MEXICO: Weekend expedition (Sept 8-10, 2006) Pictures

[Boston Mangler]

Just got home and wanted to post up that i had an AWESOME time this weekend.

HUGE Thanks to AL for showing us around and being a great guide!!!

Was great meeting new folks and meeting new friends as well.

Tons of pics on the way but it might take awhile!

[TACODOC]

Everyone has returned to the US without problemas, great trip!

Pics later, gotta unload and shower...

Mods: Should this thread now be moved to the "completed trips" area???

[Boston Mangler]

Well, i was bored and couldnt sleep

HERE IS THE LINK TO ALL OF MY PICTURES: http://www.yankeetoys.org/mangler/baja2006.htm

NOTE: I just resized them and uploaded them, havent even really looked at them myself. Didnt get any amazing ones, but these are pretty cool!

Enjoy!!!

P.S. I need a real camera!

Here are some of my favorites:

http://www.yankeetoys.org/mangler/IMG_0662.JPG

http://www.yankeetoys.org/mangler/IMG_0669.JPG

http://www.yankeetoys.org/mangler/IMG_0673.JPG

http://www.yankeetoys.org/mangler/IMG_0677.JPG

http://www.yankeetoys.org/mangler/IMG_0685.JPG

http://www.yankeetoys.org/mangler/IMG_0687.JPG

http://www.yankeetoys.org/mangler/IMG_0689.JPG

http://www.yankeetoys.org/mangler/IMG_0726.JPG

http://www.yankeetoys.org/mangler/IMG_0700.JPG

http://www.yankeetoys.org/mangler/IMG_0717.JPG

[OverlandZJ]

Well, i was bored and couldnt sleep

HERE ARE MY PICTURES: http://www.yankeetoys.org/mangler/baja2006.htm

Didnt get any amazing ones, but these are pretty cool!

Enjoy!!!




I enjoyed every one of them! Thanks for sharing. :sombrero:

Looking fwd to seeing more pics and reading the stories....

[TACODOC]

THANKS AL!!!
What a great experience! This is what it is all about.
Pictures tell the story better than words...

http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/th_100_0679.jpg (http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/100_0679.jpg)
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/th_100_0663.jpg (http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/100_0663.jpg)
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/th_100_0665.jpg (http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/100_0665.jpg)
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/th_100_0650.jpg (http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/100_0650.jpg)
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/th_100_0648.jpg (http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/100_0648.jpg)
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/th_100_0646.jpg (http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/100_0646.jpg)
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/th_100_0630.jpg (http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/100_0630.jpg)
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/th_100_0629.jpg (http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/100_0629.jpg)
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/th_100_0620.jpg (http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/100_0620.jpg)
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/th_100_0626.jpg (http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/100_0626.jpg)

[TACODOC]

http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/th_100_0592.jpg (http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/100_0592.jpg)
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/th_100_0580.jpg (http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/100_0580.jpg)
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/th_100_0578.jpg (http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/100_0578.jpg)
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/th_100_0558.jpg (http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/100_0558.jpg)

[TACODOC]

http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/th_100_0618.jpg (http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/100_0618.jpg)
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/th_100_0617.jpg (http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/100_0617.jpg)
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/th_100_0616.jpg (http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/100_0616.jpg)
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/th_100_0615.jpg (http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/100_0615.jpg)
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/th_100_0608.jpg (http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/100_0608.jpg)
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/th_100_0606.jpg (http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/100_0606.jpg)
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/th_100_0603.jpg (http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/100_0603.jpg)
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/th_100_0605.jpg (http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/100_0605.jpg)
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/th_100_0597.jpg (http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/100_0597.jpg)
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/th_100_0595.jpg (http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/100_0595.jpg)

[Boston Mangler]

AWESOME PICS DAVE!!!

Thanks for sharing!

[TACODOC]

I still have more but I gotta get up at 5am... :smileeek:

Great meeting you Kevin, see you at the Trophy I hope!!!

[Willman]

Mods: Should this thread now be moved to the "completed trips" area???

Yea man!...Sounds like a great trip!!!

[flyingwil]

...Mods: Should this thread now be moved to the "completed trips" area???


Umm Yeah, I'll move this...


We just got home!


So Ummmmm.... yeah at least there were no holes on the sides of the freeway on the way home!
http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/100_0648.jpg


Thanks to everyone for making it a great trip!

[TACODOC]

Thanks Wil! Nice meeting you and Wendy, we had a blast!

So, if you liked the last pic, check this out...

http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/100_0649.jpg

[Mlachica]

First and foremost, thank you Al! We really appreciate you taking the time to guide us around and show us the proper way to travel in Mexico. Thank you. Oh yeah and thanks again to Al and Dave for airing my tires up :ylsmoke:

It was a pleasure meeting everybody, we had some funny times around the fire...especially after all the tequila, beer and mixed drinks.

We finally got home about 8pm. I'll try to get some pics up tonight.

[Ursidae69]

Sweet pictures so far. Glad everyone had fun! :clapsmile

[awalter]

It was a great group to lead. You're all invited back anytime. Someone needs to recap the adventure.

[LexusAllTerrain]

I am glad and I knew you all were going to have fun, too bad we could not make the trip, however I have some pictures of the areas I did go to.I encounter 2 small storms in the area of Puertecitos and San Felipe, I also heard of some tourist got swept by some water currents from San felipe to Ensenada.:yikes:

[LexusAllTerrain]

Here are some more of San felipe south to Puertecitos el Huerfanito.

[flyingwil]

Thanks again all! We had a wonderful time meeting everyone, and seeing the faces it seems like it has been so long since we last were out on the trails. Although the camp at Puntas Cabras was a "bit" covered in litter the beauty of Baja shined though! What a site. I think Kevin's favorite part might have been the blender and the pina colada's we brought! Nothing like blended Pina Colada's when you are at the beach.:friday: Wen said that we needed to be playing some Marley to make the ambiance that much better, maybe next time.

Well I guess I have some explaining to do too for those of you who were not on the trip. En Route back from Puntas Cabras to Ensenada we were on a pretty well washed out trail, it was to the point that after a few more rains with out maintenance it would be become impassable IMO. So there were large holes all over the trail. Now, these were odd holes that I have never seen before, the would go down about 3 feet in depth and expand. They were neat to see. So we were following Justin and Miles with their Chaser Trailer, and the commented on the CB to watch out for a hole in the middle of the trail. Well in my stupidity I missed the hole but was so focused on that hole I hit a wash out on the side of the trail. Well David came flying out and jumped on the side of our truck. He also got to use his winch for the first time (too bad it was on me, but boy am I thankful!):victory:

The camp at Laguna Hansen was interesting. I bet it is beautiful when there is water in it! Mark, it was a lot of fun to check out your rig at camp that night, and talk more with you and Amy.

On the way to Tecate, Wendy and I were talking about the trip and what we would do differently the next time around. The answer was nothing. Thanks for a great trip!

:1888fbbd:

[FlyingWen]

I had a lot of fun to... The weather was beautiful and aside from a gigaintic hole in the road that we decided to explore, it was perfect!
Thanks for everyone and I hope to see all of you at the Trophy in October!!!
Wen

[FlyingWen]

http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/100_0649.jpg

Did anyone notice our reverse lights are on? "Yeah, not sure if that is helping honey" :yikes:

[calamaridog]

Thanks for sharing the pictures. Work sucked more than usual this weekend knowing I was missing this trip:mad:

[LexusAllTerrain]

Mangler you are the man you have great pictures!
I am very sorry I did not get a chance to meet you all, untill next time.:sombrero:

[dirtdog]

well is just had an awesome post going and my kid hit something on the puter and it all went away!! took all the wqind from my sails, will try it again later. end state --- had the time of my life!!!!! thanks JEEPS RULE!!!!:clapsmile

[Mlachica]

Between Amy and myself we have quite a few pictures, here's the jist of it

I know, I'm out of control posting all these pics...

Our first rest stop south of the border...
where Rob, Cat & Bella joined the convoy
http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g147/mlachica/IMG_6995.jpg

http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g147/mlachica/IMG_7010.jpg

I think there's about 4 ING directs in the US and one apparently in baja and it's next to a Napa
http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g147/mlachica/IMG_7028.jpg

After a few miles of dirt we stopped to que up. Shortly after this picture was taken, Al was gone :confused: :D (just bustin your chops Al, it was a pleasure having you as a leader)
http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g147/mlachica/IMG_7035.jpg

The view from our tent in Punta Cabra
http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g147/mlachica/IMG_7055.jpg

Rise and shine
http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g147/mlachica/IMG_7057-1.jpg

http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g147/mlachica/IMG_7062.jpg

same view from tent
http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g147/mlachica/IMG_7072.jpg

[Mlachica]

We ventured around before heading up the coast
http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g147/mlachica/IMG_7096.jpg

http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g147/mlachica/IMG_7097.jpg

And then there's W&W...here's another perspective
http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g147/mlachica/IMG_7123.jpg

http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g147/mlachica/IMG_7126.jpg

I think you can tell what Wendy is thinking...
http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g147/mlachica/IMG_7128.jpg

Morning grazing at Laguna Hansen
http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g147/mlachica/IMG_7139.jpg

Who's feet are hanging out of my tent?
http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g147/mlachica/IMG_7147.jpg

I have two group shots I can post, if you prefer I don't feel free to let me know. Trust me they are not embarrassing, I think they turned out really well. :ylsmoke:

[Gear]

Well here is my two cents. Could not of had a better group of individuals on this trip.:) A special Thanks to Al for leading the group and also waiting for us. For all of you that did not make the trip we were able to make all check points and locations on time and in good time. Thanks again Al. :clapsmile I really enjoyed the wide range of vehicles present. As usual Mexico was Amazing. Loved the views and the trails. Another plug for the Adventure Trailers Chaser #15. Still blows my mind what this little trailer can do and that bed is Oh So Nice! Here are the photographs that Miles took. The first set is the condensed version.

http://share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=8EatWzFu0cP_g


This is the long version.
http://share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=8EatWzFu0cMIi&notag=1

And here are a couple of teasers...

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b6d730b3127cce8ce96468272000000026108EatWzFu0cO
Jeep Wrangler Rubicon with Adventure Trailers Chaser #15

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b6d730b3127cce8ce95d9fe66300000026108EatWzFu0cO
First days Campsite

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b6d730b3127cce8ceaf657478200000026108EatWzFu0cO
Close to Full Moon.

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b6d730b3127cce8cea1885c61700000026108EatWzFu0cO
Second days Campsite

Enjoy!

[Boston Mangler]

Justin and Mark

AWESOME PICS GUYS!!!

Mark, yes, please post the group pic, that is the point of taken it right?

Great work guys! :clapsmile

[blupaddler]

I would like to thank Al once again for taking his time, effort, and patience to lead the group! Especially keeping up communication on both the 2M and CB radio. Also thanks for also answering all my "side trip" questions.

:clapsmile :clapsmile :clapsmile :clapsmile :clapsmile





It was also a pleasure to meet new people and put names to faces. And to see friends whom I haven't seen in too long a while. We had a great group of people.

Here are all the postable pics I have...I didn't take that many



:beer:

[blupaddler]

A while ago Dave decided he wanted to go to Baja. Dave somehow managed to get the Baja veteran, aka the “Almanac,” the “Big Daddy of Baja,” the man who probably goes on more trips than Scott…AlWater to lead a mixed group of us down the peninsula.

We were offered two choices initially. First…Coast, and hang out exploring the area. Second…Coast followed by Laguna Hanson in the Parque Nacional Constitucion, which lies in the Sierra Juarez mountain range. The choice was made for number two. Guaranteeing a great experience encompassing both beaches and deserts for any Baja fan from novice to veteran.

Before the decision was even made where to go the trip was already filling up. The trip started out with a maximum of eight vehicles, but was eventually added to ten. With the participants set, the thread started to take off and fill with anticipation. Just look at the page count, TWENTY-FIVE PAGES!!! A quick glance shows that as the third highest in Expedition Portal history.

We had compiled quite the cast of characters…
1. awalter
2. 05TACODOC
3. Mlachia
4. eurorom
5. whitethaiger
6. blupaddler
7. Gear
8. flyingwil
9. Dirtdog
10. Boston Mangler

About a week before we were supposed to leave, Hurricane John started up the Baja peninsula. Luckily our routes were to be spared, but other areas were not…especially Mulege. Many if not all of the people were left without running water, no sewer system of any kind, and complete devastation of the area.

http://expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=2386

With the hurricane disaster looming in the backs of our minds. We all went about our pre-trip routines. Getting tourist permits from the Mexican Consulate (go to the second floor, don’t wait in the long line downstairs). Obtaining Mexican Auto Insurance (thanks Scott for the link). Finishing last minute mods (2M radio). General packing and storage issues no matter how big or small your vehicle or trailer.

Unfortunately, two of our Motley crew had to back out at the last minute. They were to be extremely missed, and our thoughts were with them throughout the trip.


So, the meeting time was set…Friday September 8, 2006 @1100 hrs sharp at the Longs Drugs on San Ysidro Blvd. Everyone show up on time with all your paperwork, Pesos, and frosty beverages…Or so we thought…

[flyingwil]

Nice Summary Robb!

[LexusAllTerrain]

Unfortunately, two of our Motley crew had to back out at the last minute. They were to be extremely missed, and our thoughts were with them throughout the trip.


Thank you Robb and all for the prayers, as you may know when we commited to do this trip, I knew I was going to be on the area, as my fathers surgery was plan for Sep. 7th, it was suppose to be an in and out surgery that did not go as plan, as a result I could not see my self leaving on this fun expedition, as of know I am back at home and my father is doing ok. not good but ok.

I apologize to all since when I commit my self to something I always follow thru...

On a second note here are some pictures of San Felipe with the after shocks of the storm!

[whitethaiger]

Great pics. Looks like another great trip, but we knew that before hand and that's why we spent the weekend crying:rolleyes: Through the weekend we were going: "Now they are setting up camp at the beach", "Now they are sitting around the fire", etc. until: "Now they should be in line at the border"
Then we saw the camp pics and Al's bar and it all started again...


.....
Unfortunately, two of our Motley crew had to back out at the last minute. They were to be extremely missed, and our thoughts were with them throughout the trip.


Taking it easy for the weekend did help Srisuda's health, she really needed the rest.

[Ursidae69]

http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g147/mlachica/IMG_7123.jpg

I think you can tell what Wendy is thinking...
http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g147/mlachica/IMG_7128.jpg



Holy cow, that is one hell of a hole to drive into!!!!!!!! :Wow1: :Wow1:

[BajaTaco]

Great pics and words everyone! :clapsmile

LMAO - that was a pretty serious hole Wil! How in the hell did you not see that?? :p Sharon would have pummeled me :littlefriend: LOL... do you have any bruises?

I love the shot that Miles got of the trucks coming down a hill with the surf boards on top. That is sooooo cool. Who was surfing? Was that someone from the group captured on "film"?

It's always good to see pics of Al's bar. It's one of those "comfort" things... a familiar respite in the great big wild places.

[Miles]

I was anticipating this trip for over a month; Traveling into the wilds of baja, where very few go, except a few surfers enjoing a perfect break, has a huge romance to it. Going with a group of expedition travelers was also sure to be a novel and satisfying experience. If that wasn't enough, those animated smilies that peppered every single post also added to the excitement.

I had a great time exploring, learning and hanging out. Going in a group magnified the experience more than I expected. I took in a lot in those three days. I feel like I'm still decompressing.

Thanks to my brother for introducing me to this forum of off-roaders and for taking me on another killer Jeep trip. I enjoyed meeting everyone and hope to see everyone again.

A particular event that left me with a great feeling was how Tacodoc handeled my request to change my bandage. Not wanting to gross anyone out here, but it was probably a bit scary. The truth is I couldn't see the bandaid because it was on my neck. Flyingwil and wendy helped me out the night before (thank you both) and I wasn't expecting much more than quick favor from David. After all, I asked at a Pemex stop!

Here's were it gets good. He invited me to come see him later at camp because it looks like it could be cleaned up. Medicine is a fascinating field and the way he treated me speaks well of his training and his kindness. He opened his first aid kit and talked me though the whole deal. It was a real asset to have him on the trip. Thank you!

As I found out, Tacomas are often called tacos. Here is a link, or rather a suggestion, to search Taco Time in youtube. The clip is 1:22 long. The answer to the question "Can tacos get any more kick butt than this?" is a challenge that may need to be explored on another thread. I would like to mention here, that the ultimate taco would indeed have a trunk monkey. (Youtube search suggestion: Trunk Monkey Try the compilation its 3:26 long.)

-Miles

[kcowyo]

Wow! What a great troop and fun looking trip! :bowdown:

I'm assuming Wil slid into that bottomless pit?

Mark got some sooper dooper pics
Al looks well prepped for a weekend in Mexico, as usual
Gear has a really radical package
Wendy must be part Saint
Were there only 2 white Tacos.....?
I'm glad BostonMangler didn't sell his 80
I want to make a run with blupaddler. Soon!Someday I hope to see the Seashores of Old Mexico......:rolleyes:

[flyingwil]

Holy cow, that is one hell of a hole to drive into!!!!!!!!
Yup, could have been worse if we were not with such a great group!

Great pics and words everyone! :clapsmile

LMAO - that was a pretty serious hole Wil! How in the hell did you not see that?? :p Sharon would have pummeled me :littlefriend: LOL... do you have any bruises?

Nope, no bruises... Wendy ranks up there with Brook as a super cool chick (duh! why do you think I married her?) If you look at one picture she is even smiling while trying to shift her weight more out board.

Not seeing the GIANT hole was 100% my fault. I was focused in on a smaller hole in the middle, and missed the giant hole. Well thanks to David's lightning fast reflexes he jumped into my bed helping me from not rolling. Poor guy though, didn't even get to use his winch for the first time, but Robb can tell you all about how well his winch works! I owe both of them some beers next trip out!:beer: :beer:



I love the shot that Miles got of the trucks coming down a hill with the surf boards on top. That is sooooo cool. Who was surfing? Was that someone from the group captured on "film"?

I agree that is a way cool shot!


It's always good to see pics of Al's bar. It's one of those "comfort" things... a familiar respite in the great big wild places.
Having only witnessed the bar a few times, I have learned to like the sounds of the "the bar is open". One of these days I will accept Al's offer and share in a drink.


Wendy must be part Saint.
Yup, she hides her wings well huh?

[FlyingWen]

Yup, she hides her wings well huh?


"HIDES HER WINGS WELL???"
Just because I occasionally have horns holding up my halo doesn't mean I hide my wings. If they were hidden, I couldn't flutter around and cause as much trouble as I do. That is my hobby afterall.

Great pics everyone. I really love the campfire one and there is an awesome pic of Marks taco solo with a dust trail I love too.

Maybe next year I will have my yellow Nissan Xterra to take to Baja with us!!!

[flyingwil]

Maybe next year I will have my yellow Nissan Xterra to take to Baja with us!!!

We need to get you on a test drive first, then talk you into a 4 wheel Drive one rather than the 2wd! I still vote FJ or an 80 LC, but it is your car... you pick! Oh and WHITE is the offical ExPo vehicle color FYI.

[datrupr]

Wendy, listen to your husband. Get 4WD (preferably with the Off-Road package), and do not listen to your husband, no FJ Cruiser, but an 80 really intrigues me, and also, do not get white. There are too many white trucks on this board as it is. We need to get the whole color spectrum represented in mass. I think yellow will be cool.

Great report guys, and great pics as well. Sorry I did not make this one, but hopefully I will be able to make the next one. And I will keep my eyes open for HUGE holes in the road.:sombrero:

[awalter]

For those planning baja trips, here is my list of must have references.

1. AAA Baja California road map.
2. Baja California Almanac (topo maps)
3. The Baja Adventure Book by Walt Peterson
4. Baja California Plant & Field Guide by Norman C. Roberts
5. The Baja Highway by John Minch & Thomas Lerlia
6. Las Misiones Antigues - The Spanish Missions of Baja California by Edward W. Vernon
7. The Cave Paintings of Baja California by Harry W. Crosby
8. Wind . Water . Sun by Ed Darack
9. Kayaking The Vermilion Sea by Jonathan Waterman

For a simple travel guide, Lonely Planet has a decent book.

[FlyingWen]

Wendy, listen to your husband. Get 4WD (preferably with the Off-Road package), and do not listen to your husband, no FJ Cruiser, but an 80 really intrigues me, and also, do not get white. There are too many white trucks on this board as it is. We need to get the whole color spectrum represented in mass. I think yellow will be cool. .:sombrero:

I don't listen to him very often, although I am always open to suggestions. Wil thinks Yellow is my way of rebelling!
I wouldn't mind 4X4, but would like to have some money for Mods.

We are still working on the Taco, then maybe I can upgrade in the auto category!
Maybe Yellow Chaser from Adventure Trailers would be perfect too. I can do anything with that Trailer and it would keep up with me. Those things ROCK!!! :exclaim:

[blupaddler]

Maybe next year I will have my yellow Nissan Xterra to take to Baja with us!!!


Just to side track here a bit...I really like the yellow Xterras. Just get rid of the factory rack.
O.K.

Back on track now...

:gunt:

[blupaddler]

:coffee:

Well, everyone showed up at 1100 hrs just like instructed. At least I assume they all did, because I did not. I would not make the rendezvous due to factors beyond my control (no need to go into specifics). But since I was to be the lone-straggler, the appropriate phone calls were made to the authorities.

While finally south bound, I received a phone call at 1130 hrs saying they were crossing the border at San Ysidro. We were about twenty minutes behind…depending on how fast the 80 could go. (read: not very fast…fully loaded surfboards, gas, food, etc.)

Al was leading the convoy and had told me they would be traveling on the toll road, MEX 1D, monitoring CB channel 1 and 2M 146.535mhz. Great! My first chance to try out the range on the 2M installed only days earlier. Additionally they would be stopping at the viewpoint just south of Salsipuedes

We managed to make it through the crossing and Tijuana without incident, and were on our way south-bound. Smiles on our faces, Bella’s head out the window, anxiously awaiting what was to come. The day was beautiful one, with clear blue skies, and light breeze, just your typical San Diego type day.

Driving down MEX 1D, the viewpoint was south of Salsipuedes and north of Bajamar. Well, don’t you know, Bajamar came up on us much faster than anticipated. As Cat said something to the effect of there’s the viewpoint as I drove past the exit. While thinking to myself, “Yeah, I know, but I don’t see any trucks.” Just as we drove past the exit, what do we see…seven trucks all lined up in a row! We somehow managed to swerve off to the side and reverse up the exit ramp, luckily nobody was coming out.

We exited the 80 and got out to make quick introductions, as no sooner were we back inside driving south on MEX 1D. Al was in true form, answering our questions about the area before we even had a chance to ask (those rings out in the water are holding pens for tuna…mmmmm). Our next stop was Ensenada to have our tourist permits stamped. We caravanned into Ensenada and driving by the Tourist office, the gentlemen outside were so excited to see us, that they were waving us over! Talk about customer service! Well…of course we followed the laws, and stopped in and had our Tourist Permits stamped. They were even nice enough to make one for Bella! Permits in hand, we entered into the gauntlet called Ensenada. Like any metropolitan city, we got separated for a little while, but all managed to make it through without incident.

Now we were really on our way. Cruising down MEX 1, with thoughts of the song “convoy” running through my head. It was time to forget about the stresses back at home, take in the scenery, laugh with friends on the radio (Kurt, stay close so you can hear), and start developing mental pictures of what was to come.

We stopped off in Santo Tomas for a brief bano break, and a cold beverage or two from the tienda. The stop short lived, it was now time to get moving. Everyone one back on the road we pulled off just outside of Santo Tomas to find the dirt track that was to take us to Punta Cabras. This being a road Al had not traveled before, which is quite rare if you know Al. Our first try ended up at a small cemetery, a nice detour, but not the intended destination. I wondered why the nice-looking Mexican lady was waving her arms “no” at me when we drove by. With an apologetic wave as I drove by again, we were all soon on the correct road to Punta Cabras.

Driving through the coastal mountain range we stayed on the main graded dirt road. We pressed on avoiding the many temptations to “see where that road goes.” Our trucks becoming a part of Baja too, that always present fine, film of dust that seems to get everywhere, no matter how careful you are. We finally reached the left turn that was to take us to Punta Cabras. Believe it or not there was actually a sign! Although the sign read Erendira, which is actually the town a little south of Punta Cabras. This road eventually spit us out on the coast. But not before an optional descent, a steep hill, about a quarter mile long, and really silty in places. The kind where a big hood vehicle, (i.e. not a Jeep) limits your visibility and you can’t see much for the first couple of feet.

We continued along the coastline getting more & more rockier. The area was actually quite reminiscent of the Monterey coastline. Soon we past by Rancho Bates, and arrived at our destination, Punta Cabras. We traveled down to the point, which is lined with sand dunes to the north and a smaller sized beach to the south. Will was so excited that he got stuck, and had to dig himself out, much to the delight of a couple Jeep owners (there was a Honda Element that wasn’t stuck about 100 yards past Will). We all got out to check out the area and see where to set-up camp. Al & some others decided to go scout the point at the south end of the beach for a possibility. Our dilemma was going to be finding a spot not only big enough, but level as well for eight vehicles to camp.

The area was a picturesce setting looking into the setting just over Punta Cabras. The only drawback was the trash in the area, which wasn’t excessive, but still a reminder to pack-it-in & pack-it-out. But, we all managed to a decent spot for the night. And no sooner had most of us found a level spot and were contemplating our evening than did we hear, “the bar is open!”

With camp set-up, the bar open, and the silver-bullet in action (thanks Kevin, Will, & Wendy). Everyone settled in to enjoy the area: some tide-pooling, a short walk, photography, try to tire the dog out, a quick surf (water was about 63-64), snorkeling, or just kick-back and check out everyone’s trucks.

A fire was made, (Dave you rock!), stories were told, and games were played (name game is crazy!!!). Soon it was time to drift off listening to the sounds of the waves crashing rhythmically against the rocks. Contemplating the days events, and looking forward to TOMORROW…


:friday:

[Boston Mangler]

I'm glad BostonMangler didn't sell his 80


Me too! However, after driving Daves very nice Taco, hmmmmmmmm....

Very well summarized Robb!!!

:clapsmile

[TACODOC]

Wow, I'm blown away by how cool this thread is becoming, and really shocked and pleased how this whole trip just took off from my longing to go and an evening's study of the adventures of Baja Taco :)

Great story Rob, keep it coming!

Al, thanks for posting the required reading - it's off to Amazon for books and maps (yes, I still read books and use maps! Old School!)

[TACODOC]

Before the decision was even made where to go the trip was already filling up. The trip started out with a maximum of eight vehicles, but was eventually added to ten. With the participants set, the thread started to take off and fill with anticipation. Just look at the page count, TWENTY-FIVE PAGES!!! A quick glance shows that as the third highest in Expedition Portal history

Yes!!! :rockon:

[Scott Brady]

Awesome stuff everyone. I am enjoying the web overlanding :)

Oh, and Wil, this is the second trip in a row that you have driven into a hole...

[flyingwil]

Awesome stuff everyone. I am enjoying the web overlanding :)

Oh, and Wil, this is the second trip in a row that you have driven into a hole...


Good thing we don't live in Hawaii!

Great summary Robb! And if anyone is wondering what the "silver-bullet" is that Robb is referring to it is the Magic Bullet Blender thingy ("as seen on TV") available at Kohl's and Linnens n' Things. It worked out great, and packs small. Nothing like some Pina Colada's on the beach!
http://www.opamerica.com/images/products/magicbullet.jpg

[Brian McVickers]

http://www.opamerica.com/images/products/magicbullet.jpg

These things are great, I use mine everyday for a fresh fruit smoothie in the morning!

I have thought of taking it camping before but it reminds me too much of the STAMPEDE scene from City Slickers!:elkgrin: :elkgrin: :yikes:

[FlyingWen]

http://www.opamerica.com/images/products/magicbullet.jpgThese things are great, I use mine everyday for a fresh fruit smoothie in the morning!

Smoothie? Wow.. I think I may be a lush! The only thing we use the Magic Bullet for is to make Pina Colodas and Mud slides for me.... mmmmm, mud slide.

Oh well, if I am to be a lush, I might as well be a great one :beer: !!!

Scott, I only remember Wil ALMOST driving into a hole at Gunsight pass, but then again, I was distracted by the terror from the beetle ambush:ar15: !

Maybe I'll start driving on the trails, but knowing me, I'll start dancing to a good song and steer right off the mountain.
Yeah... I dance while sitting in the car... Like ya'll don't :wings: :smiley_drive: !

[Mlachica]

Here's a couple of our group pictures...

you should have seen how lifeless we looked before this pic...
http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g147/mlachica/IMG_7156.jpg

How often can you get everybody smiling and looking at the camera, good job!
http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g147/mlachica/IMG_7163.jpg

[blupaddler]

SEPTEMBER 9, 2006

Saturday morning we awoke to the pleasant sounds of people stirring early in camp. Tide was coming high again, and the swell had increased ever so slightly. The morning started out sunny and bright, but then gave in to the temptations of the marine layer. Luckily for us though, the sun powered through gracing us with its warm rays.

We spent the morning leisurely packing. Al had set a departure time of 0900 hrs. Wil was kind enough to offer some breakfast sausage to Justin who was still napping in his Adventure Trailers Chaser #15 tent. While Miles made the rounds with scones and other tasty breakfast pastries he got from a friend (this was the first of many items to come forth from the trailer-it was/is like an endless storage pit of goodness).

A hair past 0900 hrs and we were on our way. We started out by trying a narrow dirt track that led up from our campsite and south around a rocky point. Leading to another beautiful vista to stop and admire for a short while.

Sight seeing aside, we were on our way towards the Sierra Juarez and Laguna Hanson. We went out the same way we came in, except this time we went north at the fork in the road towards Punta San Jose. We tried to follow another track that looked like it would lead towards Punta San Jose, but ended up at a locked gate. Which over looked some kind of HUGE construction project on the bluff below.

Side tracks and locked gates aside. The road into Punta San Jose was uneventful, just a moderate graded dirt road, and the beautiful, unaltered vistas of Baja California. Conjuring up images of how Southern California used to look.

Pulling up to Punta San Jose the entire area is exposed to the elements. No trees, no bushes, only small low-growing Yuccas are able to survive this environment. The winds were westerly at a moderate15 knots (sun-shade and a wind block are considered a must). The dozen or so surfers however didn’t mind the wind or the exposure. As acceptable looking right-handers rolled into the cliffs along the waters edge. The surfers however, did mind the eight-vehicle caravan that pulled up into the lot. As shouts of “Go Home!” were heard as we stopped to enjoy the view.

With the view and snappy peelers firmly cemented in my mind, the group pushed on. Now most people who come to Punta San Jose come in and out on the graded dirt road from Santo Tomas (the way we came). However, there is also a narrow two-track dirt road that leads north from the Point. The road went north-east and up in to the coastal range for a brief moment and descended back down into a canyon. This is when things started to get, well, interesting.

It all started as we crested a small ridge and we were about to descend back into the canyon. The 2M comes’ alive with Al’s voice asking where we were. I replied we were just about to start our descent. To preface, this area is loosely compacted sandstone that erodes very quickly. Thus with the winds, and rain create weak areas, where drainages form and the soil is very unstable. So Al says to us, there are some tight spots with some holes to watch out for, but we should make it, even if we have to make a three-point turn (after all the Jeep and #15 had already made the journey). The first couple of switchbacks heading down weren’t much, until we happened to glance into one of the holes, which actually expanded inside the hole. More like black holes. The only close area was a drainage right in the middle of an inside turn, where we actually made sure the front ARB bumper hit the cliff just so we knew we were over far enough. I wanted no chance of sliding into or worse yet dropping into a hole.

The descent over, we started climbing back up the other side of the canyon. All of a sudden brake lights come on, and we’re thinking, bano break, snack time or something else. Then Kevin waves, motioning us towards the front of the group, which we had no visual b/c they were around the corner. I come around the corner to see Wil’s rear passenger side rear tire about three feet in the air, and the driver side nose down in a hole (only later would we find out how deep the hole was…8-10’). Al was then advised by radio of our predicament. The amazing thing was how fast everyone reacted. By the time I reached Wil’s truck there were at least three people counter-balancing the rear bumper. Wil & Wendy were safe and just waiting. Dave’s 05 Taco was the truck just behind Wil, and just our luck Dave has a winch on the front ARB bumper (shameless plug). The winch was quickly unlocked so it could be attached. (Side note…Wil was prepared and had a shackle attached to his rear tow hitch. Which provided a quick, easy, and strong attachment point). Dave directed me to the location of the controls, and before we could say supercalifragilisticespialidoscious (?). Wil’s Taco had been pulled out from the hole and was safely resting on all four tires on solid ground. Wil & Wendy were fine, Dave’s winch had been used for the first time, and we all got to reflect on the benefits of group travel.

The hole was huge! The pictures that have been posted here speak for themselves. So, I will not bore everyone with an exhaustive list of adjectives describing “the hole.”

The remainder of the dirt road was mellow. More time to try and follow the Baja Almanac or the handy GPS with LBMaps software. There was an optional hill climb which Kevin and Dave successfully completed (Kevin is testing out his E lockers-installed & retrofitted by himself…where’s the write up?). Our little dirt road eventually spit us out on the “main” dirt road that leads out to Ej. Ajusco. Once on the main road, travel was at a quick pace. Flying down the road, imaging we were competitors in the Baja 1000. This became especially true when a little Ford Bronco II came flying by us, on a turn no less (this is typical in Baja). After our mock Baja pre-run, we all stopped at a nice flat place to stop and air up (check your air stem). This stop short-lived we were soon back on MEX 1 heading north. We were on the road for no longer than five minutes, when we came to our first Military checkpoint.


The Military checkpoints are always nerve racking no matter how many you have been through. This was to hold true to fashion. There were bets before who would get stopped, and who wouldn’t (most people had $$ running on Justin opening up his trailer-you can ask Justin his secret offline). But in the end, it was our Servicemen who got to spend the most “quality” time with the guardsmen. And of course what would a checkpoint be without the guards meeting Bella. The checkpoint behind us, and Bella’s head out the window without fear of “the dust monster,” we pressed on towards Laguna Hanson.

We retraced our route north on MEX 1 back toward Ensenada. A quick stop for fuel (those without the aux. tank, he, he, he), and our group was soon turning east on MEX 3 heading towards San Felipe. A short while later, we had the unfortunate luck of happening upon a delivery truck which had just broken down. With Al’s quick thinking, some of the group tried a shortcut around the truck (key word some). Good intentions aside the shortcut, didn’t work and the group had to turn around and face the broken delivery truck. Once the group made it past the truck, it was only a little ways down the road when we reached the signed turn off (two in one trip!) for Laguna Hanson.

The group on the graded dirt road, sun dropping quickly on the horizon, we all aired down and were on our way. The road was in great condition allowing us to move along at a good pace. We encountered the occasional oncoming dirt-bike traffic, but otherwise the traveling went smoothly. Before long, we had arrived at Laguna Hanson. However, the Laguna is such a Laguna. The lake was dry, not a drop of water anywhere. Even so, Laguna Hanson is still beautiful in it’s own right. Laguna Hanson is in the Sierra Juarez mountain range, and sits at about 5000’. We made camp at the Cochimi campsite, and the Ranger came around to collect the $100 peso camping fee.

Camp set-up and “the bar open.” Dinners were made and shared. We were treated to a beautiful sunset and lightening storm in the clouds to the far east. Hoping the storm would not make it our way. A fire was made and we all gathered around to reflect on the day, and the trip in general.

:jump:

[flyingwil]

Great addition! Love it!

The Military checkpoints are always nerve racking no matter how many you have been through. This was to hold true to fashion. There were bets before who would get stopped, and who wouldn’t (most people had $$ running on Justin opening up his trailer-you can ask Justin his secret offline). But in the end, it was our Servicemen who got to spend the most “quality” time with the guardsmen. And of course what would a checkpoint be without the guards meeting Bella. The checkpoint behind us, and Bella’s head out the window without fear of “the dust monster,” we pressed on towards Laguna Hanson.

Since I was behind Mark I was secretly hoping they would check out his AMO box and find out that he litteraly carries his crap (used wag bags) in there. :hehe:

[Mlachica]

Wow, great write up Robb. Please tell me you took notes of the trip cuz I forgot a lot of these details. :Wow1:


Since I was behind Mark I was secretly hoping they would check out his AMO box and find out that he litteraly carries his crap (used wag bags) in there. :hehe:

LMAO, that's too funny. Guess what - those bags are still in there. I'm hoping to scare off any thiefs that go lingering around my truck! I'd love to see the expression on their face when they see there's nothing worth stealing in there, or should I say smelling.





All joking aside, the crap was dumped a long time ago - no pun intended :p

[whitethaiger]

Great write-up Robb, almost feel like I was on the trip.

[FlyingWen]

Since I was behind Mark I was secretly hoping they would check out his AMO box and find out that he litteraly carries his crap (used wag bags) in there. :hehe:

My money was on Mark to get checked anyway. With the Can-Back on his truck he looked like he was smuggling things across the border.
I wanted to call him "coyote":truck:

Great write up Rob. Also, nice group shot Mark.. well done
:clapsmile :clapsmile :clapsmile

[TACODOC]

Great write up Robb!!!

[blupaddler]

:beer: :beer: :beer: :beer: :beer: :beer:

Thanks everyone for your kind comments. Here is the final episode...


SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 10, 2006


We all woke up to a wonderful sunrise Sunday morning, the warm beams of light gently warming our backs, which was good on this chilly morning. Everyone made their breakfast and morning coffee, complete with whatever “secret” additive. Kevin then started “phase two” which was supposed to be completed the night before, but…

Phase two was the second installment of some really good meat he had brought out from Boston. This morning we were treated to little nuggets of marinated beef. These were a great treat! I wish I could expand more on the type and cut of meat or marinade, but you weren’t there, and if I told you I would have to kill you. Just know…this meat was REALLY good! Thanks Kevin!

Coffee in hand, meat in stomach, we were off on our final leg of the journey. We started off with a trip around the lake. Just to get a different perspective, and possibly scout for future campsites.

Scouting over we continued on the dirt road out of Laguna Hanson, north-bound towards MEX 2 and Tecate. The group more confident as a whole and in our individual driving skills, we made rather quick time, especially with some nice “quicker” spots. After some on-coming motorcycles and quads we were soon reaching civilization again. We entered back through the town of La Rumorosa, and found a place to stop and air up.

All of us had finished airing up and just chatting when, much to our surprise a Unimog pulls up. Someone convinced the driver to pull over where we had stopped. The driver was chasing for a group of motorcycles, which he didn’t where they were. He was, however, very nice and obliged our curiosities. We all got to drool over the beauty for a little while (crawl up, underneath, inside). Drooling aside, it was time for the Unimog and us to be on our way. As the Unimog drove away, the thoughts all ran through our heads of what we would do with the Unimog, the toughest decision being how to change the tire.

Daydreams, lusting, and fantasizing over, we were soon making our way west on MEX 2, towards Tecate. We had opted to stay on the free road, rather than the toll road, which parallels the free road. A short while later we had arrived in the town of Tecate, Al taking us towards the border, and relating stories of past crossings. The line for the crossing was not long, however it was also not moving very fast. Which allowed time to sample tasty treats being sold by vendors (Thanks for the suggestion Kevin, although I forgot the name). About an hour and a half later, we were back in the good’ol US of A.

We all met up a little way past the border crossing. We were to par-take in a customary border crossing ritual…lunch at Barrett Junction Café, home of the famous fish fry. Our stomachs all in knots with anticipation, the drive was short. We were soon all sitting down and enjoying the atmosphere and food supplied by Barret Junction. Lunch didn’t take that long. Most of us hadn’t eaten since breakfast, and a meal we didn’t have to cook or prepare was a welcome change.


Lunch over, it was the sad time to say, “hasta luego.” We had all met new friends, got re-acquainted old friends, and explored new areas together. We had all bonded as a group. We knew it wasn’t good-bye, just we’ll see you again soon! After a quick group picture (thanks Mark!), we were all on our way. Back home, to clean-up, tighten various nuts and bolts, and start planning for the next adventure.





Thanks again to Al for volunteering to lead us!
To Dave for putting this entire trip together!


To everyone, we had a great time and look forward to traveling with you all again soon!



:coffee:

[FlyingWen]

Great write up again Rob.

One addition:

Upon leaving Laguna Hansen, The W's (Wil and Wen) were stopped my an exhausted biker who was in need of a helpful ride.

In one swift motion, the biker hoisted his bike and his orange and black spandex-wearing self into the bed of the Taco and away we went.
Terrified that he would be rocketed out of the back of our truck only to meet the front bumper of Kevin's Cruiser, I continued to check on him.

Even after enduring the dust clouds from the vehicles ahead and the BIG bumps we hit along the way, this gentleman was very appreciative.

Kev even got a good pic of him from his stand point behind us.

This man had started his journey 3 days prior to this and once we dropped him off, he still had another 30 miles to ride.

Determined or crazy? You be the judge. :costumed-smiley-007

[blupaddler]

OH, yeah!!!

How could I forget that?
Funny thing was, the guy said he goes out for long rides all the time. But I couldn't imagine spending days in the saddle...yet.

:bowdown:

[awalter]

Robb,

Thanks for putting words to our weekender.

[Gear]

And I thought a picture was worth a 1000 words. I'll take Robb's report any day. Thanks for the exciting review of our trip. It was outstanding!! :clapsmile Just one clarification. Miles was the one still sleeping in the Chaser. I was out distributing the homemade muffins and scones.

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b6d734b3127cce8cb52982848300000016108EatWzFu0cO
The Mog we all wanted!

[Robthebrit]

That unimog is owned by Mark Mitchell of San Deigo, he is a super nice guy and spends a fair amount of time in baja chasing motorbikes and exploring the altar with a bunch of other mogs.

If you go to www.billcaid.com you will see some of his adventures and on my site (unimogs.robanddenise.com\gallery) you will see some pictures of his truck in action from mog get togethers.

Rob

[TACODOC]

That unimog is owned by Mark Mitchell of San Deigo, he is a super nice guy and spends a fair amount of time in baja chasing motorbikes and exploring the altar with a bunch of other mogs.

If you go to www.billcaid.com you will see some of his adventures and on my site (unimogs.robanddenise.com\gallery) you will see some pictures of his truck in action from mog get togethers.

Rob

Interesting...

[blupaddler]

Miles was the one still sleeping in the Chaser. I was out distributing the homemade muffins and scones.



:rolleyes:
Sorry...Those scones were REALLY good, and I am sure if I was sleeping in the comfy Chaser, I would have still been asleep too. ;)

:tent:

[Redback]

Absolutely brilliant:coffee: great photos of great country and excellent setups with the 4Bs.

i love this
http://www.yankeetoys.org/mangler/IMG_0692.JPG

Baz.

[Boston Mangler]

Also, i have a Great colored map that the national park employees gave us at laguna hansen. i was supposed to scan it and post it on here, but my scanner is jacked up for some reason. If anyone wants a copy let me know and i will snail mail it to you, my color copier is working fine.

Thanks

[awalter]

[QUOTE=Robthebrit]exploring the altar with a bunch of other mogs.



My big problem with this is the Altar is a part of the Biosphere Reserve which limits travel to established roadways.

The only way I've seen the Mogs travel in the Altar is up & over dunes, trashing the limited flora & fauna in the area.

Not exactly proper for a Tread Lightly forum.

Or do you have a reasonable explaination for their actions? My understanding is that they are in a foreign country & don't care what they trash.:mad:

[Scott Brady]

Yeah Rob, I have a real issue with Bill Caid in general. If you read his account of the confluence trip, he says this:

"After the completion of the last Altar trip, we saw on another visitor's site that they were attempting to get to the confluence at 32N114W by the mid-February time-frame. While there is no remuneration for being the first to visit a confluence, we would have to make do with the fame and glory that would result from being the first to visit this coordinate. There were a number of documented failures to reach this location due to the difficulty of the trip, the general logistics and the soft sand."

That other visitor was me. They went to my site and found the dates I was planning to go to the confluence (we would be going in by foot, given the biosphere designation of the area). They never contacted me to collaborate, stole my idea and went in a month earlier. They also never told me they completed the trip, and I was lucky to see an early confluence report and changed my plans.

In addition, their expedition was in an area the PROHIBITS vehicle access. They drove all over the flora, pulled motors out of stolen vehicles and had open fires in an area that prohibits fires.

I have no respect for their illegal, destructive and stolen accomplishment.

http://www.billcaid.com/2005/32N114WJan2005/B01W4358.jpg

http://www.billcaid.com/2005/32N114WJan2005/IMG_0330.jpg

[Ursidae69]

Scott & Al:
:bowdown: :iagree:

[Robthebrit]

Easy guys, don't shoot the messenger :) There is some responsibility both on road and off road in having a large and heavy vehicle and I could not agree with you guys more about driving in the altar, there is a reason you don't see my mog in any of those pictures.

The knife cuts both ways and in defense of mog drivers who do care I will point out that a mog barely ever spins a wheel, its equally annoying to see jeeps, tacomas and other domestic trucks spinning their wheels and basically digging their way up soft hills.

It all comes down to responsibility regardless of where you live or what you drive.

Rob

[Scott Brady]

Easy guys, don't shoot the messenger :) There is some responsibility both on road and off road in having a large and heavy vehicle and I could not agree with you guys more about driving in the altar, there is a reason you don't see my mog in any of those pictures.


Rob,

I appologize if my comments made you feel any reference to you or Mog's in general. None was intended.

Mog's are one of the most capable expedition platforms in the world, and when used properly leaves little to no impact.

My comments were only directed to that specific group of irresponsible travelers.

[LexusAllTerrain]

Easy guys, don't shoot the messenger :) There is some responsibility both on road and off road in having a large and heavy vehicle and I could not agree with you guys more about driving in the altar, there is a reason you don't see my mog in any of those pictures.

The knife cuts both ways and in defense of mog drivers who do care I will point out that a mog barely ever spins a wheel, its equally annoying to see jeeps, tacomas and other domestic trucks spinning their wheels and basically digging their way up soft hills.

It all comes down to responsibility regardless of where you live or what you drive.

Rob

Rob I do not think Scott was talking about you or the Mogs in general, i believe he is talking of Bill!


Yeah Rob, I have a real issue with Bill Caid in general.

[VikingVince]

Someone who is more computer saavy than I should forward Caid's pics to the Mexico Dept of Interior (or whatever it's called) and try to get him banned from entering the country. I would think Mexico officials would be interested in his disregard and destruction of the Altar. Has anyone reading this ever communicated with Caid on his irresponsible activities?

[goodtimes]

it's equally annoying to see jeeps, tacomas and other domestic trucks spinning their wheels and basically digging their way up soft hills.

It all comes down to responsibility regardless of where you live or what you drive.

Rob

Yes. I don't care what you are driving, it should be on the established, and legal trail. Bill Caid seems to either not realize that his actions are destroying the enviroment and reflecting poorly on all of us, or simply doesn't care. Based on what I have seen and heard about him, I tend to think the latter. I might be wrong...but I doubt it.

I simply hope that at some point he realizes that his current actions are getting access restricted for the OHV community in large. He needs to pay attention to what he is doing, and respect the enviroment.

Make no mistake, Bill is not alone. There are alot of people out there who should have their name right there beside his...but since his name was brought up.....

[Robthebrit]

Guys, no offense taken.

Rob

[TACODOC]

:lurk:
I learn alot hanging around here...

[Scott Brady]

Has anyone reading this ever communicated with Caid on his irresponsible activities?

I sent an email to Bill during that time; never received a response. I believe a few others did too.

[Mlachica]

It's a shame to see people that have similar interests but total disregard and disrespect for the environment that we all like to enjoy. And then wonder why areas/trails are shut down to motor vehicles.

We should have a trail etiquite thread/section where we can discuss proper and improper trail manners.

[Boston Mangler]

We should have a trail etiquite thread/section where we can discuss proper and improper trail manners.

Excellent idea, BUT having a section where the items are discussed would be avoided by those that it really needs to reach! :ylsmoke:

[TACODOC]

It's a shame to see people that have similar interests but total disregard and disrespect for the environment that we all like to enjoy. And then wonder why areas/trails are shut down to motor vehicles.

We should have a trail etiquite thread section where we can discuss proper and improper trail manners.

:iagree:

We should have one for sure... I dont claim to know it all (although most "tread lightly" ideals are just plain common sense) but I would like to be "in the know" so I'm not "that guy" out there mucking things up...

I know many would benefit from the open discussion of this topic including myself.

Everyone should check this out (if you havent done so yet!) http://www.treadlightly.org/

And, HOLY THREAD HIJACK!!!! :violent-smiley-031:

[Mlachica]

Excellent idea, BUT having a section where the items are discussed would be avoided by those that it really needs to reach! :ylsmoke:

This idea may not help those that have already developed bad habits but it can help and influence new comers as well as the open minded that have not had any trail etiquite training.

Sorry for continuing the hijack Dave!

So, when is the next trip to baja?

[Boston Mangler]

This idea may not help those that have already developed bad habits but it can help and influence new comers as well as the open minded that have not had any trail etiquite training.

Sorry for continuing the hijack Dave!

So, when is the next trip to baja?

Yeah, can we say "OFF TOPIC" :D

Next Baja trip is for the 1000, Friday to Sunday! Woo Hoo!

[TACODOC]

Yeah, can we say "OFF TOPIC" :D

Next Baja trip is for the 1000, Friday to Sunday! Woo Hoo!

Lucky!!! :orngartis:costumed-smiley-007 :drool: :sombrero:

[FlyingWen]

Dang it! I need to get a 4X4 so I can keep up with everyone. Then maybe I will do most of the driving on the trails....instead of you know who!:violent-smiley-031:

[TACODOC]

Dang it! I need to get a 4X4 so I can keep up with everyone. Then maybe I will do most of the driving on the trails....instead of you know who!:violent-smiley-031:

OHHHH!!!!

[BajaTaco]

We should have a trail etiquite thread/section where we can discuss proper and improper trail manners.

We do have the Conservation and Land Use (http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=22) section of the forum, and I encourage any and all of you to start or participate in discussions about responsible overland travel there. It's always a good thing to keep that sort of thing fresh in our minds and at the forefront of discussions for newcomers to see.

:coffee:

By the way, Robb - awesome trip commentary!! :clapsmile

[TACODOC]

These pics of our campsite were taken with my el cheapo disposable "water proof" camera while I was snorkeling off Puntas Cabras :D

http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/pc2.jpg

http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g230/devildoc25/pc1.jpg

[Scenic WonderRunner]

SWEET!

Very Kewl Doc..........!

While you were doing that..........

We were doing this......

heading up Imogene..........

and could have even been the same day!

Now that I got the San Juan's outta my system for this year........I'm ready for BAJA!

http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i156/ScenicWonderRunner/2006_0919Summerinthesanjuans0222.jpg

http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i156/ScenicWonderRunner/2006_0919Summerinthesanjuans0221.jpg

[LexusAllTerrain]

SWEET!

Very Kewl Doc..........!

While you were doing that..........

We were doing this......

heading up Imogene..........

and could have even been the same day!

Now that I got the San Juan's outta my system for this year........I'm ready for BAJA!

http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i156/ScenicWonderRunner/2006_0919Summerinthesanjuans0222.jpg

http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i156/ScenicWonderRunner/2006_0919Summerinthesanjuans0221.jpg

And I am ready for some SNOW!:clapsmile

[Boston Mangler]

And I am ready for some SNOW!:clapsmile

Whoever plans the winter/snow camping trip can count me in for sure!!! :wings: