Death Valley National Park-A Tour De Force Part 1 of 4

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A tour de force is a feat well done; a triumph, masterpiece, achievement, a success. Our four-day trip through Death Valley National Park was just that. We planned our trip months in advance, looking into weather and road conditions, fuel stops and campsites along the way. Death Valley is home to low-lying salt flats, mountains ranging up to 11,000 feet, warm springs, sand dunes, ghost towns, petroglyphs, abandoned mining towns and much more. It’s all at once a mystical and desolate place; rich in history, historical artifacts and desert art. Over the next four weeks, TAP will publish the highlights of this trip taken with a group of friends, Steve Drewniany, David Griffith and Laura Hartema (author of Bering Sea Strong) and myself, Lori Palmer through this wild, wonderful place. Death Valley has so much amazing and bizarre history and such a vast array of geographies that you will want to add this to your bucket list. Be sure to stay tuned each Monday in January for another day of our adventures in Death Valley.

Red Pass, Titus Road. photo credit: @explorecalifornia.pics

Death Valley has one of the most inhospitable terrains in the world. At 3.4 million acres, it is the largest U.S. National Park outside Alaska. Death Valley contains nearly 1000 miles of paved and dirt roads which provide access to locations both popular and remote. It is famous for being the hottest place on earth and the driest place in North America. The world record highest air temperature of 134 degrees was recorded at Furnace Creek on July 10, 1913. Summer temperatures often top 120 degrees in the shade with overnight lows dipping into the 90s. Average rainfall is less than 2 inches a year with occasional thunderstorms that can cause flash flooding. Winter and spring are the best times to explore Death Valley. Winter daytime temperatures are mild in the low elevations, with cool nights that only occasionally reach freezing. Higher elevations are cooler with temperatures dropping 3 to 5 degrees with every thousand vertical feet. Sunny skies are the norm in Death Valley, but winter storms and summer monsoons can bring cloud cover and rain. Strong wind and dust storms are common especially in the spring.

Death Valley has one of the most inhospitable terrains in the world. Eureka Dunes.

Our trip took place from November 9th to the 12th. We encountered temperatures during the day ranging from the 50’s to the low 80’s with evening temps consistently in the low 40’s and 30’s. We travelled across altitudes ranging from below sea level to over 8,000 ft. and encountered everything from deep sand, washed out switchbacks, rock steps, annoying washboard roads, dust like you wouldn’t believe, hot springs, weird desert art, a crater, burros, many hanging teapots, rocks that move on their own, pristine sand dunes, fiery red passes, petroglyphs, ghost towns, mine-shaft remains, charcoal kilns and an amazingly beautiful winding slot canyon with rock walls. Read on for a summary of our day; where we travelled, and what we saw, with a little bit of history thrown in for good measure.

Titus Road Photo credit: Steve Drewniany

Day One Destinations:

Erick Schat’s Bakkery, Fish Slough Petroglyphs, Big Pine for fuel, Eureka Dunes, Dedeckera Canyon, Steel Pass, more petroglyphs, the marble bathtub and finally camp at Middle Springs in Saline Valley for a soak and some interesting conversation with some hot spring locals.

Erick Schat’s Bakkery

If you have never had the pleasure of experiencing Erick Schat’s Bakkery in Bishop CA, I highly recommend you go. The pastries and sandwiches are to die for. They make a good cup of coffee as well. This is where we all met up and had breakfast before heading out on our first day of exploration.

Fish Slough Petroglyphs

Our first destination was the Fish Slough Petroglyphs located approximately 11 miles north of Bishop, on the northern end of Owen’s valley, nestled between the White Mountains and the Sierra Nevada. Fish Slough is in an area known as the Volcanic Tableland. It’s an area that was formed by volcanic activity over 750,000 years ago. The petroglyphs are carved into hardened ash flow known as Bishop tuff, which was formed by a cataclysmic volcanic eruption of the Long Valley Caldera 750,000 years ago. The petroglyphs are thought to be between about 1,000 and 8,800 years old, and possibly made by the ancestors of the native Paiute-Shoshone people who still inhabit the valley. The style of the petroglyphs is classified as Great Basin Curvilinear.(desertexplorer.wordpress.com)

Eureka Dunes

After checking out the petroglyphs, we drove down to Big Pine to top up on fuel and took the 168 to Death Valley Road. We followed Death Valley Road, entering the Wilderness section of the park, and then turned, on South Eureka Valley Road and drove ten miles to the Eureka Dunes.

The Eureka Sand Dunes are the tallest dunes in California. They rise nearly 700′ from the Eureka Valley floor, which separates the Last Chance Mountains (east) from the Saline Range (west) and are breathtakingly beautiful. We got out, took photos, talked to some like-minded travellers and headed out to Dedeckera Canyon and Steel Pass.

Dedeckera Canyon and Steel Pass

From the dunes, we headed south into Dedeckera Canyon and Steel Pass. This was a fun area to drive in that it had some moderately difficult “steps” and rocks to navigate through and around.

Steel Pass Petroglyphs and the marble bathtub

We headed down Steel Pass Road and stopped at various areas to hunt for some petroglyphs. These struck me as strange because of the “hand” looking drawings. I looked for information about these petroglyphs and found nothing specific although I did learn that there are petroglyphs and pictographs all over Death Valley that can be hiked or driven to. There are numerous blogs depicting journeys throughout Death Valley in search of pictographs and petroglyphs.

We continued south in search of the marble bathtub. The bathtub full of blue marbles is hidden about 100+ yards off the road in a canyon wash. The story behind it is this: There’s a location shown on various topographical maps that marks a set of shallow decompressions in the bedrock near the Last Chance Mountains called Marble Bath. The dips fill with rainwater, a precious resource within the otherwise arid desert. On some older maps, the Marble Bath isn’t where the cartographers marked it to be. This false location is shown closer to Steel Pass Road, misleading many a hiker in search of water.

Before the area became part of Death Valley National Park, to validate the incorrectly marked maps in a good-natured way, a desert explorer named Wendel Moyer recruited a few friends and rounded up an old bathtub and a load of blue marbles. They installed the tub in the misidentified location marked as Marble Bath on the erroneous maps. Moyer’s Marble Bath remains where he installed it the early 1990s. Visitors continue to keep it stocked full of blue marbles, as well as a few rubber duckies. It’s reminiscent of the bizarre troll, frog, etc toy collections that you find along the Mojave Road

Saline Valley Warm Springs

We rolled into Saline Valley Warm Springs after dark. Set up camp, had dinner and then went for a soak in the middle spring. In the Saline Valley, there are three springs named Upper, Middle and Lower. The hot springs became popular in the 60’s among nudists and other folks drawn to alternative lifestyles. Steve had been there before and told us that the upper spring is not kept up very well, middle spring is amazing and the lower springs were a bit too fancy for the likes of us. That intrigued me. I couldn’t imagine anything being “fancy” out here. I’d get to see what he meant the next day.

Lower springs is decorated, has a firepit with benches (shown here) warm springs are in back of that.

The red lockers are for book swapping and personal storage. There is a sign warning visitors to keep the locker doors closed as the local burros like to eat books.

Going there is a bit like stepping into a psychedelic time capsule. Unlike everyone else who was soaking in Middle Springs, we opted for wearing our bathing suits. I wish I had a recording of the conversations we had with our fellow soakers on the scientific principles behind the creation of the all dreaded and far too common Death Valley washboard roads. One fellow claimed that the force of the air flow beneath tires formed the washboards and the other sardonically stated that it was a government scheme to make us all go mad. I went with that theory! The soak felt amazing after a long day of driving and the company was friendly and fun.

The local burros came out to wish us a safe journey.

CHECK OUT Day 2. The agenda: Salt Flats to Lippencott Pass, the Racetrack, teakettle junction, Ubehebe Crater and Mesquite Springs Campground.

Author: Lori Palmer, Editor and Co-Owner TAP

Photos: Lori Palmer, Steve Drewniany, David Griffith: @explorecalifornia.pic

Overlanding Communication Devices

By

Lori Palmer

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Communication devices are a crucial but often overlooked category of overlanding equipment.

This gear can save your life. Whether it be a simple hand-held, a CB Radio, satellite phone, or beacon. After doing quite a bit of research, I’ve written this article to share a couple of key points about each type of device to assist you when making a decision on the type of communication device(s) you want to invest in.

Purpose and Selection:

One of the most simple, and frequent uses of communication devices is to communicate between rigs. To discuss routes, allow the leader to give a heads up for oncoming traffic, the need for a break, need of a spotter, notifying others you want to stop to snap pictures or that something is wrong with either your vehicle or someone in the party.

On the other end of the spectrum there are devices we can use when we need to communicate to Search and Rescue agencies or friends/family at home during an Emergency. It’s not something that any of us would ever wish for, but serious accidents do occur. Slips and falls resulting in broken bones, vehicle roll overs etc. Having a way to reach civilization to get help or further medical care is of the utmost importance.

I’m going to start with the choice of devices one could use when communicating between rigs or with others nearby. Here are a couple of PTT (Push To Talk) type systems that may fit your needs .

Mobile two-way radios

**Midland GTX1000 GMRS Walkie Talkies come with rechargeable batteries, are fully waterproof and 50 Channels, 142 privacy codes to help block out others who may be on the same channel.**

These “walkie talkies” are extremely simple to use and are great for talking to other people in your group, rig to rig or person to person. Most will run on AAA or AA (rechargeable) batteries, and are very easy to come by, however their simplicity limits their range, which is one of their drawbacks.Again, these are best used rig to rig, person to person within a few miles of one another. Do not depend on these as a means of emergency communication. Midlandusa.com

For longer range and a more powerful output, there are micromobile units with integrated handheld microphones that mount in your rig. With these you don’t have to think about recharging and you get better reception and range than with the portable walkie talkies. For extended range, add a larger antenna (TAP uses the MXTA11 6db Gain from Midland). This particular radio, the Midland MXT275 MicroMobile, broadcasts over 15 GMRS channels plus eight high-powered repeater channels. It also allows you to tune into NOAA Weather Radio to get weather updates from the National Weather Service. It comes with a Mounting bracket, 12V power cord, detachable antenna and magnetic antenna mount. Again, these are not meant as emergency communication devices. Midlandusa.com

Citizens band radios or CBs

This type of communication device is fairly common in the overlanding community. CB’s receive radio wave signals via land based towers . They are relatively inexpensive, reliable, and semi-easy to install. CB’s will cover most of your typical cross-vehicle talk and basic communication needs. CB radios have the advantage when you need more range than a two-way radio, but don’t want to dish out too much money for more expensive equipment. Your range will vary between 2-15 miles depending on your antenna and the terrain. With a CB you are not limited to talking to others in your caravan, you can communicate with other CB users. This could come in handy if you needed help and were within range of other CB users (truckers etc.). So, they are great for communicating with both friends and strangers, and do not require a license.

There are two types of CBs: vehicular mounted and handheld. There are pros and cons to both types.

A fixed Platform or vehicle mounted CB radio will offer greater range due to the use of a vehicle mounted antenna (generally 36-72″). It also provides longer lasting power due to its source (vehicle battery, solar power, etc.). A draw back is that you can’t take it out of the car.

Handheld CB radios provide you with the ability to be mobile with your communications device. They can either be mounted in your vehicle, taken with you on a hike, or used to guide someone through an obstacle. The downside is that they run out of juice quicker than vehicle mounted CB’s, but you can extend the battery life by bringing a compatible charger assembly or by hard wiring a charging station into your vehicle.

In order for a CB to be in the correct operating range, it will require tuning. This can be relatively easy to accomplish, there are YouTube videos that can guide you through the process, or it can be done professionally (I had mine tuned professionally). This will put it in the correct operating range, allowing for communications over longer distances, and will keep you from potentially damaging or burning out the system.

Range for CBs can be limited by a variety of things such as system power, tuning, terrain, etc. Range can be extended by the use and type of a vehicle mounted antenna, So make sure if you take this route, you test your system before tapping into your next adventure. Citizen band radios are a step up from walkie talkies, but are still limited.

Amateur or Ham Radios

The first thing you should know about Ham radios is that before you can get on the air, you need to be licensed and know the rules on how to operate legally. US licenses are good for 10 years.

Wireless amateur communication is done on numerous bands (relatively narrow radio frequency segments) extending from 1.8 MHz (wavelengths of about 160 meters) upwards through several hundred gigahertz (wavelengths in the millimeter range). There are several types of license classes available. The more privileges a class of license conveys, the more difficult the examination is. Google it to find one in your area. An important fact to consider here is that ham radios work when all other services fail. Going to the extreme, during states of emergency these are the radios to have. After Hurricane Andrew struck South Florida in 1992, the utility grid was destroyed over hundreds of square miles. When all cellular towers and antennas were blown down. Only amateur radio, the Citizens Radio Service or Citizens Band and a few isolated pay phones with underground lines provided communication between the outside world and the public in the affected area.

**144 / 430 MHz Dual Band 50 Watt FM Transceiver with Echolink Interface**

In my opinion, this is your best option as far as PTT Comms go. There is a good sized network of people who would most likely be willing to help you get started, or at least point you in the right direction to get things rolling. They can also be the most painful to set up and install. Like CBs, there are both mounted and handheld versions. There are also many factors that can affect operation. Despite the report of its effectiveness during Hurricane Andrew, atmospheric conditions, power output, antenna, terrain, weather, programming, and more can play a role in the effectiveness of HAM Radios.

Despite the draw backs I mentioned previously, they still remain the best option. In my experience, Ham radios provide the clearest voice communication, the greatest range, they provide NOAA weather reports, and have substantial battery life. We used them frequently throughout a 4 day trip, and did not even come close to needing a recharge. I was thoroughly impressed.

The next group of communication devices are used under more extreme circumstances and their effectiveness comes from their ability to connect to others via satellite system. I believe that it is vitally important to have one of these communication devices when traveling in areas where there is no cell phone coverage (even if there is, you should have a way to signal for help via satellite). Always having a way to be in contact with “civilization” is vital when overlanding in remote areas.

Locator Beacons, Satellite Phones, and Other Signaling Devices

Iridium or Satellite Phones

Iridium satellite phones are mobile devices that do not receive their signal via land based towers, but from satellites in orbit around the earth. Some are designed for near global usage, and offer safety and security features that can not be provided by a traditional cell phone. I use one because it can communicate world wide, it’s fairly compact and moderately rugged.

Airtime can be prepaid or obtained on a monthly service contract. Satellite phones are commonly used by Search and Rescue, military personnel and others working in remote zones. In a natural disaster, if a cell tower goes down, the whole communications network is at risk of being overloaded or may fail entirely. Communication via satellite phone is possible because it bypasses the local system entirely.

That being said, one of the absolute major pitfalls of a device like this, is the sheer cost. They generally retail for around $1,000-1,200, and then the cost of ancillary items needed to operate such as minutes, plan, or sim card add to the cost. Another downfall for Iridium Phones are they are not always great in areas of dense vegetation (like where I currently live in the Pacific North West). You may have to hike your way to a more suitable location, with a better Line Of Sight (LOS) to the open sky. I have read and heard stories of weather affecting calls/transmissions from a satellite phone, however I have never personally had this issue.

Personal Locator Beacons (PLB)

**Cospas-Sarsat 406 MHz emergency beacon**

Personal locator beacons are high-powered (typically, 5 watts) devices designed primarily to send out a personalized emergency distress signal. They generally require an open view of the sky to transmit successfully. They send a powerful signal to a network of satellites that are associated with Search and Rescue Satellite Aided Tracking (SARSAT). This enables Search and Rescue personnel to track your location via GPS Signal

Personal locator beacons must be registered with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). There are two types of PLBs available. GPS-based and high-precision based. I will only discuss PLBs with GPS as they are more common, and realistically a better option for the overlander. This device provides your precise location, making it possible for rescue personnel to locate you faster, saving what could be precious minutes. The most common of these types of PLBs can be found from a company called ACR Electronics ($250-600). What I would like to stress most about PLBs is the fact that they are 100%, absolute, emergency systems only. They do nothing else beyond providing a link to Search and Rescue teams for when you are in the most dire of situations.

Satellite Messengers

Satellite Messengers are gaining popularity for a multitude of reasons. They are lightweight, multifunctional, and capable of handling the elements. These systems have the ability to send SOS messages in addition to being able to send regular messages to let friends and family know you are okay and still moving along in your journey. They will operate from one of two satellite networks, either Iridium or Globalstar. Some devices such as those made by DeLorme incorporate GPS Navigation allowing the user to set way points, log trips, and both send and receive text messages.

Simpler devices such as the SPOT provide GPS tracking, SOS Signaling, and the ability to check in with friends and family. Be aware that the SOS reporting systems for these types of devices differ from that of PLBs, and require a subscription. Also, as with any satellite communications device, vegetation and terrain can play a large role in signal availability, requiring the user to get to a more open area, or to higher ground.

I have seen people use all types of these devices; from activation of PLBs alerting SAR personnel, to using a SPOT to let family know that they are safe. I highly recommend personally researching these devices to find the one(s) that fit both your budget and your needs. Although, I would like to stress the importance of not compromising quality for a lower priced piece of equipment. If you have to save a bit longer to get the correct equipment, DO IT. Don’t ever short change yourself when planning the correct gear to use in an emergency.

With that being said, if you choose to purchase a device to provide emergency communications, don’t just toss it in your vehicle. Take some time to familiarize yourself with it, play with it, send test messages, read the manual, etc. (With the exception of a PLB, don’t flip the activation switch or the SOS activator on other devices).
Note: I personally have a Cobra C 75 WX ST because finding places to mount a full size CB in a Jeep Wrangler can be difficult. With this system, all controls are in the mic and there is a small junction box which I was able to tuck away behind the dash.

As for my Iridium Satellite Phone, I have a Iridium 9555 Satellite Phone. I have a vehicle adapter kit for it, allowing the use of a magnetic external antenna. I have been doing more research on Ham Radios, and am looking at a portable hand-held unit such as a Baofeng, or similar.

With that said….I urge you to get out there, TAP into Adventure and do it safely!

Article by- TAP In-Field Contributor-Andrew Halsing and Lori Palmer
Product Photos- sourced from Internet and TAP
Editor: Lori Palmer

The Top 10 Fears of the first time Overlander

By

Tom Severin

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Driving off road presents a host of challenges and fears for any driver. Four wheeling can be especially intimidating for new drivers. Those initial concerns are understandable. It takes off-road experience to build skill set and confidence.

If you’ve considered going off road but are reluctant to do so, relax. The following information may convince you to take up the hobby. While you are reading this remember: in town, you get into a pile-up as the result of other driver’s errors and actions. Off-road, in almost every instance, the driver makes the decision and judgment that lead to his own predicament.

After years of talking with new 4-wheel drive owners, here is my perception of the Top 10 Fears of newer drivers, and what to do about them.

1. Damage to a new vehicle:

This fear is mostly with regard to cosmetic damage; minor pin-striping and scraped bumpers. On occasion an air dam gets torn off or a license plate is bent out of shape. If you intend to explore more challenging terrain, I recommend you add rock sliders on the sides of the vehicle and skid plates to protect the undercarriage in case you bottom out. The first little dents will probably hurt you more than the vehicle. But on the bright side, you can now justify an aftermarket bumper.

2. Rolling over:

This is normally a rare issue. What makes good YouTube fodder is the extreme stuff with above average risk. When it does occur, the driver is often in an extreme situation or driving recklessly. Take your time going through rough terrain and around obstacles. Avoid high risk situations whenever possible. This may not be a comfort to you, but if you do make a mistake that causes your vehicle to roll, most times, the vehicle will only tip over onto a side (what we call a flop). A flop tends to occur while driving slowly, so damage to the vehicle and the driver is limited.

3. Stuck forever:

This rarely happens. Sure you are going to get stuck sometimes. Your buddies will help you out of a jam. Most stuck situations are what we call shallowly stuck – lightly hung up on a rock or mud just up to the side walls. A quick pull by another vehicle will usually remedy this situation. If you go by yourself, a winch will get you out of most situations. Of course you should avoid dangerous situations; areas where you think, “Yeah, I might be able to do that.” Bottom line? It’s always preferable to go out with at least one other vehicle.

4. Breakdowns:

The most common issues are resolved with proper training and tools. Remember, you’re likely to be with other drivers, who can lend experience and a hand. Read up on and poke around your vehicle to prepare you to be able to deal effectively with breakdowns. In my opinion, tires are the number one cause of problems. Focus on learning the skills on how to fix tires (they are not hard) and acquire the necessary tools. Bottom line: a breakdown need not end your four wheeling trip.

5. Not knowing where to go and not knowing other drivers:

The Federal Bureau of Land Management (BLM) produces maps that show open trails in the western states. Since 2011, they have provided “Off-Highway Vehicle Route Supplement” maps by Field Office sub regions. All open trails (with trail numbers) are identified. These maps do not have contour lines or other details and should be used with other maps like the BLM Surface Management Status maps. All national forests are required to publish a “Motor Vehicle Use Map” (MVUM). The maps are little more than line drawings of the trails with trail numbers. They show the major paved road to help orient you. In California, the California Trail Users Coalition publishes maps with the MVUM over laid on more fully featured maps for $3.00. Obtain several maps so you know where to find legal trails.Another good resource are trail guides. You can find a list of publishers on my web site www.4x4training.com/w/trails.html. A critical point here is that even if you feel well equipped with your trail loaded on a GPS, always bring a paper map! Electronics can fail.

In terms of finding other likeminded off roaders, look for events that are open to the public. Stop by and introduce yourself. You are likely to meet lots of other folks willing to hit the trails with you.

6. Breaking a bead:

Also called losing a bead, this is common. This concern is warranted but easily mitigated. Four wheelers air down nearly every time they go off road. If you turn too sharp, too fast in soft stuff or against a rock, the deflated tire is likely to lose its bead. The issue sounds worse than it is, though. As you’ll learn in this article, Tire Problems Shouldn’t Deflate Your Day, the problem is easily corrected with an air compressor and jack.

7. Embarrassing yourself in front of others:

Understand that everyone has to start sometime. Heck, I can recall some of my boneheaded newbie mistakes. The hope is that your fellow drivers are patient and understanding. To build your confidence, take some introductory classes. Everyone in these classes are in the same position as you, and you’ll learn together. (I offer a number of beginners’ classes.) Bear in mind that making mistakes is a part of your training. Don’t get worked up if, for example, you pick the wrong line. You’ll quickly recover, and you’ll be a smarter four wheeler as a result.

florence_AEV_training_staging area_the adventure portal

8. Lack of skill & knowledge:

There is no need to jump into driving on high risk, difficult trails. One trail book I have for Southern California lists over 150 trails (representing about 1500 miles). Only 19 of them rate above a difficulty Level of 4 (out of 10), although you do need 4-wheel drive and good clearance. Most of the trails take you to scenic overlooks, old ghost towns, old mines, and great camp sites. There are so many things to see and places to go on moderate to easy trails. An off-road training clinic will quickly eliminate any doubts about your ability to drive this level of trails safely. There are so many trails, and such a wide variety of terrain, that you’ll easily find a path that is enjoyable and surmountable.

9. Going off camber:

This is the official term for driving when tipped at an angle. As a newbie, being tilted over can be an unnerving experience. Even veteran drivers are uncomfortable driving off camber. Off camber isn’t a real issue until you get up to around a 30-degree pitch. In most cases though, you’re not likely to tip over, unless you’re traveling fast. Go slow and control the bounce. In my Getting Started Off-Road Driving & Safety Clinic I put students through a 30-degree pitch exercise. They learn what it feels like and how to respond. That way they are less likely to freeze up while off road. You can also buy a couple of tools that will help you determine your angle. One is an angle finder carpenter’s use, available in any hardware store. Another one, you can find at 4WD stores can be glued to the dash, it shows pitch and yaw.

10. Lack of immediate emergency services:.

Some 4WD areas as so remote, you’re outside the 2-hour window that normally defines urgent care response. Worse, you may be outside of cell range, as well. Here are a few things you can do to help keep you safe when dealing with an emergency in a remote location:

-Get basic first aid training. Learn how to stabilize an injured person. Take a basic survival course, too. You may need to camp out one or more nights while waiting for help.
-Pack alternate forms of communication. These can include ham radio (requires a license), a satellite phone and a personal locator beacon or SPOT device.
-Always ride with at least one other vehicle. I can’t stress that enough. Especially while still inexperienced, don’t consider driving alone on anything but the easiest trails.

I hope you have a better understanding of how to address four wheeling issues. The trails await you. Get the training you need, pack your vehicle, and then get out and enjoy the ride.

Author: Tom Severin

Tom Severin is an International 4-Wheel Drive Trainers Association© certified professional 4WD Trainer and a Wilderness First Responder (WFR). He is an instructor for the United Four Wheel Drive Associations (UFWDA) and the California Association of 4WD Clubs.
For information and dates of his trainings and runs go to https://www.4x4training.com/w/top-10-fears-of-new-4wd-owners/

For extra peace of mind in the backcountry, check out this Sat Nav Buyers Guide HERE

TAP’s 2018 Holiday Buyer’s Guide

By

Lori Palmer

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Fall is here and the holidays are coming fast. Check out our 2018 Holiday Buyer’s guide for some great ideas to improve upon your backcountry vehicle supported adventure kit. These products are tried and true. Read on and TAP into Adventure!

Quality communication devices are essential, whether you are hunting, hiking, off roading, camping in the backcountry or if you find yourself stuck in an emergency situation, such as a natural disaster. Midland has been producing two-way radio technology for over 50 years. Its reach spans North America, Europe and Asia. The Midland Radio Corporation sells CBs, two-way radios, NOAA weather radios, E+Ready radios and portable power stations. TAP had the opportunity to take a few products out on a road trip to test for quality, range, and durability and they passed with flying colors. Here are a few items to check out and add to your holiday wish list.

E+Ready Emergency Compact Crank Radio

The ER210 Emergency Compact Crank Radio gives you weather alerts, three charging options, and a charging port.

To begin using your ER210, fully charge the internal rechargeable battery pack using the USB charge cable. In the field, the radio pack can be recharged by using the hand crank, the USB cable or by exposing its solar panel to sunlight. It features 7 NOAA/NWS weather alert channels, an LED flashlight, SOS Morse code flashlight beacon, the ability to charge other electronic devices, AM/FM radio, a digital clock, headphone jack, a brightly backlit LCD and a rotatable telescopic antenna. A perfect addition to your emergency response kit, or for everyday use. With this radio you can be rest assured that you will be connected no matter how far away from civilization your vehicle supported adventure takes you. Midlandusa.com

MXT275 MicroMobile

This is a phenomenal radio. I used it with their MXTA11 6 Ddb Gain Antenna mounted outside my window. The MicroMobile gave me excellent reception and range. This is a 15 Watt two-way GMRS radio featuring a fully integrated handheld microphone. It’s small size makes it perfect for limited dashboard space. The MXT275 MicroMobile broadcasts over 15 GMRS channels plus eight high-powered repeater channels. It also allows you to tune into NOAA Weather Radio to get weather updates from the National Weather Service. It comes with a Mounting bracket, 12V power cord, detachable antenna and magnetic antenna mount. Midlandusa.com

GXT 1000 Walkie Talkies

We always travel with a communication unit in our rigs as well as having a set or two of compatible handheld radios. I tested these out in Death Valley and they provided excellent reception and output. Some of their features include: 50 Channels, 142 privacy codes to help block out others who may be on the same channel, and they are waterproof. These walkie talkies provide the maximum strength of output allowed by law. Midlandusa.com

Sea to Summit is an Australian brand of camping gear distributed here in the U.S. It has a solid reputation in the hiking, climbing, outdoor sports world, but I have not seen it used much in the overlanding community. I decided to try it out. Their gear is compact and light yet tough. Perfect when packing for an off road adventure. I took these products when driving across Utah this summer and the performance was stellar.

Alpha 2 pot cook set 4.2 and the Alpha pan

The Adventure Portal_Sea to Summit_cookware — This shows the entire set. The cups are designed for hot and cold liquids.

The Adventure Portal_Sea to Summit_cookware_1 — The entire set fits inside the larger pot.

These cooking products are made of lightweight hard anodized alloy. They are tough and due to the fact that all the pots, bowls and cups fit inside the larger pot, they are extremely space efficient. One other aspect that I like about the pots and pan is that their handles are made with a pivot lock. They fold in and extend easily then lock in place. For more info on these pots and pan and others that they carry, check out seatosummitusa.com.

Sleeping System: Cold weather Comfort

These three items will keep you warm and comfy on cold nights at camp.

The Sea to Summit Comfort Plus™ Insulated Sleeping Mat

This little beauty packs down to the size of a water bottle and not only insulates you from the cold with by using Exkin Platinum® fabric and Thermolite® insulation, but it can take a beating. It comes with a stuff sack which doubles as a pump, a repair kit containing six self-adhesive patches for repairing punctures in the field, and two spare silicone one-way valve inserts. It’s multi-function valve makes for fast and easy inflation, deflation and fine tuning of air pressure. Sea to Summit.

The Latitude Series Sleeping Bag

These bags are remarkably light weight and compact. They are made with RDS certified ULTRA-DRY Down 750+ loft 90% Down cluster duck down for comfort, durability and warmth and a 2D NanoShell™ which gives them a high degree of breathability along with a high level of water repellency. The Latitude Series sleeping bags feature an oversized neck-collar, hood seal, and oversized zipper draft tube along with an internal cell phone pocket. The bags come with a lightweight Ultra-Sil™ compression bag and a combined storage cell/laundry bag. They come in three styles: LtI (to be used in temps down to 25F), LtII (15F) or LtIII (1F). Sea to Summit

Thermolite® Reactor Fleece Liner

The THERMOLITE® Reactor™ Fleece sleeping bag liner is a soft and super warm liner that can bump up the warmth of your sleeping bag considerably. It can also be used as a stand-alone sleeping bag in warmer climates and has a quarter length zipper to control temperature that allows you to get in and out easier. The hollow core fibers that make up this fabric trap heat effectively, keeping you toasty warm. Using a liner will keep your bag cleaner, which means you’ll be washing it less often. There’s an often overlooked aspect of keeping your bag clean. Fine-grain sand (which is famous for sticking to your feet when you’re out exploring) can make its way through the sleeping bag fabric and act like sandpaper on the insulation. You pay good money for quality down or synthetic insulation – a liner is an inexpensive way of preventing this kind of damage. Sea to Summit

Aeros Pillow Premium

The Sea To Summit Aeros Premium Delux Pillow packs down to the size of a sandwich and is so comfortable! I had my doubts, having tried other blow up pillows, but was genuinely surprised at how comfortable it is. One side has a soft, knit polyester finish, which makes it cozy and comfortable. The internal baffle pattern creates contours that cradle your head. This is a phenomenal product. Packs down small, blows up quickly and is extremely comfortable. Sea to Summit

Wilderness Wipes and the Tek Towel Wash Kit

Multiple day adventures require the use of a portable shower and body wipes. I used the Tec Towel Wash Kit on shower days and the wilderness wipes in between. Again, the products are compact and premium quality. Check out Sea To Summit’s towels and personal care products here.

The Lightweight Dry Sack

Sea to Summit makes an array of Dry Sacks. Choose them by size and color. They are made of durable nylon fabric and are waterproof. Made originally for water sports, they are handy editions for overlanders. These Dry Sacks are perfect for storing wet items in your rig until you hit a camp spot to air dry them. Sea to Summit

Axis Rechargeable Head Lamp

With 250 lumens, a spotlight, floodlight, dimmer and red light, this headlamp out performs others that we have used by far. The fact that it’s rechargeable also makes it handy. No extra batteries to pack. It is easy to use, multifunctional and solid. This headlamp gets a 5 star rating! Check out more of its functions at princetontec.com.

The Helix Backcountry Rechargeable

Helix Backcountry Rechargeable has a unique control surface that is free of buttons, yet gives access to a dimmable white mode well as a dimmable red mode for low profile use. The expanding globe and folding legs help Helix Backcountry Rechargeable to shine over a wide area and pack down to fit easily in hand. The Helix lantern design also incorporates several hanging and spotlight options. The globe can be removed to swap the diffused glow to a direct spot light. A remarkably versatile addition to your camp kit. Princeton Tec

Shelta brand hats were Initially designed to provide sun protection for multiple water sport enthusiasts, but we thought they could be used for other ventures as well. We took them on our trip across Utah this summer and they got enthusiastic thumbs up from the group. Shelta hats proved to be durable. They provide excellent protection from the sun and can withstand healthy wind gusts and rain showers. They are also SPF 50 rated for sun protection. Yes, we know, this is a HOLIDAY (cold weather) guide. All the same, we love these hats and know you will too. www.sheltahats.com

TUFF STUFF® ROOF TOP AWNING, 4.5′ X 6′

TAP has been using a Tuff Stuff awning for 4 years now and it’s weathered rain, snow, and wind storms with no issues at all. We spotted another awning that we liked and thought we’d include it in the guide. Its’s their 4.5′ x 6′ car awning that attaches to the back of the rig. That means protection from sun, rain and snow when cooking. Handy! ……..and they are on sale now. tuffstuff4x4.com

The SEVENTY2™ Survival System

Uncharted Supply Company is the brainchild of founder Christian Schauf. He started the company after driving through Colorado in the middle of a blizzard seeing dozens of motorists stranded by the side of the road. Knowing that rescue teams were surely on their way, he was left with the realization that these folks would be at the mercy of the storm until they arrived.

Many of us who partake in vehicle supported adventure journey far into the backcountry. This 72-hour survival kit is a great addition to your emergency preparation items.

The SEVENTY2™ Survival System comes with these essentials in these categories: first aid, food and water, warmth and shelter, air and vision, tools and electronics.

Explore confidently. unchartedsupplyco.com

TAP Trail Approved

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

So that’s the 2018 Holiday Gear Guide. Most of the products above we’ve tested over the last 6 months and carry in our rigs today. TAP into Adventure!

Author: Lori Palmer

The Utah Backcountry Discovery Route

By

Lori Palmer

-

UTBDR, BDR's, Utah Backcountry Discovery Route, AEV, American expedition vehicles, Jeep's, jeep Unlimited, Overland adventure, overland, overlanding, over landing, off-road, off-roading, off road, vehicle supported adventure,

Last year I drove the Colorado Backcountry Discovery Route, a ten day, off-road journey that had a profound impact on me. Not only did I get to go off-roading and primitive camping for ten days, but I got to experience the wonders and beauties of backcountry Colorado. At the end of the trip, the coordinator and leader, Chris Wood of American Expedition Vehicles, said that he would like to do the Utah BDR the following summer. He asked how many of us would be game and everyone was.

Chris started mapping our journey on the Utah Backcountry Discovery Route last spring. The trip was planned for the end of June. Ultimately a couple of people from the CBDR couldn’t make it, but a few other AEV enthusiasts and former BDR drivers joined us. Chris has driven the Oregon, Washington, New Mexico and Colorado BDRs, his goal being to hit all of them. He meticulously mapped out the trip. Each day was planned in detail and discussed with the team well in advance. As the time grew closer, we checked weather forecasts, and whether there were any active fires near the UBDR. There were and one member of the team, Steve, kept his eye on their development daily, before and throughout the trip. I provided a list of the gas stations and grocery stores along the route and David noted the location of auto part stores. Mary was a wiz with maps, and all things nature (types of vegetation, birds etc.), and Todd was full of good humor. The team had a pre-trip conference call to get to know one another and to be sure all were well equipt for the journey ahead.

Driving the UTBDR truly gives you a taste of the diversity of the state. We traversed so many different terrains over the period of a day. Our trip lasted nine days and was an altogether amazing, diverse and memorable journey. It was awesome to be cruising through the relentless desert heat then head up through red rocks and spires, pinion pines and shimmering Aspen forests with mountain lakes, streams, babbling brooks and small patches of snow. The UBDR brought us through canyons, atop Mesas and up and over beautiful mountains. Along the way we saw herds of sheep, cows giving us dirty looks and trying to get into our campsites, a moose, deer, beavers, a yellow and blue lizard and too many different types of butterflies, flowers and birds to name.

This trip was truly unforgettable. What follows is a photo journal of our route along the UBDR. I will include GPS points for our campsites and how many miles we drove each day. So, read on and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the Utah Backcountry Discovery Route.

Day 1: We started in Bluff Utah and headed out to Valley of the Gods around 9:30 a.m. We ended up near Monticello UT, in the Manti-La Sal National forest.

Day 1 camp coordinates: 37.8452, -109.7713 Manti-La Sal National Forest. We drove 154 miles that day.

Day 2: We headed out of camp at 9:45 a.m. and drove on the Causeway Trail overlooking Pines and Aspen trees. From there we headed to Monticello for gas and ended the day in Canyon Rims Recreation Area. That evening we camped at Hatch Point.

Day 2 camp coordinates: 38.2213, -109.5650 We drove 88.7 that day.

Day 3: We headed up into the La Sal Mountains then back down to Moab for gas. We drove out of Moab and back into the La Sal Mountains and camped at Mason Draw, overlooking Castle Valley. It was a long day. One “short” section called Hell Canyon, took us two and a half hours to descend. It was rocky, not difficult, just slow going.

Day 3 camp coordinates: 38.5414, -109.3203 . Mason Draw Campsite overlooking Castle Valley, off La Sal Loop road. Drove: 94.2 miles

Day 4: The Highlights: We started the day by driving through Castle Valley. The rock formations there make you feel like you are driving through the set of an old western film. From there we went through Moab to Onion Creek. It’s towering red walls and unusual rock formations are out of this world beautiful. After some R and R at Onion Creek, we headed out to Sego Canyon, where we stopped to check out the petroglyphs. We finished the day and set up camp at Cresent Butte. This was my favorite day of the trip.

Day 4 camp coordinates: 39.0049, -109.6759 Crescent Butte. Drove 86.5 miles that day.

Day 5: We drove through Sego Canyon and checked out Sego ghost town, a once thriving coal mining camp, which has a few structures still in tact. Next, we stopped to see the petroglyphs and pictographs left by several different cultures, the oldest of which dates back to 7000 B.C. For more information on this area, go to www.legendsofamerica.com/ut-segocanyon. After that, we drove over to Buckhorn Wash for more petroglyphs, then, on to our mystery campsite….yup, there’s got to be one. It was July 4th, so we set up our camp chairs and watched a couple of fireworks shows from the towns far across the canyons and flat lands.

Day 5 camp: We camped at 6,131 feet and drove 114 miles.

Day 6: We headed out early this morning. Steve had been keeping tabs on fires in the area by using utahfireinfobox.com and advrider.com‘s forum. He found out that the Dollar Ridge Fire was burning very close to our route and monitored it throughout the day. We drove in to Wellington for gas and lunch then on through Nine Mile Canyon and Argyle Canyon. At the 93, outside Soldier Summit, we came to a road closure due to the fire. It was the road we’d planned on heading up for an early evening at camp. Steve had been in contact with another UBDR driver on advrider.com’s forum, who was a few days ahead of us and who suggested possible alternate routes. After consulting our maps, we decided that over the next two days we’d take an alternate route through Green Canyon over to Strawberry Lake and Fish Creek, cutting out Reservation Ridge and Timber Canyon, as they were in the fire’s path. Our alternate route would hook us back up to the UBDR north of the fire. That evening, our campsite became inundated with smoke from the Dollar Ridge fire. It was approximately 10 miles away and had burned 40,000 acres. The fire was only 1% contained.

Day 6 Camp coordinates : 40.0240, -111.3047 above Rays Valley Road in the Uinta National Forest. We drove 162 miles that day.

Day 7: We broke camp around 9:00 and headed over to Strawberry Lake then on to Fish Creek. The alternate route was beautiful. We drove through Aspen forests and green rolling hills, then hit some patches of snow as we wound through the Wasatch Mountains and back on to the UBDR NW of the fire. We had no regrets for missing a leg of the UBDR and were happy to have found a way around the fire that hooked us back up to it close to our pre-planned day 7 campsite at about 10,000 feet.

Day 7 camp coordinates : 40.4037, -111.1865. We drove 56 miles that day and got in to camp early.

Day 8: We continued through the Wasatch Mountains and stopped for lunch at Mirror Lake. The morning drive took us through more Aspen forests and beautiful Pine meadows filled with bright colored flowers. The areas where we were supposed to camp were taken, so we fueled up and had a quick dinner in Evanston WY (the UBDR dips into WY briefly) and forged on looking for a spot to camp. It was a long day. We basically covered two days of the trip in one.

Day 8 camp coordinates: 41.5178, -111.4525. This was our last night camping . All of the pre-planned campsites for day 8 were taken, so we drove on and set up camp after 7 pm. It was a beautiful spot overlooking Arbs Basin in the Uinta-Wasach-Cache National Forest. We drove 156 miles that day.

Day 9: We continued on through the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest toward Garden City and our final destination, Bear Lake.

At Bear Lake we had lunch, took a dip, then drove on to Logan to find a hotel. We were done. We had completed the Utah Backcountry Discovery Route. This was a truly memorable trip, not only for the amazing scenery, but for the good times had with the other members of the group.

We had a blast, rolled with the punches and had an experience that was truly out of the ordinary. All of the Backcountry Discovery Routes are mapped out by Butler Motorcycle Maps, and are written up, along with a downloadable gpx file on ridebdr.com. Butler Motorcycle maps not only map out the entire route, but break it down into day by day sections with info on the elevation, GPS waypoints and points of interest.

For the story behind this trip check out October’s issue of Outdoorx4. I will also be publishing a TAP gear write-up of the products taken on the UBDR. If I leave you with anything, I hope that it is with a strong desire to plan a backcountry trip of your own. I hope you enjoyed this photo journal through Utah. Get out there and TAP into Adventure!

Special Thanks to:

Sea to Summit

Shelta Hats

Autohome

To tag along on the Colorado BDR Trip, CHECK HERE

White Mountain Road – Inyo National Forest

By

Lori Palmer

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White Mountains trailhead, white mountain road, overland trails, off-road trails, off-roading, off roading, over land, vehicle supported adventure, California overland trails, eastern sierra trails,

Fall is coming fast, but in the meantime the weather is hot, hot, hot. This is the perfect time to take your rig up to the mountains to enjoy the cooler weather, beauty and fresh air. A while back, TAP went up to the Eastern Sierra and checked out the overland worthy White Mountain road. Check out the write-up, including directions how to get there and what type of rig is needed below and “TAP into Adventure!”

GPS	N37 16.95 W118 09.03
Elevation gain	7,200-11,400
Season	April-November
Terrain	Highly graded washboard
Difficulty	Easy
Required Vehicle	Subaru friendly
Time	2 hours
Length	12.3 miles

Phone 760 873-2501 for current road conditions.
Directions: From Big Pine travel east on Highway 168 for 13 miles. Turn left at the signed junction for White Mountain Road to the Bristlecone Pine Visitor Center and continue 10 miles until the end of the paved road at Schulman Grove. Turn right for the Schulman Grove Visitor Center parking lot. The Visitor Center provides interesting information about the Bristlecone pines along with a scenic hiking trail; The Methuselah Trail. The center is open 10:00 am to 4:00pm Friday-Monday. Monday and Friday only in October. It closes Nov. 2nd for winter.

Site Location and Description: The White Mountains are located on the east side of the Owens Valley east of Bishop and are home to the Bristlecone Pine, thought to be the oldest living trees. One of these trees can be found along the Methuselah Grove hiking trail which starts from the visitor center at 9,846 feet and makes a 4.5-mile loop that includes the side valley of the Methuselah Grove where the oldest tree lives. Numbered natural-history markers are explained by a booklet. The Methuselah Grove in the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest is the location of the “Methuselah” (Methuselah is the name of a man reported to have lived the longest at the age of 969 in the Hebrew Bible.), a Great Basin Bristlecone Pine that is 4,847 years old. For many years, it was the world’s oldest known living non-clonal organism, until superseded by the discovery in 2013 of another bristlecone pine in the same area, with an age of 5,065 years (germination in 3051 BC). “Methuselah” is not marked in the forest, to ensure added protection from vandals. (source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ancient_Bristlecone_Pine_Forest)

Beyond Schulman Grove, lies the Patriarch Grove. This second grove is a 12-mile drive north of the Schulman Grove visitor center on a good quality, graded dirt road. Be prepared for your vehicle to do the, “washboard rattle”! The road between Schulman Grove and Patriarch Grove traverses the White Mountain range and provides stunning views of California’s Owen’ Valley and the Sierra Nevada mountains to the west. Once you near tree line, you come to Patriarch Grove, home of the world’s largest Bristlecone Pine, the Patriarch Tree. Bristlecone pines and limber pines dot the landscape with a background view of the Great Basin in Nevada. Most people stop here but the trail goes on for several miles into the White Mountains before ending at a locked gate marking a University of CA research center .

Patriarch Grove, White Mountains trailhead, white mountain road, overland trails, off-road trails, off-roading, off roading, over land, vehicle supported adventure, California overland trails, eastern sierra trails, — Patriarch Grove

High Clearance 4×4 trails: There are two trails that split from the main trail; Silver Canyon Trail and Wyman Canyon Trail. Both are worth exploring with the proper vehicle. Do not attempt without 4×4 and high clearance.

Camping: There is an excellent dry campsite at around 8,000 ft. called Grandview Camp. A great spot for star gazing.

The History of White Mountain Road: In the 1950’s Dr. Edmund Schulman of the University of Arizona used the bristlecone trees on White Mountain to study climate change. Because of their long life, their growth rings they provided a good historic record of the amount of yearly rain in the area. Dr. Schulman also discovered the oldest living tree and named it the Methuselah Tree. It stands in a grove named after Dr. Schulman.

There is a Mexican Mine just south of Schulman Grove that operated sporadically for the mid 1800’s-early 1900’s. Small amounts of silver, lead and zinc were extracted. A few of the mining cabins can still be seen today.

Wyman creek flows through a canyon that cuts through the White Mountains to the east. It was named after Dan Wyman, who prospected for gold in the area in 1861. The first communications line to the Nevada goldfields from the west crossed the White Mountains up Silver canyon and down Wyman Canyon.

Day One Destinations:

Erick Schat’s Bakkery, Fish Slough Petroglyphs, Big Pine for fuel, Eureka Dunes, Dedeckera Canyon, Steel Pass, more petroglyphs, the marble bathtub and finally camp at Middle Springs in Saline Valley for a soak and some interesting conversation with some hot spring locals.

Erick Schat’s Bakkery

Fish Slough Petroglyphs

Eureka Dunes

Dedeckera Canyon and Steel Pass

Steel Pass Petroglyphs and the marble bathtub

Saline Valley Warm Springs

Communication devices are a crucial but often overlooked category of overlanding equipment.

Purpose and Selection:

Mobile two-way radios

Citizens band radios or CBs

Amateur or Ham Radios

Locator Beacons, Satellite Phones, and Other Signaling Devices

Iridium or Satellite Phones

Personal Locator Beacons (PLB)

Satellite Messengers

With that said….I urge you to get out there, TAP into Adventure and do it safely!

1. Damage to a new vehicle:

2. Rolling over:

3. Stuck forever:

4. Breakdowns:

5. Not knowing where to go and not knowing other drivers:

6. Breaking a bead:

7. Embarrassing yourself in front of others:

8. Lack of skill & knowledge:

9. Going off camber:

10. Lack of immediate emergency services:.

E+Ready Emergency Compact Crank Radio

MXT275 MicroMobile

GXT 1000 Walkie Talkies

Alpha 2 pot cook set 4.2 and the Alpha pan

Sleeping System: Cold weather Comfort

The Sea to Summit Comfort Plus™ Insulated Sleeping Mat

The Latitude Series Sleeping Bag

Thermolite® Reactor Fleece Liner

Aeros Pillow Premium

Wilderness Wipes and the Tek Towel Wash Kit

The Lightweight Dry Sack

Axis Rechargeable Head Lamp

The Helix Backcountry Rechargeable

TUFF STUFF® ROOF TOP AWNING, 4.5′ X 6′

The SEVENTY2™ Survival System

Special Thanks to:

To tag along on the Colorado BDR Trip, CHECK HERE

Click here for more CA off-road, Overlanding trails…..and TAP into Adventure!

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