Arctic Ocean Expedition: March-April, 2007

[Scott Brady]

http://www.expeditionswest.com/arctic_ocean/sub_pages.gif

We are in the final weeks of preparation and planning for the trip and have started our planning blogs (will post soon) and extensive modifications to the truck.

You can read more on our initial planning HERE (http://expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=965)

The truck and trailer will be on display at the International Sportsmans Expo in Phoenix, March 9-11. I will be there most days too.


http://www.expeditionswest.com/arctic_ocean/Images/IMG_4681.JPG

[Scott Brady]

Our Route:

Please take a look at the schedule and see if you can say hi along the way. It would be great to meet-up with ExPo members during the trip.


http://www.expeditionswest.com/arctic_ocean/Images/arctic_route_map.jpg (http://www.expeditionswest.com/arctic_ocean/arctic_route.html)

The route: (http://www.expeditionswest.com/arctic_ocean/arctic_route.html) From Prescott, Arizona to Tuktoyaktuk, Northwest Territories and the Arctic Ocean: 24 Days and 8,481 Miles

Our Team: (http://www.expeditionswest.com/arctic_ocean/expedition_team.html)

Scott Brady
http://www.expeditionswest.com/arctic_ocean/scott_team.jpg

Chris Marzonie
http://www.expeditionswest.com/arctic_ocean/chris_team.jpg


Project Plan/Calendar: (http://www.expeditionswest.com/arctic_ocean/project_plan.html)

The Sponsors: (http://www.expeditionswest.com/arctic_ocean/sponsors.html) More added daily

The Truck and Trailer: (http://www.expeditionswest.com/arctic_ocean/tacoma.html)

More pages soon

[p1michaud]

Our Route:

Please take a look at the schedule and see if you can say hi along the way. It would be great to meet-up with ExPo members during the trip.

Scott,
It's a bit too far West to meet up with you guys, but you have some marathon driving segments planned! One that caugh my eye was this one:

March 30, 2007

Depart- Whitehorse, Yukon Territories
Arrive- Prince George area, British Columbia (Camp)

1097 Miles

Is that correct? You guys will be on the road for nearly a full day! :yikes:
Looks like a blast. Looking forward to the mod frenzy updates...
Cheers :beer:,
P

[Scott Brady]

1097 Miles
Is that correct? You guys will be on the road for nearly a full day! :yikes:


Look at it as SCORE training. :rally_guys:

Seriously though, with two solid drivers, 1,000 miles is manageable (500 miles each) and we have our camp with us and can stop and rest if required.

[kcowyo]

See you on 3/15 - 3/16


:peepwall:

[flywgn]

All I can say, Scott, is that Diana and I are looking forward to our trip to mainland Mexico (first time as far south as Zihuatenejo) but are TERRIBLY disappointed that we will not return to Idaho until 3/18. We had looked forward to opening a can of Spam® for you two. :chowtime:

By the time we return you and Chris will be ice-climbing. "ICE-CLIMBING!!!" :rappel: (...w/out ice). Just be sure there are no :oops: ... .

Know you'll keep us all in touch during the trip and we're looking forward to those updates. We'll be in Baja for the end of March and first part of April, but a couple of neighbors have satellite internet, so we'll be checking.

Allen R

[mountainpete]

Scott,

Dinner at the Drake in Canmore on Saturday March 17th? http://www.thedrakepub.com/index.php

Not sure if you are planning on comming through Calgary by the route, but you might just have to. The northern section of the Forestry Trunk Road between Kananaskis and Crownest Pass will still be closed and Highway 40 between Highwood junction and Fortress Junction.

However if you want a long, but really see the sites route, let me know. And by sites I don't mean the city :elkgrin:

Pete

[pskhaat]

1097 Miles
Is that correct?


I don't think 1000 per day is that bad at all, honestly. Granted the miles listed are way up north so that may be a different matter.

[mountainpete]

Look at it as SCORE training. :rally_guys:

Seriously though, with two solid drivers, 1,000 miles is manageable (500 miles each) and we have our camp with us and can stop and rest if required.

You're right - with two drivers that is totally manageable. I've done Calgary to Prince Rupert with two drivers many times - 17 hours and over 1500 km.

Beyond the usual winter driving caution, there is something else you should know about. That route is notorious for having a psychological affect on drivers - especially HWY 16 west of Prince George. The road is designed in a way that there is a huge amount of bush on each side of the road - many times with drop offs. Large sections "look the same". People who go on the road for the first time often comment that it feels like you are just going past the same things over and over again.

Also the bush on side of the road has claimed a lot of lives - and lots of vehicles. I have NEVER driven through there without having to stop and help someone who went into the bush. The scary part is that unless you actually see them go in, you may never know it happened. One June going though there we noticed some recently broken trees and what looked like a "path". We turned around to find a car hidden in the bush - fortunately the person was only slightly hurt and we were able to get a cell phone call out to the police.

I guess the message that I am trying to get at is keep the driver fresh. Don't be afraid to trade off every hour or less. The stretch looks innocent, but it's claimed a lot of victims.

Pete

[DaveInDenver]

I don't think 1000 per day is that bad at all, honestly. Granted the miles listed are way up north so that may be a different matter.
These two fellas will be able to do it. We'll often do PHX-DEN, DEN-CHI or STL-DEN in a day.

But like Scott points out it might be optimistic to plan on a 1K day during winter. This past Xmas got caught trying sneaking in under a weather system. We hit the second blizzard squarely in Burlington and the last 200 miles took easily twice as long. So we assumed a 13 hour day for ~800 miles, which turned into a 16 day. It's not entirely impossible that a 1K day means literally a 24 hour driving session. For example, there's been plenty of times where we'll do stretches of road with chains affixed. Like we've done the stretch of 287 from Dubois to Jackson, I-70 from Burlington to Hayes, etc. This keeps you moving but at a much reduced speed.

I do think it might be optimistic for the time of year, but they'll be plenty prepared if conditions go bad and so pulling off and setting up a hasty camp isn't gonna be a problem. Winter driving is probably something you guys down in AZ don't often think about, eh?

[pskhaat]

AZ don't often think about, eh?
Nope :) But I can't tell you how many nasty 1000+ mile I-80 & I-90 trips I've done from Nov->Mar through storms and conditions where we really should have stopped/stayed home.

[p1michaud]

Look at it as SCORE training. :rally_guys:

Seriously though, with two solid drivers, 1,000 miles is manageable (500 miles each) and we have our camp with us and can stop and rest if required.

True indeed as others have mentionned, if the weather agrees!
Good luck and happy trails!
Cheers,
P

[Scott Brady]

Dinner at the Drake in Canmore on Saturday March 17th? http://www.thedrakepub.com/index.php


Lets meet up on the 17th or 18th for sure. We are going right through Calgary :jumping:

We are camping the night of the 18th too if you are available.

[chet]

Scot by the map it look like you plan on coming onto Vancouver Island? If so I will gladly meet up with you.

[Scott Brady]

Thanks for the concerns guys. We can easily stop, or push miles into the next two days.

Chris and I have a rule that if you feel tired, you are and it's time to switch, no questions asked. If you are both tired then you stop and rest. If you both have total confidence in each other and that you wont push it, then you can rest easier.

[mountainpete]

Lets meet up on the 17th or 18th for sure. We are going right through Calgary :jumping:

We are camping the night of the 18th too if you are available.

Not sure about the overnight camping right now - got to check the dates. But for sure we at least have to get together for dinner in the mountains!

[Scott Brady]

Scot by the map it look like you plan on coming onto Vancouver Island? If so I will gladly meet up with you.

If time allows, we are going to try. I have that day as a buffer to make sure we hit ARB on Monday. We are picking up a vehicle for a few adventures :costumed-smiley-007

[Scott Brady]

Not sure about the overnight camping right now - got to check the dates. But for sure we at least have to get together for dinner in the mountains!

Pete, you can count on it. I was really hoping to meet up with you on the trip. :camping:

[undefinednomad]

Scott,
It's a bit too far West to meet up with you guys, but you have some marathon driving segments planned! One that caugh my eye was this one:

March 30, 2007

Depart- Whitehorse, Yukon Territories
Arrive- Prince George area, British Columbia (Camp)

1097 Miles

Is that correct? You guys will be on the road for nearly a full day! :yikes:
Looks like a blast. Looking forward to the mod frenzy updates...
Cheers :beer:,
P

I have done that drive before, although I was going the other direction... It is a very long drive for one person, but the scenery was enough to keep me going...

You should really stop at Liard Hot Springs even if only for an hour. It is a really nice soak and always leaves me ready to hit the road again. You will find it about 400 miles south of Whitehorse just north of a large suspension bridge. It is well marked with a small park and camping area by the highway and about a 5-10 minute walk to the springs. It is still the best I have been to.

[flywgn]

I have done that drive before, although I was going the other direction... It is a very long drive for one person, but the scenery was enough to keep me going...

You should really stop at Liard Hot Springs even if only for an hour. It is a really nice soak and always leaves me ready to hit the road again. You will find it about 400 miles south of Whitehorse just north of a large suspension bridge. It is well marked with a small park and camping area by the highway and about a 5-10 minute walk to the springs. It is still the best I have been to.

-Nomad, I assume you're suggesting the stop at Liard Hot Sprgs as just a generic suggestion and not connected with your comment on the 1000-mile day from Whitehorse to P. George.

It's my understanding that Scott and Chris will be going north on the ALCAN Hwy--ergo passing Liard that direction--but coming back via the Cassiar route on that long day, so they won't pass the hot springs.

Nevertheless, your suggestion is a great one and Diana and I can also attest to the therapeutic attributes of the Lliard HS at Historic Milepost 496 (modern MP 477.7). It's one of the few spots open year-round.

Allen R

[Scott Brady]

Our Team: (http://www.expeditionswest.com/arctic_ocean/expedition_team.html)

Project Plan/Calendar: (http://www.expeditionswest.com/arctic_ocean/project_plan.html)

The Sponsors: (http://www.expeditionswest.com/arctic_ocean/sponsors.html)

The Truck and Trailer: (http://www.expeditionswest.com/arctic_ocean/tacoma.html)

More pages soon

[flyingwil]

:punk03: Sweet!

I love this Pic:
http://www.expeditionswest.com/equipment/adventure_equip/adventure_trailers/in_use/IMG_9814.JPG

Can you e-mail me the full size one if you get the chance?

[articulate]

I'm pretty impressed with that calendar and your organization of time. And your willingness to share it.

That photo of Chris is sure to make the girls flock.

[Willman]

I'm pretty impressed with that calendar and your organization of time. And your willingness to share it.

That photo of Chris is sure to make the girls flock.

Thats funny!!!...Even the picture of Scott is GQ style as well showing off this :REExeSquatsHL1: ......lol

Nice planning and Schedule!!!

Remember the offer is still on the table if you guys are are going to be in the hood.

:ylsmoke:

[Willman]

Remember the offer is still on the table if you guys are are going to be in the hood.

:ylsmoke:

Looks like you are going to miss me on your way back due to myself moving to Utah(March 23). Man...I am about 5 minuts north of Renton too!!! Will have to shot some Elk and do a run in Moah instead!!!!

On your plan...What (4WD Trail, Washington (Camp)) are you planning to hit?

:sombrero:

[Scott Brady]

http://www.expeditionswest.com/outdoor_adventures/humph_winter21.jpg
Camping on Humphrey's Peak.... In winter.

Scott's first entry (2/6/07):

I really don't remember when my fascination with remote places started, but I think it was pretty young, backpacking with my dad or getting lost in Utah in an old Jeep with Uncle Dave. In reality I can't recall a time when I wasn't filled with wanderlust.

However, the desire to visit the inhospitable and extreme ends of the world did develop later, probably when I was freezing on the top of Humphrey's Peak (12,600'), in Winter. Most people (normal people) climb it in Summer, when it is actually fun to do, unlike clawing up a scree field at 10 degree's only to be hit with 40 mph winds and snot frozen to our faces at the saddle. Somehow I figured it was fun, and worth doing again, only at one of the coldest places on earth, The Arctic Ocean.

I am lucky to have a friend like Chris, for many reasons, but when it comes to things like expeditions, it is a perfect team. First, he doesn't laugh at all of my harebrained ideas, and secondly, he is great with details, like making sure we don't freeze to death... And here we are, a month away, the truck is in pieces in the garage and I have a big list of stuff to do. Thanks for reading!

Scott

[Scott Brady]

On your plan...What (4WD Trail, Washington (Camp)) are you planning to hit?


Not sure yet, but we will post it on ExPo for people to attend soon.

[RedDog]

Lets meet up on the 17th or 18th for sure. We are going right through Calgary :jumping:

We are camping the night of the 18th too if you are available.

If this din-din in Canmore goes off, I'd be pleased to crash the gala affair with my Jeep and pop for a round. :beer:

[upcruiser]

Looking like its going to be a hell of a trip Scott. I'm looking forward to following the progress. I know I don't have to say it, but take lots of fotos!:jumping:

[seth_js]

Coilover Install.... what are you going to run?

[Scott Brady]

Coilover Install.... what are you going to run?

New DR custom valved, extreme plated coil-overs :)

[undefinednomad]

-Nomad, I assume you're suggesting the stop at Liard Hot Sprgs as just a generic suggestion and not connected with your comment on the 1000-mile day from Whitehorse to P. George.

It's my understanding that Scott and Chris will be going north on the ALCAN Hwy--ergo passing Liard that direction--but coming back via the Cassiar route on that long day, so they won't pass the hot springs.

Nevertheless, your suggestion is a great one and Diana and I can also attest to the therapeutic attributes of the Lliard HS at Historic Milepost 496 (modern MP 477.7). It's one of the few spots open year-round.

Allen R

My mistake, I just assumed that the Whitehorse to Prince George day was going to be via the Alcan. I have never driven the Cassiar route primarily because I would have to back track to get to Liard. :)

Stopping at Liard would definitely be a generic suggestion for anyone driving the Alcan route. Thanks for posting the Mile post, I forgot to add that because I always just think of it as being about 800 miles from Tok Alaska which is where all my trips across the Alcan start or finish... I have made 23 trips across it now, 22 driving and 1 hitchhiking... I have only failed to stop at Liard once that I can recall.

[flywgn]

... I have made 23 trips across it now, 22 driving and 1 hitchhiking... .

Yowzers! That puts you into the 'pro' division for the ALCAN.


...I really don't remember when my fascination with remote places started...

Could it have been the posting to Mountain Home? :)

Allen R

[undefinednomad]

Yowzers! That puts you into the 'pro' division for the ALCAN.

Allen R

I didnt know there was a pro division... I just though I was nuts along with the rest of my family... :) Albuquerque NM to Tok AK in 68 hrs with two drivers in the winter, 80 hrs alone in the summer. We would have made it in 64 hrs, but we stopped to watch LOTR The Two Towers in Utah on the way up. I also made a bad bet on a gas station being open inside the AK boarder and had to back track to Beaver Creek to get gas... Thankfully we made it back to Beaver Creek (I think I put in just under 0.1 gallons less than the take was supposed to hold, but my math may have been a little fuzzy by that time in the trip...)

[desertgirl66]

I am looking forward to seeing your food list. What stove are you bringing, how do you see yourselves cooking and keeping hot food in yourselves? ::REOutIceFishing:

[erin]

I'm sure the food list will be easy

beef, chocolate, and coffee :sombrero:

[BajaTaco]

I'm sure the food list will be easy

beef, chocolate, and coffee :sombrero:

LOL, too funny. Actually, we haven't even made a final decision on the food yet. We know that we definitely don't want to take a bunch of crap and eat road food continuously. We plan to stock up on some quality nourishment. We'll post up when we get the food shopping done.

undefinednomad, thanks for the tip! I am always on the lookout for new springs to soak in or at least visit (if they are too hot or small to get in), so I will definitely check into that.

[BajaTaco]

I'm pretty impressed with that calendar and your organization of time. And your willingness to share it.

That photo of Chris is sure to make the girls flock.

:jump: I tried to make sure that ring was prominently visible in the photo :p

I'm sure we'll be tweaking that calendar often, but at least we are still on track for the next few days at least...

[paulj]

You will be passing through enough towns that you can restock your food. In small town Canada, the fresh meat selection is skimpy and expensive, but decent deli meats are abundant, ranging from bulk franks to good quality German style smoked hams (Freybe brand).

On several occasions on my Alaska trip a couple of decades ago, I bought whole frozen chickens, let them thaw in the cooler, and made chicken cacciatore type meals in the pressure cooker.

Obviously the further north you go the prices will be higher, especially for fresh produce. But bakery selections tend to be good. Some roadhouses specialize in mega-cinnamon rolls and sourdough pancakes. Most tourist facilities will still be closed, but locals and truckers still need to shop and eat.

paulj

[blupaddler]

Lookin' good...:Wow1: both you guys.


If you plan on driving straight home from Aroyo Grande to Prescit. I might have to make the drive up north for a short visit. (But it is our spring break...things will be busy)
:suning:

[paulj]

There's a big collection of BC and Yukon web cams at

http://members.shaw.ca/ruping/webcams/pyrwebcams.html

[Scott Brady]

There's a big collection of BC and Yukon web cams at

http://members.shaw.ca/ruping/webcams/pyrwebcams.html

Thanks Paul.

Maybe we could meet up with you in Seattle, if even at camp. That would be very cool, and I would like to buy you a beer (or three) in appreciation for all of your help on this adventure.

[toyrunner95]

please tell me when u plan on being in seattle, im hoping its close to spring break, so i can get to see the truck in person. get some pics.

[BajaTaco]

I just posted a new blog entry (http://www.expeditionswest.com/arctic_ocean/planning.html).

Paul, thanks a bunch for your help. I hope we get to meet up. A huge thanks to MountainPete too.

toyrunner, our current sched. is posted on the route page, but is subject to change. We'll keep it updated.

[DaveInDenver]

I just posted a new blog entry (http://www.expeditionswest.com/arctic_ocean/planning.html).

Paul, thanks a bunch for your help. I hope we get to meet up. A huge thanks to MountainPete too.

toyrunner, our current sched. is posted on the route page, but is subject to change. We'll keep it updated.
Hey, Chris, nice find on the bag. The best cold weather bag I've ever used was a Marmot CWM that I got second hand. I never found a night where I could wear anything more than skivvies and I spend some cold nights in a tent in the mountains. But alas it was lost in a theft (along with my Koflach boots and some misc climbing gear). But to replace it is about $600 new! So a -20F bag for 1/10 that is outstanding.

I'm not familiar with the internals of an Eezi-Awn, but I've learned a few tricks to staying warm in the 'Nest. With the air circulating around under the bed, you will be cold, even in an arctic bag. I find that putting a layer of heat reflecting insulation between the fiberglass top (or bottom when open) and the mattress gives you 10 or 20 degrees of additional warmth. I use a sheet of stuff I found at Home Depot, looks like that air bubble shipping stuff that's been sandwiched with silver space blanket material. On top of that goes the mattress (I use a 3" thick closed cell foam mattress in the 'Nest) and then the bag. I then wrap a closed cell blue sleeping pad stuff (Pack-Light I think it's called, like $5 or $10 at REI) around the edges of the mattress where it touches the tent material (particularly at the head and foot ends). Does that all make sense?

With this I find that with a regular 0F bag I'm good down to an honest 0F or maybe -5F. The problem is really that bag ratings assume you'll be on the ground and only losing heat to the top. But up, off the ground you've got to be careful to keep the heat from being sucked out from under you, too.

[paulj]

The Wildernest people also sold a frost liner - basically cotton sheeting fitted to hang over the sleeping area of the tent. It was supposed to allow vapor to pass through, and to keep any frost that forms on the inside of the tent from falling on the occupants.

paulj

[DaveInDenver]

The Wildernest people also sold a frost liner - basically cotton sheeting fitted to hang over the sleeping area of the tent. It was supposed to allow vapor to pass through, and to keep any frost that forms on the inside of the tent from falling on the occupants.

Cool, never seen one of those. What a good idea. I usually just have a beach towel thrown over the gear loft, which keeps you from getting water torture.

[Scott Brady]

2/9/07: Scott

Big freaking hammer (BFH) to fit the BFG's

Today was productive with a trip to a new outdoor store in Prescott called Manzanita Outdoor, a locally owned business with high quality gear. Chris and I are trying to decide on the best approach for pants and jackets, but we are leaning towards lots of layers and a high tech (but thin) outer. The main benefit is to not spend a bunch of money on something we won't use very often (living in Arizona).

But the big challenge for the afternoon was fitting the tires on the truck. Not just being able to drive down the highway and pose at the SEMA show, but fit a 34x11.5" (295/75 R16 BFG AT) tire on the Tacoma with full travel range. Not an easy task.

1. Washer fluid bottle: Tire hit the cover and was threatening to rip the hose out of the pump. So, we rotated the pump and the hose to the other side and trimmed a bunch of the plastic cover away.
2. Bumper contac: On full stuff, the tire hit the ARB bumper. First use of the BFH.
3. Flare: After a full lock to the frame, the tire needs to travel back out in the opposite arch, which would catch the lip of the flare and try to rip the whole thing off. We cut the flare and hammered (second use of the BFH) the flare bracket back slightly. We got lucky and that worked
4. Seam weld. Final use of the BFH, hammering the seam weld flat and even back into the footwell a 1/4".

Now the tires fit!

We also started the installation of the new, custom valved coil-overs from Donahoe. More on that tomorrow and a new box of goodies from Columbia and Brunton...

[flywgn]

Scott/Chris--

Have you considered on-board cameras. I'm thinking of the kind that Micron placed on the Gordon/Grider Hummer for the Dakar Rally. You can see some of the video shot HERE (http://www.micron.com/dakar/gallery.aspx). Those videos are also on You Tube.

It would be cool if you could upload video to something like You Tube for all of us drooling wannabees at home.

Also maybe some satellite-tracking equipment like Iritrack or such???

Allen R

[Willman]

:iagree:

That would be a great idea!!!

I think Scott/Chris:rally_guys: need a live web cam in Scott garage so we can watch all the action!!!!:mixed-smiley-030: This action would make for a new reality show!!!! I bet trying to make those BFG's fit had some tempers flying!!!!

:bigbossHL:

[goodtimes]

I think Scott/Chris:rally_guys: need a live web cam in Scott garage so we can watch all the action!!!!

I think Scott would love to have room in his garage for a web cam...It's a feat just to get work done with all the stuff he has in there!

[toyrunner95]

the first of april huh? i know the guys at arb, they are right next to where i work, kind of. anyway, which 4wd trail are you planning on staying at, there are quite a few. evans creek is fairly easy to stay at and go wheeling 311 upper and lower are fairly easy trails to have fun on for a couple hours. not too muddy or slick im sure the guys at arb will show u around. keep me posted.

u guys rock!

[Willman]

the first of april huh? i know the guys at arb, they are right next to where i work, kind of. anyway, which 4wd trail are you planning on staying at, there are quite a few. evans creek is fairly easy to stay at and go wheeling 311 upper and lower are fairly easy trails to have fun on for a couple hours. not too muddy or slick im sure the guys at arb will show u around. keep me posted.

u guys rock!

Evan's Creek would be a good trail but a little tight for a trailer! I would take it off and plan on having a babysitter for it!!! Those trailer trash down their would love to get their hands on that one!!!...JK

:ylsmoke:

[toyrunner95]

true it might get stolen, but you dont have to take it up to the trail. im sure one of the people on the board would let u leave it at their house for a day, hell ill offer up mine, it wont get touched. we can put them in the garage.

[BajaTaco]

Hey guys, hopefully I can get in here tomorrow with some replies and comments. For now, I have added a blog entry (http://www.expeditionswest.com/arctic_ocean/planning.html) and revised the calendar (http://www.expeditionswest.com/arctic_ocean/project_plan.html).

Gotta run...

[pskhaat]

The main benefit is to not spend a bunch of money on something we won't use very often (living in Arizona).

Or...apparel sponsorship? :) I have a lot of arctic quilt-lined Carhartt stuff, and they've been a total life saver on warmer weather than you'll have?

Anyway, one particular piece of awesome cold-weather all-position clothing:

http://www.carhartt.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10101&storeId=10051&productId=32200&langId=-1&categoryId=10908

[paulj]

The newsgroup account that I referenced earlier talked about picking up a second hand snow mobile suit for the cold weather drive. As you pass through Alberta you may be able to find something like this on sale at season closeouts. I'd check the online adds for Canadian Tire.

I don't own such a suit, so can't tell you much about them, but they are designed to protect you while sitting outside while the wind blows by at 30 mph or more. It probably isn't as great as layering if your activity level changes, but for sitting around it may be a good yet relatively inexpensive choice.

paulj

[mountainpete]

The newsgroup account that I referenced earlier talked about picking up a second hand snow mobile suit for the cold weather drive. As you pass through Alberta you may be able to find something like this on sale at season closeouts. I'd check the online adds for Canadian Tire.

Not going to find much of that stuff at Canuckian Wheel anymore. It's pretty much all gone by February. Marks Work Warehouse is a much better choice up here.

[pwc]

If you want warmth under you, get one of these
http://exped.com/exped/web/exped_homepage.nsf/b43HomePageE?openframeset

Exped is now owned by Outdoor Reaserach (HQ here in Seattle) and these mats are REALLY nice. They take more effort than your average Thermarest to inflate, but with 3.5" of 700 fill down, it's hard to get cold from the ground. I've only used mine once on freezing ground and I honestly lost more heat from the crappy sleeping bags I was using at the time than from the ground. the ground side was WARM. It's a true luxury. Heck, they might even sponsor you as well.

Another option is just one of the other mats or one of the ThermaRest thick ones. Since you're not packing them, weight it less of an issue (as evident by the 7.5lb -20 bag).

I also second the Marmot bags. I've had a Coulior (sp?) long for a long time now and am still amazed at how warm it keeps me. Half burried in a snow bank halfway up Mt. Rainier in a bivy sack and I was sleeping in what I sleep in at home. Second endorsement: My wife is notriously cold and anytime the temps get near freezing she has a hard timing sleeping. I finally broke down and bought her a 0F womens Marmot bag. She spent 3 weeks sleeping in it in a tent in Nepal on the Everest Basecamp loop. Altitudes around 13,000 feet and freezing every night. Others were wearing their down coats to bed while she was comfortable the whole time and raved about it upon her return.

So anyway, that's my input. Don't skimp on good sleeping gear as a good night's sleep makes all the difference when you face adversity.


As for storing the trailer while on the trail. If you leave them at an established campgound you should be fine. You're also welcome to leave them at my house but I won't be held responsible for the additional drool on them. Or dog piss on the tires.

[BajaTaco]

Ok, trying to catch up here...

Dave: Thanks for the great tip. I had thought of that myself, but not about the bubble scree stuff, so thank you. And thanks for your encouragement on the bag. Under the circumstances, I think it will work well.

A note to all: Regarding the circulation of cold air beneath the tent, here are my thoughts; The tent is mounted over an enclosed area that will be filled with gear and items that will minimize the effect, so I am not so worried about the half of the tent that sits over the bed of the truck, which is where our torsos (core) and heads will rest. For the half that flips open over the edge of the bed, (the half for our legs) it will be a concern, so the idea of using a compact, heat retention solution is good. The bulky mats, mattresses and such will be more of an issuse. This is because we'll need to create an even surface to sleep on, so even if we only need it at the legs, we'll have to cover the whole area. That ends up being a lot of potential bulk that we can't leave in the tent when it is closed up. (It won't close with anything thick in there, beyond the matress that comes with it). We need to be careful not to rely too much on what we carry in the trailer, if for any reason we need to leave it behind.

Allen, thanks for bringing up the cameras. Yes, we have definitely considered them, and we will be getting a lot of footage from inside the cab. I am also looking into the options for doing live tracking. I've actually been reading up on that in the past couple of days. I'll be sure to post up when we come up with something on that.

Nic: We have started filming the shop stuff, but no plans for a live webcam at this time. (dang!)

To the WA guys, thanks for the tips and suggestions regarding the trails. We'll keep the website updated once we get it finalized.

pskhaat: Thanks for the info. We're almost set on our clothing layers.

PWC, thanks for the offer to park the trailer. We probably won't need to though.

[Willman]

Or...apparel sponsorship? :) I have a lot of arctic quilt-lined Carhartt stuff, and they've been a total life saver on warmer weather than you'll have?

Anyway, one particular piece of awesome cold-weather all-position clothing:

http://www.carhartt.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10101&storeId=10051&productId=32200&langId=-1&categoryId=10908


Scott & Chris,

Filson Clothing makes the warmest stuff out their in my mind!

Checkout their website...Little pricey...But you will own it for life!!! Let me know if any thing sparks your taste buds!


This is one of the warm ones in the cloth deptment!!!!

http://www.filson.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2092288&cp=2069836.2069837.2075070&parentPage=family

:REOutCampFire03:

[Scott Brady]

We are ready for the trip now :friday:

Blog update (http://www.expeditionswest.com/arctic_ocean/planning.html)

http://www.expeditionswest.com/arctic_ocean/equipment/images/IMG_7256.JPG

Actually, lots of good progress and we have a "rolling" Tacoma again, with no rubbing. The tires are running very smooth, which will be nice over the 8,000+ miles.

The laptop mount is on the way from RAM too. That will be a fun mod.

[upcruiser]

And you guys thought you were going to be cold......

http://www.canada.com/topics/bodyandhealth/story.html?id=a8050326-b5ce-4ca0-a67d-74c8305bf17e&k=68725

[BajaTaco]

And you guys thought you were going to be cold......

http://www.canada.com/topics/bodyandhealth/story.html?id=a8050326-b5ce-4ca0-a67d-74c8305bf17e&k=68725 (http://www.canada.com/topics/bodyandhealth/story.html?id=a8050326-b5ce-4ca0-a67d-74c8305bf17e&k=68725)

That is awesome!

"As far as Powaschuk knows, no one has ever driven through it in the wintertime on a motorcycle."

No matter how crazy you think you are, there is always someone who has gone before you (http://www.thetimelessride.com/English/HTML%20files/My%20rides%20htm/Arctic%20Circle%20htm/Arcticmainpage.5.htm)...

[crawler#976]

While I was stationed in Alaska we used layers on layers with a waterproof parka and bibs over it all. We didn't have the advantages that modern materials offer like breathability, so we had to limit our activities to avoid sweating - but that's still applicable since even the breathable fabrics don't transport out that much water. Of course it really didn't matter when we were taking water over the bow while trying to de-ice the ship - we were wet anyway. Surplus moonboots were my favorite shoe when ice fishing - dunno if they are still available.

The items below are affordable and usable here as well. I've used DryPlus waders and foung them to every bit as waterproof as GoreTex and the material is a lot less expensive.

http://cabelas.com/cabelas/en/templates/pod/standard-pod-wrapped.jsp?_DARGS=/cabelas/en/common/catalog/pod-link.jsp_A&_DAV=Related_IPL_922531-cat21162&rid=&indexId=cat21162&navAction=push&masterpathid=&navCount=4&parentType=index&parentId=cat21162&id=0031129

[paulj]

There's a difference between what is ideal for a cold, wet marine environment, and a colder, but relatively dry inland site. In the wet case the best seems to be moisture wicking synthetics (fleece etc) under waterproof rain gear. At best you control the moisture, whether from outside or inside, and limit the cooling effect of evaporation. But where it is dry but cold, you can use tight woven cottons (or uncoated nylon) as the outer layer, since they breath well, but keep out the wind. Down and other high bulk insulation can be used, especially when not active. Inner layers that wick sweat, and remain warm even when damp, are still valuable in this environment.

Interestingly, British researchers have found that the clothing used by Malory and other early mountain climbers was effective, even though it used natural fibers. They used multiple layers of wool, silk and cotton. The combination adapted well to body movements, as different layers slid over each other. BBC has had various articles on this topic.

paulj

[paulj]

There is a blog entry about gloves and mitts. The kind that I use most, especially when temperatures are around freezing are fingerless gloves. The first pair I bought were brown knit ones, the kind you are likely to see on the hands on an old Scottish sheepherder in a period movie. Newer ones are fleece or fleece with rubber palm.

In many cases I prefer them to liners or thin gloves, because they provide more manual dexterity, while still keeping my hand as a whole warm.

paulj

[BajaTaco]

Hi Paul, yes I posted that entry last night. When you need absolute dexterity, there is no substitute for naked fingers :) I think fingerless gloves will be a must. The issue we need to be careful of though, is frostbite. Once you get down below minus 20F or so, with any measurable windspeed, skin damage can occur pretty quickly.

[upcruiser]

As a ski coach I've messed around with alot of different glove types to find the right balance of dexterity and warmth. I used to use the fingerless gloves that had the flip up mittens built into them, but they got shredded up so fast that they drove me crazy. They might work for you application though and I'd recomend them. Several makers of them out there.

Personally, I use Toko (formerly the company known as Yoko) nordic ski gloves, the model is known as the Thermo Plus and is their colder nordic skiing fingered glove. They are very light and thin enough that you can do most anything you need dexterity for outside of starting a peel on a roll of duct tape. I will use them as my only gloves on days down to the single digits with no issues. I'll state though that I'm pretty tolerant of cold though. This is for being out for long periods of time. For short stints in colder weather they work great and I wear them for everything I need outside of skiing when it gets sub zero.

Another suggestion I'll make is powdering your feet, Gold Bond or something similar works great by absorbing moisture from foot sweat. Sweaty feet are no fun in cold temps, you'd be amazed at how warm you can stay for long periods of time if you can just keep your feet dry and have a good sock, like a Smart Wool, in your boots.

[BajaTaco]

Thanks Kristian. Yes I have a pair of Auclair ragwool fingerless gloves with the flip-up mitts (can be seen on the right in the blog photo). Only the very last digit of the fingers are exposed and the thumbs are entirely covered in glove mode.

I am pretty well set on the gloves and mitts, but I bet someone reading this will benefit from your suggestion on the Tokos.

Excellent tip on the Gold Bond, thank you! I do have some good wool socks for the trip. I love wool socks, nice and warm. :iagree:

[Scott Brady]

New Gauge:
http://www.expeditionswest.com/arctic_ocean/Images/smaller/brunton_sherpa.JPG

New Chains:
http://www.expeditionswest.com/arctic_ocean/Images/smaller/Tacoma_chains.JPG

Lots of work on the truck this week. Principally the laptop mounting and rear cargo storage. We still need to remove the water tank from the bed and install the brake controller (for the trailer). :costumed-smiley-007

[Willman]

Looks great you guys!!! Can't wait to find out your findings on the tire chains!!

Keep the updates coming!!

:peepwall:

[RedDog]

Tuktoyaktuk five day weather to track through the journey. I've changed the units from metric to imperial for American viewers. Clicking the "5 day weather" on the left can access any other location on-route.

http://weatheroffice.ec.gc.ca/forecast/city_e.html?nt-20&unit=i

[Scott Brady]

Thanks Redog,

The forcast for the 30 day outlook is "below" normal, which will help keep those ice roads happy. :)

[FortyMileDesert]

Minus 37 ! That's about 20 degrees colder than anything I've ever been in.....Take great care guys.:REOutIceFishing:

[RedDog]

A significant issue to keep in mind in northern climates is wind chill factor. This morning in Dawson City, Yukon it was -45c but the wind chill was approaching -60c. That's getting close to where door handles break off trucks in your hand and tires shatter like glass in the morning. The big diesel rigs are virtually never shut off in such temperatures - running day and night or the fuel will "gel". The F-18 jets at the Alert DEW Line radar station are also never shut off and are cycled in and out of Newfoundland every two days in a continual rotation. Also keep in mind that metric and imperial are equal at -40º, that is -40 is the same on either scale.

One other thing about the Environment Canada link. In the 5-Day weather on the left your choices go beyond centres shown. Clicking within a provincial or territory boundary on the map brings up dozens of refined choices as to location. I understand you'll be in Canmore, AB one night. A day or two before arriving you can click inside the Alberta map and refine your search to "Canmore" to assess the camping or driving conditions immediately prior to arrival.

Best of luck.

PS: The Alberta Motor Association website has access to scores of live action highway webcams in Alberta. You can actually see what lies ahead.

http://www.ama.ab.ca/cps/rde/xchg/ama/web/everything_auto_AMA-Road-Reports.htm

[toyrunner95]

have u thought about a fule heater or anything like that? i hate to tell you but sleeping in a tent is looking rather grim. do you know the freezing point of aluminium? your ladder might freeze or your hinge on the tent. just trying to help.

[Colorado Ron]

So are there any road cams along the way that we can catch you on. You know, stop and wave at a certain time! I think that would be kinda cool!

[paulj]

do you know the freezing point of aluminium?

1220 F

[pwc]

LOL!!! nice Paul, and accurate. :)

Perhaps he meant the highly non-scientific "snaping in really cold cold point"

[pskhaat]

...is wind chill factor...was approaching -60c. That's getting close to where door handles...
Why would wind chill factor affect any inanimate object that does not maintain internal temperature? (edit:..other than dissipate existing heat at a quicker rate).

[dlewis]

Scott - An interesting article in todays Seattle Times on moving large trucks over the ice roads. http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/nationworld/2003592931_canroad280.html I have been up to Yellowknife and down the Machinzie river in the summer. I envoy your trip to the north in the winter.

[toyrunner95]

i was just curious because im fairly sure the hinge on the tent is either stainless or aluminium. the problem is that "frost makes the blade stick" (gladiator) if the hinge is stuck shut or open your kinda f$*%ed

if u coat it in raine-x, crisco, or even a little bit of grease to keep the moisture away from it.

[RedDog]

Why would wind chill factor affect any inanimate object that does not maintain internal temperature?

I appreciate your inquiry and assure you I'm no scientist. The wind at such temperatures can make striking differences and aside from people themselves, our vehicles can be next most vulnerable. Humidity comes into play as well.

We've had one nasty week here this winter, usually tolerable if you're used to it but another deal altogether if windy. I'll back the Jeep into my spot at the office in such conditions so the northwest gales aren't slamming directly into the front grill and engine components when the blockheater's not plugged in. You'll see windows frozen sold on windward sides of vehicles but rolling down normally on wayward sides.

At -35c the Jeep will start right up with winter oil but mix in a high windchill (and a few hours time) and it may not start at all if not plugged in.

The weathermen here will explain forecasts in terms like "going to minus 28 but with the windchill it'll feel like minus 45".

At any rate, the numbers tossed around for the north the past couple days are below normal. We're -9c today here but will be +10c on Saturday, about 50ºF. That's indicative of a chinook off the Rockies and such swings here are normal.

[toyrunner95]

i agree, the wind chill can cause a major difference. think of it this way. why does a glass condense moisture. warm on one side, cold on the other. now imagine the cold side is -60 and the warm side is -30. it wont condense moisture if its all frozen. so the only thing to do is make the moisture in the window expand untill it breaks. if i was scott i would either keep the inside of the truck warm (i.e. about 40F) and never shut it off. OR shut it off and when u drive, keep the inside of the truck at about 30F. this way the moisture wont compleatly freeze and expand to break the windshield.

im not a phyasisist. but i think thats how it works.

[2006KJSPORT4x4]

Not sure if it has been brought up, i'm sure it ahs, but as far as fluids go, how are you planning on taking care of brakes, power steering fluids, and perhaps even those in your shocks? Are temperatures that time of year of your trip going to be low enough to factor in certain specialties for these sort of things? Just curious....thanks....looking forward to all your daily logs and experiences....

[Scott Brady]

We are using prototype fluids from ExxonMobil, specifically designed for the environment.

Wind chill only affects objects that can convect heat to the surface exposed to the wind. A door handle that is already cold would not care if it was -40 air temp or -70 with the wind chill.

[crawler#976]

Scott and Chris,

Here's your chance to phone home via 2M, and I'd be glad to facilitate a conversation between you and your wives via IRLP.


http://status.irlp.net/IRLPnodedetail.php?nodeid=1268


Node Number 1268
Node Callsign VY1RLP
Node City Whitehorse
Node Province/State YT
Node Country Canada
Node Owner/Sponsor Yukon ARA Ask a Question
Node Latitude 60.5 North
Node Longitude 135.05 West
Node Base Frequency (MHz) 146.5800
Node Offset Frequency (KHz) 0.0000
Node CTCSS (Hz)/DCS
AVRS Status U
Node Website URL http://www.yara.yk.ca
Local node date/time 07:22:30 on Mar 01 2007 PST
Current Node Status: IDLE for 0 days, 14 hours, 14 minutes, 44 seconds.
Last heard from Node: 07:14:39 on Mar 01 2007 PST


March 21, 2007
Depart- Watson Lake, Yukon Territory
Arrive- Whitehorse, Yukon Territory (Hotel)

March 22, 2007
Depart- Whitehorse, Yukon Territory
Arrive- Dawson City, Yukon Territory (Camp)

Later

Mark

[crawler#976]

Wow!

You guys have pretty darn good 2M coverage on the first part of your Canadian portion of the trip!

http://www.yara.ca/voicemap.html

[DaveInDenver]

Wind chill only affects objects that can convect heat to the surface exposed to the wind. A door handle that is already cold would not care if it was -40 air temp or -70 with the wind chill.
Everything is subject to convective cooling. Only solids internally do not have convection, but their surfaces are going to lose heat by convection. So, inanimate objects are subject to 'wind chill' to the extent that it affects their rate of cooling. A metal engine block, transmission or differential will only reach ambient temperature no matter whether or not the wind is blowing. But how fast a warm engine gets to ambient will change if there's a wind or not. Anything that creates its own internal heat will lose heat faster if the air around it is moving. Heat sink fans are a good example.

Driving in cold air affects the skin temperature of the engine and other mechanical parts. For example, it's possible that driving at high speed will cause a lube that was fluid at a lower speed to become too thick. If the lube can tolerate the actual air temperature, then your speed absolutely doesn't matter. But if the lube can't tolerate an air temperature without its own internally generated heat, then the wind speed or your driving speed will be a factor. So if your gear lube gels at -30F, it might stay fluid at -40F air temp if you don't drive at a speed that you lose heat faster than the differential creates it. Or say your motor oil has a suitably low viscosity down to -20F, your engine might be OK idling at -60F in still air, but in a stiff wind at -30F might cause the oil to thicken.

[saltamontes]

fyi so ya'll got no excuses to kit:

==============

from Fred Langa (windows tip guy):

Cold, per se, isn't likely to be a problem for a hard drive, as long as you let it warm up before you try to use it. The main problem with cold temperatures is with the lubrication on the drive's moving parts. The factory lubrication is intended for room-temperature use.

But a cold drive can suffer a serious secondary effect: If you bring a cold drive into a warm environment, condensation may form on and in the drive. Very heavy condensation on the drive's circuitry could create a short circuit, frying the electronics when you power it up.

Worse, condensation on the drive's platters will almost surely cause a head crash, where the magnetic read/write head of the drive contacts and irreversibly damages the surface of the platter. Modern hard drive heads "fly" over the surface of the platters at a height measured in nanometers, or billions of a meter. (For context, a nanometer is roughly 1/50,000 the diameter of a human hair.) At that scale, condensation droplets are like liquid mountains on the surface of a hard drive platter, and the read/write head may fly straight into them.

===============

have fun guys.

[Scott Brady]

Thanks for the feedback on the HDD performance.

Chris and I had a good weekend working on the truck and doing more logistics.

The blog is also updated:

1. Laptop mount
http://www.expeditionswest.com/arctic_ocean/Images/smaller/RAM_tough_tray.JPG

2. Brake Controller
http://www.expeditionswest.com/arctic_ocean/Images/smaller/Prodigy.JPG

3. Interior Lights
http://www.expeditionswest.com/arctic_ocean/Images/smaller/LED_lights.JPG

[SinCity4r]

3. Interior Lights
http://www.expeditionswest.com/arctic_ocean/Images/smaller/LED_lights.JPG

Any details on these? They are slick!!

[crawler#976]

KD7UUS,

You might find this useful!

http://www.yara.ca/hiways.html

[BajaTaco]

Mark, thanks so much for your input and research! I need to give you a call before we leave.

[Scott Brady]

The last few days have meant significant progress on the truck, logistics and sponsorship. Expeditions West has partnered with ExxonMobil for testing of Mobil 1 synthetic fluids in the extreme temperatures and over such long distances. We will not change any fluids over the 8,000+ miles of the trip and use oil samples from before departure and after to test performance.

We sincerely appreciate their financial, engineering and product support.

Tomorrow is the last of the work on the truck with installation of passive security measures from Overland Hardware and installation of the Sirius radio.

Monday is a complete fluid change and installation of the oil and transmission pan heaters. We even have a small 50 watt unit that will run off of the aux battery to aid starting while remote camping.

[pwc]

Please do me a favor......make an accurate mark where you last get a Sirius signal. :) It'll be good to know for future trips.

[Willman]

The oil testing sounds very cool! Keep us posted on your findings!!! 8,000 miles without change......Hummmm...Must be some good stuff!!! Lets hope nothing fails!!!!!

Looking at the above pictures....I didn't see any rubber floor mats in the pictures....Just wondering if they made your list??

Their the best for keeping your carpets dry with all the snow getting tracked in!

:costumed-smiley-007

[Scott Brady]

PWC,

Will do :friday:

Willman,

We did buy some floor mats, though they are not too sexy, just Costco specials...

[Willman]

PWC,

Will do :friday:

Willman,

We did buy some floor mats, though they are not too sexy, just Costco specials...

Right on!!

Here's where i got mine....

http://www.performanceproducts.com/productpage.aspx?pid=103416&name=Husky+Liners+Heavy+Duty+Floor+Mats

Not a big fan of Performance Products...Got them for Christmas for the front and Pass. in the rear for my Tacoma...They do the trick!! I hate the smell of Mildew due to the buildup of water under the carpet mats!!!

:sombrero:

[RedDog]

I put a set of moulded WeatherTechs in the Jeep TJ this winter. What a fantastic decision. Every vehicle I own in the future will be so equipped.

http://www.weathertech.com/store/prodsearch.asp?item_group_id=52

[mike h]

http://www.huskyliners.com/floorliners.html


I like the Husky brand. The floor liners have a large lip which allows them to hold a couple quarts of water (handy when all that snow and ice melts) and serve to retain gear you may have dropped when you open the door, especially on an angle.

m.

[kcowyo]

Expeditions West has partnered with ExxonMobil for testing of Mobil 1 synthetic fluids in the extreme temperatures and over such long distances. We will not change any fluids over the 8,000+ miles of the trip and use oil samples from before departure and after to test performance.

Tomorrow is the last of the work on the truck......and installation of the Sirius radio.


Very cool that ExxonMobil has gotten onboard! :clapsmile

I wouldn't worry too much about the floormats, although I would make an effort to keep too much snow and ice left on the floor. As was said, the smell when it melts is nasty. Just knock your boots on your sliders before getting back in and hand sweep any extra snow out.

Re: the sat radio install - with the light bar on top of the cab and gear piled up in the back, a good position for your antennae will be key for good reception. I originally had mine on the rear of the cab by the 3rd brake light. When I installed the camper that made the antennae worthless. I relocated mine to dead center over the front windshield and ran the wires inside the trim over to the passenger side A pillar and down into the cab behind the dash. You just want to make sure it has a wide angle as possible for the best reception.

I'm betting a cold cerveza that the sat radio will be your favorite mod after this trip is said and done.

[mountainpete]

We did buy some floor mats, though they are not too sexy, just Costco specials...

Hey, if it's those Michelin mats they are sexy! I've had them in both of my vehicles for two years and they hold the melted snow real well!

[crawler#976]

KD7UUS, KE7IXX

Chris and Scott -

I've had no sucsess with the Whitehorse IRLP node in the last two days - I've e-mailed the site admin, but have not recieved a reply.

In any case, I'll try to raise you on 146.580 both days you'll be in the area 20th/21rst and the 29th/30th.

[pskhaat]

KD7UUS, KE7IXX

Chris and Scott -

I've had no sucsess with the Whitehorse IRLP node in the last two days - I've e-mailed the site admin, but have not recieved a reply.

In any case, I'll try to raise you on 146.580 both days you'll be in the area 20th/21rst and the 29th/30th.

Let me also know please and I'll try and do the same.

[crawler#976]

Let me also know please and I'll try and do the same.

Scott, I know node #3820 works in Phx (http://wb7tjd.org/irlp/) I've spoken with Joe several times via IRLP.

[Willman]

GOOD LUCK GUYS!!!!!

:safari-rig:

keep us posted!!!!!

:lurk:

:26_7_2:

[RedDog]

Indeed good luck fellas. Things have also moderated from the insane temperatures seen a couple weeks back in the far north. Southern Alberta has essentially no snow left and we were basking here around +10c / 50ºF on the weekend so ours is mostly gone also. Still cooler further north but nothing like it was.

A collegue of mine was up volunteering for 13 days at the Canada Winter Games in Whitehorse, Yukon through that insane cold spell. They've moderated nicely there (now that the games are over of course) and are looking at 0ºC / 32ºF by the end of this week - a far cry from minus 45 for sure.

[bluedog]

Any details on these? They are slick!!

I would like to know about those interior LED's too.

[elcoyote]

Whulp, you guys should be wheels up today if you're still on schedule. We look forward to reading the posts and sharing your adventure vicariously. From your friends here at Adventure Trailers, we wish you good luck and Godspeed!

[BajaTaco]

We are rollin! :rally_guys:

I am posting en route. The wireless connection is working pretty fast out here in northern AZ. We are moving towards Kingman and Vegas at the moment. The laptop with the RAM mount is really going to help us keep in touch and get some work done as we make our way north.

It was unbelievably warm today in Prescott... hard to believe we'll be in the cold before the week is out.

Thanks for the info on the radio. I will hopefully be able to schedule some comm's with you guys after we get through Edmonton.

Regarding the LED lights, I aplogize that we don't have the info on them right now. But when we get back we can look that up for you. I know they are out of Germany.

Stay tuned...

[BajaTaco]

Whulp, you guys should be wheels up today if you're still on schedule. We look forward to reading the posts and sharing your adventure vicariously. From your friends here at Adventure Trailers, we wish you good luck and Godspeed!

Thanks! Looks like we were posting at the same time. :costumed-smiley-007 It was really great to spend time with all of you guys at the ISE show. Thanks for the fantastic send-off!

[Mlachica]

congratulations guys. we're all very envious and we can't wait to see and hear all about it.

[mountainpete]

Safe journeys guys. Hopefully see you soon :26_7_2:

[Colorado Ron]

Godspeed! Have a great time, should be a trip for the books! Make snow angels on the ice highway, NAKED! Come on, I dare ya!:yikes: LOL!

[RedDog]

Question for the Expedition: Were you fellas still possibly having a joinable dinner in Canmore? For that matter any breakfast / lunch / dinner from there to Edmonton where you'd welcome a guest?

Dumb-Azz question for the house: Can someone tune in a raw wireless rookie in layman's terms how the boys are on-line in a mobile vehicle connecting to the world with a notebook? This is a direction I wish to go and seriously don't know what technology I should even be researching. A quick guiding hand here would be much appreciated. Many thanks.

[brittan]

Most wireless carries have data networks that run on 3G (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/3g) and/or 1X (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1x) technologies. Direct TV has a data solution via geosynchronous orbit satellites. My guess is they are using 1X.

Scott - Chris...
Be safe my friends and have a wonderful time.

[freetomeander]

Good luck, have fun, and I hope you get into Canada!!! lol
Last summer two friends of ours in an RV were denied entrance because they made the mistake of telling the border guy that they were butterfly collectors and that's what they were going to do in Canada. Something about not allowing taking or destroying natural resources!! You just never know...but you don't even want to think about being turned back at the border!!

[XXXpedition]

have a fun trip, stay save!!!
(and while you're approaching the cold i'll go to the beach :-)))))
sven and magdalena

[toyrunner95]

its called a wireless card, they can use it to hook up to the internet via sattelite instead of trying to find a wireless network. you can actually do the same thing with clearwire. i use it all the time.

[mountainpete]

Question for the Expedition: Were you fellas still possibly having a joinable dinner in Canmore? For that matter any breakfast / lunch / dinner from there to Edmonton where you'd welcome a guest?

Dumb-Azz question for the house: Can someone tune in a raw wireless rookie in layman's terms how the boys are on-line in a mobile vehicle connecting to the world with a notebook? This is a direction I wish to go and seriously don't know what technology I should even be researching. A quick guiding hand here would be much appreciated. Many thanks.

RedDog,

Last I talked to Chris we are still planning on getting together on Saturday in Canmore - it all depends on how closely to their schedule they can keep. You want to join? Send me a PM. I'm actually not sure why they are going up through Edmonton - going from Banff to Jasper and bypassing Edmonton is a MUCH nicer drive. Better yet taking the Forestry Trunk Road up to the end is an adventure in itself this time of year! Anything other then Highway 2 for me!

Scott and Chris are using a Kyocera CDMA 1X/EVDO card on the laptop. If you're interested, I can give you a tour of all that stuff - I don't sell it but I have been in the industry for over a decade and have most of the hardware myself. It's a pricey option, but for us in Alberta the coverage is simply amazing. BC is getting better everyday too. Even if we can't get together this weekend, I am planning to go to Edmonton on Monday for work. If I drive instead of fly (would be with a company vehicle or rental - not worth taking the truck), maybe we can meet late afternoon.

Pete

[Scott Brady]

We are planning on doing a dinner on the 18th in Calgary. I know we posted it somewhere....

We have ice climbing that day and will be driving into Calgary in the afternoon. I recall discussing some dinner options somewhere, but cant seem to find them.

Would one of the locals mind suggesting a restaurant on the south or west side of Calgary?

Thanks :)

[Scott Brady]

On our route north of Calgary we are taking the path of least resistance to stay on the big highways and out of the mountains. Our goal is Tuk, so we are being careful to avoid back roads until our way back south :)

[BajaTaco]

I am enjoying the replies and well-wishes! Thanks everyone.

RedDog, yes that would be great if you could join us. Pete, thanks for posting the info on the Kyocera card - that is what we're using with Verizon and it's working great.

It's getting cooler and windy... we're heading up into Teton pass right now and over into Jackson, Wyoming to check out the town before finding a camp. Grand Teton just came into view. Incredible... it's beautiful here!

[RedDog]

Many thanks all. I'm already pursuing the communications avenue I was curious about. I appreciate the guidance.

As for the 18th I could suggest a few places in Calgary but in this economy they could have been bought, sold and renamed 3 times since the holidays. If coming in on the Trans Canada #1 from Banff & Canmore, it becomes 16th Avenue North in Calgary. You'll be on the north side all the way to the Deerfoot Trail (Hwy 2 north to Edmonton) unless you have other private plans. I'll leave solid recommendations to the Calgary connections but I intend to be there Sunday evening whatever establishment is chosen.

Good luck and drive safe fellas. Increasingly keep an eye peeled for wildlife as you progress north.

[OverlandZJ]

Safe and enjoyable journey guys... :smiley_drive:

So cool you can post updates from the road.

:safari-rig:

[gjackson]

Drive safe guys!

cheers

[pwc]

This is a moose.

http://thecareyadventures.com/2005-gye-animals/050917-073550-8218_std.jpg


Don't hit moose. Don't hit bison, either.

I figured telling you to drive safe is like telling my 5 year old to "be careful". While she still walks into things and falls off stuff, she has NEVER hit a moose or bison.

[mountainpete]

We are planning on doing a dinner on the 18th in Calgary. I know we posted it somewhere....

We have ice climbing that day and will be driving into Calgary in the afternoon. I recall discussing some dinner options somewhere, but cant seem to find them.

Would one of the locals mind suggesting a restaurant on the south or west side of Calgary?

Thanks :)

I'm guessing you guys want beef right? (or maybe manifold moose?)

I know that there are bunch wanting to meet up with you guys here. How many people have you talked to and said they were coming? (5, 10, 50?)

Pete

[Willman]

Would one of the locals mind suggesting a restaurant on the south or west side of Calgary?

Thanks :)

The KEG in South Calgary is some pretty good eats!!!

:chowtime: :steak:

:ylsmoke:

P.S

Loving this thread Scott & Chris!!!!!

Thanks for the updates!!!!!

On the road Pictures would be sweeeet of the rig all packed up!

[RedDog]

The Keg is a fine choice. Of course, there's also one right off the Trans Canada (16th Avenue) near the Crowchild and McMahon Stadium. Great steaks, fine salad bar, lots of free parking.

http://en.kegsteakhouse.com/locations/Alberta/Calgary/Stadium_Keg

[mountainpete]

I was actually thinking the Keg too... good food and not too expensive. The one by the Foothills Hospital of 16th is easy to get to, but parking is a pain - especially since they have the trailer. It's also a smaller location.

It's a bit deeper in the city, but MacLeod Trail & 70th location might be better - and it's easy access to Deerfoot from there.

Thoughts?

[Colorado Ron]

:chef: :chef:

Ive eaten at the Keg as well when I rolled thru there before! Pretty good food!

[toyrunner95]

lucky, all i have this week is cup o noodles because they were on sale at safeway.

good uck guys be safe, remember, if u dont think you should or could go throough it, dont. go around. help is a far cry away.

[Scott Brady]

I am thinking we will need to plan on 15-20 people, as there are a few coming in from IH8MUD too. We can be flexible on the parking, as it seems to fit in pretty tight places.

If we could figure out a plan today and get an address it would be excellent. I am expecting we can be in Calgary around 6-6:30.

Thanks so much for the help :)

[Scott Brady]

We are having a beautiful trip so far and I am typing this post with a view of the Grand Tetons in the background. We camped last night on the Snake River.

Lot's of new posts on the Trip Blog (http://www.expeditionswest.com/arctic_ocean/trip_updates.html#314scott), including my protein induced coma :D

[mountainpete]

CALGARY MEET DETAILS:

Sunday March 18 - 6:30 PM

Keg Steakhouse
Stadium Shopping Centre - By McMahon Stadium and the Foothills Hospital.
1928 Uxbridge Drive
Calgary, Alberta
http://en.kegsteakhouse.com/locations/Alberta/Calgary/Stadium_Keg

I have reserved an area in the lounge for 15-20 people.

This location should be really easy for you guys to get to Scott - it's one block off Highway 1 and about 20 minutes from the west side city limits.

See you soon!

Pete

[Scott Brady]

Pete, you are a good man. Thank you so much for doing that!

[crawler#976]

Chris and Scott -

Local news break:

The Palace Fire has burned 700 to 1000 acres 3 miles south east of Palace Station between FS 82 (Bodie Mine Rd.) and FS 52 (Senator Hyw). The NF has 4 Hot Shot crews on scene and one chopper. The northern boundary is contained via burnout along Senator Hyw. The fire started as a controlled burn on Monday, and jumped the boundaries on Tues in record heat (near 80 deg) and 15 - 25 MPH winds.

Mark

[jg45]

Oh man, I love the Gun Barrel. I had the wildest ravioli there. It was wild game (duck, elk and something else if memory serves correctly) and tasted oh so good. We stayed in some nice cabins on the Snake just north of Jackson in Moose Wyoming. Absolutely beautiful area. Looking forward to your next report.

[BajaTaco]

The KEG sounds great! We don't mind driving to the one with better parking, whatever works. We've just covered 5 states so a little extra drive across town won't hurt :ylsmoke:

We are cruising along Hwy 90 westbound through Montana to see the guys at AEV. The Flint Creek range is looming on the horizon with Mt. Evans and Mt. Powell standing proud.

Mark, thanks for the update from home. Sad to hear about the fire.

[BajaTaco]

In-cab LIVE shot... Mt. Powell

[RedDog]

mountainpete - What time do you plan to be there? I'm thinking I could whip together a couple fair sized table tent cards with Expeditions West - Arctic Ocean Expedition on them for the tables so people know where the group is gathering upon arrival.

Btw, +15c for Calgary on Saturday, around 60ºF for our American friends. Not too shabby at all. :D

[mountainpete]

mountainpete - What time do you plan to be there? I'm thinking I could whip together a couple fair sized table tent cards with Expeditions West - Arctic Ocean Expedition on them for the tables so people know where the group is gathering upon arrival.

Btw, +15c for Calgary on Saturday, around 60ºF for our American friends. Not too shabby at all. :D

RedDog - I'll shoot for around 6:00 to be there. Some tent cards would be cool :)

[goodtimes]

In-cab LIVE shot... Mt. Powell

Did I ever tell you guys just how bad you suck? :costumed-smiley-007


:rockon:

[BajaTaco]

Did I ever tell you guys just how bad you suck? :costumed-smiley-007


:rockon:


LOL! Still driving... roaming the streets of Missoula after dark :punk03:

[upcruiser]

I may have overlooked it in the blog, but how are you getting internet access on the road?

[CLynn85]

Ok, now I don't know if that's cool or just cruel. :safari-rig:

[goodtimes]

LOL! Still driving... roaming the streets of Missoula after dark :punk03:

You guys rock!

Just keep the "roaming" to a generally northerly direction and you'll be fine.

:victory:

[slooowr6]

subscribe to the thread.
Can't wait to see all the pics. You guys got one loaded Taco! 7700lbs:yikes:

[freetomeander]

what's the deal with the trip blog updates? I only get a blank page with the headline banner. Does anyone else have this problem or maybe its my computer.Thanks

[njtaco]

what's the deal with the trip blog updates? I only get a blank page with the headline banner. Does anyone else have this problem or maybe its my computer.Thanks

Working fine here...

[ZooJunkie]

what's the deal with the trip blog updates? I only get a blank page with the headline banner. Does anyone else have this problem or maybe its my computer.Thanks

Delete your cache and reload the page.

[kcowyo]

http://www.expeditionswest.com/arctic_ocean/Images/trip/smaller/scott_coma.JPG

Man, that is one happy lookin' dude!

Congrats guys on finally hitting the road and getting out on your big adventure. I know you'll savor the experience and make some great memories. The Teton pic is great, kudos to whomever snapped that one.

Savor the moments, be good to each other and know there are roughly 1,300 members of this forum that would love to be on such a great adventure in a trick Tacoma & Adventure trailer combo.

Revel in it guys! :bowdown:

[Scott Brady]

Great day with the guys from AEV (http://www.aev-conversions.com/). These trucks are even more impressive in person and on the trail

AEV Adventure (http://www.expeditionswest.com/arctic_ocean/trip_updates.html#316scott)

http://www.expeditionswest.com/arctic_ocean/Images/trip/AEV_Commander_Arctic.JPG

[articulate]

If I didn't like these guys so much, I'd say they deserved a swift kick in the balls:
http://www.expeditionswest.com/arctic_ocean/Images/trip/tacoma_tetons.jpg

[desertgirl66]

Awesome picture of the Tetons!! Looks like fun and adventure with stunning scenery and lots of good eating~` :steak:

Love the blog and the photos, keep sending them :sombrero:

[ujoint]

I've been trying to fight it, but I'm oficially jealous due to that last pic. Awesome guys, enjoy the ride.---Chris

[erod]

Ahh, the Tetons. Where are you guys staying, or just passing through? I live, work and play in the area and would love to check out that rig in person. Cheers!

[BajaTaco]

That would be mister Brady. Awesome shot!

Thanks KC and everyone for the good wishes... except Mark (ouch!) LOL

erod, we are leaving Missoula right now, headed towards Glacier NP. It's warm here in Missoula - at 55F

LOL - sorry, but that was me that just posted above. I forgot to log out Scott before I posted. (either that or he is bragging - LOL)

:D

[erod]

Well, safe travels, and look forward to updates on your adventures! Cheers!

[Scott Brady]

Oh Canada!

http://www.expeditionswest.com/arctic_ocean/Images/trip/Alberta.JPG

[Gear]

Another great photograph. Were is everyone! Not a vehicle in site. Thanks for the message Scott and have a great time guys. I am enjoying the blog as I watch the kids. Be safe.:wavey:

[RedDog]

Welcome to the promised land!

[toyrunner95]

promised land? that looks like pullman, only flatter. and more people.

[RedDog]

promised land? that looks like pullman, only flatter. and more people.

LOL It's a touch uneventful on the way in via the grasslands but it gets better. I'm trying to identify the border crossing. If it's not Sweetgrass, MT / Coutts, AB, it's not far from it.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v260/DogofRed/RedDog/Abraham.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v260/DogofRed/Alberta/cattle2.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v260/DogofRed/Jeep/AB11.jpg

[paulj]

The blog talks of stopping in Missoula, and traveling along the Flathead, and on to Calgary. They probably crossed the Rockies via US2, and the border via US89/Ab 2. This is more remote than the main I15 crossing. The US93 crossing into BC would have more mountains in the background.

The main slow part of this this route would be the twisty stretch of US89 between E Glacier and St Mary.

paulj

[njtaco]

http://www.expeditionswest.com/arctic_ocean/Images/trip/smaller/Montana_eagle.JPG

I see you still have that driver side "lean" LOL :p

[VikingVince]

David Letterman's Top Ten Reasons Two Guys Drive to the Arctic

10. It's the perfect place to quote Shakespeare's line, "Beware the 'ice' of March."
9. You need assurance for your future destiny that hell can freeze over.
8. Instead of the finger, you can give rude truckers the mitten.
7. You want to see Eskimos plug in their dogs.
6. You've always wanted to see goosebumps over your entire body.
5. You've always wanted to sleep with a block heater next to your head.
4. If you sit on the ice too long, will you get polar-oids?
3. To see if your buddy gets ALOT better looking at minus 50.
2. The Arctic is the only place to see lawyers with their hands in their own pockets.

And the number one reason two guys drive to the Arctic:
1. Your wife says she doesn't care if you freeze your balls off..........;)


Thanks for the call guys...sorry I missed ya...have a great one!!

[kcowyo]

4. If you sit on the ice too long, will you get polar-oids?


The return of Vince and the Top 10 list......sweeeeet :bowdown: :bowdown: :bowdown:

[Scott Brady]

David Letterman's Top Ten Reasons Two Guys Drive to the Arctic

8. Instead of the finger, you can give rude truckers the mitten.


:wings: That is great :)

Thanks for stopping in Vince, looking forward to seeing you again soon.

[Scott Brady]

A great day in Canada ice climbing and hanging out with the guys from the Rocky Mountain Land Cruiser Association.

I have always wanted to do the one handed Sly Stalone pick hang... got my chance :)

http://www.expeditionswest.com/arctic_ocean/Images/trip/smaller/ice_spin.JPG

[BajaTaco]

VINCE!! You should have heard the roaring laughter in the truck as Scott read your top-ten list aloud... LMAO... should have had that on video. Thanks man! Sorry we missed you on the phone. LOL... polaroids...

Paul, you are correct on the route. We camped near the flathead river and the drive skirting Glacier was beautiful.

The ice climbing in Canmore was a BLAST!

Huge THANKS to SteveO and MountainPete for their hospitality and help while we are visiting Calgary and Canmore. Also thanks to all of the guys who showed up for dinner last night. That was soooo fun. :D

[steveo]

Huge THANKS to SteveO and MountainPete for their hospitality and help while we are visiting Calgary and Canmore. Also thanks to all of the guys who showed up for dinner last night. That was soooo fun. :D

Glad to have met you guys. Drive safe. ....Steve

[BajaTaco]

I just posted a snapshot of our current position at 2pm, March 19 (http://www.expeditionswest.com/arctic_ocean/Images/trip/3-19-07-2pm.jpg).

[DaveInDenver]

Great shot, Scott! The gearhead in me is just wondering, do your boots happen to be old Lowa Civettas? What about the tools, Aztarex axes and Grivel 12 crampons?

[Willman]

I just posted a snapshot of our current position at 2pm, March 19 (http://www.expeditionswest.com/arctic_ocean/Images/trip/3-19-07-2pm.jpg).

Awesome!!!! Hows that program working out so far with the GPS?

Love the Picture of Scott hanging by his axle!!!! Thats how 007 James Bonds does it!!!!!!...Where's the Pictures of Chris???......

I would love to see a picture of you guys and your campsite setup!!!

keep up the great updates!!!

:rally_guys:

[edgear]

I just posted a snapshot of our current position at 2pm, March 19 (http://www.expeditionswest.com/arctic_ocean/Images/trip/3-19-07-2pm.jpg).

man, I wish my current position was somewhere other than this cubicle! So I guess I'll have to just keep reading up on the blogs & updates in this post. Keep 'em coming!!

[RedDog]

I'm so ticked off at missing the dinner that I've waited over 24 hours to apologize. I made up three spiffy table tent cards (I'll take a photo of one) and was about a third of the way to Calgary when the office called. A couple collegues putting in some weekend OT were having issues with the CTP system. This didn't appear to be a problem as I left way early to make a few stops in Calgary. Back to Red Deer I whistled. Then things dragged on... and on. I wasn't free until almost 6:00 pm. I'd be looking at at least 8:00 for the Keg. What if the group moved eleswhere? Would anyone even be there? I reluctantly scrubbed it and went home mad as hell and poured a stiff Rye.

I hope a good time was had and many best wishes for a continued safe journey. Mountainpete - we must hook up for a beer one time.

Duane

[mountainpete]

I was looking forward to meeting you RedDog! I was there myself from about 6:00 - 7:30 but had to leave to meet up for a previously scheduled family dinner. I think the group stayed there for a few hours afterwards still. They were just getting their food when I left. Enjoyable time with some good discussions about the 4WD's we have all loved and lost...

I was actually in Red Deer twice yesterday too... I had a quick meal at Glens in Gasoline Alley on the way home last night. Didn't sit too well :(

[freetomeander]

Viking - That Top Ten list made me laugh right out loud!! thanks. I posted somewhere else that should be a regular feature in that new Overland Journal. I'd subscribe just to read those. Love a good chuckle. I subscribe to Readers Digest just for the jokes. but then my literary standards aren't so high either. HA!

[flywgn]

We're just back from a short trip to mainland Mexico and I'm getting caught up on the Arctic Ocean Boys.

Great reading! I love all the gadgetry you guys have with you. Do we care about things like GVWR? :elkgrin: :elkgrin: (I know I don't.)

:offtopic: ...just slightly. VINCE, that list is a kick. I had D in tears listening to it. Can't stop laughing.

Allen R

[Willman]

Is it my computer...or am i just not seeing the pictures of the tents of yesterdays blod update? :camping: Anybody having simliar problems?

http://www.expeditionswest.com/arctic_ocean/trip_updates.html#319chris

:costumed-smiley-007

[slooowr6]

Is it my computer...or am i just not seeing the pictures of the tents of yesterdays blod update? :camping: Anybody having simliar problems?

http://www.expeditionswest.com/arctic_ocean/trip_updates.html#319chris

:costumed-smiley-007

Can't see the pic here. Damn teaser. :gunt:

[seth_js]

http://www.expeditionswest.com/arctic_ocean/Images/trip/eezi_awn_snow.jpg

[Scofco]

No update today?
I went down to see if you guys had arrived yet. I would imagine you to arrive tonight or tomorrow morning.

Those tents look awfully cold :D

[kcowyo]

I couldn't see the photo either, thanks Seth for posting it.

And Scofco gets on the Portal....nice! I always enjoy your photos on Yotatech. Welcome - :beer:

[desertgirl66]

Thanks for posting the picture Seth. Yikes!! That looks really cold :eek:

Good training for Inuvik! :REOutIceFishing:

[paulj]

Is it my computer...or am i just not seeing the pictures of the tents of yesterdays blod update?

They made a mistake in creating the link on the blog - or in naming the file. The blog uses '...JPG', the file name has '...jpg'.

paulj

[mountainpete]

Sure you guys don't want to come back to Calgary? The forecast is for PLUS 19 C on Saturday!! That's about 66 F!!! I'm going fishing!

It looks like they are in for some really nice weather for the rest of the week. Watson Lake is showing highs above zero C all week, Dawson is almost hitting zero. The clear weather will be great for their daytime travels, but clear skys mean cold nights!

Keep warm guys and safe travels! Can't wait to see the surface rust accumulate under that Tacoma! :xxrotflma

[Scofco]

The last week the north has been getting hit with a nice warm (-5'ish) streak.
I think they picked a perfect time to come.

The snow is just starting to melt on the roads the last couple of days.

[Scott Brady]

We are in Whitehorse. updates soon.

Two days without cell or internet!

[Scofco]

Where did you end up staying?
There is wireless access at Toad River, keep that in mind on the return trip :)

[Scott Brady]

We are at the Edgewater Hotel. We will be picking up some last minute supplies (leaving the hotel around 8:30) in the morning and a trip to the Kanoe People for the PLB.

Maybe we will see you in the morning.

[Scofco]

I think your truck is secure enough for the night :p

http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k200/Scofco/IMG_1579.jpg

Locked, padlocked, locked gate, barbed wire, and 2 blocks from the RCMP station.

[pwc]

impound??? LOL :P

[Willman]

I think your truck is secure enough for the night :p

http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k200/Scofco/IMG_1579.jpg

Locked, padlocked, locked gate, barbed wire, and 2 blocks from the RCMP station.

:xxrotflma

[XXXpedition]

hey, there's a great cafe with wireless in whitehorse!!!
can't remember the name though...
(i should - we were there A LOT when we were stuck with a broken rear diff...)

[Scofco]

hey, there's a great cafe with wireless in whitehorse!!!
can't remember the name though...
(i should - we were there A LOT when we were stuck with a broken rear diff...)

Zola's?

[crawler#976]

We are at the Edgewater Hotel. We will be picking up some last minute supplies (leaving the hotel around 8:30) in the morning and a trip to the Kanoe People for the PLB.

Maybe we will see you in the morning.

Guess that explains why I got no response via radio Tues evening! The node was busy at 5PM, got a poor connection at 6PM, had local traffic at 7PM , got a solid connection at 8PM with no static - but no reply from anyone at all.

Later

[ujoint]

Why is the truck locked up like that?

[RoundOut]

I have really enjoyed your blog! What an adventure this must be!

I was wondering how your GPS is working out. I have the exact same one, and use it with MS Streets & Trips. It seems to anticipate travel, rather than reporting it. Sometimes I get 4 satellites, but mostly 3. I had higher expectations of the Sirf III chipset. Does yours act similarly? My previous USB one (the one that came with Streets & Trips 2006) worked better, IMO.

[Scofco]

Why is the truck locked up like that?

It's the hotels parking lot at the rear of the building. Guests vehicles are locked up overnight if they desire so.

[ujoint]

Are there theft issues up there? Vandalism?

[Scofco]

Very very minimal, but with a truck like that nothing would surprise me.

[Scott Brady]

We are in Inuvik at the Arctic Chalet, a sweet little cabin with high speed.

Most likely hitting the ice road tomorrow.

I have our first blog entry up now of part one of the Dempster. :rally_guys:

[Chucky]

Did you guys cross into Canada in the vicinity of the Port Of Entry called "Piegan" on the Blackfoot Reservation? You would have driven through Babb and Saint Mary, near Chief Mountain (all in Montana).

How are the Grizz going to destory your tents and steal your food? You guys are traveling too early for that part of the fun of the far north! The poor Grizz are still sleeping up there!:safari-rig:

[mountainpete]

Did you guys cross into Canada in the vicinity of the Port Of Entry called "Piegan" on the Blackfoot Reservation? You would have driven through Babb and Saint Mary, near Chief Mountain (all in Montana).

How are the Grizz going to destory your tents and steal your food? You guys are traveling too early for that part of the fun of the far north! The poor Grizz are still sleeping up there!:safari-rig:

Hi Chucky - welcome to ExPo :26_7_2:

I believe they crossed at Carway...

[paulj]

I believe they crossed at Carway...

I think we are all talking about the same crossing, hwy 89 on the US side, 2 on the Alberta side. See posts 168 and 174.

paulj

[elcoyote]

Scott, Chris & Pasquale
Your fan club of miscreants & misfits here at trailer central have been watching your progress daily and marking it on the office map for all to see. You'd be surprised at how many people look at it, ask what it is and then shake their heads in disbelief and say you're crazy! We on the other hand, think you guys rock!...and we're so glad that the Orderly is letting us check in on you guys between meds :xxrotflma

The push pin inside the circle is Inuvit.

[desertgirl66]

Guys,

Thanks sooo much for the blog update!! that is one snowy and cold looking road~~ The pictures are amazing! What a treat to be able to see wild wolves, in the snow, in the environment that is there own. Great photos all the way around. Can't wait to see the Dog Sledding pics :Astrologist:

Stay warm up there on the top of the world:campfire:

[Scott Brady]

We are spending the day today in the Arctic Chalet (http://www.arcticchalet.com), resting from the 11 straight days of driving.

Chris has posted a new blog update (http://www.expeditionswest.com/arctic_ocean/trip_updates.html#324chris)

We also wanted to let everyone in on a little secret we have been saving. Pasquale (DesertDude) has actually been along for the entire trip and capturing High Definition Video of the entire trip. Here is the first taste:


http://www.expeditionswest.com/arctic_ocean/Images/trip/smaller/video_trailer_1.jpg (http://www.overlandvideo.com/video_production/Arctic_Pre_Trailer.htm)

[mountainpete]

Awesome video Pasquale! We got our own Ewan, Charlie and Claudio up there! :wings:

You guys are doing great! Looking forward to the Tuk pics!

[RedDog]

I must say there were a couple comments made previous, and as a seasoned winter veteran I questioned the TWO tents folded out in the Grande Prairie region - from a shared body heat standpoint. It all falls into place now.

Put your feet up for a bit. I recommend Canadian Rye Whiskey. Gibson's Finest if it can be got.

[paulj]

You lucky guys, driving in the white season!

I did the Dempster in the 'black' season - as can be seen from the back of my white S10 (and Wildernest) at a buggy campground just beyond the Arctic Circle (mid August). Also, the Circle crossing looks at lot more 'civilized' that it was in 1988. At that time, we traveled the Dempster in the company of a RCMP officer on patrol in a camper pickup with his family.

paulj

[Mlachica]

I'm speachless. Great stuff guys.

[Scott Brady]

Thanks guys

A little more photo action:
http://www.expeditionswest.com/arctic_ocean/Images/trip/bustin_drifts.jpg

[flywgn]

Enjoying all the notes and pix. Keep 'em coming!

Allen R

(Can't play the video for some reason, and I have Quick Time and Active X. Don't know the problem, but I'll work on a solution. :) )

[DaktariEd]

Crazy! That's great!
Totally fooled me on that one!
I saw the two tents also and wondered ever so briefly...are they mad at each other? :sport_box
LOL!

[Brian894x4]

Awesome video! Can't wait for the full DVD when you guys are done with the trip!

Stay warm!!

[jeffryscott]

Very nice ... anybody else notice that at the Firestone, the first item the hotel features is ice:exclaim: too funny.

Any sightings of the northern lights? or are they active t this time of year?

can't wait for more.

[kcowyo]

http://www.expeditionswest.com/arctic_ocean/Images/trip/Pasquale.JPG

:xxrotflma
:xxrotflma
:xxrotflma

[flywgn]

Very nice ... anybody else notice that at the Firestone, the first item the hotel features is ice:exclaim: too funny.

Any sightings of the northern lights? or are they active t this time of year?....

I believe that the aurora borealis is quite active during March-April, but if the visibility is anything like the pic above they'll be lucky to find their way back to their aurora toyotalis.

Allen R

[CanuckMariner]

Some info on those that speculate the Aurora....

The aurora was named after the Roman goddess of dawn, and was long thought to be produced by sunlight reflected from polar snow and ice, or refracted light much like rainbows.

It also appears that the sun has an influence: auroras become brighter, more distinctive, and are spread over a larger area two days after intense solar activity. Two days is the time it takes the "solar wind" to arrive.

They are at their most dazzling from December to March when nights are longest and the sky darkest, can usually be seen even as far south as Juneau.

Undulating ribbons of light may shimmer in the sky for hours, like glowing, dancing curtains of green, yellow and orange or dark red, or magnificent veils with a full spectrum of colors, and with the altitude of its lower edge 60 to 70 miles above the earth.

Or the aurora may last 10-15 minutes, twisting and turning in patterns called "rayed bands", then whirling into a giant green corona in which rays appear to flare in all directions from a central point, and finally fade away.

The rarest aurora is the red aurora, like the one of February 11, 1958, which is still talked about today.

An Eskimo tale records that the northern lights are spirits playing ball in the sky with a walrus skull. Another legend, calls them the flaming torches carried by departed souls guiding travelers to the afterlife.

The scientific explanation is that the aurora is a physics phenomenon taking place 50 to 200 miles above the Earth. Solar winds flow across the Earth's upper atmosphere, hitting molecules of gas lighting them up much like a neon sign.


Best viewed: between Fairbanks and Barrow Alaska. Mayo and Faro, Yukon north of Whitehorse is also ideally situated for great viewing. However, because of logistics, it is a lot easier visiting (and viewing) from Fairbanks than sites further north and east.

Seasonal Cloudiness: should be taken into consideration which decreases from a maximum in mid-August to a minimum in winter. However, with clearer skies comes extremely cold temperatures (-30°F to -50°F).

The aurora is most frequent: during the equinoxes (22 September, 22 March). However, it can be seen to some extent almost every night at high latitudes (north of 60°N).

The 11-year sunspot cycle (which was at maximum in 2000-2001) determines the magnitude of each display. BTW..there are also Souther Lights

My favorite time to view the aurora is in late August when a soft twilight is still visible all night, the temperatures are pleasant, and the bugs are minimal (however, cloud cover could be a major problem).


Enjoy...if you're lucky enought to see them!

[flyingwil]

Awesome updates! Thanks for keeping us posted!

[Willman]

Love the video!

:chowtime:

Sounds like you guys are having a good old time!

:camping:

[toyrunner95]

so are they still on schedule? cuz i was going to mee them next sunday in renton, but if they are late i may be boned on that idea, since i have papers due tuesday.

[RedDog]

so are they still on schedule? cuz i was going to mee them next sunday in renton, but if they are late i may be boned on that idea, since i have papers due tuesday.

toyrunner95, or anyone else down the line planning to hook up with the boys - here's my ill fated table tent card intended for Calgary. If anyone wants the file in it's original vector (.ai / .eps) format or any other format, I can email it in a jiffy.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v260/DogofRed/RedDog/sign.jpg

[Scofco]

Great teaser trailer, I'll definitely be purchasing the DVD when it's released.

[p1michaud]

Looks like you guys are having a blast!
Can't see the video either, but sounds cool!

[haven]

Here's my Northern Lights story.

I was visiting my girlfriend at a small college in upstate New York in December, 1968. We went to the small campus library in the evening so she could study for finals. The library was filled with students. Everybody was busy bookin' so the study carrels were quiet.

About 10pm, a student comes crashing through the front door to the reading room. Breathless with excitement, he shouts, "UFOs ARE LANDING!!!" and races out again!

The library fell silent for a moment as we considered the possibilities. (This was the 60's, so there were several alternative explanations for unusual visual phenomena.) We decided we couldn't rule out the notion that UFOs really were landing, so as a group we jumped up and ran out into the night.

The night sky to the north was filled with shimmering green and yellow curtains of light. The show lasted for at least half an hour.

"Carving deep blue ripples in the tissues of your mind," indeed.

Chip Haven

[toyrunner95]

i dont particularly need a sign, thanks for the offer though. i just need to know if they are going to be there that day, its a 300 mile drive back home so it would be nice if they werent late, if so no biggy. but it would be cool to meet them.

[BajaTaco]

The blog has been updated for March 25 (http://www.expeditionswest.com/arctic_ocean/trip_updates.html#325chris).

We did some dog sledding today, which we REALLY enjoyed a lot. We are all having dreams of doing a sledding expedition now... LOL

Tommorow we hit the ice! (actually ... later this morning... :) Pasquale and I are burning the midnight oil right now.)

I have really enjoyed reading everyone's posts here. Great stuff guys! Hopefully we will get to see some aliens landing before too long :)

Hey Mark L, Scott J, Alvaro (if you're reading), I really hoped to get on the radio with you guys, but we lost all contact for awhile and I didn't get the radio info onto the laptop before that happened. I will try to get it coordinated with you before we leave on Tuesday.

Ok, time to go to bed.

[alvarorb]

Chris,

I looked around for an Echolink enabled repeater near Inuvik.
The closest one is in Alaska... Unfortunately that's too far.

Echolink allows a user on a computer running Echolink software to talk to any one in the range of a Echolink enabled repeater. In other words, if there was an Echolink enabled repeater in your area, I could talk to your 2m radio using my computer.

Let me know the towns you'll visit when traveling south. We might be able to get this going.

http://www.echolink.org/links.asp?lat_deg=69&lat_min=26&lat_NS=North&lon_deg=133&lon_min=01&lon_EW=West&gs=CP39lk&sel=city&city=Inuvik&state=&country=CA&d=2

Regards

Alvaro

[hattrik21]

This is sounding like a great trip!!

[Super Doody]

Awesome guys. Stay safe.

Are you guys coming back throught california? Would to met with you guys if possible. I'm sure others would too.


Jim:)


Edit: Just saw the schedule. You guys are heading straight for AG after Lake Shasta and probably taking the 5 down but if you guys have chance spend one night in Big Sur. I recommend Kirk Creek campground which basically a cliff on top of the beach. I live in the SF, Bay Area. Please let me know ifyou guys need any assistance if you pass through.

[etbadger]

Best viewed: between Fairbanks and Barrow Alaska. Mayo and Faro, Yukon north of Whitehorse is also ideally situated for great viewing. However, because of logistics, it is a lot easier visiting (and viewing) from Fairbanks than sites further north and east.


Having lived in both Fairbanks (cold, somewhat remote), and Faro (kinda colder & remoter), I can concur that the view is quite dazzling from both locations. Only time I have had a better view was in an airliner over the arctic ocean heading to Europe from Seattle, but I was much warmer in the plane.

-e

[seth_js]

Cool video. Good selection of music.

[desertgirl66]

Cool video. Good selection of music.


Yeah great music! That is Pasquale's music. The one with the dog sled is called "Crush."

[blupaddler]

Yeah great music! That is Pasquale's music. The one with the dog sled is called "Crush."

I thought I had heard that before!

:jump:


Thanks for the updates guys!!!

[XXXpedition]

i did here the music but coudn't see the vid...
but anyways good to hear you're having fun!!!!!!!!!

[Scofco]

I see the temp has dropped to about -30? Stay warm up there guys! The expedition is officially dangerous now, though you seemed to be well prepared for it.

[Scott Brady]

We did it!

Parked on the Arctic Ocean and spent the day in Tuk with an Inuit family. A wonderful experience.

We are now heading off on the road less traveled to Aklavik and a little used ice road down the Peel River to Fort McPherson.

[mountainpete]

CONGRATULATIONS!

Woo hoo! Great job guys! :sombrero:

[ZooJunkie]

Wow! Job Well Done!!

[desertgirl66]

MOST EXCELLENT!! :wings:

Can't wait to see more pictures!!!

Well done you guys!! :safari-rig:

[kcowyo]

Well that was quick! Or at least it seemed like it from this end.

Great job guys :clapsmile

I hope the rest of your trip is safe and filled with memorable moments. See you soon!

[jeffryscott]

:gunt:

WhooooHoooo.

That looks so incredibly stark, and so incredibly beautiful.

Congrats.

[awalter]

:clapsmile