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 potatomutato on August 29, 2011 at 10:00am

if it is the area where FJ Scout and a few others were, that makes sense. there used to be a sign there.

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Permalink Reply by CentralCalFJ on August 29, 2011 at 10:14am

That's it, the stub of the post was in the road last year, now it's back up to keep vehicles out.

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Permalink Reply by Yose FJ (David) on August 31, 2011 at 12:47pm

I won't be camping (sold most all the camping equip a few years back, pre-FJ, at a Garage sale...darn it), so I got a hotel in Mammoth. I'm planning on heading over on Wednesday and will stay at least until Saturday, and maybe Sunday, depending on what might be happening here in the park (its been a wacky week with the fire and such).

Biggest decision before I go is, do I run with stock tires and no lift, or upgrade the tires before I head over. (A lift is pretty much out of the question at this time.)

Looking forward to meeting new faces. I'll be watching the RSVP list for a total number coming as I'm planning on bringing a Yosemite goodie for everyone. I'm on a budget, so the less people, the nicer the item! On the other hand, it would be nice to see a large turnout too! ;-)

David

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Permalink Reply by Estysalinas on August 31, 2011 at 1:36pm

I don't recall any of the trails out there being too extreme, the road up to base camp will require 4wd, but you should be fine stock!

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Permalink Reply by Yose FJ (David) on August 31, 2011 at 7:58pm

I was thinking of holding off til I get to see the other rigs up close. Plus, in a couple months, I'll pull off the summer tires and put on the studded snow tires. I have the money for tires now...just not sure if I will have the discipline to stash it away til next spring!

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Permalink Reply by CentralCalFJ on August 31, 2011 at 7:50pm

We will be in Yosemite Sat the 17th and heading to the Eastern side on the 18th, will you be in the Valley Sunday or at home? We can get a cup Sunday if you are or we will see you Wed in Mammoth.

The Eastern trails are not that bad, the trail up to Laurel is rocky but if you take it slow stock is no problem.

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Permalink Reply by Yose FJ (David) on August 31, 2011 at 7:53pm

Not sure what I'm doing that weekend yet, Yosemite home or Clovis home. When I do, I will let you know. (Plus, if I'm here, I can get you through the park for free one-way.)

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Permalink Reply by Bz on September 7, 2011 at 3:58pm

Orly?

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Permalink Reply by FJ Drivin on September 1, 2011 at 4:36pm

This looks fun.

Can't wait to hang around the campfire.

I might even bring some good beers this time.

; )

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Permalink Reply by Dominator! on September 7, 2011 at 2:14pm

Anything about pets? I have a small (40 lbs.) whippet lab mix.

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Permalink Reply by potatomutato on September 7, 2011 at 10:57pm

pets are fine. just be sure to "socialize" with any of the other pet owners and be responsible, etc.

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Permalink Reply by TOE 4X4 on September 7, 2011 at 3:33pm

Sorry but I am not going to make this trip. With the move south a couple days before hand just wont be able to get it together, Plus a little 3000 mile road trip in early October I need to save my seat. Have fun everyone and see you a trail soon.