It's Official: Sign-up and Attend Our First Snow Run

[RON CT110]

Last Update: 02/13/08

To Register (NCLR Members), goto http://nclrclub.org/index.php?option=com_attend_events&task=view&id=9
To be a guest, let me know or another NCLR member

Thus registered so far:

1. Anthony Cerrone
Unable to attend

2. David Badillo
LR3/1 Guest/Cabin/Potluck?

3. David Cortes
D1/Family/Cabin Shaver Lake Village/Potluck = Yes (Almonds and Tortilla Española)

4. Enrique Gomez
D1/Tent Camping or trailer/Potluck = Yes

5. Gary Young
Unable to attend

6. Joshua Shapiro
D2/2 Guests/Tent Camping/Potluck = Yes Desert/Pie

7. Michael Walton
RRC/Day Trip Only No Camping/Potluck = No

8. Mike Crowder
D1/Cabin/Potluck?

9. Ron Boston
CT110/Tent Camping/Potluck = Yes

10. Drafdog
Unable to make it

11. Stevenmd
RRC/Cabin/Potluck?

12. SFDiscoII
DII/Tent Camping/Potluck = Yes

13. N2RVRS
RRC/Tent Camping/Potluck = Yes

14. Monty not able to go - replaced by Eric Etischer
D1/Tent Camping/Potluck?

15. JHMover
D1/Tent Camping/Potluck = Yes

16. Eric
RRC/Cabin/Potluck=Yes Roast Pot

17. Arnival
D1/cabin/Potluck?

18. RoverTech18
DI/Tent Camping/Potluck = Yes

19. Ewen
P38/Tent Camping/Potluck?

20 Tiger Dan
RRC/Tent Camping/Potluck = Yes


...Did I miss anyone else or anyone else wants to have a wknd of fun wheeling in the snow @ Shaver Lake; join us!

Stats: 19 Vehicles thus far

10 Tent Camping
8 Cabins
1 Day Trip Only

- - - Copy of the Trip Details - - - Print, Bring a Copy for Yourself, and let another Friend/Relative Know Where you Are Going/leave a Copy of this - - -

NCLR First Snow Run Shaver Lake & Bald Mountain
Feb 15-17, 2007
“Tread Lightly”

Trip Information

Trip Leader: Ron Boston
Trail Leader: Rovertech18 or Arnival
Date/Time: Feb 15-17, 2007; Fri-Sun

Brief Description: Shaver Lake is located at the 5,500 ft elevation, one hour northeast of Fresno in central California. The area is known for abundant outdoor activities: snow skiing, snowmobiling, water skiing, fishing, and backpacking, horseback riding, 4-wheeling and camping. Get away from the crowds, the traffic, the smog and the heat! Relax where the air is clean and the water is pure, at Shaver Lake and Huntington Lake.
Maps/Links to Maps of Area: http://www.shaverlake.com/f-ourlocation.html

Meeting Location: Camp Edison; Campsite # to be determined

Directions to Meet:
o Directions from SF Bay Area
Head South on Hwy 99. Take the Hwy 145 exit. Cut thru town and back on 145E. Continue on 145E. Right on 206. Left on Millerton. Left on Auberry (Gas Station/Biker Bar on the Right Corner for Visuals). Left on 168. Continue on Hwy 168 East to Shaver Lake. Camp Edison is 1 mile past Ken's Market on the right.

o Directions from the South
Head north on 99. Take the Hwy 41 North exit. Go North on Hwy 41 to Hwy 180 East. Go East on Hwy 180 to Hwy 168 East. Continue on Hwy 168 East to Shaver Lake. Camp Edison is 1 mile past Ken's Market on the right.ing Point:

Detailed Plan:
Starting Time: 5pm; Friday, Feb 15
o Friday, Feb 15 - Optional Friday night camping at Camp Edison, or Cabin stay @ Shaver Lake

o Sat, Feb 16 - Meet at Camp Edison Site (TBD) (this is the base camp)

Eat Breakfast, prepare, and head out to Bald Mountain Trail by 10am

Or be at the trail head 11am, air down, etc… and let’s see how far we can get thru the snow with our 4wd vehicles. Directions to Bald Mtn trail head: Take Hwy 168 to Dinkey Creek Road east 9.1 miles, Turn Left on Rocky Creek Rd, go north 3.4 miles, and turn left on Forest Road 9S43. GPS Coordinates Lat: 37 6 4.7 Long: 119 10 7.8

Lunch around 1pm and then head back to Camp before 5pm, get ready for group camp fire dinner

Camp fire, dinner and fun

o Sun, Feb 17 - Early a.m. B-fast
Optional play in the snow park with adults/kids, trip to nearby Sierra Summit Ski Resort: http://www.sierrasummit.com after B-Fast.

Check-out and head back home

Trail Schedule: 10am; Saturday, Feb 16
Ending time: Noon; Sunday, Feb 17
Radio Requirements, Channels to use: CB 7
Entrance Fee’s, Camping Fee’s (if applicable):
o No Entrance Fee to Bald Mountain
o Camping Fee @ Camp Edison, and Cabin Option Avail
http://www.sce.com/CommunityandRecreation/Camping/
www.shaverlakerentals.com
www.shaverlakevacationrentals.com

Vehicle Requirements:

Detailed Vehicle Requirements: Open high clearance 4x4 vehicles (Bald Mountain wheeling on Sat) and stock to get to Shaver Lake. Stock vehicles can park/take shot-gun/help spot during Bald Mtn wheeling if not wanting to wheel their vehicle on Bald Mountain

Required Safety Equipment: Snow tires (and chains if needed), fire extinguisher, CB (channel 7)

Required Recovery Equipment: Strong recovery points (front and rear), Hi-lift Jack (at least one vehicle carry one), winch (at least two vehicles equipped)

Misc Required Equipment: Metal shovel (shovel snow), first aid kit, repair tools (to suit your vehicle), tire gauge and tire pump (at least one vehicle carry one)

Weather Forecast and Trail Conditions

Weather Forecast for the trip dates: Highs in the 40s/Lows in the 20s; Sunny with 10% chance of snow (need to update this week before the actual trip)

Expected Trail conditions: Deep snow

Clothing Suggestions: Snow/winter clothing: layer with base clothing that wicks sweat, polar fleece, wind/water repellant shell jacket or winter jacket; winter gloves, hat or beanie, and snow boots

Special Weather Clothing Suggestions: Cold

Property Information
Camp Edison
o Shaver Lake, CA 93664
Phone: 559-841-3134
FAX: 559-841-3193
o Check-in: 12noon
Check-out: 11am
o Wi-fi is avail at Camp Edison: SSID is set to LINKNGO
Rates: Hourly $3.00, Daily $6.00, and Weekly $16.00
o Also Shower card avail at the check-in booth

Services
Public Safety Agencies with Telco numbers for the trip area:
o California Department of Forestry & Fire Protection (559) 841-3360, Paramedics (911), local Sheriff (559) 855-2369 or 800-522-0086
Nearby Towing and Repair Services info:
o Eagle Towing (559) 841-2727
Gas/Service Station Locations in the area:
o Filling station about 1 mile away from Camp Edison on highway 168/cross street Dinkey Road

Others:
o Eastside Mobile Locksmith (559) 299-6484
Ken's Clothing & Gifts (559) 841-3242
Shaver Lake Auto Center and Repairs (559) 841-3810
Shaver Lake Hardware (559) 841-3298
Shaver Lake Sports, LLC - sporting goods/rentals (559) 841-2740

Food / Meals
Meal plans: BYO. We can talk about pot luck for Saturday night, but no biggie if we don't. Ken's Market is before the camp turn off - you can buy last min items or if you forget to bring supplies. Plan dinner for the optional early check-in Friday; B-fast, lunch and dinner Sat, and B-fast and lunch Sun. We can head home after lunch.

Other Info
Bring your camera and extra batteries
Winter tent/sleeping bag if camping
Extra Garbage Bags
Emergency food/supplies
Suncreen (protect your skin expected to be sunny)
GPS Unit optional certainly map of the area and compass
Drinking water during camping/trails
Nights might be cold - bring extra blanket and warm clothing
Full size spare and/or tire repair kit

- - - End - - -

Here are pics/maps:
Pic 1: General Area
Pic 2: I have the hard copy but here's an except of the map showing Shaver Lake and Dinkey Creek Rd to Bald Mtn
Pic 3: General Camp Ground
Pic 4: Last Spring 07 @ Bald Mtn - Gary's LR3 and Trailer
Pic 5: Last Spring 07 @ Bald Mtn - Shrek Flexing
Pic 6: Last Spring 07 @ Bald Mtn - Grp heading to the top
Pic 7: Last Spring 07 @ Bald Mtn - Grp Pic

[esteban]

Damn! I'll be in Mexico getting some sun! I really wanted to do a snow run too. Chalk one up to bad timing. :(

Steve

[PCRover]

Where is everyone considering getting cabins?

I am going to get a room at the Shave Lake Village Hotel.

[RON CT110]

Gary, can't help on the cabin; but I was surfing the web for land/cabin for sale in/near Shaver Lake!

Anyone interested in splitting this 3.49 acres by 3 or 4! :D

http://www.judyerrecart.com/ShaverLake_CA_listings/C584AC91-FCE3-22FF-0D3DDEA82425159C.shtml

Then build you own cabin!

A lil LR community; Just dreaming! :)

- - - -

Ad: $188,000 3.49 Acres


Listed by Coldwell Banker Shaver Lake Real Estate, Inc...Enjoy a scenic drive on your way to the property of your future mountain dream home. Peterson road winds through the 4000 Ft elevation above the fog and at the snow line of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. From this 3.49-acre parcel it is approximately 20 minutes up to Shaver Lake and about an hour down to Fresno. National Forest borders the south side of the property which offers views of stunning Mount Whitney and twinkling city lights below. There is a well with a pump which is powered by a generator, an 1100-gallon water storage tank, a trailer (no value) and power is near by. The property is zoned RC-40 and offers a variety of uses. Buyer to call the Fresno County Zoning department to verify. Come, take a look, and see what this unique property has to offer. For more information please visit www.judyerrecart.com

[RON CT110]

Damn! I'll be in Mexico getting some sun! I really wanted to do a snow run too. Chalk one up to bad timing. :(

Steve

Hey Steve, will do this again in June; much warmer weather; no snow and really granite rock climbing 4wheeling stuff! You'll like it! Easy to Med Diff trails. View fantastic!

[esteban]

Hey Steve, will do this again in June; much warmer weather; no snow and really granite rock climbing 4wheeling stuff! You'll like it! Easy to Med Diff trails. View fantastic!
Sounds good!

Steve

[Disco X]

I'm a new member to the club. I've already signed up for the snow run. My profille pick is a pick of me on the Bald mt route last summer. It will be nice to see it with snow. My vehicle is still stock height (for now:D). Is anyone else going in a stock? Don't see making it very far on the trail. Sure there will be some other places to play.

[RON CT110]

I'm a new member to the club. I've already signed up for the snow run. My profille pick is a pick of me on the Bald mt route last summer. It will be nice to see it with snow. My vehicle is still stock height (for now:D). Is anyone else going in a stock? Don't see making it very far on the trail. Sure there will be some other places to play.

He! He! Stock for now! I know how the progression goes! BAM, next thing you know its transformed from stock to beast mode!

I might be running stock; I just purchased a 04 D2 and might take it there instead of my CT110. We have several vehicles with winches, and I am planning to pre-run the trail with Brandon Friday afternoon and can better tell the trail conditions (Brandon aka Rovertech18 on Land Rover Repair Forums is from Fresno; familiar with Bald Mtn and our trail leader). Talk to you soon!

Welcome to NCLR by the way!

[Disco X]

I'm on that site also as Disco X. Sure wish I could change my name on here to that... hmmm. Rovertech18 has emailed me a few times with much appreciated help. Guess I'll meet you guys up on th hill. Still working out the final sleeping arrangements. Not sure if weather will allow us to pull a trailer in.

[RON CT110]

Hey Disco X - welcome! Looks like Gary or PCRover helped you. I see your User ID is now Dixco X.

I just got back from my business trips and will be working on Shaver Lake camping sites; got your email w/details on your toy hauler. I will let you know what I find in terms of big enough site to fit your trailer and close or next to the rest of group tent camping. Are you interested in joining the put lock Sat nite dinner - don't have to if prefer to cook your own meal. C yah! :)

[Disco X]

Ya, I'll contribute to the pot luck. I'll think about what to bring and let you know. Anything needed? I'm kind of worried weather won't allow the trailer. If that happens I'll probably be a loner unless I found a room. That might get hard being Valentines weekend. My last trip to Pismo we crashed in the Disco and it wasn't all that bad. Thanks,
Mike

[dcproven]

For the record,
we are staying in Shaver Lake Village Hotel too.

David.

[Disco X]

Ended up booking a cabin at the Village last night (i think). Looks like they had 2-3 left on the website. I guess they call back to confirm reservations but the cabin became no longer available after I reserved it. I'm still in for a pot luck and nice camp fire.

[RON CT110]

Sounds good; I will update the list and put you for cabin! Cool (atleast you don't have to worry about hauling your trailer)!

[RON CT110]

Ok, updated the attendee list - see back to the top!

So far:

Stats: 19 Vehicles confirmed
10 Tent Camping
8 Cabins
1 Day Trip Only

Now that I have the stats for the attendees especially tent campers, I went ahead and asked/reserved sites 234, 235 and 239!

Cost (I will pay for the sites in advance and we can figure out ea bill later). As a marker, $33 per site x 3 sites x 2 nites = $198 for the wknd div by 10 people. Comes to about $20 for the wknd.

Two vehicles are allowed overnight in each site so the only extra fees I'd anticipate would: 4 vehicles (3 sites x 2 vehicles = 6 subtract from total 10 tent campers).

With this said, cost is $6 overnight xtra vehicle parking fee x 4 vehicles x 2 nites = $48 div 10 people. Extra $5 ea for the grp to absorb. Guest for dinner not staying overnight = free.

Total $25 ea for 10 people tent camping. Not bad at all!

- - - About Sites 234, 235, 239 (update)

Sites 234, 235, 239 are the only few sites with the combo of having these features: near the rest room (heated rest room with hot shover, hot running water and public rest room - not a pit or porta booth), plus near overflow parking, PC wireless signal avail. All sites have AC/power outlet - bring your fav electric heater and extension cord.

Very spacious sites; great for hosting our planned Sat nite camp fire dinner, and space for our cabin dwelling friends! :); it's also somewhat wooded (reduce cold wind), flat ground and near the entrace (easier to find).

I picked these sites for the said reasons, and plus most importantly easier to acesss/find for our campers/guests vs designated group sites further out - see map (circled in red: sites 179-181). Enter Camp Edison (follow the directions on the trip sheet), mention the sites at the check-in booth (first come first pick of tent spots - Brandon and I are checking in Friday), and turn left to get there.

There are other sites: lake front sites (extra fee) and other group sites (16 or more but cost $175 per nite), but most are further down the camp (Camp Edison is big). Wanted make it easier for our tent campers/guest to find our sites vs risk for driving around/getting lost for nite/late comers/wasted time.

- - - End - - -

Ok, now time to plan for the pot luck, Friday pre-run and wheeling on Sat....more to come....

[keptin]

Potluck, I'm still not sure. I can't really make anything special from the dorms, hehe, unless you all want some top roman....j/k, we have a nice cafeteria, but I don't have much I can bring to the outing.

That being said, is there anything I could buy that would go with other people recipes? Maybe bring dessert options such as pumpkin pie...along those lines?




Also, I have 2 guests currently registered. Would the club mind if I brought up to 4 guests? They aren't people who would get rowdy or obnoxious. We can add up resources for the potluck and I'm pretty sure we can all fit in a med tent with me sleeping in the rover. Let me know.

When you say $25 each for 10 people tent camping, is that $25 per group for 10 members + their guests? Just need to confirm.

[RON CT110]

Hey Kep,

I know you are cool/responsible and sure likewise for your guest. Plus be great PR to have your friends meet/greet other Land Rover owners especially from NCLR and even SCLR (a few members here have dual citizenships - both NCLR and SCLR members).

I am know as a college student, lack of kitchen access and funds can be a challenge. Let me check what others on what they are bringing but dessert will be fine. Bring what you can manage.

I will most likely bring extra meet/food, or even baloot for you (j/k) so plenty to go around.

Yes, it will be $25 per tent for the wknd. Figured that's the easiest - there are other ways to slice/div cost, but I just want to focus on getting there, wheeling, having fun, enjoying dinner and staying warm! :)

Our combined 3 sites can take up to 16. Current calculation are: 10 tents = $25 ea for the wknd. If we get another guest or member to pitch another tent up to the capacity - will div total cost accordingly e.g. div 16 tents. Will make cost per tent for the wknd a lil cheaper.

Hope this helps! C yah!

[RON CT110]

Want to hear from folks coming to this trip - feedback on what you guys want to do.

Mike or Arnival took some photos on the road and trail conditions to Bald Mtn - http://www.lrrforums.com/showthread.php?t=6044

To get to the trail head, (from hwy 168) turn into:
- Dinkey Creek Rd and drive 9.1 miles on paved road. Mike reports deep snow (see pic 1).

- Turn left on Rocky Creek Road 3.4 miles of paved road. Deep snow.

- and then Left on Forest Road 9S43 (start of trail to Bald Mtn). Too much snow per Mike (see pic 2).

Getting to the trail head is pass-able and should be fun in itself. But the trail is another story!

My suggestion is go for it (camp/cabin, get to the trail head and see how far we can get thru safely).

We can check conditions the day before this trip (planning a pre-run to check this out Friday).

Want to hear some suggestions re: activity(ies) options once we get to the trail head! Do we:

- Have winch will travel and go for it. Try to get as far as we can on the trail.
- Or Get to the trail head, if too much snow, forget about the trail and perhaps use the time to do a winching trgn session/recovery technique in the snow.
- Or get there, if too much snow, park and go on hiking
- Or go back to camp and enjoy our favorite beverage and good! :corkysm21:

[Disco X]

It's been raining pretty good here in Fresno today. Just adding to the snow levels. I taken the road from Dinky and end up at Tamarac snowpark on the other side of Shaver. Might be fun loop if trail is to bad. Tamarac is mainly used for snowmobiles so not sure if its open all the way through. Good place for kids to play but snowpass required (found that out $$) I think the passes are free in Shaver.

[keptin]

If there is too much snow to wheel, I'd be happy to hike or go through recovery techniques, whatever works. Snow fort challenge. ;)

[RON CT110]

Ok, we are going to move forward with Bald Mtn on Sat. We will still have the Snow Run Sat a.m., see how far we can get.

Couple of updates:

- Spoke to Reserv Desk @ Camp Edison, we are confirmed for sites 234, 235 and 239 (Camp Edison is in Winter season and original sites 179-181 are closed). Yippie. Camp Edison is open and our sites are as good!

We are close to the over flow parking for our guest (cabin dwelling scared of tent camping people :D).

Near restroom - clean restroom, hot running water and shower!

And wooded area, and access to wireless internet signal, and AC outlet - tent campers bring your favorite heater if you'd like.

Also check-in is at noon Friday, and check out Sunday 11am (we have it for two nites for tent campers to come and go). Brandon, few others and I are going to check-in early Friday, pre-run and make sure "all good to go".

I am heading home from work and will update when I get the change tonight the following:

- Updated trip sheet. Like to add a quick session on "Installing Tire Chains" and "Winching/Recovery" if time permits and strong interest.

- Planned caravans

- General Info re: Traveling in the Snow msg from Caltrans/CHP, and Winter Wear

- More for tent campers: check list including gears and firewood

- Potluck/food

- And misc activites

.... will have a blast.......

[keptin]

As a reminder to everyone, always brings some quarters on these trips. It's the one thing I always forget, and I always end up needing them.

-Showers
-CA bridge tolls....get me every time, not used to them
-you name it

I have a bucket of change in the rover, but somehow when I get to the trail, all that's left are a ton of dimes and nickels.

[norcal relics]

Ron-

I'm now confirmed, have a room at the Shaver Lake Hotel. What's left on the potluck side? We are in a room with no kitchen, but I can probably improvise. Maybe a crock pot roast? Plug it in while we're on the trail, and come back to a nice roast with potatoes!

[norcal relics]

Forgot to ask, anyone else at the Shaver Lake Village Hotel?

[PCRover]

There are a few of us there. Myself, David, and you I know for sure.

[Disco X]

I'm staying there.

[RON CT110]

As a reminder to everyone, always brings some quarters on these trips. It's the one thing I always forget, and I always end up needing them.

-Showers
-CA bridge tolls....get me every time, not used to them
-you name it

I have a bucket of change in the rover, but somehow when I get to the trail, all that's left are a ton of dimes and nickels.

Ohh, by the way, Camp Edison's shower stalls are a lil more hi=tech. Takes re-loadable cards avail @ the check-in booth.

When I check-in early Friday, I will re-load mine and more than welcome to use the card swap for quarters.

Or if you happen to get their before 4pm on Friday, stop by @ the booth and get a shower card.

I recall it was something like .25 = 5 mins of hot shower. 2x 5 mins per shower is usually good for me!

[RON CT110]

Ron-

I'm now confirmed, have a room at the Shaver Lake Hotel. What's left on the potluck side? We are in a room with no kitchen, but I can probably improvise. Maybe a crock pot roast? Plug it in while we're on the trail, and come back to a nice roast with potatoes!

Hey Eric, that sounds good/tasty; whatever you'd like to share. I will update the potluck list. Cheers!

[norcal relics]

I'm staying there.

Heck, you live in Fresno, isn't that commuting distance? JK I have family in Kerman. See you at 'da village'

[norcal relics]

There are a few of us there. Myself, David, and you I know for sure.

This is great, I'll follow you around, I've never been there before. You got someone riding shotgun on the trail yet?

[RON CT110]

Preparation:

- Make sure your brakes, windshield wipers, defroster, heater and exhaust system are in top condition.

- Check your antifreeze and be ready for colder temperatures.

- Check your tires. Make sure they are properly inflated and the tread is in good condition.

- Always carry chains in snow country.

- Other items to carry: ice scraper or de-icer, a broom for brushing snow off your car, a shovel to free you car if it is "snowed in", sand or burlap for traction if your wheels should become mired in snow and an old towel to clean your hands.

- Take along water, food, warm blankets and extra clothing. A lengthy delay will make you glad you have them.

- Check here or check weather conditions before leaving

- Keep an updated map containing the areas of travel.

- Let someone know where you are going, and have Caltrans Highway tel # handy to check updated road conditions: 800.427.7623

Driving Tips:

- Allow enough time. Trips to the mountains can take longer during winter that other times of the year, especially if you encounter storm conditions or icy roads. Get an early start and allow plenty of time to reach your destination.

- Keep your gas tank full. It may be necessary to change routes or turn back during a bad storm or you may be caught in a traffic delay.

- Keep windshield and windows clear. You may want to stop at a safe turnout to use a snow brush or scraper. Use the car defroster and a clean cloth to keep the windows free of fog.

- Slow down. A highway speed of 65 miles per hour may be safe in dry weather, but an invitation for trouble on snow and ice. Snow and ice make stopping distances much longer, so keep your seat belt buckled and leave more distance between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead (on the road and on the trail).

- Bridge decks and shady spots can be icy when other areas are not. Remember to avoid sudden stops and quick direction changes.

- Be more observant. Visibility is often limited in winter by weather conditions. Slow down and watch for other vehicles that have flashing lights, visibility may be so restricted during a storm that it is difficult to see the slow moving equipment.

- When stalled, stay with your vehicle and try to conserve fuel while maintaining warmth. Be alert to any possible exhaust or monoxide problems.

- Copy of this avail from Caltans: click here: http://www.dot.ca.gov/hq/roadinfo/winter_driving_0607.pdf

[RON CT110]

One of the most important things to do is to layer.

What is layering? Basically, it's wearing a number of light or medium-weight articles of clothing, preferably topped by a breathable windproof or waterproof shell.

- For those times when we stop long enough for the body to cool (in the car or outside waiting for the caravan to move-on), you can put on a heavier layer out of your pack to stay warm.

- If you get warm while hiking or help recovery a vehicle, just peel off a layer.

- In time, you'll discover how much insulation you need to stay warm when hiking, and when resting.

- If you want to give yourself the largest margin of safety, you should stick with synthetics. It either wicks perspiration from your body to outer layers, or keeps you reasonably warm when wet.

- First layer is not always long johns, as you might suspect. There are a number of excellent high-wicking briefs for men and women. Patagonia makes an excellent polyester Capaline brief that wicks better than wool. An excellent performing and comfortable brief is the "Microclimate" manufactured by Early Winters. "MicroClimate" briefs are made from 92% polyester and 8% Lycra and perform as advertised. They wick well, they are warm, and exceptionally comfortable.

- Long Johns: Consider long johns and a matching top. One to stay away from is cotton. When cotton gets wet, it chills the body and drys slowly. Concentrate on long johns made from polyester, which are sold under a variety of trade names such as Capaline, Thermax, MicroClimate, REI's "M.T.S." fabric, CoolMax, ThermaStat, and others.

- Pants and Tops: The next layer is your main layer in cold weather - probably the layer that will see the most use. When the temperature dips into the 30s, its best to add a light polyester fleece pants and a fleece top. The fabric most commonly found on the shelves these days is "Polartec". They make three fabric weights, from light "100", to medium weight "200", to dead of winter "300". You might be able to find inexpensive polyester fleece at some of the large sporting good stores at a price much lower than "name" brands.

- Top layer: consider something that is windproof and waterproof. A windproof layer can noticeably increase your warmth on the trail. And you need to keep out the elements - namely, rain, snow and sleet, so you want your outer layer to be impervious to wet conditions.

- You can wear non-breathable nylon or vinyl top layer, but your insulation will start to get wet from perspiration - something to avoid, since perspiration cools the body. The best alternative seems to be the more expensive breathable waterproof rainwear. Gore-tex is still considered by many to be the best, but there are other variations available that perform adequately. I picked Mountain Hardwear shell jacket with their "Conduit" material.

- For socks (same principle): a sock made of wool, IsoWool, shearling, fleece and similar type synthetic materials should be used. The reason these types socks are excellent for winter wear is because if the socks get wet (due to excessive perspiration from the foot), the socks themselves do not lose their insulating properties. Additionally, these socks are also generally far thicker than a standard thin cotton sock, allowing the sock to absorb far more moisture. In cold weather - particularly if you engage in strenuous activities - avoid any socks that has any cotton content in it. Your foot will be thankful to you for it.

- Head and Hand Wear: for gloves, stick with polyester fleece. Cap: the body loses 80% of its heat through its head. A wool cap helps maintain this heat within your body, warming you rather than your surroundings.

- Boots: a number of new boot styles specifically designed for winter hiking use are avail (key waterproof).

[RON CT110]

Some of the tips are from the Winter Survival Class offered by REI. Not going to list any specific food(s) (to each own) but more generalities:

- Stay Hydrated. Fluid should be easy to access. Drink at regular intervals even if you are not thirsty. Boil snow before drinking.

- Need higher calorie intake in a winter environment: 60% carbo, 15 protein and 20% fat.

- Have trail foods: snack frequently, pack ample supplies.

- Hot foods if possible: soups, broths, MREs, etc...

- Pack emergency food/water/blanket

[RON CT110]

- The first important piece of special equipment is Zip Lock Bags!

All underwear, socks, and long underwear should be packed in zip-lock bags.

All other clothing should be stored in something waterproof. This can range from a garbage bag to stuff sacks.

All the wool and polypropylene in the world won’t do any good if they're wet from the beginning. Dryness is the key to success.

- Foam pads are the second most important piece of special equipment. The ground is cold! When you are sleeping, it is important to have that added insulation under you to avoid losing body heat to warming the Earth. Remember the rule of thumb, it is a good idea to have two to three times as much insulation under you as you do above you.

- Carry a wool blanket (Army Blanket). Great add'l insulation between the foam pad and your sleeping bag. Also to wrap around the body while standing around in camp.

- The next most important piece of equipment is a Mummy sleeping bags. It provides a great degree of warmth due to the contour and snug fit of the bag to the body. These bags can range anywhere in price a 35 degree bag to a zero degree or sub-zero degree bag. Go for a good quality zero degree to fifteen degree mummy bag for California use.

- 3 or 4 season tent is next. Check REI, Mountain Hardwear or your outdoor specialist for options!

- Bedding Down. Sleeping in the winter is really no different than camping out in the summer. However, their are a few important tips that require mentioning. The first most important tip is to never wear wet clothes to sleep. Not only will it decrease your body temperature, it will also cause moisture in your sleeping bag that will decrease the insulating properties of the bag.

Secondly, if you do get cold during the night, do not place your head inside the sleeping bag as this will cause moisture from your breath to have the same effect as mentioned above. Wearing a hat while your sleeping instead will produce the same results as sticking your head inside the bag.

- the insulated capabilities of the bag come from warmth being trapped in the dead air space of the synthetic fibers (or bag fill), be sure that the bag is as fluffed out as possible to increase the insulating characteristics. In addition, it is recommended to keep the bag in a stuff sack until you are ready to bed down, this will keep moisture in the air from finding a place on or in your bag before you bed down. When storing your sleeping bag at home, hang it in a closet rather than in the stuffsack in order to avoid crushing the fill in the bag.

- The first layer down should be a plastic ground cloth to keep moisture from the cold ground from coming in contact with and ultimately penetrating your tent and sleeping bag.

- Next layer is ½ folded ground cloth, then layout the sleeping pad.

- On top of the pad layout a folded wool blanket (army blankets) optional to add extra insulation from the cold ground.

- Then place your sleeping bag on top and fold the remaining ½ of the ground cloth on top of the bag.

- The ground cloth on top of the bag helps to prevent dew and frost from forming on the bag and ultimately reducing the insulating capabilities.

- In extreme cold weather, newspaper, hay or more natural materials such as leaves and pine needles can be placed under the sleeping pad to provide more insulation.

- Finally, get warm before going to bed. Increasing activity by cutting wood for the morning fire or doing jumping jacks increases your metabolism and body heat before hitting the sack!

[RON CT110]

- If at night you get cold, let someone know so action can be taken before injury from cold weather health problems occur. It's better to be kidded about forgetting your sleeping bag or not bringing extra wool socks than risking hypothermia.

- Organization and proper preparation is very important in cold weather camping. Good meals, proper shelter and comfortable sleeping arrangements make for an enjoyable outing.

- Drink 2 quarts of fluids per day besides what you drink at meals.

- Learn to recognize and treat cold weather health problems. These include frostbite, hypothermia, dehydration, chilblains, trench foot, snow blindness and carbon monoxide poisoning.

- If you feel cold gather some wood or do some other type of work. Working will help warm you.

- Just say no to ICE! :) Eating ice or snow can reduce your body temperature and it is not pure. Don't eat it.

- Snow and ice can be used for drinking water but only after boiling.

- No open flames (candles, matches, etc.) or propane heater unless it's a catalytic heater like the Coleman Sportcat inside the tents.

- Wiggling your toes inside your boots will help keep feet warm. If your feet get cold put on a stocking cap.

- Take and wear dark sunglasses if snow/sunny day is in the forecast. The glare of the sun off the snow could lead to snow blindness. The sunglasses will reduce the glare.

- Use the solid fuel hand warmers. They are cheaper and you can light them yourself.

- Keep off ice on streams, lakes and ponds.

- It takes longer to cook food in cold weather, so plan accordingly.

- Keep your matches in a metal match safe as plastic can freeze and break if dropped. And carry extra matches.

- Gather twice as much fuel as you think you'll need for fires.

- Carry tinder from home. It may be hard to find in snow or wet conditions.
Gather your wood and tinder for the morning fire in the evening so that you will be able to start the fire quickly in the morning.

- Space blankets make good wind shields only.

- Carry extra plastic bags in cold weather. They can be used as personal wind shields and ponchos by slitting a hole in the top for your head to go through.

- Flashlight batteries are effected by cold. You can revive a dead battery by warming it up near the fire.

- You may want to take a bottle of propane into your tent with you at night. This will keep the bottle warmer and make it easier to light your stove for breakfast.

- Heaters inside your tent can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.

[jhmover]

Ron, I'll be doing the tent thing if you want to add a space (if you think you need to).

[astateofmike]

I think that we should remove the reference to Camp Edison/Shaver Lake and with Ron's permission, make this a .pdf document in a NCLR Reference Section. As we go on trips throughout the year, Black Rock etc, the person providing information for "desert travel" or "Coastal Travel" etc would have their info added to the Section also, providing a library for members to reference prior to a trip.

[PCRover]

Ron, are you a speed typer? It would take me hours to type all that in.
Ok, maybe not hours, but quite some time...

Good idea Mike.

[RON CT110]

Took me hours also! :) But started on Wordpad or MS Word (depending on what's avail to me) so I can type off-line w/o being timed-out here, cut/paste from other resources, and then cut/paste final doc here.

Not a problem converting to PDF. But let me check for spelling and grammar. Wordpad doesn't have spell check (which I used in this case); just need another run proof reading.

[astateofmike]

Just such an excellent document that I would like to not see lost in the "forums" later. It can be used as a guide for any winter trip/expedition.

Let me know if you want help with it Ron.

[RON CT110]

Thanks Mike! I re-read my post and will make changes e.g. spelling. Then you can convert them to PDFs!

- - -

Ok, we're moving Up @ Camp Edison!

I just got off the phone with Camp Edision; we originally had 179-181, but unknown to me, these sites are closed for the winter; so we moved to 234-235 to 239.

Well, Sally from Camp Edison informed me that two of sites 234-235 will be used to dump show (Camp Edison will be plowing on Friday and dumping the snow on 234-235).

Told Sally, I am not a happy camper (parump pump) having to move again!

(Gotta work it) so finally, our last move. We have Group Sites 230, 231 and 233 standard rate $235.00 a nite. Near the rest room. And designed to accommodate 40 people (more than enough for our tent campers, and even our guest for the camp fire dinner Sat), and 12 vehicles.

- - - sample Camp Edison pricing - - -
Paved Sites
(Sites 176-185, 213-229, 232, 234-247. 250-252) $ 33.00

Group Sites
230-231 & 233 $ 235.00 per night
- - -

The punch line, we're getting the big group site(s) (normally $235 a nite) same rate as our previous paved sites ($33 x 3 = $99 a nite).

And guess what - knock down another few more dollars for winter discount ($30 x 3 = 90 a nite x 2 = 180). Div 180 by 10 people = $18.00 for the wkdn ea person cost. Yippie!

Plus Camp Edison will not charge us extra vehicle parking. Save your money for soup or hot shower card! :D

Been wanting to check out Group Sites 230-231 and 233 (since my last visit) for the "Return to Shaver Lake/Bald Mtn" trip this summer. Now I can!

Last, need to finalize the following:
- Caravan plans Friday
- Firewood (who else can bring them...me, Enrique (discochef), Mark (drafdog) - we need wood
- Pot luck list
- Optional activity Sunday e.g. fun @ the snow park, check out Sierra @ Tahoe Ski Resort... to each own but want to lay down the options
- Weather check/road condition the day before the trip
- Cell phone exchange/list
- Attendance confirmation check list (so we know to expect you and worry if you don't show up)
- Final check to make sure you brought everything as planned e.g. sleeping bag, food.... see trip sheet.

Cheers!

[keptin]

Amazing work Ron! I can't wait until we head out.

Anyone coming from the Sacramento area that wants to convoy?...it's a decent drive from Davis to the camp site.

[PCRover]

Hey Ron, You may want to think about what we could do if the weather turns bad Saturday night and the campfire dinner becomes impractical.

Hit the local bar and forget dinner would be my suggestion ;) :D.

[RON CT110]

X2

In fact, we are going to recce the local bars Friday! :D

Remember Falls Bar & Grill last trip to Shaver Lake (June); I'm think that's a good back-up place!

The Falls Bar & Grill
41782 Dorabella Rd
Shaver Lake, CA 93664


Hey Ron, You may want to think about what we could do if the weather turns bad Saturday night and the campfire dinner becomes impractical.

Hit the local bar and forget dinner would be my suggestion ;) :D.

[PCRover]

Well I didn't go in June, but I do remember one bar we stopped at at the recce. I will be there Friday to help in the Bar recce! :D

[RON CT110]

Check out this Youtube clip (9 mins 27 sec long): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ej9SpKQYfBM&feature=related (skip to 2 mins 00 sec - start of snow driving). Road in the clip reminds of Dinkey Creek Rd.

Just wanted to show a sneak peek of snow driving in deep snow

Definately bring snow chains, snow shovel, recovery and winch(es) in the grp will be handy... to get further in deep snow.

Ok, the clip is not Shaver Lake; somebody bring a video camera - will make our own Youtube clip.

And no worries unlike in the clip, Camp Edision in Shaver Lake is "not" primative camping...

[RON CT110]

Well I didn't go in June, but I do remember one bar we stopped at at the recce. I will be there Friday to help in the Bar recce! :D

My bad memory; it was at the recce that I meant. Same bar. Will have a designated driver Friday! :)

[RON CT110]

If you have head lamps bringing em... (hands free flash light) keep your hands warm in the pockets.

Bought mine @ Wilderness Exchange in Berkeley for $10.00; has high intensity led lights; last longer on just 3x AAA batteries - pic 1.

Also I upgraded my cable to chains. Bought my set for 265/75/16s for $99 @ Wilderness Exchange - will stay with CT110. The cable set will go in the trunk of the family vehicle - pic 2.

And don't forget hi-lift jack, base and mate; recovery gears including straps, snatch block if you have a winch....and winch controller - pics 3-6.

[RON CT110]

As the trip leader, let me make a few sugg and have it in this order:

- Since we will have est 20 trucks attending; will need to break the grp into two smaller manage-able groups.

- With this said, will need two trail leaders (suggest one group with Brandon (Rovertech18), and the other with Mike (Arnival). Both Brandon and Mike are more familair with Bald Mtn trail and been out on during snow). Taking back-up right now in case Brandon or Mike are unable!

- Communication:

1st setup: Ideal will be CB 7 (most common and better range then FRS but limited)

2nd setup: Ham users w/CB 7 and FRS will be a plus (due to range and clarity) so you can help rely msg to weak CB and FRS signal/users.

Last: FRS = better than nothing. But really need to get a CB; CB is a lil better than FRS in range. FRS will only be good one car ahead and behind while driving on road.

Will need to establish something should FRS or CB communication break down happens. If you see the guy behind you flashing their head light(s) = he or she is trying to get your attention. Watch for theit signal left or right hand turn = pull over to that direction.

- Play by Play Sat Feb 16

Start lining up @ Camp Edison near sites 230-231 around 9:30 (why early - it takes about 15-30 mins for people to get ready :)).

Also use this time to hit the rest room, make sure you have all your stuff for the trail, air down and chain-on depending on Hwy 168 road conditions.

We will "all" caravan together from Camp Edison at 10am Sat; need to do radio check at that point/vehicle count.

Once we get to the trail head, will break the group into two said groups. Will place a min one of Ham w/CB and FRS in each group. Min one w/a winch in ea group. And will need a trail leader and tail gunner for each group w/min CB radios.

First group go ahead: get ready e.g. air down and/or chain (if have not done so @ Camp Edison).

2nd group wait for 30 mins perhaps we can have a winching safety session and/or install snow chain session.

Est time to start heading to Camp 3pm. Will all need to meet up again where we first started.

We will "all" caravan back together to Camp Edison at 3pm (before it gets dark). And adj return time if someone has carnage.

Finally, need to do vehicle/people count before we head back; need to make sure "everyone" is accounted for. Really important! No one left behind.

Arrive @ camp at 4pm and get ready for camp fire dinner 6pm.

What do you guys think?

[keptin]

Let me know if I missed anything. I'm using it to help 4 others pack their gear.

--|VEHICLE|--

-Snow Chains (for legal purposes if anything else)
-Recovery Gear
-Shovel (metal)
-CB & Antenna
-Fire Extinguisher
-duct tape (is there ever a time when you don't need it?)
-Ice scraper, snow window-brush
-windshield wiper fluid
-tools


--|CONSUMABLES|--

-Food (3 meals per day, times however many people come)
-WATER
-Drinks
-POTLUCK on SAT night; desert, pie
-Snacks (low volume, high calorie)



--|CAMPING SUPPLIES|--

-Flashlight/headlamp
-Sleeping bag (0 deg F bag recommended)
-Sleeping pad
-pillow
-Toiletries (toothbrush & toothpaste, soap for showers, etc.)
-Towel
-Toilet Paper
-quarters for showers, etc.
-Tents
-Tarp
-garbage bags
-silverware, plates, cups, paper towels
-coffee mug


--|CLOTHING|--

Weather- Highs in the 40s/Lows in the 20s; Sunny with 10% chance of snow. 80-100% HUMIDITY. MAY GET AS COLD AS 10 DEG F AT NIGHT.

*LIMIT YOUR COTTON, it absorbs. Bring synthetic or wool items if possible*

-[teir 1] long underwear baselayer
-[teir 2] thermal layer
-[teir 3] snow pants
-Jeans (wear one pair, bring another)

-[teir 1] undershirt baselayer
-[teir 2] thermal shirt (polar fleece, etc.)
-[teir 3] lightweight wind & water resistant shell
-[teir 3] heavy snow jacket (if it doesn't have a hood, bring something to keep your head warm)
-socks (preferably synthetic or wool) *You will get them wet, bring multiple pairs*
-underwear (synthetic if possible) multiple pairs

-Hat/Beanie (optional), scarf (optional)
-Heavy snow gloves
-Heavy snow boots
-Secondary boots (in case first pair get soaked)


--|OTHER|--

-camera
-iPod, etc. (for the drive)
-batteries for electrical devices if needed
-sunscreen
-Trail Map
-Trip list information printout (http://nclrclub.org/forum/showthread.php?t=66) (w/ phone numbers and info)

[keptin]

Hey guys, does anyone know if we get cell phone service at the campground or the surrounding areas?

[PCRover]

I was able to get service with Verizon last spring.

[RON CT110]

Hey guys, does anyone know if we get cell phone service at the campground or the surrounding areas?

Hey Josh, was busy these last few days; just getting back; I have Verizon and was able to get reception in Camp Edison. I recall all of 168 and part of Dinkey Creek Rd (on the way to Bald Mtn). Don't recall getting any signal in the Bald Mtn trail.

[RON CT110]

Josh, looks complete to me! I like that you have back-up stuff e.g. jeans, boots...

Few other suggestions:

- Bring a Can of de-icer; otherwise, hot water in the bathroom is avail and can be handy to clear the windshield of ice.

- Army or wool blanket (if you want extra insulation or layer)

- Good to bring toilet paper; however, just bring a roll for back-up; Camp Edison has a camp host who keeps the bathroom stocked

- Quarter for shower = you can turn those quarters or dollars into a reload-able Shower Card. Camp Edison's showers only works on this reload-able card @ Camp Edison. Believe you get 5 or 10 mins hot shower for every .50 cents. The camp check-in booth/entrance is open till 5pm Friday (get your shower card).

- AC outlet is avail at our campsite; bring your charger for e.g. Ipod, cell... Bring batteries also like you planned to.

- Ken's Market is about 300-400 yards from Camp Edison. If you forget someting e.g. food, drinks.... most likely Ken carries them. I called and Ken's Market will be open wknd of our trip.


Let me know if I missed anything. I'm using it to help 4 others pack their gear.

--|VEHICLE|--

-Snow Chains
-Recovery Gear
-Snow Shovel
-CB & Antenna
-Fire Extinguisher
-duct tape (is there ever a time when you don't need it?)
-Ice scraper, snow window-brush
-windshield wiper fluid
-tools


--|CONSUMABLES|--

-Food (3 meals per day, times however many people come)
-WATER
-Drinks
-POTLUCK on SAT night; desert, pie
-Snacks (low volume, high calorie)



--|CAMPING SUPPLIES|--

-Flashlight/headlamp
-Sleeping bag (0 deg F bag recommended)
-Sleeping pad
-pillow
-Toiletries (toothbrush & toothpaste, soap for showers, etc.)
-Towel
-Toilet Paper
-quarters for showers, etc.
-Tents
-Tarp
-garbage bags
-silverware, plates, cups, paper towels
-coffee mug


--|CLOTHING|--

Weather- Highs in the 40s/Lows in the 20s; Sunny with 10% chance of snow. 80-100% HUMIDITY. MAY GET AS COLD AS 10 DEG F AT NIGHT.

*LIMIT YOUR COTTON, it absorbs. Bring synthetic or wool items if possible*

-[teir 1] long underwear baselayer
-[teir 2] thermal layer
-[teir 3] snow pants
-Jeans (wear one pair, bring another)

-[teir 1] undershirt baselayer
-[teir 2] thermal shirt (polar fleece, etc.)
-[teir 3] lightweight wind & water resistant shell
-[teir 3] heavy snow jacket (if it doesn't have a hood, bring something to keep your head warm)
-socks (preferably synthetic or wool) *You will get them wet, bring multiple pairs*
-underwear (synthetic if possible) multiple pairs

-Hat/Beanie (optional), scarf (optional)
-Heavy snow gloves
-Heavy snow boots
-Secondary boots (in case first pair get soaked)


--|OTHER|--

-camera
-iPod, etc. (for the drive)
-batteries for electrical devices if needed
-sunscreen
-Trail Map

[keptin]

Just want to get suggestions on food for a few college kids. Easy, portable stuff that requires minimal space and preparation if possible. Btw, does anyone have a grill that I can use...are there going to be fire pits in use?

--|FOOD|--

2x Breakfast
2x Lunch
2x Dinner (one night is potluck)
snacks


ideas;

-turkey sandwiches
-burgers/hot dogs/chicken
-muffins
-cereal
-fruit, trail mix


Bacon and eggs are an option, but only if someone has a pan and grill we can use. I'm coming from the dorm, the only off road stuff I've got is what's in the car.

[Disco X]

Wondering how many people going on the trip have never been to Shaver?

[dcproven]

I got some T-mobile last summer, although I don't remember how good/bad it was...

[PCRover]

I would guess at least 50% have not been there.


Wondering how many people going on the trip have never been to Shaver?

[Disco X]

Shaver Lake the town is very small. They do have a few small store's even a hardware store. I usually try to buy something to help the locals. Edison Camp is very close to the town. Ken's has cool ski clothing from the 80's:p Ok sit down resturant- The Sawmill-small with fireplace. Good burgers- Hamburger Hut. One cool small bar with pool table and snowdeck, can't remember the name.

[ROVRMAN2]

HOT WATER on ICY WINDSHIELD???

I hear the sound of glass cracking.....:eek:

Cold H2O on a cold windshield is OK, taking an insurance chance with hot water on frozen glass. BE CAREFUL.

[ROVRMAN2]

HOT WATER on ICY WINDSHIELD???

I hear the sound of glass cracking.....:eek:

Cold H2O on a cold windshield is OK, taking an insurance chance with hot water on frozen glass. BE CAREFUL.

NO JEANS (cotton)...BAD if they get wet and in the cold, u could end up with a refrigerator effect.
Fleece better than wool, polyester(polypropylene) better than cotton.
LAYER,LAYER,LAYER.....

The above suggestions only pertain to cold inclement weather.

[RON CT110]

I don't mean scolding hot water; I've used pan filled hot water (maybe I should say warm water) from the faucet to help de-ice a windshield and have not had any problems w/cracking.

De-icer is better of course, and if De-icer is not avail, water can come in handy instead is what I am thinking!


HOT WATER on ICY WINDSHIELD???

I hear the sound of glass cracking.....:eek:

Cold H2O on a cold windshield is OK, taking an insurance chance with hot water on frozen glass. BE CAREFUL.

[dcproven]

You can use some alcohol, as it freezes at a lower temperature than water.

[astateofmike]

You can use some alcohol, as it freezes at a lower temperature than water.

Blasphamy....David.....I can't even so upset you augh ......

[dcproven]

I meant *rubbing* alcohol not drinking alcohol :D

[keptin]

HOT WATER on ICY WINDSHIELD???

I hear the sound of glass cracking.....:eek:



As long as there wasn't a huge difference in temperature, it's unlikely that a pail of hot water on a modern windshield would put it below it's glass transition temperature due to a number of factors. You're probably safe.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glass_transition_temperature
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Annealing_%28glass%29


Then again, I still prefer my ice-scraper.

[ROVRMAN2]

As long as there wasn't a huge difference in temperature, it's unlikely that a pail of hot water on a modern windshield would put it below it's glass transition temperature due to a number of factors. You're probably safe.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glass_transition_temperature
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Annealing_%28glass%29


Then again, I still prefer my ice-scraper.

After reading the wiki links,me thinks the English translation is "use ice-scraper".
:)

[RON CT110]

Ok instead of reading 12 pages of posts/threads, here's a summary:

We are on for sure to our First NCLR Show Run @ Shaver Lake/Bald Mtn Feb 15-17. Less than 5 days! :headspin:

- Link to the trip sheet detail: http://nclrclub.org/forum/showthread.php?t=66

- Link to the Friday caravan (planning in progress/need to firm up by Wed): http://www.lrrforums.com/showthread.php?t=6065

- Link to the optional Saturday nite camp fire dinner/potluck (planning in progress/need to firm up by Wed): http://www.lrrforums.com/showthread.php?t=6237

- For campers, sample of what you should pack (this is Josh's list - need to decide on your own): http://nclrclub.org/forum/showpost.php?p=1026&postcount=50

-Important date/time to remember:

*Optional Friday afternoon Bald Mtn Recce (meeting time TDB), and Review of recce @ Falls Bar & Grill for dinner/drinks! :corkysm21:

*Line up between Sat 9:30-10:00am near site 230 @ Camp Edison; leave @ 10am and head to Bald Mtn

*Optional camp fire dinner/potluck @ Camp Edison group site 230/231/233 (back-up if snowing is to hit local restaurant)
*Check Out Sunday (there is est 30% chance of snow)

- Important notes:

*We've secured campsites 230, 231 and 233. Base camp 230.

Because Camp Edison is in winter schedule, they will have limited staffing @ the check-in booth (however open for camping all season) and will be in/out of the check-in both.

With this said, I asked Camp Edison to send me the tags (see pic) in case we get there late Friday. We're good to go.

*Folks who are staying in cabins are welcome to attend our planned camp fire dinner/potluck Sat nite. Mexxis is on the menu! :Headbanger_smilie_b

*Weather forecast (see pic) sunny Friday and sun/partly cloudy Saturday. Highs in the 40s and low in the 20s. 10% chance of snow. However, Sunday there is a 30% of snow - folks planning to stay longer need to plan for this.
- bring your sunglasses (snow can be blinding to some folks)

*For campers, you will need a shower card to use the shower stall @ Camp Edison. Avail at the check-in booth (Friday only/booth closed Sat and Sun). If you're unable to get a card, PM me and I can get you one, or you can borrow mine (.50 = 5 mins of hot water I believe).

*Bring chains for legal reason and will come in handy for powering thru the snow trail Sat.

*Suggest filling up after you get off on hwy 99 and before heading up to hwy 168. With a full tank (depending on how much gas your truck consumes), you should have enough gasoline to get up to Shaver Lake, and to trail.
*And then just fill-up again Sunday @ Shaver Lake (gas station not too far from Camp Edison near cross street hwy 168/Dinkey Creek Road).

*If you forget something (rather than turning around) there are a few food places when you exit hwy 99 and on your way to 168 hwy. And most likely Ken's Market in Shaver Lake (I called/open during this time) will have it; not too far from Camp Edison. Might be a lil expensive but Ken will be open during our stay!

*There is also a Napa Autp Parts store (probably will have limited LR parts, but for coolant, battery, maybe belts.... just fyi in case) on Dinkey Creek Road (not too far away from Camp Edison).

*Trip sheet has important tel phone number for e.g. tow service, Sheriff.....

*Ron's cell phone (will PM to attendees)
*CB channel 7 (main); believe e.g. jhmover, Tigerdan are bringing their extra handheld. For those w/0 CB radio, please see one of these guys. FRS 7 will work - better than nothing. Our Ham Operator will have both CB, and FRS, and can help faciliate communication.

[PCRover]

Due to an illness in the family my travel plans have become unstable for this weekend. I may not be able to attend and thus am forced to cancel my reservation at the Shaver Lake Village Hotel. So if anyone needs a room, there will be a vacancy as of Wednesday morning. If I am able to attend after all, I will make other arrangements for accommodation's.

[RON CT110]

Sorry to hear Gary! Hope all is well with yuor family member and catch up with you on next trip!

[RON CT110]

Chime In/post here if you are still going and when to expect you @ Shaver Lake so I can have you on my check list/start worrying if you don't show up!

Jim (Jhmover),Dave (Sasquatch) and I should be rolling in to Shaver Lake around 2pm Friday.

So far these are the folks coming for this trip:

- David Badillo
LR3/1 Guest/Cabin/Arriving Friday afternoon

- David Cortes
D1/Family/Cabin Shaver Lake Village/Friday afternoon 4-5pm

- Enrique Gomez
D1/Tent Camping or trailer/Saturday morning 8am

- Joshua Shapiro & guest
D2/2 Guests/Tent Camping/Friday nite

- Michael Walton
RRC/Day Trip Only No Camping

- Mike Crowder
D1/Cabin

- Ron Boston
CT110/Tent Camping/Friday afternoon 2pm

- Stevenmd
RRC/Cabin/Pending

- SFDiscoII
DII/Tent Camping

- N2RVRS
RRC/Tent Camping/Saturday morning 8am

- Eric Etischer
D1/Tent Camping

- JHMover
D1/Tent Camping/Friday afternoon 2pm

- Eric
RRC/Cabin/Caravan with Tiger Dan and Keptin

- Arnival
D1/cabin

- RoverTech18
DI/Tent Camping/Friday morning

- Ewen
P38/Tent Camping

- Tiger Dan
RRC/Tent Camping/Caravan with Norcal Relic and Keptin

[RON CT110]

Look forward to this trip!

I am bringing the Camel Trophy D110 for this trip; I think it will fair better powering thru deep snow w/lots of torque at low rpm, mud terrain tires and chains! Plus winch! :headspin:

C yah!

[RON CT110]

:)

By the way, Josh (Keptin), one of our college student NCLR member, and his guest(s) on this trip are going to be filming this event.

His buddies including JP is going into cinematography.

Josh and JP did a fantastic job filming the prev trip to Pismo (famous flying Rovers) 2-3 years ago - check this out:
http://kep1.com/images/Site%20Media/Videos/Pismo%202006%20Low%20Quality.wmv

Now couple of years later and stuff they've learned, they are bringing their Canon XHA1 and Nikon D200s, and will taking lots of HD footage. So comb your hair if you have any :), flex your LRs and let's have fun!

I just loaded the Camel Trophy truck with camping equip, gears, cans of spare diesel fuel (non avail in Shaver Lake unfortunately); tested off-road lights, winch; changed oil all this morning (boy, my neighbors love me - all that noise)!

Also throw in the back of your truck any snow sled and/or snow shoes if you have em for alt activities Sat. I can see us trying to power thru the snow and having fun getting stuck! I have a pair of these; avail for rent at your local sporting good store - pic.

Drive safely everyone; c yah @ Shaver Lake (camp site 230, 231, and 233). Call my cell if you get lost or need to reach me!

[SFDiscoII]

I have to bail on the trip. If someone reads this before they head up to Shaver, please let Ron know I cannot make it.

I did try to come, I packed and started heading that way. I got as far as Dublin and pulled off for gas and a cuppa and wham my truck started to make a terrible clunking noise. Rather than push my luck and get further from home (and more importantly Frank and Tony's) I decided to turn around and drive slowly home.

Besides I would have hated to break down on the trail and drag the rest of you down.

Hope you all have a great trip.

Leigh

[Gotrovr]

I have to bail on the trip. If someone reads this before they head up to Shaver, please let Ron know I cannot make it.

I did try to come, I packed and started heading that way. I got as far as Dublin and pulled off for gas and a cuppa and wham my truck started to make a terrible clunking noise. Rather than push my luck and get further from home (and more importantly Frank and Tony's) I decided to turn around and drive slowly home.

Besides I would have hated to break down on the trail and drag the rest of you down.

Hope you all have a great trip.

Leigh

Sorry to here that, hope your Disco makes a full recovery

[w2334]

I'm having electrical problems and it doesn't look like we're going to make it. I couldn't find Ron's cell number - so if someone is reading this and hasnt left yet please pass on the message.

[Gotrovr]

I'm having electrical problems and it doesn't look like we're going to make it. I couldn't find Ron's cell number - so if someone is reading this and hasnt left yet please pass on the message.

Michael, no worries, I will try and relay the message

[w2334]

Thanks.

Truck was packed and ready to go but the electrical gods said no.

[monty]

might have been lucky you didn't make it, i dunno. i got back this morning and it was VERY camel trophy like. we winched, put tires back on beads, winched, had flats from the snow and ice getting in the rim, and did i mention we winched. i wasn't there friday night but they didn't get back to camp until 5 am. yesterday we got to the trail head at about 11 am and most of us didn't get out until after 1 am. i had to leave before the last two got out. hope all went well with them.

[Gotrovr]

i wasn't there friday night but they didn't get back to camp until 5 am.

:eek:

[PCRover]

Wow! Sounds like quite a trip! Some one needs to post an account of both days happenings.

[monty]

i'm sure a write will be on its way once everyone recovers. i just felt bad leaving Mike and Enrique up on the hill. hope they got out ok.

[DiscoChef]

i'm sure a write will be on its way once everyone recovers. i just felt bad leaving Mike and Enrique up on the hill. hope they got out ok.

No problemo Compadre!! You still had a 2 1/2 hour drive home. I hope your daughter Kambi is well rested and BTW, thanks for taking care of Sebastian.

Made it back to the trail head by 2:30 AM. and campground just after 3 HOLLY COW, what a long day, but looking back it was fun (sorta). Will definetly go down in the books as an unforgetable experience!

Will write more later, too tired to keep typing:eek:

Monty, did you mentioned some winching was involved?

Balut for breakfast is the breakfast of champions!! At least in the Philipines
(I Highly recomend it)

[RON CT110]

Sorry to hear Leigh and Michael had truck issues; hopefully will be resolved soon. Yes, mechanical breakdown is the last thing you want on this snow trip or any trip! Good call on bailing out!

-- Start

Ditto on what Monty said, it was Camel Trophy Spirit like. Guys digging, pushing, pulling, running, did I say digging (didn’t want to forget)… in snow and in the night to help the next vehicle get thru several challenging areas.

I have to give the folks (and their families) who went on this trip a hand for keeping their cool despite the long drive to/from, delays on the trail, and folks who helped each other out to get unstuck. And not to forget the folks who braved camping in the snow. No body damage and nobody got hurt were important, but it was a long day Saturday I agree.

Honestly, we would have gotten back sooner on the return Saturday if the two Toyota pick-up trucks just stayed back (on Dinkey Creek Road) and didn’t head up and tear up the trail more (already torn up and soft from returning vehicles), blocked our way (keep in mind Rocky Creek Road is deep in snow and one lane for both in and out vehicles), and held us up. We were about 1 mile away from the asphalt Dinkey Creek road (to hit the road home). Couple of trucks from our group ahead made it to Dinkey Creek (Brandon, JP, Eticher) warned the two trucks not to go up there yet and wait; and that 10 trucks are trying to negotiate about 100 yards of torn up/soft snow section about 1 mile up. Didn’t listen, and ended up entering the trail, reached our spot, blocked our way, caused more delay...

On a positive note, folks had fun despite the long hard day. Driving my CT110 for the first time on snow and on Bald Mountain (driven in the snow before on my Disco but not in the Camel Trophy truck) was fantastic! The landscape covered with white snow was beautiful; it was sunny and not too cold during the day. I want to say thank you to Brandon, our LR mechanic on this trip and the other trail leader in group 2, who helped with any LR issues both new and old (more to come) e.g. one of the LR3s electronic suspension failed but electronics recovered, and thank you to Mike (Arnival) for leading the trail. I also want to thanks Keptin and JP for filming this - can't wait to see the final product! Eric and JP for coming back on Saturing, bringing food and everything.

As far as a write-up, at least now folks can formulate their thoughts and decide if wheeling in the deep snow is for them or not. It’s a lot better for me to write about this after some shut eyes, and then say “dang I did it and would do it again or not (laugh); however, if I had to do this again, would make a few changes/suggestions: like pack for over night camping on the trail, leave women/children behind, start earlier, make it a smaller group and so forth (more to come on this).

Overall, we had both modern Land Rover and from the heritage on this trip: LR3s, Defender 110, RRC, D2s, D1s and a guest on this trip. It was an experience long and hard day Saturday to remember!

The recovery equipments/gears “we have all been preparing” (and spent our hard earned dollars) to use came truly handy: from Hi-lift jack (plus high-lift mate and base) and air compressor to lift truck from the rims/pop the bead back; recovery traps from single strap to multi-straps, winch, snatch block… even sand ladders (or snow ladders).

To give our readers some idea of amount of road with and with-out snow we went thru to get to the trail head: from Hwy 168 and then 9 miles on Dinkey Creek Road were cleared of snow. Then to get to Bald Mountain trail head, we drove about 4 miles on snow on Rocky Creek Road, normally paved road but deep in snow and drive-able for the most part till on the return when got soft/torn-up by other trucks. It’s also a single lane (delay factor).

Then turn left on Forest Road 9S43 (begging of the Bald Mountain Trail). We were able to negotiate 3 miles on the Bald Mountain trail. We turned around after mile 3 - right about where the road forked to the South and North loop of Bald Mountain, and before the granite slab.

A bit of back ground during planning, didn’t expect our trucks to get as far on Rocky Creek Road, and on the actual Bald Mountain trail on Friday (some of us got there Friday and did a night pre-run), and all of us on the actually NCLR trail run on Saturday.

The week or two before, the trail head was not passable. Reason so much emphasis in the food prep/camp fire dinner. Figured go on a quick snow run Saturday, turn around and head back to camp, kids can go sledding (which some who stayed Sunday did) while the adults pre for dinner, and enjoy dinner (figured make up for the expected short snow run).

During the Friday pre-run, to our surprise it was passable (yippie), and at the same time, passable means other trucks will be tearng up the trails.

To address the 5am return, the small group who did the Friday night pre-run didn’t leave camp till about 10pm and didn’t get to the Rocky Creek Road till about 11pm. Made it thru Rocky Creek Rd fine, got as far as where we turned around on Saturday, and the real delay was creating the turn around point. Drove back without any getting stuck; figured repeat for Saturday! However, there were far less truck on the pre-run (5 vehicles), no traffic, and no idiots like the two in the toyota pick-up trucks that caused further delays.

I’ll let the others chime in and share their experience. I don’t have photos (maybe one or two) since I was busy like others doing recovery. I can report that my CT110 did well in this condition – low end torque of the diesel engine, and I aired down to 15 psi helped.

We didn’t get to have the Saturday night camp fire/dinner as planned due to the delays; however, we have a good brunch those who stayed (enjoyed more of Mike’s (Arnival) famous rib), David’s (DCProven) Spanish dish and other dishes from Sat; and kids were slipping and sledding in the snow @ camp. Oh, it was not too late to eat the baloot! More pictures I am sure coming!

Ok, enough of snow for me for now; will look at my notes later and post – left out a lot of details and memorable moments. I am packing and leaving for Hawaii!

- - - End

One Life Live it!

[PCRover]

Thanks for the writeup Ron, it explains the conditions and obstacles you faced very well. Can I make a trip report out of this, or do you want to submit a formal one?

[monty]

No problemo Compadre!! You still had a 2 1/2 hour drive home. I hope your daughter Kambi is well rested and BTW, thanks for taking care of Sebastian.

Made it back to the trail head by 2:30 AM. and campground just after 3 HOLLY COW, what a long day, but looking back it was fun (sorta). Will definetly go down in the books as an unforgetable experience!

Will write more later, too tired to keep typing:eek:

Monty, did you mentioned some winching was involved?

Balut for breakfast is the breakfast of champions!! At least in the Philipines
(I Highly recomend it)

glad you guys made it out ok and only took another hour and a half after i left. i wish my drive home was only 2 hours. i didn't get home until 7 am. Kami slept off and on most the way back, so she was ok. more importantly, she got to meet some new kids, Sebastian and Loren. that's all she talked about with the trip. kudos to Ron, the trail leaders and for everyone that pitched in to get others unstuck. a real camel trophy team effort in tough conditions.

[RON CT110]

Thanks for the writeup Ron, it explains the conditions and obstacles you faced very well. Can I make a trip report out of this, or do you want to submit a formal one?

Sounds good Gary; let me make a copy edits (change from "I" to "we"), add a couple details from other post and you can use it. Cheers!

Ron

[etischer]

This was a pretty good snow run actually, I know we spent lots of time stuck, but that's the way snow wheeling goes.


JP and I were the two lead vehicles at the end of the day returning to camp. Car #3 was Brandon the land rover mechanic, and he was helping one of the LR3's at the rear of the group with the air bag suspension issue. Around 7:15 JP and I decided to go back to camp and get fire and food ready. It only took us 20 minutes to get to asphalt from where the group was stuck. Once on pavement, we started airing up and saw the two Yotas pull up. We told them there were about 10 of us stuck on trail, and they would only be able to get about a mile in before having to turn around. They said they'd figure it out.

We got to camp at 8pm. We had a fire going and food warming up, and after 2 1/2 hours still nobody had showed up! After some debating we decided to go back and check up on the group. We figured since there were about 10 trucks there already, adding two might just make things worse, but we decided to bring some warm food. The trail looked completely different from when we had passed. The hard packed trail was all soft powder. It should have been a 20 minute run from where we had left the group.

We got as many cars off the trail as possible, and by about midnight, there were just four of us. Enrique was the last stuck vehicle. We had about 150 feet of straps connecting Enrique to the Jeep. The jeep was winching double snatched, with another 50 feet of strap to the D1. The D1 was winching on a tree about 100 feet away. It was the longest rescue chain I've seen. It went really well. We made it back to camp around 3:15.

It was a good thing Ron had strong vehicles at the front and rear of the group. Since there were about 14 trucks in all, it was not feasible to get the whole group turned around, so, it was First in Last out. Im also glad most of us had CBs, especially with so many of us. For next time it would be helpful if we all knew our place in line. For example, you could say "Im number 5, Im stuck". I would definitely recommend bringing supplies assuming you're going to have to spend the night when you go snow wheeling. Especially for those who are staying in hotels. Make sure you have blankets, food, flashlights and water in the car. Shackles and a snatch strap are a must too.

I think the trip went really smooth, and we all got to put our gear to use. We learned a lot and hopefully we can pool what we learned together, and start writing an off road FAQ or something. I just hope people weren't discouraged or frustrated, this really was a good snow run believe it or not. In snow, its always going to be a stuckfest, and alot of time is going to be spent watching. What fun would a trip be if nobody got stuck =)

I have a video I still have to edit of getting enrique unstuck. Hoepfully I can get it up tomorrow.

Anyhow, thanks again for organizing the trip Ron, things went really well. Im looking forward to another run!






























<br>This looks like a good place for a picnic<bR>























Heres a link to the rest of the pics.... http://lastnightphoto.com/Rover/2008-02-16/

[Gotrovr]

Guys, I'm really impressed with the overall turnout and the amount of effort expended to move 6,000 lb vehicles in such short cold distances.
Definately a trip to remember. WTG

[RON CT110]

Exactly Will!

As for me, been reading the threads/catching up, and each post brings smiles to me (and :scared: we did this and that :scared:)! All good; all good though! :Headbanger_smilie_b

Besides getting some needed rest from our snow wheeling/camping trip to remember, I litterally had to unpack the camping stuff and snow gears, and packed for tropical weather!

Then catch a flight to Hawaii for my planned family vacation, and here to recce "Land Rover Big Island Camping/Wheeling Trip 2009" - more to come on this :dance: Reason for not posting in the last 2-3 days!

Again, our First NCLR Snow Run @ Shaver Lake was an amazing trip; this will be the cover page of my trip report; kind of represents everyone's spirit besides dead tired - see pic 1!

I forgot to welcome our new or potential members of NCLR: Eric (etischer), Dan (Tigerdan), Mike (Disco X), and others. And the countless of hours folks like Brandon (Rovertech18), Mike (Arnival), Mike (Monty), Dan (Tiger Dan), Josh (Keptin) and JP (Cosmo 88) and everyone who helped unstuck vehicles and lift our spirits e.g. like Eric (etischer) who made it back to camp and brought back food.

Winch, shovel, sand ladders, recovery straps, hi-jack lift/lift mate, CB are a must on this trip next time!

Hope everyone is rested and ready for the next adventure! :Headbanger_smilie_b

Cheers!

[SFDiscoII]

Bummed I missed the trip. :mad:
Glad I bailed out got under the truck once I got home and found the drive shaft coupling was barely holding together:eek:, glad it did not give way on the freeway and cause major damage. Also glad I was not in the middle of the pack in the snow and it let go and really slowed you all down.

Leigh.

[dcproven]

Don't worry,
I was in charge of slowing people down! :D

David.

[RON CT110]

Took me awhile to get to this; now the Shaver Lake trip and my family vacation are completed!

My Snow Camping notes are ready to be converted. Let me know if you want me or do you want to convert them to .pdf; and who should I email them once converted.

Mike/Gary, have a quick look at my typing and make sure I dotted all the i and crossed my Ts before converting them. I also removed reference to Shaver Lake!

Thanks!


I think that we should remove the reference to Camp Edison/Shaver Lake and with Ron's permission, make this a .pdf document in a NCLR Reference Section. As we go on trips throughout the year, Black Rock etc, the person providing information for "desert travel" or "Coastal Travel" etc would have their info added to the Section also, providing a library for members to reference prior to a trip.

[RON CT110]

Reviewed/ready to be converted to PDF.


Preparation:

- Make sure your brakes, windshield wipers, defroster, heater and exhaust system are in top condition.

- Check your antifreeze and be ready for colder temperatures.

- Check your tires. Make sure they are properly inflated and the tread is in good condition.

- Always carry chains in snow country.

- Other items to carry: ice scraper or de-icer, a broom for brushing snow off your car, a shovel to free you car if it is "snowed in", sand or burlap for traction if your wheels should become mired in snow and an old towel to clean your hands.

- Take along water, food, warm blankets and extra clothing. A lengthy delay will make you glad you have them.

- Check here or check weather conditions before leaving

- Keep an updated map containing the areas of travel.

- Let someone know where you are going, and have Caltrans Highway tel # handy to check updated road conditions: 800.427.7623

Driving Tips:

- Allow enough time. Trips to the mountains can take longer during winter that other times of the year, especially if you encounter storm conditions or icy roads. Get an early start and allow plenty of time to reach your destination.

- Keep your gas tank full. It may be necessary to change routes or turn back during a bad storm or you may be caught in a traffic delay.

- Keep windshield and windows clear. You may want to stop at a safe turnout to use a snow brush or scraper. Use the car defroster and a clean cloth to keep the windows free of fog.

- Slow down. A highway speed of 65 miles per hour may be safe in dry weather, but an invitation for trouble on snow and ice. Snow and ice make stopping distances much longer, so keep your seat belt buckled and leave more distance between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead (on the road and on the trail).

- Bridge decks and shady spots can be icy when other areas are not. Remember to avoid sudden stops and quick direction changes.

- Be more observant. Visibility is often limited in winter by weather conditions. Slow down and watch for other vehicles that have flashing lights, visibility may be so restricted during a storm that it is difficult to see the slow moving equipment.

- When stalled, stay with your vehicle and try to conserve fuel while maintaining warmth. Be alert to any possible exhaust or monoxide problems.

- Copy of this avail from Caltans: click here: http://www.dot.ca.gov/hq/roadinfo/winter_driving_0607.pdf

[RON CT110]

Reviewed/ready to be converted to PDF.


One of the most important things to do is to layer.

What is layering? Basically, it's wearing a number of light or medium-weight articles of clothing, preferably topped by a breathable windproof or waterproof shell.

- For those times when we stop long enough for the body to cool (in the car or outside waiting for the caravan to move-on), you can put on a heavier layer out of your pack to stay warm.

- If you get warm while hiking or help recovery a vehicle, just peel off a layer.

- In time, you'll discover how much insulation you need to stay warm when hiking, and when resting.

- If you want to give yourself the largest margin of safety, you should stick with synthetics. It either wicks perspiration from your body to outer layers, or keeps you reasonably warm when wet.

- First layer is not always long johns, as you might suspect. There are a number of excellent high-wicking briefs for men and women. Patagonia makes an excellent polyester Capaline brief that wicks better than wool. An excellent performing and comfortable brief is the "Microclimate" manufactured by Early Winters. "MicroClimate" briefs are made from 92% polyester and 8% Lycra and perform as advertised. They wick well, they are warm, and exceptionally comfortable.

- Long Johns: Consider long johns and a matching top. One to stay away from is cotton. When cotton gets wet, it chills the body and drys slowly. Concentrate on long johns made from polyester, which are sold under a variety of trade names such as Capaline, Thermax, MicroClimate, REI's "M.T.S." fabric, CoolMax, ThermaStat, and others.

- Pants and Tops: The next layer is your main layer in cold weather - probably the layer that will see the most use. When the temperature dips into the 30s, its best to add a light polyester fleece pants and a fleece top. The fabric most commonly found on the shelves these days is "Polartec". They make three fabric weights, from light "100", to medium weight "200", to dead of winter "300". You might be able to find inexpensive polyester fleece at some of the large sporting good stores at a price much lower than "name" brands.

- Top layer: consider something that is windproof and waterproof. A windproof layer can noticeably increase your warmth on the trail. And you need to keep out the elements - namely, rain, snow and sleet, so you want your outer layer to be impervious to wet conditions.

- You can wear non-breathable nylon or vinyl top layer, but your insulation will start to get wet from perspiration - something to avoid, since perspiration cools the body. The best alternative seems to be the more expensive breathable waterproof rainwear. Gore-tex is still considered by many to be the best, but there are other variations available that perform adequately. I picked Mountain Hardwear shell jacket with their "Conduit" material.

- For socks (same principle): a sock made of wool, IsoWool, shearling, fleece and similar type synthetic materials should be used. The reason these types socks are excellent for winter wear is because if the socks get wet (due to excessive perspiration from the foot), the socks themselves do not lose their insulating properties. Additionally, these socks are also generally far thicker than a standard thin cotton sock, allowing the sock to absorb far more moisture. In cold weather - particularly if you engage in strenuous activities - avoid any socks that has any cotton content in it. Your foot will be thankful to you for it.

- Head and Hand Wear: for gloves, stick with polyester fleece. Cap: the body loses 80% of its heat through its head. A wool cap helps maintain this heat within your body, warming you rather than your surroundings.

- Boots: a number of new boot styles specifically designed for winter hiking use are avail (key waterproof).

[RON CT110]

Reviewed/ready to be converted to PDF.


Some of the tips are from the Winter Survival Class offered by REI. Not going to list any specific food(s) (to each own) but more generalities:

- Stay Hydrated. Fluid should be easy to access. Drink at regular intervals even if you are not thirsty. Boil snow before drinking.

- Need higher calorie intake in a winter environment: 60% carbo, 15 protein and 20% fat.

- Have trail foods: snack frequently, pack ample supplies.

- Hot foods if possible: soups, broths, MREs, etc...

- Pack emergency food/water/blanket

[RON CT110]

Reviewed/ready to be converted to PDF.


- The first important piece of special equipment is Zip Lock Bags!

All underwear, socks, and long underwear should be packed in zip-lock bags.

All other clothing should be stored in something waterproof. This can range from a garbage bag to stuff sacks.

All the wool and polypropylene in the world won’t do any good if they're wet from the beginning. Dryness is the key to success.

- Foam pads are the second most important piece of special equipment. The ground is cold! When you are sleeping, it is important to have that added insulation under you to avoid losing body heat to warming the Earth. Remember the rule of thumb, it is a good idea to have two to three times as much insulation under you as you do above you.

- Carry a wool blanket (Army Blanket). Great add'l insulation between the foam pad and your sleeping bag. Also to wrap around the body while standing around in camp.

- The next most important piece of equipment is a Mummy sleeping bags. It provides a great degree of warmth due to the contour and snug fit of the bag to the body. These bags can range anywhere in price a 35 degree bag to a zero degree or sub-zero degree bag. Go for a good quality zero degree to fifteen degree mummy bag for California use.

- 3 or 4 season tent is next. Check REI, Mountain Hardwear or your outdoor specialist for options!

- Bedding Down. Sleeping in the winter is really no different than camping out in the summer. However, their are a few important tips that require mentioning. The first most important tip is to never wear wet clothes to sleep. Not only will it decrease your body temperature, it will also cause moisture in your sleeping bag that will decrease the insulating properties of the bag.

Secondly, if you do get cold during the night, do not place your head inside the sleeping bag as this will cause moisture from your breath to have the same effect as mentioned above. Wearing a hat while your sleeping instead will produce the same results as sticking your head inside the bag.

- the insulated capabilities of the bag come from warmth being trapped in the dead air space of the synthetic fibers (or bag fill), be sure that the bag is as fluffed out as possible to increase the insulating characteristics. In addition, it is recommended to keep the bag in a stuff sack until you are ready to bed down, this will keep moisture in the air from finding a place on or in your bag before you bed down. When storing your sleeping bag at home, hang it in a closet rather than in the stuffsack in order to avoid crushing the fill in the bag.

- The first layer down should be a plastic ground cloth to keep moisture from the cold ground from coming in contact with and ultimately penetrating your tent and sleeping bag.

- Next layer is ½ folded ground cloth, then layout the sleeping pad.

- On top of the pad layout a folded wool blanket (army blankets) optional to add extra insulation from the cold ground.

- Then place your sleeping bag on top and fold the remaining ½ of the ground cloth on top of the bag.

- The ground cloth on top of the bag helps to prevent dew and frost from forming on the bag and ultimately reducing the insulating capabilities.

- In extreme cold weather, newspaper, hay or more natural materials such as leaves and pine needles can be placed under the sleeping pad to provide more insulation.

- Finally, get warm before going to bed. Increasing activity by cutting wood for the morning fire or doing jumping jacks increases your metabolism and body heat before hitting the sack!

[RON CT110]

Reviewed/ready to be converted to PDF.


- If at night you get cold, let someone know so action can be taken before injury from cold weather health problems occur. It's better to be kidded about forgetting your sleeping bag or not bringing extra wool socks than risking hypothermia.

- Organization and proper preparation is very important in cold weather camping. Good meals, proper shelter and comfortable sleeping arrangements make for an enjoyable outing.

- Drink 2 quarts of fluids per day besides what you drink at meals.

- Learn to recognize and treat cold weather health problems. These include frostbite, hypothermia, dehydration, chilblains, trench foot, snow blindness and carbon monoxide poisoning.

- If you feel cold gather some wood or do some other type of work. Working will help warm you.

- Just say no to ICE! :) Eating ice or snow can reduce your body temperature and it is not pure. Don't eat it.

- Snow and ice can be used for drinking water but only after boiling.

- No open flames (candles, matches, etc.) or propane heater unless it's a catalytic heater like the Coleman Sportcat inside the tents.

- Wiggling your toes inside your boots will help keep feet warm. If your feet get cold put on a stocking cap.

- Take and wear dark sunglasses if snow/sunny day is in the forecast. The glare of the sun off the snow could lead to snow blindness. The sunglasses will reduce the glare.

- Use the solid fuel hand warmers. They are cheaper and you can light them yourself.

- Keep off ice on streams, lakes and ponds.

- It takes longer to cook food in cold weather, so plan accordingly.

- Keep your matches in a metal match safe as plastic can freeze and break if dropped. And carry extra matches.

- Gather twice as much fuel as you think you'll need for fires.

- Carry tinder from home. It may be hard to find in snow or wet conditions.
Gather your wood and tinder for the morning fire in the evening so that you will be able to start the fire quickly in the morning.

- Space blankets make good wind shields only.

- Carry extra plastic bags in cold weather. They can be used as personal wind shields and ponchos by slitting a hole in the top for your head to go through.

- Flashlight batteries are effected by cold. You can revive a dead battery by warming it up near the fire.

- You may want to take a bottle of propane into your tent with you at night. This will keep the bottle warmer and make it easier to light your stove for breakfast.

- Heaters inside your tent can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.

[RON CT110]

Ok, no need to convert these photos to PDF and elevate Enrique and I status to either super brave or super crazy! :D

I forgot to share these pixs:

1) After boiling the Baloot duck eggs for 30 mins (to cook it) and then placing them in boiling water for 5-10 mins when ready to eat, Enrique and I cracked open the Baloot eggs, and started to peeling the hard egg shell.

note: just it's like eating hard boiled chicken egg, but with an extreme twist to it (baby duck chick inside).

2) Hard to tell, but there is a baby duck in there!

3) Close up

4) Enrique drinks the juice, and then eats the duck & all whole! :D


Balut for breakfast is the breakfast of champions!! At least in the Philipines
(I Highly recomend it)