FJ ROCKS ARIZONA (FJ Cruiser Team Run) Saturday, June 10th [Archive]

ShottsCruisers

05-09-2006, 10:32 PM

Brady Clarke of Toyota's FJ Cruiser Trail Team will be visiting Arizona, and I've planned a trail run for his team for Saturday June 10th.

This run will be posted on Toyota America's FJ Cruiser "Trail Teams" website at: www.toyota.com/fjtrailteams

This event will be open to ALL VEHICLES with 2-speed transfer cases. Come on out, see the FJ Cruiser go, and show off your brand's rig.

Our plan is to run a cooler trail (for obvious reasons). In case of Prescott National Forest closures due to fire danger, we'll have backup plans in place (both other forest, and non-forest areas).

The main supporters of this event are the Arizona Land Cruiser Association and Arizona Copperstate Cruiser Club with additional support from Expedition Portal members.

I will also be writing a story for this event for submission into a popular Toyota-brand magazine. You never know who's rig will make the mag!

TRIP DETAILS:

Event name: FJ ROCKS ARIZONA

Event date: Saturday, June 10th

Event trail: DeSoto Mine

Trail leader: Steve Schaefer (3rd Gen 4Runner w'SAS)

Meeting place: Circle K in the Town of Mayer (7 miles NW of Cordes Jct. on AZ69 toward Prescott)

Meeting time: 9:00 AM, with a pullout of 9:30 SHARP

Event duration: 4-5 hours (for trail and play time)

Trail difficulty: 3.0+ (with 3.5+ options)

Should all of the nearby-to-Phoenix forests close due to fire danger, the non-forest backup will be RAW DEAL (in the same area of AZ) which will be more difficult, in the arena of a 3.5+.

Check back to this original post for more details. COME ON OUT AND SEE THE FJ CRUISER TEAM DURING THEIR ONLY PLANNED STOP TO ARIZONA!

edgear

05-10-2006, 12:24 AM

Sounds like a fun event!! Hopefully I'll be able to make it up there with my Toyota vehicle
:victory:

datrupr

05-10-2006, 02:35 PM

Does it HAVE to be Toyota vehicles? What about Isuzu:rolleyes: ? I would love to do this, but I don't own a Toyota.:o

ShottsCruisers

05-10-2006, 03:55 PM

Does it HAVE to be Toyota vehicles? What about Isuzu:rolleyes: ? I would love to do this, but I don't own a Toyota.:o

OH MAN! I PUT THAT OUT TOOOO FAST! NO NO! THAT IS WRONGGGGG! ALL 4WD VEHICLES! I WILL CORRECT ALL MY SITE THIS MORNING! THANK YOU!!

ShottsCruisers

05-10-2006, 04:27 PM

GOOBER corrected. Of course the run is open to ALL vehicles. We want you ALL out on this run!

goodtimes

05-10-2006, 05:17 PM

Man, I was having fun giving you crap about your elitist attitude! I guess I gotta find something else to give someone crap about now. You aren't making it easy on me!:ylsmoke:

crawler#976

05-10-2006, 05:25 PM

I'll be there - that's in my back yard...

If it's OK, I'll try to get the local Toy Dealer on board - Bob (Raz) Rasmussen, the Fleet Manager at Tim's Toyota, is interested in getting his FJ out for a day, and I'd already sugested Smiley Rock as an opportunity.

ShottsCruisers

05-10-2006, 05:41 PM

Man, I was having fun giving you crap about your elitist attitude! I guess I gotta find something else to give someone crap about now. You aren't making it easy on me!:ylsmoke:

I'll be there in my "Toyota UZJ100 Rubicon Edition". OK, NOW.....you have something to give me "crap" about.

You better come. :gunt:

datrupr

05-10-2006, 07:16 PM

I am going to try to make it. I am pretty confident that I can. This should be alot of fun.

Brian McVickers

05-10-2006, 07:53 PM

John,
This sounds great!
I would love to get a few minutes behind the wheel of the new FJ.:gunt: :jumping:

I am planning to attend, Smiley Rock is on my list!

Thanks for organizing:bowdown:

Brian McVickers

05-10-2006, 07:59 PM

Aaaghh! Nevermind:smilies27
I have a client event to attend that weekend.:beer::chowtime: :coffee:
Have fun!!

ShottsCruisers

05-10-2006, 09:15 PM

Brady Clarke of the FJ Team has asked that we opt for the Crown King Backroad Trail due to all the added "options" that it offers. I've updated the first post along with meeting place and times.

Other options we're considering (in case of closures):

Coronado NF:
Chiva Falls
Charouleau Gap

Tonto NF:
Powerline/Hackberry
Upper Sycamore

Non NF:
Raw Deal
Florence area

crawler#976

05-10-2006, 10:54 PM

Gonna have to pass on the LP/CK run, that's a long hot dusty day in the doorless beater.

ShottsCruisers

05-12-2006, 04:06 PM

Answer to a question from a Cruiser forum:

John, I'm sure you are already aware (being you live here and all), but expect triple digits if you are anywhere around tucson or Florence....it'll be a fuggin hot day if we stay at lower elevations.

Speaking of elevation...how far up is CK? (I've never ran the trail).

Oh yes....though June is when they'll be here. Smiley Rock at 7000+ is the temp spot though they prefer to go where there's challenge.

I'll be calling the NF's in a week or so to see what they say about possible closures. At that time we'll stick with CK or move where closures may not happen. Usually the Coronado closes after the others so 4000' Chiva might be the final destination.

After those calls the final decision will be made and we won't change it so people can firm up plans.

seth_js

05-12-2006, 04:25 PM

Smiley Rock at 7000+ is the temp spot though they prefer to go where there's challenge.

There really isn't anything challenging about CK any more (not that there really ever was). They have recently graded anything that was left that had any sort of a challenge to it.

If the Toyota guys aren't concerned about the heat, I would take them out to FJ. And if that's the case, count me in. :D

-Seth

ShottsCruisers

05-22-2006, 07:28 PM

Due to further communications with the FJ Team, the National Forest Service and comments/recommendations from interested antendees, we've finalized the trip plans and updated the first post.

We been asked to improve:

Trail Difficulty (more difficult)
Shorten Trail Run (a bit)
Go to higher altitude (for cooler temps)

The trail run has been changed to "DeSoto Mine". DeSoto Mine Trail is well known for it's various challenges. Grades, off-camber, rocks...can all be had on DeSoto. It will be the best "test" for the FJ Team in the area.

Running this trail should make for a much nicer day, weather and dust-wise. FJ40's without tops will appreciate this change a lot. No excuses not to show now! :D

These plans are final. If the Prescott NF closes then Raw Deal will be the backup and it's in a similar area starting along I-17 closer to Phoenix.

crawler#976

05-22-2006, 09:30 PM

SWEET!

I heard this was in the works and may be leading ya'll out there from Mayer if you choose to run it from that direction. Going west to east offers the most challenging route, starting with the rock section, and ending with hill climbs and serious off camber stuff. I don't like the off camber stuff due to the exo cage's tendency to get a bit tippy...

Westy

05-23-2006, 04:22 AM

I may try and make it up for this run. Great trail choice. It will be perfect for the FJ and always nice to get out of this heat and go wheeling as well, plus cold beers waiting for everyone in Cleator.

PBR on tap :beer:

http://www.azflyandtie.com/photopost/data/500/medium/CleatorBAR.JPG

seth_js

05-23-2006, 05:28 AM

ha ha, Clee-ator rocks!

-Seth

ShottsCruisers

05-23-2006, 03:09 PM

I'm excited too! Never ran DeSoto. I hope to have my LX completed this weekend (vibration-wise). I wanna bring it.

crawler#976

05-23-2006, 07:24 PM

DeSoto is a fun 12+ miles of actual trail ride, and about 35 miles of FS road to get there.

The largest group I've taken thru on my annual trip was 19. It usually takes several hours to get that many rigs thru the creek bottom - last year was longer due to another group in front of us that had problems.

I'd guess we'll probably have more than 19 if this is a nationaly anounced trip, and with stock rigs it could take substantially longer than that. So, if it's a large group, I'd figure it'll be close to 4:00 PM before we're done.

There is an early out option at the Peck Mine Rd. - it avoids all of the hill climbs and ridge running in the second half of the trail. It comes out on the main road to Crown King.

The seriously off camber section can bypassed by going over the top to the DeSoto Mine. In past years I've taken that route to avoid the terror of looking out my doorless junk at a 400 to 500' long steep slope while sitting at a 40 deg angle. Stock rigs do much better on it than I do - I have a huge amount of body roll with the soft springs and high weight.

10 June Average Temps for the Mayer, AZ. Hi 86°F Lo 62°F
Record Temps Hi 98°F Lo 45°F

ShottsCruisers

05-23-2006, 07:35 PM

crawler#976

05-23-2006, 07:54 PM

Brush is OK - used to be pretty damn bad, but it was cleaned up by a volunteer who also rebuilt a portion of the trail.

First off camber spot isn't TOO bad - it's just before the Peck Mine Rd. (used to be a real fun one just past the Peck Mine Rd, but it was also fixed - see pic!)

The second off camber section of two track is a wash that cuts thru the trail. I'll do it - but might need a couple folks to hang on the high side :Wow1:

ShottsCruisers

05-23-2006, 08:00 PM

crawler#976

05-23-2006, 08:21 PM

yeah, the last off camber spot is pretty bad. I've avoided it the last 3 years, so I don't know what it's like now. I had my trail bud Dave hangin' off the high side the last time thru - and I did the same for him. If you lost it, you'd roll down 400 or 500' feet. With groups I've always gone over the top - it's more scenic and a lot safer (unless it's muddy, but that's another story). The optional route is still fun - it includes the pic below and the veiw too. The other pic is of the longest hill climb - it's a real hoot!

ShottsCruisers

05-23-2006, 08:33 PM

I'm ready to go!

http://shottscruisers.smugmug.com/photos/71186183-O.jpg
http://shottscruisers.smugmug.com/photos/71185793-O.jpg
http://shottscruisers.smugmug.com/photos/71186210-O.jpg

Westy

05-23-2006, 09:57 PM

I've run Desoto a couple times, including the annual trip that Mark Longfield led last year. It was a great time with an even better group of guys.

This is what to expect in the wash section...nothin too difficult. Several mostly stock TRD tacomas struggled through it
http://members.cox.net/imbenman/DSM/Wash3.jpg

http://members.cox.net/imbenman/DSM/Wash6.jpg

and heres the downhill section when caught in a nasty thunderstorm...
http://members.cox.net/imbenman/DSM/Trail.jpg

ShottsCruisers

05-23-2006, 10:01 PM

Drool!

datrupr

05-24-2006, 02:13 PM

Mark, can the Trooper make this? I am going to be ordering my suspension at the beginning of the month, but it will probably not get her in time for this run.

crawler#976

05-24-2006, 03:35 PM

Mark, can the Trooper make this? I am going to be ordering my suspension at the beginning of the month, but it will probably not get her in time for this run.

Aaron,

The DeSoto is definately tougher than Smiley Rock. You can do it, but the step bars and maybe the rear bumper will be wasted for sure.

With a lift on DaTrupr, you've got a reserved spot in the 5th Annual DeSoto Trail Ride this fall. I can arrange that pretty easily :hehe:

ShottsCruisers

05-24-2006, 03:55 PM

Aaron,

You can do it, but the step bars and maybe the rear bumper will be wasted for sure.

This is true even if we don't rock stack for him in those few places?

seth_js

05-24-2006, 04:22 PM

Aaron,

If you are worried about damage at all, I probably wouldn't risk it. Are you locked front or rear? If you do decide to do it, there is a good chance your nerf bars will get bent up. You can see some pictures of the "rockiest" part of the trail here:

http://seth.phizz.net/stuff/adventures/desoto_mine_10-22-05/

-Seth

ShottsCruisers

05-24-2006, 05:18 PM

crawler#976

05-24-2006, 06:04 PM

John, most of those are optional, but even the "easy" lines require some clearance.

Westy

05-24-2006, 06:17 PM

Many of those pics Seth posted are of the trail...of course some of those the guys are playing on the rocks :D

Without a lift and or larger tires, I would highly recommend rock sliders..

this is the trail...there are a couple different ways through parts of the wash but for the most part these are the easiest lines...
Ben
http://members.cox.net/imbenman/DSM/Wash5.jpg
Brian (Taco)
http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b375/bryank85/HPIM2602.jpg
Brian
http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b375/bryank85/HPIM2611.jpg

crawler#976

05-24-2006, 07:02 PM

...good pic's - and most of that is near the end of the rocky section. There is one short creek crossing after that, and then it's all two track up and down the ridges.

If the group is fairly large it'll take two or three hours to get thru that section (see pic two above - you can see almost the whole section) with all the photo ops and spotting. Steve Schaefer and I have both done a lot of spotting in this creek, and it should go pretty smooth.

datrupr

05-25-2006, 02:13 PM

Hmmmmmmm, the step bars I am not worried about, but the rear bumper? I kinda want to keep that in tact for a little while still. You may want to count me out unless someone wants a passenger.

ShottsCruisers

05-25-2006, 03:25 PM

Hmmmmmmm, the step bars I am not worried about, but the rear bumper? I kinda want to keep that in tact for a little while still. You may want to count me out unless someone wants a passenger.

You're welcome to ride with Becky and me.

datrupr

05-25-2006, 03:31 PM

I might have to take you up on that John. I would love to do this run, and check out the FJ's in action, but not at the expense of possible body damage.

seth_js

05-25-2006, 04:29 PM

I might have to take you up on that John. I would love to do this run, and check out the FJ's in action, but not at the expense of possible body damage.

Chicks dig scars. :p

-Seth

datrupr

05-25-2006, 07:40 PM

That might be true Seth, unless it is my wife, she does not like body damage on any of the cars. She half flipped out when she finally noticed the new scrape on my front bumper from Smiley Rock.

ShottsCruisers

05-25-2006, 08:23 PM

Vibration on the 5" lifted Lexus is 95% gone! :ar15: VIBES

I'm SO excited. It's coming on this run. Ahhhh, a smooooth ride again. The 100 gets to sit a lot more. Ahhhh. Today is looking good!:D

crawler#976

05-25-2006, 09:29 PM

A little history of the area on the trail...
____________________________________

Fish's manuscript gives the following account of the fight with the Indians, known as the “Battle Flat” fight. Fish says that this account was taken from a manuscript shown him by Judge Brooks in Prescott in 1900, giving the whole details of the fight. It varies somewhat from the account given by Hamilton in his work, “The Resources of Arizona,” and I am of the opinion that it is the true version, for the reason that it was taken from an original manuscript owned by Judge Brooks, whom all settlers in Prescott will remember as reliable in all respects. The account is as follows:

“In the latter part of May, 1864, Stewart Wall, Frank Binckley, DeMorgan Scott, Samuel Herron and Fred Henry, started from Walnut Grove on a prospecting trip. They took three pack animals and a good supply of provisions. They took their time passing the Hassayampa and Turkey Creek, and camped on the 2nd of June on what has since been known as ‘Battle Flat.’ About two hours before daylight the next morning they were attacked by a large body of Indians. The Indians would, doubtless, have waited until daylight, but one of the boys raising up, led them to believe that they were getting up. Every man was wounded and two of the horses killed before daylight. There was a continuous shower of arrows coming from the enemy, who were all around in fearful odds, and the boys were driven from their camp, taking up their position some three hundred yards away where they were still surrounded by the foe. The Indians took possession of the camp and made a breakfast upon the two dead horses. The boys found themselves in a terrible condition—all wounded and some of them in a frightful manner. Henry was wounded in the arm, but his legs were all right, so it was decided that he should break through the enemy's line and go for help. He took Frank Binckley, who had a ball through the bridge of his nose which drove a bone into an eye putting it out, with him. It was feared that Binckley would go insane if left. The two attempted, at about eleven o'clock in the forenoon, to crawl through the brush, but were soon discovered, and a running fight was then kept up for some distance. The men took a circuitous route to avoid being ambushed and to have the advantage in the ground. The party being aroused from their beds so suddenly, and in warm weather, had but little on, and these two wounded men made the run through the mountains from eleven a. m. until eight a. m. the next morning, barefooted. When they reached Walnut Grove a company of ten men soon started out and found the other boys, who had fought the Indians until in the forenoon, when the hostiles left, probably thinking that the game was not worth the cost. The boys were all taken in and all recovered but Sam Herron, who died nine days after.”
__________________________________

Walnut Grove is TWENTY PLUS MILES OVER THE HILLS DUE WEST!!!

Tough bastards!

seth_js

05-26-2006, 03:57 PM

Hey John, so how many vehicles are you estimating? I see that it's posted on several forums.

-Seth

ShottsCruisers

05-26-2006, 04:00 PM

Hey John, so how many vehicles are you estimating? I see that it's posted on several forums.

-Seth

Don't know yet. I'll be asking for numbers this weekend. J

Scott Brady

05-26-2006, 04:50 PM

I should be able to make this John. I will shoot the run too.

ShottsCruisers

05-26-2006, 05:01 PM

I should be able to make this John. I will shoot the run too.

FANTASTIC AMIGO! AWESOME! And the Lexus is done! Woo Hoo! See ya with it. J

ShottsCruisers

05-26-2006, 06:54 PM

Looks like the trip is shaping up to be more fun than ever!

AT THIS TIME I'D LIKE TO GET A HEAD COUNT AS TO WHO IS PLANNING TO COME! THIS WAY WE CAN FINALIZE PLANS/STRATEGIES BASED ON THE VEHICLE COUNT. When I have an idea on the amount, I'll update everyone. THANKS!

crawler#976

05-26-2006, 07:39 PM

I'll be there.

ShottsCruisers

05-26-2006, 07:41 PM

I'll be there.

Cool. Bring something capable though will ya? :smilies27

crawler#976

05-26-2006, 08:23 PM

I'll do it in 2x4 if that helps...:xxrotflma

ShottsCruisers

05-26-2006, 08:26 PM

We need to find an H2 to come along.

goodtimes

05-26-2006, 08:33 PM

We need to find an H2 to come along.

Why? (need I say more???)

OH! Things are-a-changing at work. My 2 favorite co-workers did a little :sport_box with each other. We now have 2 open positions. So what?, you ask? Well, it means that once again, I stand a chance of having the 10th off since all the schedules are being changed around in light of the 2 open positions.

Westy

05-26-2006, 08:37 PM

We need to find an H2 to come along.

...yeah and send that wide beast out through the narrow tippy exit trail :eek:

datrupr

05-26-2006, 08:40 PM

John, I am in, but the Trooper will stay parked somewheres nearby.

edgear

06-02-2006, 04:04 PM

BajaTaco

06-02-2006, 04:29 PM

Man, I wish I could go. :(

ShottsCruisers

06-02-2006, 04:32 PM

Man, I wish I could go. :(

YOU! YOU CAN'T! Friggin' bummer!

Scott said he might ride with you so he can shoot the trip?

SCOTT.....RIDE IN THE LEXUS WITH US? We can be the #2 truck in line.

We'll miss ya Chris! I know you luv DeSoto!

BajaTaco

06-02-2006, 05:15 PM

Thanks John. Yea, I will be in NM that weekend.

I'm sure Scott will enjoy a ride in the LX. Between your suspension and his new lens, the pics ought to come out nice and sharp :ylsmoke:

goodtimes

06-02-2006, 07:30 PM

Which new lens did Scott end up with?

I was over at Wolfie's place a few days ago....he has a D-30 with a 100 - 400 L series (with I/S) sitting on a table....the thing is a friggin MONSTER! Some of the shots he took (off hand) while out birding with Chkuck recently were incredible. It will reach out there...and the I/S works well enough to make it usable w/o a tripod. He better not turn his back on it for too long. :gunt:

ShottsCruisers

06-02-2006, 09:41 PM

TRIP UPDATE AND COMMENTS:

From our Trip Leader Steve:

"For this run I'd recommend rock sliders due to the rocky wash area (1/3 mile). A rear locker will also aid in the challenging spots."

From the Prescott National Forest:

"More Fire Restrictions will go into effect on June 10th. We really do not expect them to be forest "closures". We'll know the details on Monday."

(I'll be re-calling them on Monday)

From Mark Longfield (our co-leader):

"Weather should be nicer than expected. About 82 in Prescott so figure on about 87-90 on DeSoto." (For a June run, that's great news!)

From me:

"Looks like we'll have a great variety of rigs for this run. With the responses I've got we should plan on one of the best trail runs ever. It might take us out to 4:00 PM (or so) to complete the run, though it'll be well worth it!

Bring extra water and sunscreen (something we always forget)!

datrupr

06-02-2006, 09:51 PM

Very cool John, thanks for posting the updates. I think it will be fun to travel in the LX with you guys and the infamous Mr. Brady for this. How cool!!!!

ShottsCruisers

06-02-2006, 09:56 PM

Very cool John, thanks for posting the updates. I think it will be fun to travel in the LX with you guys and the infamous Mr. Brady for this. How cool!!!!

Geeze.....ya will be blast won't it. (Though I'm not sure if Scott is riding with me for sure)(no pressure Scooter!)

This will be my second trip in the LX. The first now that's completely rebuilt. We're gonna have to try some wild things! :D

datrupr

06-02-2006, 10:20 PM

Sounds liek fun:victory:

Scott Brady

06-03-2006, 12:06 AM

SavageSun4x4

06-06-2006, 05:38 PM

I'm new on this forum and I own a beatup Jeep. If I can get it running and ready by Sat is it and myself welcome? I won't be offended if Toyota doesn't want a Jeep guy there.

ShottsCruisers

06-06-2006, 06:00 PM

I'm new on this forum and I own a beatup Jeep. If I can get it running and ready by Sat is it and myself welcome? I won't be offended if Toyota doesn't want a Jeep guy there.

Even lowly Jeep owners can come. KIDDING! Get that sucker running!

Brian McVickers

06-06-2006, 06:09 PM

John
If there is still space available
could you pencil me in for this as tentative

My business trip for this weekend was cancelled
so now the only thing between this ride and me going is
1600 square feet of sod that I will be laying in my backyard on Friday night as soon as it is delivered!:archaeolo

Sod laying volunteers and floodlights welcome!:beer:

ShottsCruisers

06-06-2006, 06:14 PM

John
If there is still space available

Hmmm.....don't know. The trail is 12-ish miles long. How many rigs can we end-to-end in that space? GET YOUR BUNS THERE MCVICK! SEE YA!

Ya better come or:

:ar15: McVick

datrupr

06-06-2006, 07:17 PM

Brian. I need to check with the boss, but if she says its OK and beer is involved, I can help you lay the sod.:o

Brian McVickers

06-06-2006, 07:31 PM

Absolutely, beer is involved!:beer:

datrupr

06-06-2006, 07:42 PM

Well, let me check with the boss. She nay not be too happy with me offering to help you ou with your back yard while mine is still under construction, but if I promise her I will finish it on Sunday, then she might let me do it. I'll give you a call and let you know. I don't have a spot light though, but I did lay my sod at night and did not have too many problems with it. And, if you throw in pizza or burgers/steaks, I might even bring over some really nice aluminum rack mounts made just for a Disco II.:D

Also, I like your new signature, but I have to say I was gonna use it quite a while ago, but I decided not to because I didn't think I could shave my head.:hehe:

crawler#976

06-06-2006, 08:39 PM

one piece of sod, one can of beer,

one piece of sod, one can of beer,

one piece of sod, one can of beer,

one sod of piece, one can of beer,

one case of beer later,
.
.
.
.
.
no sod, :hehe:

Scenic WonderRunner

06-06-2006, 10:00 PM

Brian!

If I was there...I would certainly help you!

Fun to see you getting broken in to the land of property ownership!

and.....I bet you have to do it either very early morning.....or late at night work. I guess that's what you ment by your floodlight comment.

Do the folks in Phoenix still do the low area lawns where they "flood" them in the summer to water them.....?

I remember as a kid, seeing flooded lawns with white painted trunks on the fruit trees.

datrupr

06-06-2006, 10:04 PM

Mark, that was a long time ago when they did the city irrigation. The city has currently stopped that project, but some people are grandfathered into it. When the house sells the new owners are not capable of getting the irrigation. And the fruit trees are painted white at the bottom to help protect them from both the sun and insects.

crawler#976

06-07-2006, 08:01 PM

UPDATE:

THERE IS A FIRE BURNING ON OUR INGRESS ROUTE

WE CAN STILL ACCESS THE TRAIL VIA THE SENATOR HWY IF THINGS DON'T GET WORSE
---------------------

Prescott National Forest
Battle Fire
June 7, 2006 8:00 am
Time/Date Started:
12:31 am Wednesday June 7, 2006
Location:
Township 11 N, Range 1 West, Section 3
Approximately 1 1/2 miles south of the community of Pine Flat
8 miles southwest of the town of Mayer
Cause:
Lightening
Fuels:
Chaparral and Oak
Size:
125 acres
% Contained:
No Containment
Resources Committed:
3 – Type 2 IA Crews, 4 – Engines, 1 – Water Tenders
2 – Type 1 Air tankers 1 – Type 3 Helicopter, 1 – Fixed Wing Tactical Aircraft
Additional resources have been ordered along with Dan Oltrogge’s Type 1 Incident Management Team.
Structures:
No structures threatened
Concerns:
Yavapai County Sheriffs Department has evacuated the community of Pine Flat.
Restrictions:
The entire Prescott NF is in Stage II Fire Restrictions:
• Campfires, charcoal grills, and stove fires are prohibited on national forest lands, roads, and
trails. An exception will be to allow campfires in developed recreation sites where grills and
campfire rings are provided.
• Pressurized liquid or gas stoves, lanterns and heaters meeting safety specifications are allowed.
• Smoking is prohibited except within enclosed vehicles, buildings, or developed recreations sites
where the area is cleared of all flammable material.
• Campfires at the designated dispersed sites within the Prescott Basin are prohibited. Metal posts
identify designated dispersed sites with a number.
• Welding or operating of acetylene or other torches and blasting are prohibited.
• Operating a chainsaw, or other equipment powered by an internal combustion engine are
prohibited.
• Possessing, discharging or using any kind of fireworks or other pyrotechnic device is prohibited.
• Use of explosives is prohibited.
For more information contact Debbie Maneely at (928) 443-8130

ShottsCruisers

06-07-2006, 08:13 PM

PNF just told me on my bi-daily update:

The forests will not be closed.

New cycle and quad/ATV restrictions go into effect Friday, though it doesn't effect the typical motor vehicle. We're fine.

Senator Highway is open despite the Battle Fire. Access to Senator from Mayer MIGHT become an issue if the fire spreads.

Since some will be leaving for the area BEFORE Saturday and not have web access, we will keep the meeting spot as MAYER, even if we need to access the trailhead from another route.

crawler#976

06-08-2006, 02:08 AM

WOOHOO!

Evacuations to end tonight as fire crews stop flames cold

Associated Press
Jun. 7, 2006 05:01 PM

MAYER - Residents of a central Arizona rural community evacuated Wednesday morning will be allowed to return to their homes Wednesday evening after fire crews, retardant drops from air tankers and rain combined to stop a roaring blaze in its tracks.

All residents of the Pine Flats area south of Mayer were ordered to leave by the U.S. Forest Service as the fire grew quickly after being reported early Wednesday, said Debbie Maneely, a spokeswoman for Prescott National Forest.

"It was raining but there were still 40 foot flames and the fire was burning towards Pine Flats," Maneely said.

Shortly after the mandatory evacuation was called at 7:30 a.m., three heavy air tankers started making retardant drops and were able to stop the fire's advance, Maneely said.

"Those air tankers were just a savior," Maneely said.

Crews had a perimeter around the fire as of 4 p.m., she said, and residents will be allowed to return at 8 p.m. Two county roads closed because of the flames also will reopen.

Pine Flats is located about seven miles south of State Route 69 about 75 miles north of Phoenix.

The Battle Fire burned about 125 acres and came within 1 1/2 miles of Pine Flat. The Forest Service had ordered a Type 1 fire team, used in the most difficult fires, but canceled the response.

ShottsCruisers

06-08-2006, 04:47 PM

Just got off the phone with Jeremy of the FJ Cruiser Team.

He says that thier mission on this run is for the attendees to drive the FJs. They'll spot and explain the rigs to whomever if asked. He said they also have some "goodies" for us too! (And I know what they are ;p )

You want to come on this trip!

seth_js

06-08-2006, 05:11 PM

I will be camping out Saturday night (not sure where yet, but probably Schnebly Hill) after the run, then doing some mountain biking on Sunday in Sedona. Any one is welcome to join.

-Seth

crawler#976

06-08-2006, 05:13 PM

FYI:

The Circle K in Mayer doesn't have enough parking for a large group. Please don't clog up the store lot.

There is a Dollar store across the street - the road in front of it should provide enough space for a group to park.

Thanks

Mark

Area Forecast For: Yavapai County Valleys and Basins
Issued: June 08, 2006 04:05:12 MST

Saturday: Partly cloudy in the morning then clearing. Southeast winds up to 15 mph shifting to the southwest 10 to 20 mph in the afternoon. Highs 90 to 100.

seth_js

06-08-2006, 11:38 PM

So you guys think we'll be done by about 3:00? I can't stay up there Saturday night like I wanted, so I'm going to try to get some riding time in before sunset.

-Seth

ShottsCruisers

06-08-2006, 11:41 PM

So you guys think we'll be done by about 3:00? I can't stay up there Saturday night like I wanted, so I'm going to try to get some riding time in before sunset.

-Seth

Hmmmmm......I doubt it. 4 maybe? It's hard to tell what pace the group will move at.

seth_js

06-08-2006, 11:51 PM

Hmm, that's probably still early enough. Eh, whatever. I'll bring my bike and if I have time, then cool. If not, no biggie.

-Seth

ShottsCruisers

06-08-2006, 11:57 PM

I hear ya. Us....we need to return to Tucson and have dinner with friends.

:ar15: I10/I17

clarkrw3

06-09-2006, 02:02 AM

I'll be there for this trip!!! We will finally get the Lexi's out together....should be a great trip.:victory:

BMAN

06-09-2006, 05:09 AM

I'd plan on not getting back to Tucson till Sunday early AM if you run the whole trail...AND we get as many trucks as I expect we will. I would place the over/under in the 40 truck range... if I were a betting man that is.

crawler#976

06-09-2006, 02:01 PM

IF, IF we have more than 30, it's gonna be a very, very long day. With the plethora of basicly stock rigs, it will take considerably longer thru the rocky section. Bring gloves to stack and unstack rocks...

Those who wish to bail out early have an option to exit at the Peck Mine Rd.

datrupr

06-09-2006, 02:16 PM

Sorry gang, I am out I am sad to say. Colette has a big project going on at work, and she will be working, and my teenager will be at a friends house so I have to stay and watch the other two kids. Take lots of good pics for me, and if I get a chance this weekend I will go and test drive an FJ just for the spirit of the weekend. Have fun and be safe everyone.

crawler#976

06-09-2006, 02:19 PM

bummer...we'll see ya on the trail soon

--------------------------------------

Prescott National Forest Enters Stage III Fire Restrictions

June 7, 2006

PRESCOTT, AZ - Prescott National Forest will increase fire restrictions on Thursday, June 8, at 8:00 am. Since the forest-wide fire and smoking restrictions went into effect May 11, 52 illegal and abandoned campfires have been found. “With forest visitor use increasing, along with illegal fires, temperatures and dry conditions; we have decided to increase our current fire restrictions”, said Forest Fire Management Officer Curtis Heaton.

The following are prohibited on the Prescott National Forest:

Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire, charcoal, coal or wood stove. The use of pressurized liquid or gas stoves, lanterns and heaters meeting safety specifications are allowed.
Smoking, except within enclosed vehicles or buildings.
Use of explosives.
Operating a chainsaw.
Welding or operating acetylene or other torch with open flame.
Possessing or using any motorized vehicle on Forest Service OHV trails, including Hayfield Draw, Sheridan Mountain/Smith Mesa, and Alto Pit OHV areas.
Possessing, discharging or using any kind of firework or other pyrotechnic device.
Discharging a firearm, air rifle, or gas gun.
Dispersed Camping is prohibited on all Forest Service land with the Bradshaw Ranger. .
The following closures are in effect on the Verde Ranger District:

Forest Trails 114, 108, 105 and 104 which begin on the rim of Mingus Mountain and end on Forest Road 413
Beginning from the junction of Highway 260 and County Road 75, west to Forest Service Road (FSR) 132; northwest along FSR 132 to the section line between sections 25 and 26, Township 15 N, Range 3 East; north along the section line to FSR 413; north on FSR 413 to Highway 89A northeast to the Forest boundary; follow the boundary east and southerly along the private property boundary to the intersection with Highway 260; south on Highway 260 to the junction with County Road 75.
EXEMPTIONS:

The residents and guests may enter the closed areas when traveling directly to and from their private properties.
Camping is permitted at the following developed recreations sites on the Bradshaw Ranger District:
Lynx Lake Campground
Groom Creek Horse Camp Campground
Hilltop Campground
Upper Wolf Creek Group Campground
Lower Wolf Creek Campground
Yavapai Campground
Granite Basin Group Campground
White Spar Campground
Hazlett Hollow Campground
Turney Gulch Group Campground
Discharge of firearms permitted within the Granite Basin shooting area.
The restrictions will remain in effect until forest officials determine that conditions have changed sufficiently to reduce the risk of a human-caused wildfire. Violation of these prohibitions is punishable by a fine of not more than $5,000, imprisonment of not more than 6 months, or both.

The public is reminded that day-use and developed recreation sites forest wide will remain open. Dispersed camping will be allowed on the Chino Valley Ranger District and the Verde Ranger District, except in the closure area. Please help keep our forests free from fires for the duration of this fire season.

For current information on fire restrictions, closures or wildfires on the Prescott National Forest, call 928-777-5799.

For further information about fire restrictions on public lands in Arizona and New Mexico, call toll free 1-877-864-6985 or visit http://gacc.nifc.gov/swcc/ .

Scott Brady

06-09-2006, 03:22 PM

Looking forward to the trip and meeting everyone.

I am available for a simple dinner (Pizza or similar) afterwards too.

seth_js

06-09-2006, 03:49 PM

If it's too dark by the time we get done for me to ride, I'm down for a bite to eat.

-Seth

Scott Brady

06-09-2006, 03:59 PM

Seth,

I expect that it will be too dark, given the group size. You will need to come back up this summer so Chris and I can do a ride with you. Sedona would be fun too!

ShottsCruisers

06-09-2006, 04:05 PM

Hey Scott. Are you driving? Or since Baja isn't coming will you be riding with us?

Scott Brady

06-09-2006, 07:58 PM

Hey Scott. Are you driving? Or since Baja isn't coming will you be riding with us?

I have not decided completely, as Steph may come along, in which case, she would drive the Tacoma, and I will take pics :)

Scott Brady

06-11-2006, 03:22 AM

John, thanks so much for putting this together.

We had a BIG group, but the more experienced kept things moving, and the didnt whine too much :elkgrin: (though the comment from one participant was pretty funny; something about being glad the Expeditions West guy was along so they could have a place to sleep and a shower)

The FJ's were VERY impressive, and had solid spotters from the FJ Team. The team members all used Bill Burkes spotting methods, which as great for directing new drivers.

I had a real blast, and Steph did great driving the ExTaco through ALL of the technical spots. And thanks to those who helped when she got a little hung up.

It was also great to meet some of you for the first time. Cant wait for the next adventure amigos!

I am going to post a few pics in a minute...

Scott Brady

06-11-2006, 03:46 AM

Mr. Clarks SWEET 80 (really nice truck man:victory: )

http://www.expeditionswest.com/adventures/2006/FJTEAM/IMG_0604.JPG

Stephanie driving through the rocky creek

http://www.expeditionswest.com/adventures/2006/FJTEAM/IMG_0608.JPG

Jeremy's friend driving one of the FJ's (sorry I missed your name)

http://www.expeditionswest.com/adventures/2006/FJTEAM/IMG_0610.JPG

Jeremy climbing the steep, loose climb. Another sweet truck and nicely built

http://www.expeditionswest.com/adventures/2006/FJTEAM/IMG_0654.JPG

Our view to the south! WOW
http://www.expeditionswest.com/adventures/2006/FJTEAM/IMG_0671.JPG

Scott Brady

06-11-2006, 03:49 AM

Seth,

Sorry you were so far to the back. We need to plan a Sedona ride with Chris, you and I (and anyone else up for it).

Brian,

That was a cool surprise seeing you on the way out. Hope you had fun heading back to the other group.

NOW LETS SEE SOME MORE PICS!

clarkrw3

06-11-2006, 05:37 AM

What a great day in the desart!! It was great to finally meet alot of you and put faces with the call names. I wanted to thank Shotts for putting this together. I don't know about others, but I didn't mind at all the size of the group or the time it took...it was to be expected.
It was great to meet you Stephanie and Scott, hope to get out on other trips with you soon...thanks for the excellent lead out. thanks for the props on the pic/rig, means alot coming from you. I will try and get some pics up when I can, I didn't get too many, didn't want to stop too much.

later

clarkrw3

06-11-2006, 04:15 PM

I didn't get many good pics on this outing but here is what I have...enjoy.

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b6d830b3127cce89aa415c10b200000016108BZsmrlm4bq
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b6d830b3127cce89aa415d918300000015108BZsmrlm4bq
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b6d830b3127cce89aa415a10b400000016108BZsmrlm4bq
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b6d830b3127cce89aa415b918500000016108BZsmrlm4bq
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b6d830b3127cce89aa415810b600000016108BZsmrlm4bq
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b6d830b3127cce89aa4147919900000015108BZsmrlm4bq
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b6d830b3127cce89aa4143919d00000015108BZsmrlm4bq
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b6d830b3127cce89aa414010ae00000016108BZsmrlm4bq
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b6d830b3127cce89aa4141919f00000016108BZsmrlm4bq
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b6d830b3127cce89aa414e10a000000016108BZsmrlm4bq

seth_js

06-12-2006, 02:23 AM

Sorry you were so far to the back. We need to plan a Sedona ride with Chris, you and I (and anyone else up for it).

No worries man. I'm definitely ready for a ride outside of the valley. Getting a little toasty down here. :sunny:

-Seth

seth_js

06-12-2006, 02:24 AM

Couple more pics:

http://seth.phizz.net/adventures/fj_rocks_arizona_6-10-06/

-Seth

crawler#976

06-12-2006, 02:58 PM

Well, it was an interesting day!

Ended up splitting into two groups from Mayer. We had 19 in the group for the "easy" trail run. They got to tour a good portion of the mountains south of Presott. We took a trail from Humboldt/Dewey to Walker, then over Mt. Union, and then headed south to Crown King on the Senator Hyw. Ended up getting to Cleator in time to see a few of the DeSoto group. The trail offered everyone the opportunity to use low range and the traction control system on the FJ's. I was quite impressed with the traction control system! We ended up covering about 80 miles of dirt.

I didn't get more than 2 or 3 photos - I was a bit busy...

ShottsCruisers

06-15-2006, 09:21 PM

WOW! What a day this turned out to be!

#1 is to thank Toyota's FJ Cruiser Trail Team to answer my invitation to Arizona. :beer: to FJ TT!

The Trail Team asked me to promote this trip to attract as many people as possible. Man....50+ vehicles....they got their wish alright.

The attendees were split into 2 groups....2 LARGE groups, which made the typical "socializing" a bit difficult. Group one ran DeSoto and group two hit Mt. Union and Senator Hwy.

So, the day was long for everyone. There was some major damage to one FJ on DeSoto. Other than that I heard issues were fairly light overall. Brush wasn't trimmed as much as we all thought. Bummer on that. Double bummer to a new FJ Cruiser.

#2 is to all whom attended: THANKS for showing up and making this event a HUGE success for Toyota. While most didn't experience the normal "sweet day on the trail" due to the huge crowd, it sure was nice to be a part of such an event!

:beer: to all the attendees!

PICTURES OF THE DESOTO RUN ARE NOW POSTED ON MY WEBSITE:
http://shottscruisers.smugmug.com/gallery/1559148