FJ Cruisers of Northern California

High Sierra 2011

High Sierra Run 2011

September 19-25 (Monday - Sunday)

Level: Easy - Moderate

Event Page: High Sierra 2011

Comms: FRS/GPRS (7-31); CB (31); Ham (see below)

For 2m: 146.460 no tone for simplex.

For 70cm: The main repeater is CARLA 22 which is on a mountain top out of Hawthorne

440.725+
Local tone 127.3(should be used around camp)
Link 156.7 (transmits on the entire system 30 repeaters)

The back up repeater is CARLA 18 over at Topez Lake

443.475+
Local tone 110.9
Link 167.9

On the drive up CARLA 17 should cover most of the drive on the west side.

443.475+
Local 103.5
Link 151.4

it is the time of year to enjoy the splendor of the High Sierra.

now in its 5th year, the High Sierra Run is the perfect vacation for those who enjoy the scenery, recreational activities and relaxation that the Eastern Sierra has to offer.

as always, this run only has a couple pre-scheduled runs and follows a "come and go as you please" format. each year, some folks go on exploration runs, while others go fishing, hit the natural hot springs, or hiking. this year, we've extended the run to a full week and you can plan your arrival and departure as you wish.

NorCal FJ Code of Conduct is in effect on this and all NorCal FJ runs.

Trail Run Schedule

Mon-Wed: impromptu runs...organize morning of or other activities

Thursday: TBD

Friday: TBD

Saturday: Kavanaugh Ridge - Bodie

Other Activities

National Public Lands Day: Free admission to Yosemite and Devil's Postpile on Saturday,September 24. We also usually conduct a thorough cleaning of our campsite as a way to do our part. If you are interested in volunteering more, there is a hiking trail that leads to some remote lakes that could use some basic maintenance, such as moving rocks off the trail and cutting away at any shrubbery that has overgrown.
7th Annual Oktoberfest at Mammoth Village: May be worth checking out for a couple hours. While you are at it, you can use the free showers near Devil's Postpile.
Eighth Annual “Yosemite Facelift” Volunteer Event
Natural hot springs
Fishing
Photography
Stargazing (there are some nice meadows a short, flat hike from our campsite

FAQ

Q: What do I need to bring?

A: Bring what you would normally bring camping. Tent, sleeping bags, etc. Pack for cold weather! It has reached into the mid-20s overnight on past runs. This is a base camp-style run meaning we will always return to camp after activities. For driving, bring whatever recovery equipment you have (standard practice). If you have any additional spare parts, it's always a nice-to-have for the trails. High Sierra trails do not exceed the moderate rating.

Q: This is my first time wheeling. Can I do High Sierra?

A: Yes, but you should know how to operate your vehicle on uneven off-highway roads.

Q: Can I do the trails stock?

A: Yes. Most trails are easy.

Q: I have no rear locker or ATRAC...can I do the HIgh Sierra runs?

A: Yes.

Q: Where are we camping?

A: We will be camping south of Mammoth Lakes. Campsite coordinates will be sent via PM to all attendees.

Q: What's the toilet situation at the campsite?

A: There are no pit/flushing toilets where we camp. We recommend you bring your own PETT/Luggable Loo (environmental toilet). We do not recommend digging around the campgrounds as everything is within 200 ft. of a water source.

Q: What is the food & beverage situation?

A: It is bring your own. However, you are encouraged to team up with others on some meals to prevent wasted foodstuffs and to help cut down on budget. Feel free to use this discussion thread to discuss food management or PM is good as well. Mammoth Lakes is nearby and offers a variety of restaurants and cafes if needed.

Q: Should I bring firewood? Are fires allowed? Are fire permits needed?

A: Yes, yes and yes. Firewood is also available in Mammoth Lakes, but is always a little pricier. Fire restrictions will be reported the week prior to the run. We will have one or two fire permits with us, so that should be good enough. However, having a fire permit is always recommended because you just never know when you'll want to head out camping. You can fax in your information for a campfire permit. Here is the link to access the .pdf California Campfire Permit request.

Q: Is there cellular signal at the campsite?

A: Yes, as of last year Verizon customers had signal at camp. AT&T customers had to have line of sight to Mammoth Lakes. Other carriers unknown. Needless to say, you can be within cell range within 5-10 minutes.

Q: Is this a family-friendly run?

A: As with any NorCal FJ run, yes. However, if you feel uncomfortable having children around alcohol at the main campsite, there are secluded sites available.

Q: Are there bears near the campsite?

A: Although we have not seen a bear in the area in three years, you are always responsible for items that you leave out that may attract bears. Always err on the safe side and pack away your food. We have seen bears at a developed campsite and on one of the trails.

Q: Is there a campsite fee?

A: No. It is dispersed/undeveloped camping, so there is no fee. If, by some long shot, we need to move to a developed campground, then you will be responsible for paying fees onsite.

please feel free to ask any questions (via this thread or via PM) that were not covered here.

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Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Boss73 on September 12, 2011 at 7:05am

I may try to get up there Thursday night but definetly Friday morning..

My friend Dave will joining me so I wil need a bit more space fore his tent..

Looking forward to next weekend !

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Permalink Reply by potatomutato on September 13, 2011 at 12:25am

i have updated the OP with activity and event information. as you know, the High Sierra Run is unique in that there is a lot to do and see and we usually plan things around the campfire the night before. this year, it looks like Oktoberfest is taking place at Mammoth Village. although we'll have good beer in camp, it may be worth checking out for a couple hours. also, don't forget about National Public Lands Day, which occurs on the same Saturday every year during the High Sierra Run. Those of you planning to leave on Saturday and take 120 through Yosemite home will be in for a pleasant surprise...no park entrance fee. Also, no fee at Devil's Postpile. A few folks have taken advantage of that a couple years in a row.

if you like photography, i can't think of a better region for shutterbugs. bonus points if someone actually does a handstand on the shores of Mono Lake a la Pink Floyd's Wish You Were Here. same goes for fishing. also, there are natural hot springs that abound east of 395 within miles of our campsite.

at night around the campsite, it is bring your own F&B, but we usually share due to large portions. if you like to play acoustic guitar, bring it along. we had Wish You Were Here on loop last year at one of the campsites and it just kind of brought it all together.

night hikes abound as well. plenty of meadows for stargazing. ask Robbie about his awesome experience.

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Permalink Reply by Dave(man) on September 13, 2011 at 12:51pm

man....this sounds waaaaay cool.....still working out the details on when i'll get there....it probably will be towards the end like thurs. and fri. nites....but like i said before i very flexible on where i set up a tent so don't stress on saving room for me....

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Permalink Reply by FJ Scout on September 15, 2011 at 10:54am

Regretfully, I will not be able to attend this year. I am returning to the East Coast to lend a hand to family affected by Hurricane Irene.

I wish you all a fun, safe trip.

Best,
Jake.