Trail Descriptions - NorCal FJs2024-03-29T12:15:12Zhttp://norcalfjs.com/forum/categories/trail-descriptions/listForCategory?feed=yes&xn_auth=noNational Forest Service Maps Android and iOStag:norcalfjs.com,2014-03-11:2131553:Topic:2270552014-03-11T22:46:42.119Zopg4759http://norcalfjs.com/profile/opg
<p>The National Forest service is now pushing people to try PDF maps via a app called Avenza PDF Maps. <a href="http://pdf-maps.com/" style="font-size: 1.5em;" title="Home"><br></br></a></p>
<p>Now the main app is free for Android and iOS, however the Forest Service maps run about 5 bucks per Forest (i.e. Eldorado is one map, Plumas is another, etc) However if you create a login for the application any maps you buy can be downloaded to other devices. I have tested a map I bought on my Nexus 7 was…</p>
<p>The National Forest service is now pushing people to try PDF maps via a app called Avenza PDF Maps. <a href="http://pdf-maps.com/" title="Home" style="font-size: 1.5em;"><br/></a></p>
<p>Now the main app is free for Android and iOS, however the Forest Service maps run about 5 bucks per Forest (i.e. Eldorado is one map, Plumas is another, etc) However if you create a login for the application any maps you buy can be downloaded to other devices. I have tested a map I bought on my Nexus 7 was able to be downloaded at no additional cost on my iPAD and on my Nexus 5. </p>
<p></p>
<p>The quality of the maps seem pretty good and the are easy to read and show the current OHV trails, camp grounds The other nice feature is that they will work with the GPS of the device and show you where you are on the map you are looking at and you can also drop pins for different spots and add notes them.</p>
<p></p>
<p>I have not done a trail run with these yet, but the fact that you can buy 1 map and use it on multiple devices cross-platform makes this worth checking out and it seems to be the easiest way to get FS maps next to ordering physical maps </p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="http://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5436324.pdf" target="_blank">Link from the USFS</a></p>
<p><a href="http://pdf-maps.com/" target="_blank">Link to the Avenza PDF Map site</a></p>
<p></p>
<p>The Screenshot below is from my Nexus 7</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310098342?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310098342?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<br />
<br />
<p></p> Slick Rock Trailtag:norcalfjs.com,2008-08-13:2131553:Topic:26002008-08-13T08:01:52.868ZNorCal FJshttp://norcalfjs.com/profile/norcalfjs
Trail: Slick Rock Trail<br></br>
Location: <a href="http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/stanislaus/">Stanislaus National Forest</a><br></br>
Trailhead: N38 28.8' W120 00.36.9'<br></br>
Level: Moderate-Difficult<br></br>
Length: 5.2 miles<br></br>
Camping: Along the trail (dispersed - at least five are available), Sand Flat Four-Wheel Drive (dispersed), Wa Ka Luu Hep Yo (developed), Big Meadow (developed), Stanislaus River (developed)<br></br>
<br></br>
Slick Rock Trail begins as a moderate trail, but soon becomes difficult past the…
Trail: Slick Rock Trail<br/>
Location: <a href="http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/stanislaus/">Stanislaus National Forest</a><br/>
Trailhead: N38 28.8' W120 00.36.9'<br/>
Level: Moderate-Difficult<br/>
Length: 5.2 miles<br/>
Camping: Along the trail (dispersed - at least five are available), Sand Flat Four-Wheel Drive (dispersed), Wa Ka Luu Hep Yo (developed), Big Meadow (developed), Stanislaus River (developed)<br/>
<br/>
Slick Rock Trail begins as a moderate trail, but soon becomes difficult past the granite pools area on Silver Creek. Expect sliders and skid plates to serve their purpose and scratches to wheels are common. Stock FJs can make it through with skilled drivers and careful spotting, but expect to spend more time on the trail.<br/>
<br/>
The trail head is reached from Lake Alpine campground and will take you through some private property before reaching a large sign that states you have arrived.<br/>
<br/>
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310083217?profile=original" alt=""/></p>
<br/>
The first mile or so into the trail is moderate and winds through the forest.<br/>
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310083909?profile=original" alt=""/></p>
<br/>
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310084101?profile=original" alt=""/></p>
<br/>
The landscape soon changes dramatically as granite enters the fold.<br/>
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310094040?profile=original" alt=""/></p>
<br/>
You will then enter a clearing with access to the granite pools of Silver Creek. This is a good place to take a break and cool off before embarking on the difficult part of the journey.<br/>
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310094254?profile=original" alt=""/></p>
<br/>
As you leave the clearing, you will encounter a small, steep obstacle. There is a go-around.<br/>
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310094829?profile=original" alt=""/></p>
<br/>
Soon thereafter, you will encounter the tight entryway into the sloped-walled canyon.<br/>
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310095602?profile=original" alt=""/></p>
<br/>
As you enter the canyon, you must take into account the degree of tilt to prevent body damage.<br/>
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310095584?profile=original"/></p>
<br/>
Tight squeeze.<br/>
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310096161?profile=original" alt=""/></p>
<br/>
Video: Sloped-walled canyon entrance.<br/>
<embed wmode="opaque" src="http://static.ning.com/socialnetworkmain/widgets/video/flvplayer/flvplayer.swf?v=201001071217" flashvars="config=http%3A%2F%2Fnorcalfjs.ning.com%2Fvideo%2Fvideo%2FshowPlayerConfig%3Fid%3D2131553%253AVideo%253A50833%26ck%3D-&video_smoothing=on&autoplay=off&isEmbedCode=1" bgcolor="#000000" scale="noscale" allowscriptaccess="never" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/go/getflashplayer" height="344" width="456"></embed>
<br/><small><a href="http://norcalfjs.ning.com/video/video">Find more videos like this on <em>NorCal FJs</em></a></small><br/>
<br/>
And the exit.<br/>
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310096262?profile=original" alt="" height="480" width="640"/></p>
<br/>
Sloped-walled canyon area<br/>
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310096512?profile=original" alt=""/></p>
<br/>
The trail remains rocky and scenic past the sloped-walled canyon for most of the way.<br/>
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310100213?profile=original" alt="" height="480" width="640"/></p>
<br/>
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310101063?profile=original" alt=""/></p>
<br/>
Expect your sliders and skid plates to get a workout.<br/>
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310101149?profile=original" alt=""/></p>
<br/>
The few mellow spots serve as welcome respites.<br/>
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310101388?profile=original" alt=""/></p>
<br/>
At approximately two miles into the journey, you will encounter a steep, granite descent. Beautiful views can be had at the top of the descent...<br/>
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310101553?profile=original"/></p>
<br/>
...on the way down...<br/>
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310101724?profile=original" alt=""/></p>
<br/>
...from below...<br/>
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310104641?profile=original" alt=""/></p>
<br/>
...and from in-cabin.<br/>
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310104837?profile=original" alt=""/></p>
<br/>
After the descent, the trail will meander through a few rocky sections on the way to the water crossing.<br/><p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310105149?profile=original" alt=""/></p>
<br/>The water crossing.<br/><p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310105581?profile=original"/></p>
<br/>
Right after the water crossing, you will encounter a fork. Right will take you down a short trail to some granite and the river. Stay left, the rocky way, for the trail.<br/><p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310109322?profile=original" alt=""/></p>
<br/>Approximately 2.6 miles into the trail, you will encounter the final obstacle. <i>Note: There is no go-around for the final obstacle.</i><br/><p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310109557?profile=original" alt=""/></p>
<br/>
Choose the right lines and put your skills to the test. Some rock stacking may be required. <i>Note: Be sure to put the rocks back where you found them for those who follow may want to experience the challenge.</i><br/>
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310109738?profile=original" alt=""/></p>
<br/>
Once you reach the first landing, you can go...<br/><p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310114150?profile=original" alt=""/></p>
<br/>...right, which is more challenging...<br/><p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310114491?profile=original" alt=""/></p>
<br/>
...or left, which is less challenging.<br/>
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310114755?profile=original" alt=""/></p>
<br/>
The final obstacle marks the end of the most difficult portion of the trail. There are a few more granite slabs left before you reach the clearing and on to the easy part of the trail.<br/>
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310114944?profile=original" alt=""/></p>
<br/>
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310115323?profile=original" alt=""/></p>
<br/>
Continue past scenic Utica Reservoir until you reach Forest Road 7N75 at 5.2 miles. Turn right on 7N75 and reach Spicer Road in less than a mile where gravel turns to pavement.<br/>
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310115704?profile=original" alt=""/></p>
<br/>
Resources:<br/>
1) <a href="https://secure.peakhosting.net/funtreks/index.php?page=book_6">Guide to Northern California Backroads & 4-Wheel Drive Trails</a> by Charles A. Wells<br/>
2) <a href="http://www.trackandtrailpublications.com/current_pubs/hsvol2.html">High Sierra SUV Trails Volume II</a> by Roger Mitchell<br/>
3) <a href="http://www.tomstienstra.com/books-html/cal-camp.html">California Camping</a> by Tom Stienstra Corral Hollowtag:norcalfjs.com,2008-07-31:2131553:Topic:18992008-07-31T09:31:36.124ZNorCal FJshttp://norcalfjs.com/profile/norcalfjs
Name: Corral Hollow<br />
Location: <a href="http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/stanislaus/">Stanislaus National Forest</a><br />
Trailhead: N38 27.42' W120 03.11'<br />
Level: Easy - Moderate<br />
Camping: Along the trail (dispersed - at least five are available), Sand Flat Four-Wheel Drive (dispersed), Wa Ka Luu Hep Yo (developed), Big Meadow (developed), Stanislaus River (developed)<br />
<br />
<br />
The trailhead (approximately 0.5 miles west of Bear Valley) is rather non-descript from Highway 4. Once found, there is a small parking area…
Name: Corral Hollow<br />
Location: <a href="http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/stanislaus/">Stanislaus National Forest</a><br />
Trailhead: N38 27.42' W120 03.11'<br />
Level: Easy - Moderate<br />
Camping: Along the trail (dispersed - at least five are available), Sand Flat Four-Wheel Drive (dispersed), Wa Ka Luu Hep Yo (developed), Big Meadow (developed), Stanislaus River (developed)<br />
<br />
<br />
The trailhead (approximately 0.5 miles west of Bear Valley) is rather non-descript from Highway 4. Once found, there is a small parking area with a sign.<br />
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310083000?profile=original" alt="" width="640" height="480"/></p>
<br />
The trail begins with grooves and becomes bumpy soon thereafter.<br />
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310093949?profile=original" alt="" width="640" height="480"/></p>
<br />
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310094146?profile=original" alt="" width="640" height="480"/></p>
<br />
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310094267?profile=original" alt="" width="640" height="480"/></p>
<br />
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310095175?profile=original" alt="" width="640" height="480"/></p>
<br />
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310101077?profile=original" alt="" width="640" height="480"/></p>
<br />
Pools of water can be found right off the trail during spring runoff.<br />
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310104699?profile=original" alt="" width="640" height="480"/></p>
<br />
The trail then begins to wind through tight passages of granite boulders and tree stumps.<br />
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310105076?profile=original" alt="" width="640" height="480"/></p>
<br />
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310105357?profile=original" alt="" width="640" height="480"/></p>
<br />
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310108228?profile=original" alt="" width="640" height="480"/></p>
<br />
The trail then smoothes out gradually and at approximately 1.6 miles into the trail, mule's ear begin to appear in abundance.<br />
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310108360?profile=original" alt="" width="640" height="480"/></p>
<br />
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310108825?profile=original" alt="" width="640" height="480"/></p>
<br />
And soon, you will find yourself between acres of mule's ear.<br />
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310109963?profile=original" alt="" width="640" height="480"/></p>
<br />
Shortly after leaving the meadow of mule's ear, you will encounter a steep climb over loose rock.<br />
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310110272?profile=original" alt="" width="640" height="480"/></p>
<br />
Interesting trees line the trail.<br />
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310110557?profile=original" alt="" width="640" height="480"/></p>
<br />
In less than 0.5 miles, you will reach the top of the ridge.<br />
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310113751?profile=original" alt="" width="640" height="480"/></p>
<br />
At approximately 2.8 miles into the trip, you will encounter a wire gate. Be sure to close it once everyone is through. The last time we did the trail, the gate was broken and left open.<br />
<br />
After the gate, you will come up on a campsite. This is a good area for lunch and can accommodate several rigs. Nice views of the valley can be had.<br />
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310114090?profile=original" alt="" width="640" height="480"/></p>
<br />
Snow can block the trail at the top of the ridge into June.<br />
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310114161?profile=original" alt="" width="640" height="480"/></p>
<br />
The trail winds along the ridge before slowly descending into Bear Trap Basin. Bear Trap Cabin can be found here.<br />
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310120363?profile=original" alt="" width="640" height="480"/></p>
<br />
The cabin is used primarily as an emergency shelter and is stocked with furniture and mattresses up stairs. There is a guest book to sign as well.<br />
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310120648?profile=original" alt="" width="640" height="480"/></p>
<br />
The cabin can be rather dark upstairs and may conjour up spooky thoughts.<br />
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310121516?profile=original" alt="" width="640" height="480"/></p>
<br />
Contact the forest service in advance if you plan to stay at the cabin.<br />
<br />
The trail after the cabin becomes easier as it winds through meadows and spurs.<br />
<p style="text-align: left;"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2310121828?profile=original" alt="" width="640" height="480"/></p>
<br />
You will eventually reach Cabbage Patch Road, a wide gravel road that leads back to Highway 4.<br />
<br />
Resources:<br />
<i>1) <a href="https://secure.peakhosting.net/funtreks/index.php?page=book_6">Guide to Northern California Backroads & 4-Wheel Drive Trails</a> by Charles A. Wells<br />
2) <a href="http://www.adlerpublishing.com/detail.aspx?prodID=5">Backcountry Adventures: Northern California</a> by Peter Massey and Jeanne Wilson<br />
3) <a href="http://www.trackandtrailpublications.com/current_pubs/hsvol2.html">High Sierra SUV Trails Volume II</a> by Roger Mitchell</i><br />
4) <i><a href="http://www.tomstienstra.com/books-html/cal-camp.html">California Camping</a> by Tom Stienstra</i>