of sand on both sides of the road differed greatly (the next picture was taken up on the other side).
When we reached the lowest point, we were amazed to find that the normally dry Panamint Lake was no longer !!! Nearly 5 cm of rain was expected over the area and the runoff created this accumulation of several tens of centimeters in the lake, a fact probably quite rare.
Going up the other side, as we crossed an alluvial fan and the traces of the very heavy rains of the night became very apparent with frequent areas of debris on the road. In places, this layer of debris was 30 to 40 cm. So we went off-road on the road!
Further down, as we descended to Death Valley, we came across other areas ravaged by more recent rainfall as the water was still flowing.
As we approached Furnace Creek, we found that access to many attractions were closed due to water accumulations. Another lake had formed here.
After seeing all these unusual lakes, we decided to go to Badwater Basin which is very photogenic when covered with water. At the beginning of Badwater Road, a barrage was established to prevent access to the entire area. At the same time, a senior couple in a Toyota Prius was coming out of this area. The Ranger told us that they were campers (?...) who were caught in the flash floods and that it took them over five hours to get back from Badwater Basin (? ... !!! Oh yes, in a Prius being not muddy ...). He also told us not to try to go to Badwater from the south (is this an advice or what?)
We then went to Dante's Peak, accessed by a paved road leading to a promontory overlooking Badwater Basin.
The normally pristine expanse was tinted in brown by sediment-laden waters reaching this lowest point in North America at 86m below sea level. Obviously, water can not be escape only by evaporation, leaving behind the mineral salts it contains.
This viewpoint also allowed us to see why the West Side Road was closed because it is under water for a good distance, whereas normally it crosses a small stream. We will forget it for this trip!
Not convinced by the lame arguments of the Ranger at the roadblock, we decided to bypass the park and to reach Badwater Basin by the south. The road was in a much better condition than the CA 190 we had traveled before, with only a few very small areas of debris and three large puddles on the road. There was no obvious reasons to close it.
We did not go further than Badwater Basin for fear of crossing a Park Ranger and avoid trouble. It is possible that the damage further was much greater. After turning around, we met a few vehicles that also ignored the instructions.
.
Start point: Lone Pine, CA
End point: Pahrump, NV
Distance driven: 520 km
When leaving Lone Pine this morning, we felt like we would have a dull day with no history and no interest. The threatening clouds still let out a few drops and the sky showed no sign of a possible clearing. Well, we were wrong, again!
After passing Father Crowley Overlook and the clouds in Rainbow Canyon, we started the long descent to Panamint Valley. As we approached the bottom of the valley, we noticed that the color of the stretches of sand on both sides of the road differed greatly (the next picture was taken up on the other side).
When we reached the lowest point, we were amazed to find that the normally dry Panamint Lake was no longer !!! Nearly 5 cm of rain was expected over the area and the runoff created this accumulation of several tens of centimeters in the lake, a fact probably quite rare.
Going up the other side, as we crossed an alluvial fan and the traces of the very heavy rains of the night became very apparent with frequent areas of debris on the road. In places, this layer of debris was 30 to 40 cm. So we went off-road on the road!
Further down, as we descended to Death Valley, we came across other areas ravaged by more recent rainfall as the water was still flowing.
As we approached Furnace Creek, we found that access to many attractions were closed due to water accumulations. Another lake had formed here.
After seeing all these unusual lakes, we decided to go to Badwater Basin which is very photogenic when covered with water. At the beginning of Badwater Road, a barrage was established to prevent access to the entire area. At the same time, a senior couple in a Toyota Prius was coming out of this area. The Ranger told us that they were campers (?...) who were caught in the flash floods and that it took them over five hours to get back from Badwater Basin (? ... !!! Oh yes, in a Prius being not muddy ...). He also told us not to try to go to Badwater from the south (is this an advice or what?)
We then went to Dante's Peak, accessed by a paved road leading to a promontory overlooking Badwater Basin.
The normally pristine expanse was tinted in brown by sediment-laden waters reaching this lowest point in North America at 86m below sea level. Obviously, water can not be escape only by evaporation, leaving behind the mineral salts it contains.
This viewpoint also allowed us to see why the West Side Road was closed because it is under water for a good distance, whereas normally it crosses a small stream. We will forget it for this trip!
Not convinced by the lame arguments of the Ranger at the roadblock, we decided to bypass the park and to reach Badwater Basin by the south. The road was in a much better condition than the CA 190 we had traveled before, with only a few very small areas of debris and three large puddles on the road. There was no obvious reasons to close it.
We did not go further than Badwater Basin for fear of crossing a Park Ranger and avoid trouble. It is possible that the damage further was much greater. After turning around, we met a few vehicles that also ignored the instructions.
.
MAST4R
New member
You surely are enjoying a unique desert California experience!
The AZ side is completely dry. But supremely beautiful. In addition to KOFA Queen and Palm Canyon, we drove these last couple weeks the Pipeline Rd, Bighorn Pass, Hoodoo Wash, and Red Rock Pass.
If you thought brush existed on Kofa Queen...that's a highway. Bighorn Pass has 6 miles, the 6 southernmost miles, that are nonstop tight, unavoidable brush. It is not awful, but it is bad. Otoh, those 6 miles are also the best for scenery, so there is that. Am I glad I chose white! Brush was a huge factor in my decision to choose white.
The AZ side is completely dry. But supremely beautiful. In addition to KOFA Queen and Palm Canyon, we drove these last couple weeks the Pipeline Rd, Bighorn Pass, Hoodoo Wash, and Red Rock Pass.
If you thought brush existed on Kofa Queen...that's a highway. Bighorn Pass has 6 miles, the 6 southernmost miles, that are nonstop tight, unavoidable brush. It is not awful, but it is bad. Otoh, those 6 miles are also the best for scenery, so there is that. Am I glad I chose white! Brush was a huge factor in my decision to choose white.
Last edited:
JohnTheLuck
Member
Yes indeed we were lucky with all those surprises!
JohnTheLuck
Member
Day 42:
Start point: Pahrump, NV
End point: Pahrump, NV
Distance driven: 498 km
Distance hiked: 3.3 km
The people from Death Valley NP with whom we spoke yesterday told us that Badwater Road should be open today. As the weather was very mild when we got up, we headed again to the park by the south entrance. The road sign was still there but we thought it would be removed during the day as this entrance is quite far from the Visitor Center.
Well no, the road was nice and still closed, as a park employee posted near Badwater Basin politely told us and confirming that the heavy equipment removal work was still under way. So we turned around and decided to use the Furnace Wash Road to reach the central part of the park. It is a gravel road with little to see but it saved us several tens of km. There we went back to Dantes View.
Then we crossed the beginning of the Hole in the Wall Road. Since we had never been there before, here we are. The road climbs a large wash before passing through a narrow space between the rocks with almost vertical sedimentary layers at this location.
Towards the end of the road, sedimentary rock layers are sloped and easily accessible. A few decades of sediment accumulation had to separate me and my wife taking the picture.
Then we went to visit the site of the Keane Wonder Mine, formerly one of the three main mines in Death Valley for their total gold production.
Then we wanted to drive the Chloride Mine Road, overlooking the Keane Wonder Mine, but as it was a little late, we abandoned this idea. We should be able to drive it in the next few days. Instead, we went to see Goddwell Open Air Museum, an outdoor museum with ghost-like sculptures.
We came back a little late to Pahrump only to realize that our main credit card had been hacked and was now disabled. I tried two other cards with the same result. We made phone calls and everything should be back in order tomorrow morning. Hope we will not waste too much time with this.
.
Start point: Pahrump, NV
End point: Pahrump, NV
Distance driven: 498 km
Distance hiked: 3.3 km
The people from Death Valley NP with whom we spoke yesterday told us that Badwater Road should be open today. As the weather was very mild when we got up, we headed again to the park by the south entrance. The road sign was still there but we thought it would be removed during the day as this entrance is quite far from the Visitor Center.
Well no, the road was nice and still closed, as a park employee posted near Badwater Basin politely told us and confirming that the heavy equipment removal work was still under way. So we turned around and decided to use the Furnace Wash Road to reach the central part of the park. It is a gravel road with little to see but it saved us several tens of km. There we went back to Dantes View.
Then we crossed the beginning of the Hole in the Wall Road. Since we had never been there before, here we are. The road climbs a large wash before passing through a narrow space between the rocks with almost vertical sedimentary layers at this location.
Towards the end of the road, sedimentary rock layers are sloped and easily accessible. A few decades of sediment accumulation had to separate me and my wife taking the picture.
Then we went to visit the site of the Keane Wonder Mine, formerly one of the three main mines in Death Valley for their total gold production.
Then we wanted to drive the Chloride Mine Road, overlooking the Keane Wonder Mine, but as it was a little late, we abandoned this idea. We should be able to drive it in the next few days. Instead, we went to see Goddwell Open Air Museum, an outdoor museum with ghost-like sculptures.
We came back a little late to Pahrump only to realize that our main credit card had been hacked and was now disabled. I tried two other cards with the same result. We made phone calls and everything should be back in order tomorrow morning. Hope we will not waste too much time with this.
.
