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TLCA Toyota Trails article on the Big Bear-a-thon

June 2023

by Dat Tran

Click HERE for the article.

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Rattlesnake Canyon Trail Report

April 22, 2023

by Dat Tran

Somehow, I have not learned that my 80 always takes longer to go places than what the Google says. Rob and I pulled up to our meeting place after 9 am, late by any standard. Everyone had already aired down and waiting. At Rob’s suggestion for comfort, we aired down my rig to about 12 psig. Joining the run were:

• Joel – TJ Rubicon
• David & Jose – 100 series
• Jamie & John – 200 series
• Andy – 4Runner
• Larry & Kathy – 80 series
• Carlos & Carlos – 100 series
• Dat (trail leader) and Rob (shotgun and cameras) – 80 series

With everyone waiting and ready to depart, we headed toward the trailhead…

…and made our way to the first interesting rocky outcrops. Even without rock sliders, the 4Runner looks to benefit from high ground clearance and somewhat narrower track. No one had any issue getting through.

We continued deeper into the canyon. The trail took us through loose sand and more rocks but nothing that troubled any of our rigs. We passed through more rocky outcrops and arrived at the entrance to Mottino Wash. Several of us hiked into the trails and imagined the possibilities. With this being a day run and our destination awaiting, we stayed together on the easy trail and pushed forward.

Some surface water from the recent storm was evident on the trail. The canyon is decorated with a lot of green vegetation.

We encountered some traffic on the trail…

…and a few more rocks.

Small to large, street to mud tires, stocks to long shocks, our rigs one after another got through what I considered the most difficult part of the trails. The newest and largest rig, the 200 series had no trouble on the trail.

Watching the Rubicon TJ brought back memories of the Jeep days.

I need to see Joel and his Jeep more often…

By noon, we arrived at the “unofficial club house” where we stopped and admired the woodwork along with historic artifacts such as the “Made in California” flag holder.

After the brief stop at the BLM cabin, we pushed on into town which was mostly flat easy dirt road dotted with Joshua trees that are flowering. Yes, Joshua trees flowers…

We soon hit pavement at the edge of town and aired up. We arrived at Pappy + Harriet’s in the early afternoon. I had developed an appetite and tremendous thirst. Thanks to Rob for quenching my thirst and to Carlos and Carlos (not a typo, there were two Carloses!) for feeding my hunger.

A Bronco Raptor R dwarfed my 80…

I fancied a two-tone, solid axles 80, packed with 400+ horsepower. Yes, I’ve driven them in my dreams!

Thank you all for a great day off pavement. See you on the trails.

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Anza-Borrego

February 18, 2023

By Joe Roy   

Our February Club Run to Anza-Borrego was again very well attended, with the following members & guests attending:

Patrick (Trail Leader) & Ava – 100 Series
Evan – 4Runner
Steffan – GX460
John & Sandy – FJ Cruiser
Joe – 80 Series
Rob – 80 Series
Mark – JK
Jason – 4Runner
Ron & Evelyn- FJ60
David & Ana – 100 Series
Rich & Katelin – FJ40
Earl – FJ40
Rich & Katelin – FJ40
Dave – GX460
Joel – Wrangler
Jamie – LX570
Dat – 80 Series

After a nice breakfast in Julian, we met again at the library rendezvous point to begin our caravan down Hwy 78 & S2 to the turn off for Canyon Sin Nombre. Once on the dirt, we aired down to our trail pressures and set off up the canyon. 

This fun, easy route took us through Elsinore fault in the Anza Borrego Desert. Due to the natural formations all around, many call this trail “The Geologist Tour” due to the nature of the different rocks and formations along the route from the southwestward tilt of the desert sediments. Some of these ancient rocks are as old as 500-million years.

At the end of the canyon we picked up Vallecito Wash Trail and Arroyo Seco Del Diablo, which also has some scenic canyons. This route brought us to Diablo Drop Off, where we met up with quite a crowd playing on the various routes down and then back up. After watching the show for a while we grouped up and headed down. A few of the drivers were a bit more comfortable with spotting assistance, so we just meandered down safely.

With Diablo in our rearview mirrors, we picked up the east end of Fish Creek Trail and followed it to trails’ end at Split Mountain Road. From there it was just a short ride to Hwy78, and then The Slot. The Slot is a extremely narrow hiking trail in a sandstone canyon in the heart of Anza Borrego State Park. The off-road drive to The Slot was very easy, with some soft sand and compact hard dirt. We parked and hiked for a bit down the canyon. The Slot starts out an open area but quickly closes in. At points in the trail we were trying to shimmy sideways just to continue on.

Following The Slot, about 1/3 of the group headed home after a fun day run and short hike. The balance of the group headed up Borrego Mountain Wash to a beautiful canyon campsite that Trail Leader Patrick knew of. Unfortunately, it seemed that Patrick wasn’t the only one who knew about this beautiful spot, and it was already occupied by the time we arrived.

Undeterred, we continued on to San Felipe Wash, where we found a very private camp area at the end of a spur road cul-de-sac.It was just big enough to accommodate us all! It even had an open area where, after setting up camp & cooking our dinners, we could enjoy a campfire!

The next morning we headed home, with a few folks taking a side tour of Borrego Springs and the all the metal sculptures. A fine time was had by all!

 

 

 

Photos

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Lockwood / Miller Jeep Trail

October 29th, 2022

By Dat Tran

This was our one official club run for October 2022. The day start out on the chilly side. It was 55F when I left for work but by the time I met up with Marc it was in the 60s and warming. Sunny sky and light traffic made for an easy ride to the rendezvous point at Flying J in Gorman.

Katelin and Rich were in a SAS 4runner

Travis and Oden were in a Jeep ZJ

Rob arrived in a white on black LX 450

Marc drove his FZJ 80 with me calling shotgun.

We fueled up and grabbed breakfast before heading out for the trailhead. My direction was off, and I led the group to prematurely turn off pavement onto a dirt road that was supposed to link up with the trail (so I thought). We aired down and drove around as the trail meandered through some pretty close and personal tree trunks before ending at a convenient turn-around; beyond which was a steep ravine!

Rich and Katelin led us back onto pavement and found the trailhead a bit further to the West. Already aired down, we hit the trail blazing. Ok, as much as you can blaze in a Landcruiser. As we climbed up the first of several ridges that make up the Lockwood portion of the trail, we encountered some mild dirt obstacles and tight switchbacks but nothing eventful. The trail descended into a couple small water crossings before ending at a large flat area where it intersects with the Yellow Jacket Trail.  I took the “AXLE SNAPPER” sign as a warning to avoid but did venture down on foot. No axle I should be safe right?

…I found the trail diving into the bush reminiscing of “Deliverance” and I could hear the music coming from beyond. I saw the movie. I went no further and motored my boots back to Marc’s rig. We were out of there!

Lockwood Creek Trail continued and meandered up several ridges toping near the 6000-foot mark before descending steeply into another valley. On the way up, we encountered one overheated Cherokee that had to turn around and back down the hill.

And more water crossings.

.

It was a beautiful day. One couldn’t help but marveled at the mix of land, water, machine, and creatures of the wild.

OK, I was thinking of some of our club elders who would have dotted this landscape in years past.

As we soldiered on, a deep creek greeted us at the end of the trail. The water is too deep for me to wade across, so I hopped back in Marc’s ride.

It would have been too deep for most Priuses! Somehow I managed a selfie of Marc and me (mostly Marc) as those big knobby tires churned the water and got us out of California liquid gold.

Next was Rob and his mighty LX450…

Then, Katelin and Rich motored through in their skyscraper 4runner…

Bringing on the rear were Travis and Oden in the vertically grilled ZJ…

Oden gave me that look when I sought payment for the undercarriage washes!

At the end of Lockwood Creek Trail, we came upon a flat picnic area and stopped for lunch while enjoying a little bit of the autumn foliage.

And we also found the beginning of Miller Jeep Trail.

Off we went onto the rocks and headed up hill.

Miller Jeep Trail meandered up and over several rocky obstacles. There are sections of boulders and sand. There are no pictures to capture the carnage on Miller Trail. It seems like someone made a shortcut and took the steep descent that we came through on the last leg of Lockwood Creek

On a rather benign rock garden Marc gave up a fender flare to a loose boulder.

The last V-rock saw some wheel spin and rock stacking. Trail maestro Rich showed us the way out, but the trail took one more bite. Following Katelin’s rig up the hill I spotted a small puddle and drops of power steering fluid, they tracked to Travis’s Jeep. Trail repair was well underway by the time I got to there on foot. We teamed up, plugged the broken fluid return nibble with ear plug, removed a vent hose from a charcoal canister (thank you CARB) that happened to have just the right inner diameter to go over the return hose, removed the reservoir cap and duck taped the return hose to the top of the reservoir.

As the sun set, we motored downhill toward Hungry Valley OHV area arriving at a staging area. While airing up, I looked back at the darkened hill where we just came from and wondered the sort of spooky fun experience it would have been on Miller Jeep Trail. IN. THE. DARK.

Or the densely foliaged Yellow Jacket Trail…

Happy Halloweeeeeeen!

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Rubithon 2022

By Dat Tran

Due to the snowpack from the winter of 2021-2022, the traditional post Father’s Day even was moved to August 22-28, 2022. By the time I decided to go, registration for the Wagon Run was closed; the Pryor’s Wagon Run was also closed; but I got in for the Solid Axle Run. I had no clue what to expect and psyched myself up for the event. I reached out to the trail leader on iH8MUD and got some good advice. SoCalTLCA veterans also provided their input. Several members helped boost my confidence for the event. A local participant connected with me for some pre-trip planning. We planned to caravan to the trailhead, but my work got in the way. My work took me to Redwood City on Sunday 8/21, and I had to stay within internet connection until Tuesday night. At least that put me in Pollock Pines which is a couple hours from the Rubicon Trail.

On the road at zero-dark-thirty….

Sunrise over Ice House Road…

Loon Lake Dams. There were two….paved….gravel

…then the magnificent trail head! It’s been more than two decades since I was here with my family. The difference this time is I will go beyond this sign but alone...

Mile 0.0 is marked by a rock slab next to a more practical landmark outhouse. I aired down to the recommended 15 psi and crawled underneath to disconnect the sway bar. I’m ready so I think…

Phi, a fellow OC 80 cruiserhead, joined me shortly after. We both waited for the  arrival of the rest of the “solid axle” party. There were several 80s and a FJC that had camped out waiting for the “wagon run”.

Our trail leader Michael and committee member John drove up in a pair of FJ40s. OK, John drove with Michael in tow. Phi and I checked in with Michael. While we wait for two more 80s to join, we huddled around the disabled FJ40. After several attempts at starting the rig, Michael decided to take a break for a driver meeting. We went through the usual check list. Phi and I cleared. But neither of us has a Hi-lift jack, more on this later…

The two 80s were a no show. Michael could not get started so he decided to send John as the trail leader with me and Phi following in that order.

8:14 am Aug 24, the trail is somewhere in view. John and his rig looked ready to lead the three of us to Rubicon Springs…

As we traveled ahead, things got interesting. The first thing I learned was I cannot follow John’s FJ40! Well, duh…John took the right line while Phi and I took the easier left…

There was an easy section….

Another mile marker down the trail. We have been riding for about an hour, not bad for a pair of newbies. But I’m the least experienced. Though his first time at Rubicon, Phi has way more experience driving off-road.

Getting to the gatekeeper. John seemed to be having fun. I’m struggling to find the right line. At this point I discovered how big the bumper on my rig is. Oh, and the trailer hitch…

Trailer hitch and Rubicon rock steps don’t mix. At one point, John thought I rolled because the hitch dropped with a BANG! “Bang bang bang” became the theme of the day.

We got through the steps and took the bypass around the Little Sluice.  At this point we connected with Michael over the radio. He needed an alternator, and someone ahead had left it on a rock which we later spotted. Michael was able to retrieve it and continued onward but found himself down again with a broken spindle. Fortunately, he was with the “wagon run” and had company to help him along.

I wasn’t paying attention to the rocky outcrop at the end of the bypass so crunch! Check out how I used my rearview mirror to inspect the newly pressed Rubicon patch. I should have used the mirror for that multi-point turn. Sorry girl, this one is on me.

Sometimes, the trail disappeared from casual view…

And when least expected, Bigfoot. No, just really big tires on a purpose built F550 that services all the outhouses along the trail. A true environmentalist! IMHO

More often than not the trail was just piles of rocks…

And more than once, following the FJ40 is the only way through. Oh BTW, this is the Big Sluice.

Just on the west bank of Rubicon River is a fitting tribute to the men and women who have fought for and helped built the Rubicon. I’m sure countless others have contributed.

Old girl and me crossing the Rubicon.

And to Rubicon Springs…

Eight hours from when we started we arrived at our camp site on the far end of Rubicon Soda Springs campground. It was an epic day of wheeling. Hours and hours of rock assault. I had to winch out of two spots.

First winch, somewhere between Walker Hill and Buck Island, there was a staircase rock. I followed the FJ40 up the easiest line. Well, I somehow turned off my rear lockers and spun sideway into a rock and a hard rock! The hitch is resting on one rock while my front tire is on another. Out came the winch. Somehow there was a tree at just the right place.  With a tree strap and about 30 feet of line, the rig got on the first of three steps. Backing up a foot realigned the front bumper in the right direction. Lockers on winch engage, and a little bit of skinny pedal, old girl clear the triple steps. Yes, hitch and all. Interestingly, I don’t remember hearing the bangs on the rocks!

Second winch, right after crossing the dam at Buck Island (yes, the hitch banged and scraped the concrete dam as the rig walked over it. A seemingly benign rock and tree on the right somehow was viewed as too easy so I decided to take the left line over two rocks. I heard metal and rock grinding to a stop. John on the radio, “Dumpy, you were supposed to go between the rock and tree. The right lower control arm was on a rock, the left rear bumper and can carrier on a boulder, rear diff and driveshaft have been pulled over the boulder, both rear tires are off the ground, front bumper resting on another boulder – stuck. At least I learned how to raise the rig on rocks if I need to work on the underside. The solution required a Hi-lift which John used to raise the right rear corner, a winch to a dead tree askew to the right but at a decent angle to pull forward. I’m going to need a Hi-lift!

After setting up camp John took us to a watering hole where we caught a hand full for crawfish which Phi turned into a soup. I made some roast for the three of us. Phi brought out a couple of steaks. BTW, I put my pan on the sand and then back on the grill to find out later that grit flavor steak is not as good as it sounds. Some strong beverage helped us get pass the naughty flavor. I set up my sleeping quarter behind the driver seat, inserted the mosquito screen (thank you to brentbba) on the sliding window, and recounted the day. The dark sky and the stillness of the night lulled me to sleep.

Morning came, I made coffee and share with Phi and John over bacon. Phi and I packed up to leave for Cadillac Hill towards Tahoma.  John rode with Phi and spotted us through. Phi led the way out…

http://socallandcruisers.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/image005.jpg

The trail is to the left but the line is to aim for the tree and turn at the very last moment to avoid the boulder on the left. Oh, the rock slider was tested. That’s John on the radio giving me direction. To the right of those trees is a steep way down.

…a few more rocks…

… and trees as I followed John up will. BTW the trail is to the left but sometimes the line points right. Knowing your front overhang is helpful and trust in your spotter is essential.

This one requires that I climbed the rock to the left to go right. Don’t ask me how that works it just does.

These last three pics speak for themselves…

Bittersweet good-byes our trail leader. Phi and I continued while John walked back to camp. Thank you John. I’m sure you had a blast at camp and hope to see you again at the Dirty Dozen.

Phi and I made it through to Observation Point..

The view along the trail was magnificent. The comradery amongst the trail riders were marvelous. At one point we ran across an 80 in need of a high-pressure power steering hose, Phi offered his spare but was declined since one was on its way to the disabled rig and that we may need it down the line. The helping-hand spirit and the-other-first thinking were aplenty.

Phi and I made it to the end of the trail when I discovered a power steering leak. Fluid was dripping at a good pace and the reservoir was emptied. The temp fix was to use engine oil to keep the power steering pump from burning up and drive to a garage. Needless to say, we both made it home and now looking forward to the next adventure.

Rubithon 34 was EPIC.

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Western Sierras – Shaver Lake Area

By Joe Roy

As a Southern California club, most of our club runs are in the local deserts or “mountains” (which tend to look a lot like the deserts, only at higher elevations…). I had forgotten just how beautiful the Western Sierras are in the summer! Warm, but not hot, days; and cool, but not cold, nights. Majestic pines, and cloudless star-filled night skies! It’s a bit of a drive from SoCal, but well worth it – especially if you can spend at least a few days. The following member/rigs made the trek north for our August Club Run to the Shaver Lake area:

· Craig M. & Ed. – FJ40
· Joel M. – FJ40
· Brent – FZJ80
· Joe & Robin – FZJ80
· Patrick – UZJ100
· John & Sandy – FJ Cruiser
· Allan – Wrangler Rubicon

First in the area were John & Sandy, who enjoyed a few days camping & fishing at Shaver Lake. Smart move, since they were already going to be in the area! However, first to arrive at our proposed dispersed campsite were Craig and Ed, who got there early on Wednesday afternoon to secure the site for our club. Armed only with Google Maps, the GPS coordinates, and verbal directions from me, they managed to find the area and set up their camp. Thanks for doing that, guys! Robin & I got a later start than we had hoped for, but we managed to pull into camp Wednesday night. Fortunately for us, setting up a “sleep only camp” is as easy as choosing a relatively level spot & cranking up the roof top tent.

Over the next couple of days, the rest of the group arrived and set up their camps. Robin had pre-scouted an area that was perfect for our group! All seven rigs found choice spots to set up, without any crowding. Truth be told, we actually had room for several more rigs. We were on a plateau overlooking Rock Creek and Dinkey Creek in the distance, with enough towering pines for good shade, but also enough clear area for good sunlight.

Saturday morning we headed out for the first trail of the day, an exciting run on Bald Mountain (26E219) to the Bald Mountain Tower Lookout. (If you’ve already seen the photos on our club photo page, you have an idea of just how exciting it was! If you haven’t, read on & then check out the photos…) This was a great run for our mix of vehicles and drivers. The trail is rated “3” (on a 1-10 scale) for all the mandatory obstacles, with up to “6” on the more challenging lines. I think we actually took most of the harder lines without any serious difficulty.

Our first stoppage of the day was a low-traction rut that Patrick’s 100 Series, with open differentials & IFS, just couldn’t seem to get a grip on. A little tug got him through that and back on the way. Our second stoppage was the exciting one! Joel graciously decided to demonstrate a low-speed flop onto the side of his FJ40 (I have a suspicion that “alien beings” may have been at least peripherally involved…), so we could have an impromptu on-trail winch clinic.

The work area was on a part of the trail that prohibited a straight winch pull, so we anchored a snatch block to a very large rock that gave us a straight pull on Joel’s frame mounted rock slider, back to Craig’s winch-equipped FJ40 (and nicely built FJ40, by the way!). Getting Joel back on all four tires was almost as easy as getting him on his side in the first place! Once the shiny side was back up, we confirmed minimal fluids lost, removed a loose steering stabilizer, and cranked up the engine. The FJ40 started right up, and was ready to continue the trail!

As we were approaching mid-day, we found an area wide enough to give us room to get off the trail and enjoy a nice trailside lunch. After our brief rest, we continued climbing all the way to the top of Bald Mountain. At almost 8,000 ft. elevation, the views are spectacular! Perched above Shaver Lake, and with mountains & trees all around, we had a very nice afternoon break and “photo opportunity” session to memorialize our trip.

Rather than retracing our steps (and risking more “alien” interference), we opted for the longer (but easier) route out through the Bow Tie trail. Again the scenery was beautiful as we passed through Tamarack Meadow and then Cutts Meadow on our way back to Rock Creek Road, and finally our camp. Unfortunately, with the drought and all of the appurtenant fire restrictions, we were unable to enjoy a traditional campfire. However, we didn’t let that stop us from gathering around in our camp chairs and enjoying each other’s company Saturday evening.

Sunday morning brought an end to our camping, as we packed up and headed down the mountain with good memories of good times with good friends. I’m sure we all can’t wait for our next adventure!

Photos

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Owens Valley – White Mountains

By Joe Roy

What great time (and turn-out!) we had! Club members began arriving in Bishop as early as a few days before our scheduled driver’s meeting. Some folks got in some fishing, and others just got a good nights sleep and hot shower. The following 14 (yes, 14!) members/rigs attended this run:

Joe – 80 Series
Dat – 80 Series
Marc 80 Series
Evan – 4Runner
David & Ana – 100 Series
Chris V. – FJ40
Brent – 80 Series
John & Sandy – FJ Cruiser
Dave – GX460 & off-road trailer
Pablo – 80 Series
Brandon & Jeff – 100 Series
Margie – 80 Series
Jason, Evan, and Emelia – 100 Series
Joel – FJ40

At our drivers meeting, we decided to head east out of Bishop towards the White Mountains; rather than farther north to the Lee Vining area (less time, less miles, and less $6/gallon gas!). We followed Silver Canyon Road up (and I do mean “UP”, it was a 6,000 foot climb to about 10,500 ft. elevation!) to the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest.

Although the trail was not technical, the climb took a toll on our trucks. We got a couple of high transmission temp warnings on the newer vehicles, a few of us with old (worn out) charcoal fuel vapor canisters had excessive pressure build up (at one point I was spewing gas from my freshly filled tank), and most of us were watching our engine temperatures very carefully.

After reaching the crest at White Mountain Road, I continued a little farther down Silver Canyon to try to find a nice lunch area that Club VP Marc Mason had heard about from a friend in the Eastern Sierra 4WD Club. Unfortunately, it was pretty slow going, and I didn’t think we’d have enough time to find & enjoy it, and still get to our first night’s camp early enough.

So, we turned south on White Mountain Road and headed to the Visitor Center at Schulman Grove, where we had our tailgate lunches. With brief tours of the Visitor Center, and potty breaks, under our belts we continued south to our first campsite. Rather than dispersed camping we actually found enough sites in close proximity to each other to accommodate our large group in the Grandview Campground. After the stress of climbing, it was nice to decompress & relax as we set up our camps & prepared our dinners.

We hit the road south again the next morning, and enjoyed the magnificent views along the way towards Hwy 168 above Big Pine. Unfortunately, Brent encountered some braking problems that precluded his continuing with us up & down the steep canyon, so he elected to head home via Big Pine. The rest of us headed on to Death Valley Road, and then to Mazourka Canyon Road.

After traveling along Mazourka Canyon, and again climbing to over 9,000 ft. elevation, in the early afternoon we found a great lunch spot. It was off the road a bit, above Papoose Flat to our east and on a ridge overlooking the Owens Valley in the distance to the west. We could even see the south end of Tinemaha reservoir. We liked the spot so much that we called it a day and enjoyed a leisurely afternoon as we set up our camps for the evening.

Sunday morning heralded the last leg of our trip, as we headed up & down through Mazourka Canyon until we finally reached Independence at midday. From there, a few folks headed home, and few others headed for lunch in Lone Pine, before saying our final goodbyes to each other.

Photos

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Black Mountain Trail

By Joe Roy

We started the day with a “breakfast meeting” at the Banner IHOP. With our tummies and and our rigs topped off we headed up the hill towards Idyllwild and our turnoff to the Black Mountain Trail. This area is popular not only with 4-wheelers, but also rock climbers, campers, and hikers. In fact, the Pacific Crest Trail crosses Black Mountain Trail several times over the 12 mile long trail. We enjoyed beautiful weather as we climbed the mountain trail. It was sunny, not too warm, and only a bit windy.

The following members/rigs attended this run:

Joe – 80 Series
Marc – 80 Series
Dat – 80 Series
Mitch – 80 Series
Pablo & Alana – 80 Series
Margie, Kingston, & Bella – 80 Series
David & Randy – 100 Series
Noah, Leila, & Jenna – 100 Series
Ron – FJ60
Joel – 4Runner

Black Mountain (4S01) is the highest off-road trail in the San Jacinto Mountains, at over 7,600′ elevation. The majority of the trail, especially at the beginning is quite easy. In fact, we encountered a couple of vans and a few Subaru’s along the way. We didn’t even bother to air down for this run!

The main draw to this trail is the forest environment and spectacular views along the way, not the technical 4-wheeling! So many of the trails near us in Southern California are desert (which, of course, has a beauty of it’s own), that it’s nice to be in the forest for a change. And, as we continued to climb we came upon several dispersed and Yellow Post campsites, as well as Boulder Basin Campground; and some beautiful scenic viewpoints, including views of both Mount Baldy and Mount San Gorgonio, to stop and enjoy.

We eventually stopped for lunch and claimed our camping spots at the last Yellow Post site along the trail. After lunch we continued up the trail to the end, and our final vista point over the entry to Palm Springs. On the way, we did encounter a couple of areas where 4WD was helpful, and even did a little spotting for the trucks with less ground clearance. Just enough difficulty to add a little “fun factor”.

After the trail end we re-traced our route back to the campsite, and enjoyed some time sitting around and chatting. About half of the group eventually left for the day while the rest of us got down to setting up our camps and preparing our dinners. Campfires are forbidden due to our severe drought conditions, but we were able to enjoy Mitch’s propane fire pit, which helped to take the edge off of the cold. Thanks, Mitch!

The next morning we enjoyed our breakfasts, broke camp, and hit the road for home.

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Rattlesnake Canyon and Heartbreak Ridge

By Joe Roy

We had a great time on our May club run, from Johnson Valley up to the “back side” of Big Bear. When we last ran these trails in February 2021, the weather was quite different. Rattlesnake Canyon was cool enough, in fact, to still have a bit of snow on the ground in a few places; and, Heartbreak Ridge was also cool at the top. This years trip, while just as enjoyable, was considerably warmer and drier.

The following members/rigs attended this run:

· Joe – 80 Series
· Marc & Kevin – 80 Series
· Dat – 80 Series
· Larry & Kathy – 80 Series
· Chris V – FJ40
· Travis V – Jeep Grand Cherokee
· Bob & Tatiana – 80 Series
· Mitch – 80 Series

The trip up Rattlesnake Canyon was scenic and enjoyable, and of course it posed no problems for all of our very capable Land Cruisers (and, yes, the lone Jeep was fine, too!). We made a quick stop at the turn off to Motino Wash, and hiked a bit of the way up the trail to decide if any of us wanted to tackle it. Fortunately, cooler heads prevailed and we all opted to get back in our trucks to continue up Rattlesnake Canyon.

The trail eventually leaves Rattle Snake Canyon up into a Joshua Tree Forest, but just before it does it enters an an oasis which is fed by several natural springs. The popular spring in the area is named Viscera Spring. This area still has remains of old cabins and windmills from when people used to live out here. The deserted cabin provided welcome shade for our trailside lunch.

After lunch we continued up the trail to the Burns Canyon Road 2N02 connection. At this point, Bob & Tatiana opted to go left towards Pioneer Town and Joshua Tree to head home for a family obligation. The rest of the group headed right towards our next trail, Heartbreak Ridge.

Just a mile into the trail we encountered our first obstacle that was significant enough to require a bit of rock-stacking and spotting assistance. Again, all of the rigs (and their drivers!) handled the obstacles with aplomb. Kudos to all, with a special mention to Mitch! I think this was the most difficult trail he’s tried so far, and he did a great job maneuvering and following the spotter’s directions. It’s so fun to learn just how capable these rigs are as you see challenges that really seem so daunting, at least initially.

As we continued up the trail we found a few more spots where the trail had eroded, and more rock-stacking/spotting was in order. Our group all managed to stay together and render assistance where needed. When we reached the summit it was late enough in the day that we didn’t stop at memorial plaque for the fallen marine. This apparently was a favorite area for him, and we are thankful for his service to our country in the Gulf War.

We hustled on down the trail to the end, where Mitch and Larry & Kathy peeled off towards their homes. The remaining 5 vehicles headed to a “secret” campsite that Marc had heard about. My only comment is the reminder, “Don’t believe everything you hear!”. Seriously, we all found reasonably flat spots to camp. Since campfires are forbidden due to our severe drought conditions, we gathered around a large candle that Dat brought. What an enjoyable night of camaraderie (and adult beverages)!

The next morning we enjoyed our breakfasts, broke camp, and hit the road for home. Another great SoCal TLCA club run!

Photos

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March Club Run Report – Death Valley

By Joe Roy

Our March Club Run started out Friday morning with the following members departing from different points, and at different times, until our rendezvous at The Copper Top BBQ Restaurant in Big Pine:

Dirtyrice Joe – 80 Series
Brentbba – 80 Series
grannygear (Michael & Jeff) – GX470
wizteq (Clay) – GX460
Ttoner80 (Dat) – 80 Series
AchillesY – 80 Series
Cruiser Chick (Margie)- 80 Series
Sidesx4 (Jason & Evan) – 100 Series
Rockys60 (Ron & Evelyn) – FJ60
TemboTusk (Jerry) – Tacoma
Chris V. – FJ40
Travis V. – Jeep GC

After topping off our fuel tanks, a nice lunch, and a group photo (thanks, Margie!), we headed out Hwy 168 east to Death Valley Road, and on into Eureka Dunes for our Friday night campsite. We arrived in the early afternoon with plenty of time to set up our camps, prepare and enjoy our dinners, and finally relax around a very welcome campfire. Meanwhile, Adam (Retro LC), and his family (including brothers Jeff & Jared in their 4Runner) arrived to join us and camp in the same area.

After breakfast Saturday morning, we packed up & headed down Dedeckera Canyon towards Steele Pass. Dedeckera Canyon was a little more challenge than a few members were prepared for, so they elected to backtrack up and around to meet up with us later. Of those who elected to “go for it”, we all made it through. Unfortunately, we had our first (and only!) bit of trail carnage there.

The rest of the trail was scenic, and enjoyable, as we travelled the pass through the Saline Range to our west and the last Chance Range to our east. We had intended to camp just before the Racetrack Playa, but there were already several groups camping there, and not enough room for our large contingent. We “punted” and moved on down the road to a nice campsite that Jerry found just before Lost Burro Gap. Again, after setting up camp & having dinner, we enjoyed another warm campfire before turning in.

Sunday morning, we continued on towards Saline Valley Warm Springs, as we navigated a road that was at times bumpy washboard, and at times deep, fine silt where momentum was a must! Fortunately, none of our trusty Cruisers got stuck, though we did stop to help a bogged down Dodge Ram.

As we went out Hunter Mountain Road and through South Pass we climbed to over 7,000 feet elevation, and even saw a bit of snow. Death Valley has it all – from sand dunes to snow, all on the same trip!

Death Valley 2022 Photos

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February Club Run Report – Cougar Buttes

By Joe Roy

We had a group of 10 members/rigs show up for our first club run in the Cougar Buttes area. After meeting up and airing down, we headed out to our first (and very important!) stop of the day – a potty break at one of the pit toilets in the OHV camping area. From there, we went south towards the Cougar Buttes Trail. We found the trail quickly, and attempted to follow it. Unfortunately, our progress was hampered by a motorcycle race through the area that had multiple parts of the trail blocked off. After following the trail, detouring off the trail, and picking up the trail again several times; we finally gave up and just decided to explore the area!

Fortunately, there is a huge network of interconnecting trails in the area, and we had a beautiful day with mild, warm temperatures. So, we were able to explore and enjoy the area. We found just enough challenging obstacles to provide a fun day, especially for new member Margie in her stock 80 Series.

After realizing that our hopes to reconnect with the main Cougar Buttes Trail would very likely be frustrated by continuing race closures, we opted to leave the area and follow Larry east around Fry Mountain over to Soggy Dry Lake, where Larry & a few of his friends were camped for the weekend.

After a nice group photo, the following members/rigs elected to head home after making this a day run:

Mitch & Lori – 80 Series

Marc – 80 Series

Achilles – 80 Series

Margie, Song, Connor, Kingston, Bella – 80 Series;

and, the following members/rigs joined Larry’s group:

Joe – 80 Series

David & Ana – 100 Series

Dat – 80 Series

Rich & Katelin – FJ40

Larry & Jodie – FJ40

Patrick & Ava – 100 Series

They welcomed us with open arms, and even fed us appetizers while we set up our camps. After all of our appetizers and dinners, we had a nice time around the campfire. Oh, and let’s not forget about the fireworks! Apparently, our fellow campers brought a supply of professional grade fireworks to brighten up the night. The show was so nice, that we could other groups of campers all over Soggy Dry Lake cheering the fireworks show! A great time was enjoyed by all, both on the trail & in the camp.

Cougar Buttes 2022 Photos

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January Club Run Report – Calico

By Joe Roy

WOW! SoCal TLCA’s 2022 Club Run year started off with a BANG! Our January Calico run was scheduled as a Saturday day run, with overnight camping optional on Friday and/or Saturday nights. We had a good turnout on Friday afternoon with the following members/rigs showing up to camp out, hang around the campfire, and just enjoy each other’s company:

Brent – 80 Series
Joe & Ed – 80 Series
Carlos & Christina – 100 Series
Will – 100 Series
Jerry – Tacoma

Since it was a long day, our various sleeping accommodations were beckoning us a little early. After watching the embers from the last logs die down, and not wanting to start another log (in spite of the chill in the air), we headed off to our blankets & bags. We were serenaded to sleep with the lilting melodies of Norteño/Banda musica and the occasional side-by-side blasting by (every half-hour!), UNTIL ABOUT 2:00 AM! Have I ever told you how much I prefer camping in the back-country, as opposed to popular camping areas?

The following morning dawned a little too soon, in spite of our efforts to get an early start on a good night’s sleep. After breakfast and breaking camp, the following members/rigs joined us for the day’s run:

Trail Leaders Chris & Helga – 100 Series
Brian & Ray – 100 Series
Dave – GX460
Chris & Travis V. – FJ40
David & Ana – 100 Series
Evan & Wilson – 4Runner
Mitch & Lori – 80 Series
Marc – 80 Series
Brandon – 100 Series
Dat – 80 Series
Rich – 80 Series
David H. & Michelle – 4Runner

If you’re counting, you’ll note that we started our Saturday run with 17 rigs! Fortunately, club member (and Ham radio Grand Wizard) Dave MacCulloch donated two Baofeng handheld Ham radios for club use, which helped us all stay together. With Chris & Helga Heron leading us, and Rich following us at tail-gunner, we proceeded to tour the area and see the sights. Most of the trails we ran were fairly easy, but there was a section on the way to Wall Street Overlook that required a bit of spotting to get 17 rigs through without clogging the trail for too long.

By the end of the day Saturday, there were a few of us that needed to get home, so we headed over to Fort Irwin Road to air up. The rest of the group elected to camp in a nice quiet spot off the Wall Street Trail connector. As the departing group finished airing up, Adam (80 Series) & a few of his friends showed up to join the group that was camping and running a few trails on Sunday. We gave them trail coordinates, and reviewed our maps, before hitting the road. With a total of 20 members/rigs on this run, I think we set a new club record (at least, it’s the best attended run I’ve seen in a long while). I’m glad so many of you were able to make this run!

Calico 2022 photos

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