Death Valley & Environs 11/24-27/06: Planning Thread [Archive]

awalter

09-27-2006, 03:20 PM

Well this trip filled before it got posted. It is limited to 10 vehicles.

Dates: 11/24-27/06

Departure point: Interagency Visitor Center Lone Pine, CA at the intersection of Rtes 395 & 136. With all supplies & a full fuel tank.

Departure Time: 8:30 AM

Friday 11/24 - Take Rte 136 east to Swansea, follow the Swansea grade into the Inyo Mountains to the Burgess Mine area, along the crest to the Salt Tram Station & the ghost town of Cerro Gordo (weather permitting), descending to Lee Flats & camp.

Saturday 11/25 - Follow Saline Valley Rd. down Grapevine Canyon into Saline Valley, up Lippencott Mine Rd, to the Racetrack, Teakettle Junction, Hidden Valley, Lost Burro Mine area to Hunter Mountain & camp (again weather permitting).

Sunday 11/26 - Take Saline Valley Rd south to Rte 190 east to Panamint Springs for fuel, into Trona & the Slate Range Trail to Goler Wash, Barker Ranch, Mengel Pass & Butte Valley to camp (a few options Russ' Place, Stella's Place or the Geology Cabin).

Monday 11/27 - Check out the Butte Valley area exiting down Warm Springs Rd, stopping at the mine complex before hitting pavement near Ashford Junction & dispersing.

Participants:
1. awalter (Al)
2. kcowyo (KC)
3. expeditionswest (Scott & Stephanie)
4. BajaTaco (Chris & Sharon)
5. Desertdude & desertgirl66 (Pasquale & Kristina)
6. whitethaiger (Uwe & Srisuda)
7. articulate (Mark & Brooke)
8. Ursidae69 (Chuck)
9. blupaddler (Robb & Kat)
10. VikingVince (Vince & Heather)

Standby:
1. BajaXplorer* (Michael & Amy)
2. Captain Coors* (Randy & Linda)
3. Boston Mangler (Kevin)

Communications: CB channel 4, 2-meter frequency 146.460

Our travels will take us from 2000' to 9000' elevation.

I will be arriving in Lone Pine on Thursday 11/23 noonish & will be staying at the Best Western. Anyone wanting to explore the environs of Lone Pine Thursday afternoon, PM me. There are several other nice motels in Lone Pine including a Comfort Inn along with the Diaz Lake campground for those so interested.

I will be carrying an additional 5 gals of gas (habit forming). Food is on your own unless someone wants to undertake planning/scheduling meals. In the event we get snowed out of some areas, alternate routes/activities have been planned.

I don't plan to camp in improved areas, it will all be backcountry dispersed camping. Pets are not allowed in the backcountry. Fires are allowed in provided firerings in campgrounds. Backcountry campfires are prohibited in the National Park. Collecting firewood within the park is prohibited. We will be able to have campfires on 2 of the nights. Bring firewood if you wish to have a fire.

Happy travels!

BajaTaco

09-27-2006, 03:42 PM

I am VERY much looking forward to this one Al. :)

kcowyo

09-27-2006, 05:16 PM

I am VERY much looking forward to this one Al. :)

x2

re food: I'll be bringing the Wasabi Horseradish for all of the non-believers :chowtime:

Desertdude

09-27-2006, 06:05 PM

X-3 -

We are looking forward to this adventuring with this group once again

PS - Sotol rocks in DV! :rockon:

Robthebrit

09-27-2006, 06:25 PM

A friend and I are planning a mog trip to DV the week after this, I went in July jsut gone to test the fridge but it was way too hot to drive any trails. Our trip its not fully fleshed out, we plan on seeing the same features but I'll probably start at the south end (around Trona). Let us know what the weather and terrain are like

Rob

Robthebrit

09-27-2006, 06:35 PM

Blair G

09-27-2006, 06:55 PM

My DV trip is not closed, if some folks do not make it to this one and would like to go the week after then you are more than welcome.

PM me for now if you ar interested, have any suggestions, things you would like to see and I'll start a new post so not to hijack this one.

Rob

Rob,
Start a new topic. I might be able to make it with you. No promises though. Are you still Rving through the central coast?
Blair

articulate

09-28-2006, 01:23 AM

X-3 -

We are looking forward to this adventuring with this group once again

PS - Sotol rocks in DV! :rockon:
X-4
Brooke is coming with me. Looks like we'll have a good collection of expedition babes.

Grrrrrrrrrrrrrr

Mark

Ursidae69

09-28-2006, 03:01 AM

Looking forward to the trip. :wavey:

Desertdude

09-28-2006, 03:11 AM

OK Chuck is X-5

looking forward to seeing you again around the campfire

whitethaiger

09-28-2006, 04:14 AM

:wings:151:wings:

awalter

09-29-2006, 02:29 PM

After further review, I need to correct the first post regarding pets & campfires.:campfire: :elkgrin:

BajaTaco

09-29-2006, 02:56 PM

PS - Sotol rocks in DV! :rockon:

:hehe: YEA!!

Boston Mangler

09-29-2006, 03:55 PM

I have wanted to check out DV for awhile!

Can i get on the standy list al? this would be an awesome trip!

Rob, if Al's trip is full (usually at least 2 or 3 back out at the last minute), i would love to come along on yours if possible

+ d

09-29-2006, 04:05 PM

:campfire: :campfire: :campfire: :campfire: :campfire:
You guys are gonna have fun!

(I know I am talking to the pro's here but when I went in November a few years ago I was SHOCKED at how cold it got once we were up in the hills. I was fairly well prepared, but not well enough; the coldest night of my life was spent camping in the Panamints off of the "Pleasant" Canyon Loop.)

whitethaiger

09-29-2006, 04:20 PM

...
(I know I am talking to the pro's here but when I went in November a few years ago I was SHOCKED at how cold it got once we were up in the hills. I was fairly well prepared, but not well enough; the coldest night of my life was spent camping in the Panamints off of the "Pleasant" Canyon Loop.)
This cold? I think we woke up to 24F that morning (last Thanksgiving in DV)

http://www.whitethaiger.net/albums/Thanksgiving_2005/L_IMG_2811.jpg

This is also why Feuerzangenbowle is essential in the evenings:coffee:

CAPTAIN COORS

09-29-2006, 05:29 PM

al, linda and I would love to come along, we'll be in woodland hills for thanksgiving so the tirp would fit in perfectly

Desertdude

09-29-2006, 06:08 PM

This is also why Feuerzangenbowle is essential in the evenings:coffee:

and a 12v electric blanket :peepwall:

( we hit 18 degrees last time we camped up near there)

+ d

09-29-2006, 09:02 PM

This is also why Feuerzangenbowle is essential in the evenings:coffee:

Wow, that's a new one...wasn't aware of the drink, or the movie! Amazing what one learns on the internet!

whitethaiger

09-29-2006, 09:37 PM

Wow, that's a new one...wasn't aware of the drink, or the movie! Amazing what one learns on the internet!
The movie has quite a cult following in Germany. Gee, I haven't seen it in many, many years, got to get hold of a copy.

The drink has a quite a cult following:wings: in the 4x4 exploring crowd around here and has become a must on Thanksgiving trips since I introduced it 3 years ago.

BTW, I've stocked up on sugar cones for this season already:jumping:

awalter

09-29-2006, 09:40 PM

al, linda and I would love to come along, we'll be in woodland hills for thanksgiving so the tirp would fit in perfectly

Randy, you have a PM.

+ d

09-30-2006, 12:51 AM

got to get hold of a copy.

Not available on Netflix...:(

Boston Mangler

09-30-2006, 01:22 AM

If anyone does decide to back out on this, please let al know as soon as you can, if i am able to be squeezed in, i would need to request a day off.

Thanks, end selfish post! :D

Ursidae69

10-14-2006, 06:07 PM

The Nature series on PBS is airing a show on Death Valley. Times vary depending on where you live, but it is playing on my PBS station tonight. I'm looking forward to this trip. :D

Life in Death Valley (http://www.pbs.org/wnet/nature/deathvalley/)

kcowyo

10-23-2006, 06:30 PM

Ursidae69

10-23-2006, 07:19 PM

Just a clarification for those (OK, the two of you...) who don't know that Thanksgiving traditionally falls on Thursday.....:eatchicke

We're meeting Friday morning, November 24th @ 8:30am, where Al said.

Looking foward to seeing everyone then! :beer:

Hey, I was tired and weary from the road when I talked to you, I thought for some reason that Thanksgiving was on Wednesday! :friday:

desertgirl66

10-23-2006, 10:14 PM

Desertdude & I will be arriving in Lone Pine sometime on Thursday afternoon. We plan on camping at Diaz Lake County Park, just a few minutes south of Lone Pine. Hope to hang with Al and whoever else is in the area on Thursday afternoon/evening.

Packing lots of woolies!! :ylsmoke:

Boston Mangler

10-24-2006, 12:18 AM

Anyone back out yet? :smiley_drive:

Desertdude

10-24-2006, 03:26 AM

not to admit a thing - but yeah what he said...:sport_box

Hey, I was tired and weary from the road when I talked to you, I thought for some reason that Thanksgiving was on Wednesday! :friday:

blupaddler

10-24-2006, 04:13 AM

Guess it is time for me to actually start paying attention to this thread.

Oh, and I think I am

X6
:clapsmile

However, with the pet rule...I may be traveling solo. Still working on that one...:confused: :mad:

kcowyo

10-24-2006, 05:44 AM

not to admit a thing - but yeah what he said...:sport_box

I'm not naming names... I was just looking for an excuse to post this smilie...:eatchicke

Roundit Robb, already up for another adventure! Nice!! :088:

articulate

10-24-2006, 03:44 PM

This trip will mark my first one with a shiney new 2M radio. :costumed-smiley-007
Marky's taking the exam next week. I can't take the mocking and pointing fingers of only having a CB.

Desertdude

10-25-2006, 12:07 AM

Awesome! you will not regret it :victory:

This trip will mark my first one with a shiney new 2M radio. :costumed-smiley-007
Marky's taking the exam next week. I can't take the mocking and pointing fingers of only having a CB.

articulate

10-27-2006, 03:08 AM

Awesome! you will not regret it :victory:
:friday:

Hey, uh....Anyone else have to be back at the GRinD on Monday? Brooke's definately gotta be back. We're going to have to skip out during the 7th ining stretch. Maybe the 8th.

I hope the cool kids don't kick me out of the cool group. That already happened once in Junior high. I'd rather not relive that.

Desertdude

10-27-2006, 03:36 AM

aren't Mondays for blowing off work?

Let Brooke know I will call her work and "make them an offer they can't refuse" :smilies27

kcowyo

10-27-2006, 03:45 AM

Mafiadude...... :ar15:

Desertdude

10-27-2006, 03:54 AM

Mafiadude...... :ar15:

After I pat down the group - I might have a few stories for the DV campfire :peepwall:

blupaddler

10-27-2006, 06:26 AM

How many "dudes" are there now...

desertdude...builderdude...musicdude...videodude.. .mafiadude...ddude...80dude...northtoalaskadude... bajadude...supercooldude...desertgirlsdude...wishh elivedcloserdude...sweet40dude...THEdude

give me a couple of hours...i'll think up some more

:shakin:

kcowyo

10-27-2006, 07:20 AM

tacodude....

bedheaddude.....

M101trailerdude....

offroadmagazinedude....

gointodeathvalleydude.....

Desertdude

10-27-2006, 01:57 PM

Robbs "Cabinetbuilderdude" :shakin:

Desertdude

10-27-2006, 01:58 PM

Sweet photo KC

tacodude....

bedheaddude.....

M101trailerdude....

offroadmagazinedude....

gointodeathvalleydude.....

Ursidae69

10-27-2006, 02:38 PM

:friday:

Hey, uh....Anyone else have to be back at the GRinD on Monday? Brooke's definately gotta be back. We're going to have to skip out during the 7th ining stretch. Maybe the 8th.

I hope the cool kids don't kick me out of the cool group. That already happened once in Junior high. I'd rather not relive that.

I will have Monday off, but I might have to go back to Phoenix to get my dog before heading back to NM, that will be a long day...

awalter

10-27-2006, 02:41 PM

Some books & maps I've found useful for the area we will be travelling thru.

Bill Mann's Guide to the Remote & Mysterious Saline Valley by William Jack Mann, Shortfuse Publishing Co.

From This Mountain - Cerro Gordo by Robert C. Likes & Glenn R. Day, Community Printing & Publishing.

These Canyons Are Full of Ghosts by Emmett C. Harder, Real Adventure Publishing.

Good Samaritans of Death Valley by John & Barbara Marnell, Tales of The Mojave Road Publishing Co.

The Explorers Guide to Death Valley National Park by T. Scott Bryan & Betty Tucker-Bryan, Published by the University Press of Colorado.

For those still using paper maps check:

AAA - Death Valley National Park

National Geographic Maps - Death Valley National Park

National Forest Service Maps - Inyo National Forest

BLM Desert District maps:
1. Ridgecrest
2. Owlshead Mountain
3. Darwin Hills
4. Saline Valley

As you can surmise from the above list of maps, we will be travelling thru backcountry areas controlled by the National Forest Service, BLM & the National Park Service. We will also be going thru areas that are still private property.

Only 4 weeks away.

articulate

10-27-2006, 03:00 PM

Wow! that's an impressive list, Al. I'll go to the bookstore this weekend...

Scott Brady

10-27-2006, 04:20 PM

And Al will be reading them all while driving, with a cliff on one side, also talking on the radio!

:coffee:

desertgirl66

10-27-2006, 06:47 PM

Affectionately known as "The AlManac." :sunny: :p

awalter

10-27-2006, 07:39 PM

And Al will be reading them all while driving, with a cliff on one side, also talking on the radio!

:coffee:

Smart A--.:shakin:

Ursidae69

10-31-2006, 02:32 PM

Is it Thanksgiving yet????? This trip is going to be sweet. :wings:

I'm saving some elk for this trip. :drool: Mmmm, large herbivore burritos!!

kcowyo

11-01-2006, 06:49 AM

So I've been looking at maps of UT, NV and CA all evening, planning my route for this trip. :coffee:

Now that I know where Lone Pine is, I don't think I'll need to go as far south as Las Vegas like I originally planned. Instead, I'll probably take Rt. 6 across NV from Ely to Tonopah, and then come down 395 from the north.

But more importantly than that, if I'm not going through Vegas, I have to figure out if there is an In-N-Out Burger on my new path. I'm not coming all the way to southern California and not getting a Double-Double!

Priorities, ya know? :chowtime:

blupaddler

11-01-2006, 01:29 PM

Come down to San Diego, we'll eat turkey (and in-n-out). Then leave early for DV!

awalter

11-01-2006, 02:22 PM

KC,

The only chance you might get for your burger would be in Bishop. I was thru there last month & don't recall seeing one. Do they have a web site to check for location?:eatchicke

Desertdude

11-01-2006, 02:37 PM

Sparks, Reno, Carson City

in-N-out always fresh never frozen :iagree:

kcowyo

11-01-2006, 05:41 PM

http://www.in-n-out.com/images/top_store_2.jpg

In-N-Out website (http://www.in-n-out.com/default.asp)

Sadly, In-N-Outdude, (Hey!! :Wow1: ) I think Carson City will be the closest on the way there and that's pretty far north of Tonopah. I may just have to run through Sin City on the way home to assuage my cravings.

Hmmm, Vegas..... I wonder if the statute of limitations from my last visit is up yet? :rolleyes:

VikingVince

11-02-2006, 12:32 AM

KC,

When fate is unkind,
No In-N-Out burgers to find,
Others will help a good man,
For Kristina will always have seitan,
And since I am among us,
You can always share my hummus!
:1888fbbd: ;) ;) ;) ;)

blupaddler

11-02-2006, 03:09 AM

There are two within 10 minutes driving of my house.

:wings:

:chowtime: :chowtime:

kcowyo

11-02-2006, 05:09 AM

See Robb, this is karma, my penance and old school justice for all those things I said about California.....:footinmouthsmilie:

Touche Golden State -

Hummus Vince? Can I get fries with that? :confused:

Desertdude

11-06-2006, 01:33 AM

I can bring you one "or" same-day Fedex if you are in a hurry :smiley_drive:

blupaddler

11-06-2006, 05:03 AM

To those who are coming from a long-distance, and/or maybe missing out on Thanksgiving....You are more than welcome (invitation) to come and have Thanksgiving with Cat and I in Hemet (resist any jokes) just off the 15 & 215.

We could all leave and caravan -early in the am style- to DV!

:eatchicke

:smiley_drive:

kcowyo

11-06-2006, 07:22 AM

I'm still trying to guesstimate my departure from WY and arrival in CA times. It looks to be about 14-16 hours total drivetime, plus I gain an hour somwhere along the way.

I'm thinking of heading out Wed. afternoon and making the 5 hour drive to Salt Lake City, before finding a stopping point for the evening. Then I'll drive the rest of the way in to California on Thursday, to at least Bishop if not all the way down to Lone Pine.

Not sure if, or where I'll be eating on Turkey day, but it's a sacrifice I'm willing to make for this trip. Wish I could take advantage of Robb's generous offer but I have a feeling I won't know till that week, exactly what day and time I'll be able to get out of town.

Can't wait to see everyone, this trip is coming up quick!! :eatchicke

flyingwil

11-06-2006, 07:24 AM

I feel so left out! Hope you guys have fun!

awalter

11-06-2006, 04:17 PM

Just a reminder for you out of state participants, you need to deal with time zone differences. SoCal is now off of Daylight Savings Time. AZ is now 1 hour ahead.

kcowyo

11-06-2006, 06:12 PM

And now that Mr. articulate has passed his 2M exam, I believe I'll be the only non-2M attendee. Al is going to be so dissapointed in me....:(

On the bright side, I guess everyone can talk smack on their 2M's all day in DV, about my non-2Mness but at least I won't have to hear it. Well, until camp that is.....:peepwall:

Ursidae69

11-06-2006, 06:21 PM

kcowyo

11-06-2006, 07:08 PM

You keep adding mods at the rate you're going, and I'm just going to park the T at Caesar's in Vegas and ride with you! :smiley_drive:

About the most sexy mod I'll have for this trip will be new upper & lower ball joints and a new timing belt. Woo hoo.....:smilies27
Well, I'll also be finally adding the custom ball joint spacers I bought from Seldom Seen last Spring, if that counts.

BTW, after departing from the Ashford Junction on Monday, I'll be travelling north back through the park by the popular tourist spots; Badwater, Zabriskie Point, Dante's view, etc. If any first time visitors would like to check those out before heading home, keep it in mind.

blupaddler

11-07-2006, 01:35 AM

KC,
The invitation is an open ended one...If you can get out early, then you are more than welcome. If not...You will be missed but I understand.

Desertdude

11-07-2006, 02:01 AM

got-chu covered on the HT KC :shakin:

...kinda like the pusherdude - once you have 2m you never go back :sombrero:

kcowyo

11-07-2006, 03:14 AM

"pusherdude"....... :bowdown: :bowdown: :bowdown:

Scott Brady

11-10-2006, 02:38 PM

Any thoughts on having group dinners?

We can have two couples for each night, or do dinner and breakfast. The single guys can just enjoy the hospitality and maybe contribute a few $$ to the cause. It sure makes it nice to only have to prepare one meal on the trip IMO. (I just need to leave the Sangria alone :violent-smiley-031: )

What do you think Al?

Maybe have a sign up like this:

Dinner:

Friday- Vince and Heather
Saturday- Scott and Steph
Sunday-

Breakfast:

Saturday-
Sunday-
Monday-

awalter

11-10-2006, 02:52 PM

Scott,
I'm all for however it shakes out. Looks like there will be a fair sized crowd to feed.:chowtime:

VikingVince

11-10-2006, 03:21 PM

I like the group dinner idea...it sure worked great in Baja. Heather and I will do Friday night (think hummus, KC:exclaim: don't worry...you won't go hungry... hummus goes great with lot of basic American food...yes,i've even had it with fries!!...although you won't find that in Fast Food Nation) :-)

Ursidae69

11-10-2006, 04:10 PM

I was just going to do my usual burros for breakfast and dinner, but I'm up for group meals, they are fun! I can contribute $$, or bring meat, supplies, etc, or hell I can cook one if everyone wants a huge pot of elk chili! :drool:

Scott Brady

11-10-2006, 04:48 PM

Hey, we can just make sure to cook healthy meals with meat as an option (added to the meal at serving).

I can do a nice pasta dish and have a vegan sauce too.

Linda is also eating minimal (maybe no) meat.

Edit: This can be my healthy week for the year. I will be good for me :)

Desertdude

11-10-2006, 04:53 PM

Edit: This can be my healthy week for the year. I will be good for me

:iagree:

I've got this special breatharian meal I have been wanting to try out :xxrotflma

desertgirl66

11-10-2006, 04:59 PM

Scott, that is so great of you! Really appreciate the extra effort! I think one of the things that Pasquale and I need to bring into consideration is that we do not have big cookware with us. It takes some BIG pots and pans and LOTS of water to cook for that many hungry people :xxrotflma

He is in California in work mode and I am flying out (and somehow I don't think the airlines would appreciate me bringing out a huge cook pot)

Anyway, I suppose we can figure something out, just gonna' keep it simple :ylsmoke:

Scott Brady

11-10-2006, 05:05 PM

Hey, we can share big cooking items too. I can bring a big pan (long one, about 18" across) and someone else can bring a big pot.

Then Kristina can fly "pot" free :ylsmoke:

desertgirl66

11-10-2006, 05:09 PM

Hey, we can share big cooking items too. I can bring a big pan (long one, about 18" across) and someone else can bring a big pot.

Then Kristina can fly "pot" free :ylsmoke:

:hehe: :hehe: :hehe:

kcowyo

11-10-2006, 05:54 PM

I would be happy to donate cook space on top of my stove for a group effort. I'm sure we all have that covered, but if it helps in anyway. Coffee is about all I ever have for breakfast but I'll be happy to kick in whatever food, propane or funds I have for dinnertime.

Airdropped double-doubles? Only from a guy who's seen parts airdropped 900 miles into the Alaskan Outback!! So who's bringing the corndogs?

So many healthy eaters and lifestyles. And sure Capt. Corruption - I'll give the Hummus a try. That's probably the best-for-me thing you've attempted to corrupt me with!

Reminds me a funny quote - "I'm not a vegetarian because I love animals. I'm a vegetarian because I hate plants."

Desertdude

11-10-2006, 06:10 PM

Reminds me a funny quote - "I'm not a vegetarian because I love animals. I'm a vegetarian because I hate plants."

now that's funny I don't care who you are...:xxrotflma

I don't think its about cookware - its about simplicity and not using resources or water - kind of like a back packing trip on wheels.

I think a microwave will be in order for this trip :peepwall:

Ursidae69

11-10-2006, 06:13 PM

In addition to sharing meals...

I have an idea. :luxhello: We are all coming from various parts of the southwest. When I'm not drinking my usual Tecate, I enjoy a good microbrew. I'm going to do some shopping and bring some good local microbrews. I'll post up some choices and you guys can let me know which ones you want to try.

For starters, I really like the locally brewed Santa Fe Pale Ale and the Santa Fe Nut Brown. :beer: :beer: :beer:

SoCal has to have some good ones??

awalter

11-10-2006, 06:22 PM

I've got the big pots covered.

kcowyo

11-10-2006, 06:51 PM

We are all coming from various parts of the southwest.....

For starters, I really like the locally brewed Santa Fe Pale Ale...

How quickly they forget the lone wolf in Wyoming, *sigh*........

MMmmm Santa Fe Pale Ale... Good on the way down, not too bad on the way back up. Or was that Sierra Nevada Pale Ale? :D

I'll see if I can dig up some Moosedrool for MFS and if any of the choices in this link look good, I'd be happy to tote some along -

Snake River Brewery (http://www.landerbar.com/SRBBrews.php) -
"The Lander Bar, a classic Wyoming Saloon where bloody-knuckled cowboys and climbers, Arapahoe Indians and granola girls in beads and braids, outcasts, posers, foreigners, and cross country skiers all drink and dance together." - Outside Magazine

Desertdude

11-10-2006, 06:52 PM

How quickly they forget the lone wolf in Wyoming, *sigh*........

I think I have a beer glass from there still :drool:

BajaTaco

11-10-2006, 07:16 PM

OK, now you've got my attention with the microbrew. :beer:

Chuck, if you happen to be in Taos between now and then, I'd love to have something from Eske's. If not, I'd be happy to enjoy whatever you come up with. Same goes for SoCal people - if you care to bring something, I'd be happy to trade for AZ beer.

If anyone would like something from AZ, I can bring Nimbus Brewing (Pale Ale, Nut Brown, or Monkeyshine). I can also bring Oak Creek Brewing (Nut Brown) and I might be able to find Mogollon Brewing Co. (Apache Trout Stout, Wapiti Amber, Horny Toad IPA), and Four-Peaks Brewing (Kilt Lifter Ale, 8th St. Ale). And the most rare of all - if you would like something from our very own Prescott Brewing (http://www.prescottbrewingcompany.com/), I can get a growler and bring it. They have great beer.

Oh yea, I forgot to tell ExPo folks who had mentioned Moose Drool (maybe on the CO trip this year?) that I got to try it on tap, and sadly I was not impressed. Bummer! Maybe just a bad batch? I can't recall the details now, but I think it was just kind of bland (?)

Regarding group meals, I will discuss it with Sharon and get back to you all. We were planning individual meals, but I too like only having to mess with it one night or morning - that would be great.

VikingVince

11-10-2006, 07:32 PM

Hmmmmmmm...now I'm having some second thoughts about the group meal idea for this trip. Unlike Baja, this is a 3-night trip and we're 17 people (if all show) instead of 10. It's a bit more of a challenge cooking for 17 vs 10 (may have to change my menu!)...and if two couples share cooking each night, then there's more pre-planning and coordination involved...WHATEVER, I can go either way:littlefriend: ...I guess we're going thru consensus building at the moment:rolleyes: ...but then somebody (our leader Al?) make a decision. One final thought...I really don't care about group breakfasts for sure:coffee:(meaning - I don't wanna do one but I'll eat one lol) ...oh wait, I guess that's being considered so more folk have a meal responsibility vs two couples doing an evening meal?

VikingVince

11-10-2006, 07:53 PM

One of the benifits of this trip was to skip out on the big food thing on Thanksgiving :Wow1: :eatchicke

I imagine the evenings will be dark early and on the cold side this might play into dinner menus

it would be good to know if anyone even wants breakfast?

Yeah, good point on both fronts...forgot to mention that... it occurred to me too that it might be cold as hell and making a big meal outside might not be so much fun...not like Baja anyway. And then, if it's cold plus early darkness, are we sure of having a big campfire around which to eat?

kcowyo

11-10-2006, 07:59 PM

Oh yea, I forgot to tell ExPo folks who had mentioned Moose Drool (maybe on the CO trip this year?) that I got to try it on tap, and sadly I was not impressed. Bummer! Maybe just a bad batch? I can't recall the details now, but I think it was just kind of bland (?)

As much as it pains me to say it, Mark D. Beerdrinker is right (http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/showpost.php?p=27130&postcount=28). In the proper environment, it's A-OK. It helps that he's a cheap date, too.

Cheers - :beer:

Ursidae69

11-10-2006, 10:41 PM

Hey Chris, I'm not sure Eskes (http://www.eskesbrewpub.com/BeerIndex.html) is sold in bottles, I'll check though. How long will it hold in a growler?

I try to bring the following:

Farmer's Tan Red Ale from the Tractor Brewing Company (http://www.getplowed.com/main.html), based in Los Lunas, NM.

Roswell Alien Amber Ale from the Sierra Blanca Brewing Company (http://www.sierrablancabrewery.com/our_beers.html) based in Moriarty, NM.

Santa Fe Pale Ale from the oldest brewery in NM, the Santa Fe Brewing Company (http://www.santafebrewing.com/ontap.php) based in Santa Fe, NM. I love the zia symbol on the caps.

blupaddler

11-10-2006, 11:29 PM

Regarding couples making dinner, etc.

My thought would be maybe a pot luck or similar. Or just bring enough to share, and everyone could sample. Cooking for 17? people is more than I am accustomed.

BTW...How the heck did you all go through two and a half thread pages since 0800 this morning? I just got home from work...How am I supposed to keep up?

Oh, and I might be traveling solo...Still working on Cat's schedule :littlefriend:

desertgirl66

11-11-2006, 12:53 AM

Robb, wha's up with that photo?? Is that you doing a rescue :smileeek:

blupaddler

11-11-2006, 01:29 AM

We call it TRAINING:D :D :D :D :D

VikingVince

11-11-2006, 03:01 AM

Robb...that IS one cool shot...where are you in the pic? In that raft being lowered from the chopper? Some kinda training!:bowdown:

Another way of looking at the group meal thing: The one big meal that you have to cook for everyone is kind of a hassle/big effort (but also kinda fun unless it's cold and dark)...of course, as we all know, the "return" is that then you get to chill/relax the other nights...so it's worth it. When you're on a longer trip like Baja, you have one big effort and then get 5 or 6 nights of "return" which ends up being a nice way to travel...On a shorter trip like this you have the same effort(or more 'cause more folk) but less "return"...:D :D :D :D I'm feeling less inclined to do the effort on a shorter trip with lotta folk...enough of my opinion on this subject!!! :-)

Desertdude

11-11-2006, 09:37 PM

Damn this thread got quiet :peepwall:

BajaTaco

11-11-2006, 10:49 PM

Hey there,

Chuck - yea, I think Eseke's does bottles, but only sell from their place. No worries though, I'd be happy to have any of what you can bring. Just let me know what you want from AZ.

Robb - awesome photo dude. Bummer if Cat can't make it.

KC - I hear ya man. Right place, right time, can make a mediocre beer taste pretty good.

OK, regarding the meals - we are up for it. We'll team up with Scott and Stephanie for Saturday night if everyone else wants to do it. It sounds like there is a lot of hesitation though, so just make a decision and post up - yay or nay. I totally understand if folks aren't up for it. Also, sounds like many don't do much for breakfast, so let's just all do our own thing for breakfasts.

You have about a week to decide, so just let us know. :)

blupaddler

11-12-2006, 01:34 AM

:jump:

Just talked to Cat at work. She has the weekend off and will be coming with us/me. Just no Bella due to the N.P rules

RE: dinner...I think more of a potluck would be better. But we could "team" up with someone also.

:elkgrin:

VikingVince

11-12-2006, 02:55 PM

OK, regarding the meals It sounds like there is a lot of hesitation though, so just make a decision and post up - yay or nay. :)

My vote would be NAY...I'd rather just relax and cook for Heather and myself...cooking for 17?....Yikes! I know it's doable but would just rather not make the effort this trip...even tho I luv ya'll:sombrero: :)

Ursidae69

11-12-2006, 03:27 PM

How about we do a one night big meal since BT and Scott are up for it and we can make it a potluck? The other nights we are on our own?

I just got a new toy for the trip. So, if we do a big meal, I can help cook it. :chowtime:

Just got the 2-burner explorer from CampChef. Also got the half griddle. Today I'm seasoning the cast iron griddle. Should take an hour or so to get that nice dark seasoned finish! :wings:

VikingVince

11-12-2006, 04:21 PM

Today I'm seasoning the cast iron griddle. Should take an hour or so to get that nice dark seasoned finish! :wings:

Is that a bottle of Tequila you're seasoning it with?:Wow1: :Wow1: :hehe:

kcowyo

11-12-2006, 04:44 PM

I think the directions actually read - "Season griddle with oil for 1 hour, drink Tequila while you wait."

This thread is about ready for a 12 step program of it's own.... :friday:

Re meals - big group, big effort, big expense, big clean-up that'll cut into drinking time. I hate to ask that of anyone. However, I'm down with a potluck type meal and I'll contribute anyway I can - food, cooking, clean up, hold your beer, etc.

For simplicity - how about one big potluck dinner (good call Robb) on Saturday night, where everyone can contribute a dish and sample from others but we fend for ourselves on other meals?

VikingVince

11-12-2006, 05:59 PM

For simplicity - how about one big potluck dinner (good call Robb) on Saturday night, where everyone can contribute a dish and sample from others but we fend for ourselves on other meals?

I'd like to try that...never done that on a camping trip:wings:

whitethaiger

11-13-2006, 02:31 PM

Dang, a guy goes hiking in the desert for 3 days (it was just awesome, BTW) and comes back to 4 pages of posts in this thread!:Wow1:

Sounds like potluck seems to be the decision now? I'll check with Srisuda.

For drinks I only hear about beer. The F-work is not mentioned and never got a response in the earlier posts.

VikingVince

11-13-2006, 04:15 PM

For drinks I only hear about beer. The F-work is not mentioned and never got a response in the earlier posts.

As a creative type, I'm always looking for new ways of expressing the F-word:exclaim: :D
(I'd also love to try Feuerzangenbowle):friday:

awalter

11-14-2006, 02:51 PM

...but then somebody (our leader Al?) make a decision.

As per the initial thread, meal planning to be by others, or on your own.

awalter

11-14-2006, 02:55 PM

And then, if it's cold plus early darkness, are we sure of having a big campfire around which to eat?

We will only be able to have a campfire on 2 of the nights.

articulate

11-14-2006, 03:29 PM

Good morning guys and gals. I quickly read over something about potluck style food. It's been some time since I checked into this thread due to work and that whole cycle of trying-to-make-a-living thing.

Can I define potluck as: travel self-contained, be nice to the others, and share your food if they smell something nice on your plate?
:beer:

Which two nights will we be able to have a campfire, Al? Did I miss that?

Thanks, good people.

Mark

Ursidae69

11-14-2006, 03:42 PM

We will only be able to have a campfire on 2 of the nights.

The nights w/o fire will be early nights I suspect. Bummer. I'll try to get a portable propane heater, works great for garages, but outside it might be useless.

VikingVince

11-14-2006, 04:24 PM

There will only be one night without campfire:mad:
:campfire: :campfire: There will be two nights with campfire:o

awalter

11-14-2006, 07:45 PM

Which two nights will we be able to have a campfire, Al? Did I miss that?
Mark

We will be on BLM land Friday night, fire is allowed, NP backcountry Saturday night, no fire, & an adopt-a-cabin on Sunday night with a firepit/ring available.

kcowyo

11-14-2006, 09:07 PM

I'll be bringing some firewood. :campfire:

....and a heater ! :orngartis <----what does this smilie mean?

desertgirl66

11-14-2006, 09:26 PM

Yes, we will bring firewood also. It can get pretty darned cold at the higher elevations.

KC--that smilie looks just like you!! :ylsmoke:

articulate

11-14-2006, 10:36 PM

I'll be bringing some firewood. :campfire:

....and a heater ! :orngartis <----what does this smilie mean?
Hey, ummmmmm...if yer talkin' about that $6 for 4 pine twigs from "We-Got-Gas" in Egypt, Nevada....maybe leave the firewood to those of us with pile of hardwood in the backyard. :smilies27
what does that smilie mean?

Desertdude

11-15-2006, 02:39 PM

Hey, ummmmmm...if yer talkin' about that $6 for 4 pine twigs from "We-Got-Gas" in Egypt, Nevada....maybe leave the firewood to those of us with pile of hardwood in the backyard. :smilies27
what does that smilie mean?

does that mean you are bringing "all" the firewood? :peepwall:

::::

We carry a yearly National Park pass - its a good idea to have one

a little info on DV national park

HERE (http://www.birdandhike.com/Hike/DEVA/DEVA_Over/DEVA_Over.htm) and HERE (http://www.nps.gov/deva)

:::::

Desertdude

11-15-2006, 04:32 PM

Portable campfire (http://www.campfiresandfirepits.com/what_you_get.php) :1888fbbd:

::::

whitethaiger

11-17-2006, 02:42 AM

We need to do some Feuerzangenbowle planning. Need to figure out how many sugar cones to bring and how much red wine. I sent you all a PM, please respond with the number of people who want to drink the stuff. Tasters don't count, only those who'll drink a cup or more.

For those who don't know the drink it'll be hard to say how much they'll want, as a guideline: Al and I usually meet at the empty pot looking for more after we had 2-3 cups each. Some have a hard time finishing one cup, it's strong stuff.

Desertdude

11-17-2006, 03:43 AM

Uwe - I sent you a PM...

I will have in my possesion a couple cases of fine red wine making their way from the Santa Cruz Mnts of CA to Sedona AZ - by way of DV and the M101 trailer - I would be happy to donate a few of bottles to the cause :friday:

blupaddler

11-17-2006, 08:19 PM

PM'd you.

I/we require at least two cups...
:jump:

kcowyo

11-19-2006, 03:31 PM

Al or ModeratorDude or anyone who has been out that way lately, should I expect there to be any cell coverage in the area?

Just wondering if I should promise my wee ones a good-night phone call over the weekend or if we'll be completely out of range? :peepwall:

Desertdude

11-19-2006, 03:47 PM

Very very very spotty - mostly no service

...they don't call it Death Valley for nuthin :ylsmoke:

whitethaiger

11-20-2006, 04:27 AM

Okay, the votes re Feuerzangenbowle ( FZB ) are in. We'll need a lot :wings:
The box with it all is already sitting by the truck.

It's time this thing gets an official name. This is the 4th straight year we'll do one close to Thanksgiving on a 4x4 trip!

4th Annual 4x4 Feuerzangenbowle

Desertdude

11-20-2006, 04:55 AM

three fours make twelve :drool:

thirty four cups makes the ground look very close :Wow1:

BajaTaco

11-20-2006, 01:42 PM

LOL - I am going to get a euro license plate that says "FZB" :jump:

Desertdude

11-20-2006, 01:46 PM

we need Steeekers :smiley_drive:

VikingVince

11-20-2006, 05:46 PM

Had to look up the "F" word:rolleyes:

www.wikipedia.org/wiki/Feuerzangenbowle

:hehe: :beer: :beer:... bottoms up to "flaming fire tongs"

Desertdude

11-20-2006, 05:48 PM

I'll have the video cam ready :campfire: :friday:

whitethaiger

11-21-2006, 04:06 AM

we need Steeekers :smiley_drive:

Not a bad idea, until then (http://www.whitethaiger.net/fzb).

kcowyo

11-21-2006, 04:39 AM

I'm loaded up and heading out in the morning.

I'll be arriving in Lone Pine sometime Thursday afternoon. Planning on camping at Diaz Lake and finding desertdude & desertgirl and any other early arrivals.

Hope everyone has a safe trip. See you in a few days -

:beer:

BajaTaco

11-21-2006, 01:50 PM

Not a bad idea, until then (http://www.whitethaiger.net/fzb).

NICE!!

KC, have a safe journey. May your roadside be crowded with beautiful hitch-hiking companions ;)

Desertdude

11-21-2006, 02:45 PM

enjoy that ride KC

we'll be in Lone Pine around 2-ish on Thurs - unless we get waylaid on another tangent

146.460

BajaTaco

11-21-2006, 08:16 PM

Tick-tock... only 1.5 days left for us to get ready.

I regret saying it, but Sharon and I will have to bow out of the potluck concept that has been discussed. We are both working OT right now, and we just won't have enough time to prepare anything worthwhile for the group. We'll be packing some simple meals in the fridge and that's about it.

Desertdude

11-21-2006, 11:00 PM

Chris and everyone - Kristina and I are also doing this trip on the fly we are not home so we are not making food a priority for this trip - I think the whole pot luck thing should fade to the back burner on this trip ;)

VikingVince

11-21-2006, 11:59 PM

NOW HEAR THIS: I have an apre'-Feuerzangenbowle treat for everyone.:Wow1: I'm not going to tell you what it is but here are some hints::hehe:
--everybody likes it
--you've all had it before
--if you drink too much, you should pass on it until later
--it's a sticky, gooey treat

Don't worry Uwe...Ich bin Deutsch auch:wavey:

(PS...however the food thing shakes out is fine with me)
Looking forward to the trip...Heather and I should be up in Lone Pine sometime Thursday afternoon if all works out. If we get there in the afternoon, we'll join you campground folk;if we end up getting there way after dark, we just might motel it. :xxrotflma

blupaddler

11-22-2006, 01:52 AM

Ha!

You guys are ALL wierdos!!!

I will be leaving beautiful Hemet around 1am or so...Full of thanksgiving turkey in my belly, along with any other Filipino foods that are made too. :)

VikingVince

11-22-2006, 01:59 AM

You guys are ALL wierdos!!!

I will be leaving beautiful Hemet around 1am or so...Full of thanksgiving turkey :)

Don't forget your cowboy hat:wings: You're leaving at 1 AM????...great, Robb with no sleep again...you're a riot in that state:wings:

blupaddler

11-22-2006, 03:35 AM

great, Robb with no sleep again...you're a riot in that state:wings:

So, is that statement a good thing or a bad thing?!?!

Ahh, what does it matter...You'll get me caffinated and sugared up! And like it!
(for those of you with MTV...picture beavis and butthead, the "tp" episode)

:shakin:

whitethaiger

11-22-2006, 04:05 AM

Vince, about your treat, don't forget that we have 3 evenings, we may want to pace ourselves with the treats.

Robb, looks like you are building in plenty of safety for delays leaving at 1am.... Under normal conditions I think it should take less than 5h from Hemet to Lone Pine.

VikingVince

11-22-2006, 04:06 AM

So, is that statement a good thing or a bad thing?!?!

Oh, nothing but good...makes your comedy funnier:victory: :yikes:

VikingVince

11-22-2006, 04:10 AM

Vince, about your treat, don't forget that we have 3 evenings, we may want to pace ourselves with the treats.

No need for concern...my treat will easily cover 3 nights:p :p:p

blupaddler

11-22-2006, 04:37 AM

No need for concern...my treat will easily cover 3 nights:p :p:p

:bowdown:

That's gotta be one big bottle of beer!!! :sombrero:

blupaddler

11-22-2006, 04:40 AM

O.k.

Enough sidetracking everyone...back on track for the trip.

I installed an Odyssey 1700 battery this weekend! Yeah baby, yeah! (thanks wil!)
This should be able to let the fridge run ALL weekend without dying like my opti-crap did at Pismo. (which is now sitting in my neighbors corvair powered sandrail)

Desertdude

11-22-2006, 01:42 PM

for those coming to Diaz Lake - the county camping park is located on the left side of the road heading north on 395 just before you get into Lone Pine - there will be a small sign ( on the left)

We will be camping in the back left corner around the lake - the campground is a very casual place ( read funky) I doubt very much there will be many people there - no reservations are needed.

temps in Lone pine (http://www.weather.com/weather/tenday/USCA0630?from=36hr_topnav_undeclared) - down to 27 degrees on Thursday - be prepared ;)

See you up there!

2m = 146.460