BIG BEAR RUN - DEC 11th @ 8:30 am

[rpraterxj]

Hi Gang,

Need some help here. I have several poeple interested in going up on Dec 11th. I want/need to post the full run details today or tomorrow.

Here is what I need:

trails to run and someone to lead them - I have had a couple of poeple from other groups say they maybe able to lead, but no one has stepped up. I would lead if I knew where I was going.

As for trails, I don't care if we run Holcomb Creek again, I just want to go.


And finally, how many of you will be there? I want to meet at Big Bear Dicsovery Center between 8:00 & 8:30 am, departing promptly at 8:30 am on Saturday, Dec. 11th.

Thanks,

Robert

[rpraterxj]

:rattle: Is anybody there? Need soem help on trails, please....

[rpraterxj]

Well, no help on trails, but the run is on!

Since the only trails I know is Holcomb Creek, that is what I am running. There is another group of Jeepers going up the same day. Not sure what they are running, but I have been told we can join them. But, I would rather have our own group run. Depends on the number of rigs. I have about 4 confrimed right now.

Here are the run details:

This is an informal (not NAXJA supported) run.

Required Equipment:
Solid recovery points front and rear (tow hooks, shackles/d-rings, receivers), first aid kit, fire extinguisher, snatch strap (no chains, no strap with metal hooks), spare tire and all necessary hardware.

Meeting Place:
Big Bear Discovery Center (http://www.bigbear.info/), 8:00 AM

Planned trails for Saturday:
Holcomb Creek (3N93) running West to East, enter Holcomb via alternate route 2N06X.

MAYBE RUN:

John Bull (3N10) running East to West, bypass (via 3N16) available for those who choose not to run it.

CB Channel:
Primary, 4; alternate, 14

Trail Leader, Saturday:
Robert Prater (rpratexj) - Inless someone else wants to lead.



Notes:
You may to want to get a Forest Adventure Pass, otherwise you may risk getting a ticket. You can buy them in most sporting goods stores or directly from the Big Bear Discovery center, their website is http://www.bigbear.info/

[rpraterxj]

I had a guy from onther list send me this info on other trails:

"Have you run Lower Larga Flats (2N06X) before? Unless the "wall" obstacle has mellowed considerably, you will be strapping the unlocked/stockers across it (ask Rodney about this) :)

Another option would be Gold Mountain (3N69), it has an alternate route about the summit (3N69A) which has some difficulty in it. I generally start out all my "newbie" runs on GM - if you have difficulty there you won't like John Bull, Dishpan or any of the others.

From GM you can easily access John Bull (3N10) if you go West on 3N16, or shoot across to 3N93 (Holcolmb Creek). You can also go East on 3N16, make a left on 3N61 (Jacoby Canyon) and head North - Jacoby is a very easy trail which leads to the highway. Make a right on the highway, go back east ("towards" Big Bear), you can then make a left into the area which leads to 3N03A (Horsethief Flats). Another good fairly easy trail, but off camber and steep on one side. Wouldn't recommend it without at least a rear lock"

Any input on these trails?

Robert

[johnnyc]

I'm still in for the 11th.

And you don't need an Adventure Pass, unless you're camping or parked. As long as you're moving, you can't get a ticket. And if you do get a ticket, it is only $5, which is the price of a one-day pass. I've parked my Jeep many times while mountain biking in the Cleveland National Forest, and I've only received one ticket.

http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/angeles/passes/pass-adventure.shtml

Don't ask Dan Turner what he thinks of the Adventure Pass. :D

[rpraterxj]

Thanks Johnny.

You want to meet the gas station off of the 91 again? We can meet around 6:15 am.


Seqouia, Sintax, Danny, Michael - you guys going to join us again?

Thanks,

Robert

[skrracing]

I am going to try and make this run. I know all the trails up in that area and do not have a problem leading any of them if needed. I am going to try and get a couple of other friends in their jeeps as well to make this run. By the way...for the guys that live up in the hi derest...there is another way to head up to the Big Bear area via Ord and White Mountain. Not a hard trail but just a little different than going the paved routes. Hope this helps...Later...Clint

[rpraterxj]

Hope to see you there Clint.

I have 4 people confirmed for the run. It would be great to meet other XJer's.

[ScottyDog]

I should have my locker fixed & maybe new tires. I may try and come out also. Depends, since I'm going to the Kern the prior weekend.

Scott Suyeto

[rpraterxj]

Hope you can make it. Like I said,it is great meeting others from the group.

Hope to see you there.....

RP

[skrracing]

We have an XJ, a KJ, and a Toyota...You guys dont care what I bring out to the trail right? They are all capable of doing any trail in Big Bear. I would like to bring the KJ...It is setup with a winch and air to help folks out if needed. Maybe we could do a mixed run??? I have some XJ and KJ buddies that are set up and love the Big Bear area. Later...Clint

[rpraterxj]

This run is open to any capable/prepared vehicle. See minimum requirements aerlier in the post.

Bring 'em all - let other's drive.....Ha, Ha, :laugh3:

[karstic]

Robert I'm hoping to make this run. Any talk of running Gold Mountain?

[rpraterxj]

I have heard that we can run GM over to Holcomb. I am up for anything. But like I have been saying, I don't know the trails. If you or someone else knows GM, let's do it.

You want to meet at the gas station off of the 91 again? Say, 6:15 - leave at 6:30 to be at Discovery Center around 8:00 am?

Robert

[karstic]

We'll see what happens. I may go up the night before.

[skrracing]

OK, I just talked to my buddy Wally with the Camo Edition KJ and he is also up for this run. We both know Big bear trails very well and are able to lead any of these trails if that helps out. I will be coming up the back way to Big Bear from the hi desert. maybe we could all meet at the discovery center or something like that. Let's just make a time to meet and a location if the DC is not good for everyone. Again...I have no problem leading any of the trails if you guys like. Wally and I both have ham radio as well as CBs. I also have a great air compressor if needed. We have gone on runs with some of the other XJ guys and it has alwasy been a blast. Some of the XJ guys have also made runs with our club as well. Hope this helps. later...Clint

[rpraterxj]

Awesome! The plan is to meet at the discovery center at 8:00 AM, leave for the trail at 8:30. CB channel 4 is primary.

Only trail mentioned was Holcomb Creek Possibly John Bull. Gold Mountain has been asked about.

I figure we can adjust the run as people show up at the DC.

Thanks.

[skrracing]

Sounds like a plan. Wally and I will be there. We are up for any of those trails. Later...Clint

[jjmat3]

Count me IN. I have run all trails mentioned a few times each in my KJ, but I will be bringing the XJ this time.

[xman]

Looks like I don't have to work that weekend so I’ll be happy to led a run over Jon Bull, Holcomb Creek or Dish Pan Springs if its 3N34 is open.

--Dean--

[LiquidOps]

I have heard that we can run GM over to Holcomb. I am up for anything. But like I have been saying, I don't know the trails. If you or someone else knows GM, let's do it.

You want to meet at the gas station off of the 91 again? Say, 6:15 - leave at 6:30 to be at Discovery Center around 8:00 am?

Robert


I wanna go :-D

""Makes list of things to do""
Front Tow Points
Fire Extinguisher
Tow Strap
First Aid Kit

That should do it :-D

This will be my first run... be gentle :-D

[rpraterxj]

No worries..... there are plenty of people going. I am sure you can get spotted at anytime you may need. I had to get spotted a couple of times 2 weeks ago.

I am still a newbie with the XJ as well. I ran it for the frrst time 2 weeks ago up there. I have a 2000 w/ RE 3.5" lift, 31's, open diffs.

There were no problems last time, except one flat tire and a crushed plastic center cap on a factory steelie wheel.

See you on the 11th!

Robert

[LiquidOps]

No worries..... there are plenty of people going. I am sure you can get spotted at anytime you may need. I had to get spotted a couple of times 2 weeks ago.

I am still a newbie with the XJ as well. I ran it for the frrst time 2 weeks ago up there. I have a 2000 w/ RE 3.5" lift, 31's, open diffs.

There were no problems last time, except one flat tire and a crushed plastic center cap on a factory steelie wheel.

See you on the 11th!

Robert

91 Laredo 4.5" lift, 31's, open....

wish i had my rock rails, but I don't... hmmmmm

[rpraterxj]

You should not have any problems. Rock rails would be nice. I have a set of Rocky Road Outfitters on mine that I bough used. Luckily I did not land on mine any last time.

I am not 100% sure on the trails we are going to run. A few "new" ones have been mentioned - Gold Mountain, Holcomb Creek, and a few more. Not sure if we will attempt John Bull or not. I have mixed responses from the peopel that are going. I figure we can all discuss it Sat. morning at the discovery center.

Do you have rails, just not installed? There was somebody selling a set on SOCALXJ a couple of days ago.

RP

[LiquidOps]

You should not have any problems. Rock rails would be nice. I have a set of Rocky Road Outfitters on mine that I bough used. Luckily I did not land on mine any last time.

I am not 100% sure on the trails we are going to run. A few "new" ones have been mentioned - Gold Mountain, Holcomb Creek, and a few more. Not sure if we will attempt John Bull or not. I have mixed responses from the peopel that are going. I figure we can all discuss it Sat. morning at the discovery center.

Do you have rails, just not installed? There was somebody selling a set on SOCALXJ a couple of days ago.

RP

JEEP
Just Empty Every Pocket!!!

they mean that literally... grrrr

Still savin for them

[skrracing]

If you guys want...we could maybe do Gold Mountain first to get everyones feet wet and then if guys are up for it do John Bull as well. If we do it that way everyone will get to do a fun trail and then pass up John Bull if they are not up for it yet. By the way. I want to help motivate some more guys to come out and make this run. I will give a new Camp Jeep CA Trail Guide t-shirt to the first 10 guys that show up for this event. Hey ...Big Bear, off road trip, fun out on the trail...You guys cant pass this up. it sure beats sitting at home on Sat watching the Brady Bunch marathon. See you guys there. later...Clint

[karstic]

Clint

Sounds like a good plan. I've run John Bull and the Holcomb run a couple of weeks ago. I'd like to check Gold Mountain off the list.

[rpraterxj]

Thanks fo rthe boost of encouragement. The trail selection sounds fine. If there are not many takers on John Bull, maybe the group could split and run Holcomb & JB. Just another idea. We can make the decision once everyone gets to the discovery center.

I would like to see more people responding to runs as well. I know of about 10 confirmed rigs right now. I am coming up and bringing a friend from work, he has a lifted WJ. I have also posted the run on another list I am a part of and I have 2 guys confirmed from there.

I am meeting 3 or 4 guys early and we will convoy up the mountain.

You may want to bring a couple extra shirts......BTW, I wear an X-large!!! :laugh3:


Robert

[ruggedjeep]

Hey everyone... ill tag along on this run and bring a few rigs if ya'll dont mind :)
Our club was suppossed to run Holcomb next weekend but it fell through so this is a great chance. We've ran GM and JB a couple times but never Holcomb, so we're up for it. I know there is interest from another board Myjeeprocks.com they were gonna join our club but since it got canceled im sure they would like to join this run. If the group does get to big im sure we could brake out into groups so there would be less traffic on the trail.
Ill be bringing my 2XJ's and 2 TJ's and whoever else comes from MJR.
Looking forward to it.

[rpraterxj]

Bring 'em all..... If the group gets to big, we can always split up and run the trails opposite of each other - one run JB while the other runs Gold Mountain or Holcomb Creek.

[skrracing]

Yep looks like I better bring a few more shirts. Later...Clint

[xjspyder]

I've been keeping tabs on this one.My buddies and are planning to get up there that same day.We'd really like to meet up with you guys.We have 5 XJ's and a couple of "short jeeps".Hope to see yall up there!

[rpraterxj]

Bring 'em. We should have a good turn out.

***EVERYONE- PLEASE BE AT THE BIG BEAR DISCOVERY CENTER BY 8:30 AM***** We will depart at 8:30 and hit the trails. You can disconnect and air-down at the DC or at the trail.

There will probably be some snow on the trails. This may play a factor in the trail choice, but we will ahve to see what type of vehicles and how many. It looks like we have around 15 rigs confirmed now!

Thanks Again,

ROBERT

[sintax]

Man, after that snow i'm thinking I may need to get my ass up that hill and go play around.

This should be interesting... Any clue exactly how much snow BB got in the last 24hrs.

-Scott

[rpraterxj]

I just saw the 11:00 news. BB has 28 to 36 inches of white stuff!!!!

There is a chance for more next Sunday evening/Monday morning!

RP

[skrracing]

I will be there rain or shine. Later...Clint

[snjcaldwell]

I am interested in going. I have a 99 xj under construction. I will driving my 93 toyota. Let me know the details. I have been on several trails in Big Bear and know them pretty well.

[rpraterxj]

This run is open to any vehicle, it does not have to be an XJ (this time, :laugh3: )

The details for requirements were posted at the begining of this thread, but here they are again:

Required Equipment:
Solid recovery points front and rear (tow hooks, shackles/d-rings, receivers), first aid kit, fire extinguisher, snatch strap (no chains, no strap with metal hooks), full size spare tire and all necessary hardware.

Meeting Place:
Big Bear Discovery Center (http://www.bigbear.info/), 8:00 AM - departing at 8:30 sahrp.

Planned trails for Saturday:
Holcomb Creek (3N93) running West to East, enter Holcomb via alternate route 2N06X.

MAYBE RUN:

John Bull (3N10) running East to West, bypass (via 3N16) available for those who choose not to run it.

CB Channel:
Primary, 4; alternate, 14

Trail Leader, Saturday:
Robert Prater (rpratexj) - Inless someone else wants to lead.


Notes:
You may to want to get a Forest Adventure Pass, otherwise you may risk getting a ticket. You can buy them in most sporting goods stores or directly from the Big Bear Discovery center, their website is http://www.bigbear.info/

[rpraterxj]

hey gang,

I got some bad news, I was told today that I have to work on the 11th. I tried my best to get out of it, but no joy. SO, I want the run to continue without me. I need someone to "take charge" and lead a few runs. There are several people showing from all over. I believe there is about 17 confirmed. Anyways, have a great run.

Now the good news, I will be starting a new post for a similar run this Saturday. Same meeting time and place. Take a look and come join us. I already have a couple of people from SD.

Thanks,

Robert

[skrracing]

I am willing to do this Robert. it is not a problem for me and I know the trails very well. I am going to be there same a before...Let me know if this will work for you. I have some other frineds that are coming out for this run as well and they are also willing to help out. We have run a lot of runs before and it will not be a problem at all. Later...clint

[rpraterxj]

Thanks Clint. i was really looking forward to meeting everyone. Maybe a miracle will happen and I can still make it. I am going to go up this Saturday and try to play a little.

[skrracing]

I talked to ZJ Mike tonight as well and he is going to be keeping an eye on the trail conditions and weather as we get closer. I know some guys that ran Holcomb Creek last weekend and they were telling me there was alot of ice. There is still a couple of more weekends so I am sure things will change a lot but we are going rain or shine on that day. if we need to adjust to a different trail...if we need to...that is cool by me if all you guys are cool with it. Later...Clint

[rpraterxj]

I figure that the trails can be discussed by those that show. I know they are expecting snow this weekend and then again in the middle of next week.

Any chance you could come up this weekend as well? I am trying to get a few guys together at the same time at the discovery center. i would like to go to a different trail (other than Holcomb).

Later,

RP

[skrracing]

Robert, I sure wish I could. I am doing the final wrap up of a TOY RUN our club does every year. I will be on the Dec 11 th and help out with that for sure. Robert...I will also be sure to save a shirt for you as well. Later...Clint

[rpraterxj]

That's awesome.

I hope to wheel with you soon.

Robert

[rpraterxj]

:laugh3: HEY everybody, guess what? A miracle happened and I do NOT have to work next weekend! I will be going after all.

Since I have made plans with a few people to run tomorrow, I will be there BOTH weekends.

Same meeting place & time each weekend. 8:00 @ Big Bear Discovery Center.



Later,

Robert

[rpraterxj]

Hey everyone,

Went to BB today to play in the snow. I purchsed a map and a trail book at the Discovery Center and they proved to be invaluable.

There was plenty of snow, ice, and mudd. After a couple of miles, we got into some soft snow. I had use a shovel a couple of times to dig out around the tires. We take 3N16 around to 3N14. 3N14 had lees snow, but more mudd. We continued down 3N14 to 3N08 (Holcomb Creek). I knew the hill at the crek crossing would be icy so we went to take a look. The creek was frozen at the crossing and the hill right all ice on the right side. I slowly drove onto the iced over creek to get a better look. All of a sudden the ice broke. I had crossed this area before and I knew the depth was only about 16 inches. So I went on and tried to clinb the hill anyways. No luck! My tires were spinning forward and I was sliding backwards. My right rear dropped into a hole. My rear tire stuffed up against the fendy and popped the flare and bumper cap loose. Shane also gave it a try, but no way. So we turned around, we only wanted to try hat hill. Even if we would have made it, I would not attempt that trail with only 2 non-locked Jeeps.

We went the opposite direction on 3n08 and took it back over to Holocmb Valley. The sun had been shinning all morning and the snow was melting so there was plenty of mud. We stopped at the junction of 3N16 and 3N10 (way to John Bull) because I heard a noise coming from my Jeep. My rear fender flare had come all of the way off and was being held on by 1 bolt. I removed it and the bumper cap. This was the only problem we encountered.

The snow was still over a foot deep. escpecially on the back side of the trails we the sun does not get to melt it away.

I did take a few pictures and will post them in the next day or so.

We may be running a similar route next weekend.

BTW,

Here is the run info again. There are several people expected so be there early!

Required Equipment:
Solid recovery points front and rear (tow hooks, shackles/d-rings, receivers), first aid kit, fire extinguisher, snatch strap (no chains, no strap with metal hooks), full size spare tire and all necessary hardware.

**You may want to have tire chains/cables, shovel, and extra pair of socks**

Meeting Place:
Big Bear Discovery Center (http://www.bigbear.info/), 8:00 AM - departing at 8:30 sahrp.

Planned trails for Saturday:
Polique (2N09) to Holcomb Valley (3N16), Hanna Flat (3N14), & 3N08. All trails are open for discussion and depend on weather.

They are expecting an additional 5+ inches of snow between now and nex Saturday.

CB Channel:
Primary, 4; alternate, 14

Trail Leader, Saturday:
Robert Prater (rpratexj) - Inless someone else wants to lead.


Don't forget your cameras!

[rpraterxj]

Hey gang,

I am trying to get a head count for this Saturdays' (Dec 11th) run.

Would you mind lettimg me know? You can use this post, send me a private message, or shoot me an e-mail @ rpraterxj@yahoo.com

Thanks,

Robert

[jjmat3]

One vehicle, probably 4 riders. So is this a family oriented group? Trying to decide if the wife and kids should attend. They don't need any more exposure to beer drinking/cursing/childish acting wheelers..... they get enough of that w/ me.

[Captain Ron]

I don't think you need to be worried, it's a pretty level group of people on these runs, many doing exactly what you are thinking of doing.

Take the family, see the snow...

--ron

[rpraterxj]

Families are welcome. Just have warm clothes and food....

This is a day run in the snow. With lunch on the trail.

My wife is goign to be with me. I may even let her drive.... :laugh3:

[jjmat3]

I was only kidding on the beer drinking part, I rarely drink and never while driving. Just hoping for a fun time on the trail w/out worries of dealing w/ drunks on the trail and the BS that some may bring w/ them. Can't wait! Time to break out the thermal undies!

[skrracing]

Ea,il sent robert. later...clint

[johnnyc]

I'll be there...if I get over this cold... :mad:

[desertjeeper]

If I can get the XJ ready then I will be there, about 95% sure I'll make it. I'm bringing the wife and kids along as well, yes they want to go play in the snow (the kids that is).

Sure hope to see everybody there.

[rpraterxj]

Ea,il sent robert. later...clint

HUH? :huh: I am sorry, but I don't quiet understand.

Hi Clint,

How many guys are you bringing? I am really excited about the weekend.

I looked at the forecast and it is supposed to be in the 60's on Sat. & Sun. up there. Plan on lots of mudd.

See you Saturday!

Robert

[rpraterxj]

I'll be there...if I get over this cold... :mad:
:puke:

I have been fighting a stupid cold for over 2 weeks. It almost beat me on Thanskgiving and the following weekend. I am still coughing and sneezing. Going to the Dr. on Wed. for some good medicine.

It won't stop from going Saturday though.


OC guys meeting at Chevron off of the 91 fwy & Green River @ 6:30 am, then caravn up to Discovery Center....

See you there,

RP

[rpraterxj]

I'll be there...if I get over this cold... :mad:

Hey Johnny, feeling better? I went to DR today for my cold that I have had for 17 days. He gave me a prescription for an antibiotic and cough syrup with codine.... I have bronchitis... BUT I AM STILL GOING SATURDAY!!! He said I will be fine and the antibiotics will make safe for people around me, so I am not contagious.

If you going, I am planning on meeting you at the Cheveron off the 91 & Green River road between 6:30 and 6:45.


Later,

Robert

[johnnyc]

Well, it's not getting any worse. And I've been working all week. As of now, I am planning to go. Bring some of that medicine for me.

[ScottyDog]

:mad: I can't make it..... My son has Christmas party for the U.S. Navy Sea Cadets, that they are doing after their drill Saturday, I tryed to get my wife to pick him up after drill and go to the party..... but they are planning on having an award ceremony so now I have to go....

Maybe on the next one...

Scott S.

[skrracing]

I think we will have around 6 more jeeps. This is going to be a great run looks like by the weather. see you guys there. Later...Clint

[rpraterxj]

:mad: I can't make it..... My son has Christmas party for the U.S. Navy Sea Cadets, that they are doing after their drill Saturday, I tryed to get my wife to pick him up after drill and go to the party..... but they are planning on having an award ceremony so now I have to go....

Maybe on the next one...

Scott S.

No problem. Family is far more important. Hopefully we can meet up on a run in Jan.

Happy Holidays!

Robert

[rpraterxj]

I think we will have around 6 more jeeps. This is going to be a great run looks like by the weather. see you guys there. Later...Clint

Excellent! The weather is going to be really nice. Temps in the 60's! Lot's of mud!

See you on Saturday!

Robert

[desertjeeper]

How many stock guys are going to be there? I have a "cousin in-law" that wants to try a little off roading in his Yukon! :rolleyes: I'm afraid this will be the end of my fun as I will have to take him somewhere that the Yukon will actually make it. :cry:

Anyway we are going to show up, and if there is a group of stock jeeps or some other oversized street vehicles that can split off for the tame stuff, then maybe it won't be so bad. But here I thought I was going to go have some fun. I can't believe my wife opened her mouth. :doh:

[jjmat3]

Leave the Yukon parked at the Discovery center and let him ride along.

[rpraterxj]

Leave the Yukon parked at the Discovery center and let him ride along.


I agree. My wife wants to take her Tahoe but not on this trip. There are plenty of wider trails you can take him on later. I would tell him to park the Yukon and ride along to get a feel for the trails. Some of the trails in BB have some narrow areas that a large vehicle could/would get scratched/bent/damaged.

Don't let it stop you from having fun!


See everyone tomorrow!


Robert

[karstic]

Sorry guys can make it :mad: Have a good one tomorrow. :sunshine:

[skrracing]

YeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeHaaaaaaaaaaaaaa, I ready to go right now. See you guys in the morning. Later...Clint

[rpraterxj]

Sorry guys can make it :mad: Have a good one tomorrow. :sunshine:

Sorry to hear it. something changes, you know where we will be.

We will see on the trail soon.

Happy Holidays!

Robert

[rpraterxj]

YeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeHaaaaaaaaaaaaaa, I ready to go right now. See you guys in the morning. Later...Clint


Me too... I tried to talk my wife in us going up tonight and getting a cabin, but she wants to wait until the morning. That's OK, we save the $$$.

See everyone in the morning!!!


BTW, if you are in OC and are going to meet at the Cheveron off of the 91 & Green River, please be there no later than 6:45. Also, let me know so we will know how many/who is meeting there.

Robert

[johnnyc]

Hey Robert, I have to pick up a buddy at 6:30. So don't wait for us at Green River. We'll just see you at the Disco Center at 8:30

[rpraterxj]

OK.

Anybody else planning on meeting at the Cheveron?

I will be stopping there to fuel up and grab food for the day.

I will be leaving there at 6:45.

See everyone tomorrow!

Robert

[rpraterxj]

Actually, I will NOT be at the Cheveron. I will meet everyone at the Discovery Center around 8:00. I want to depart the DC at 8:30.

I think we are going to try Gold Mountain first.

We will decide in the morning.

Robert

[skrracing]

Great run Robert, it was very cool meeting all you guys and we had a blast today. I will get some pictures up soon but just wanted to say i had a great time and a lot of fun out on the trail. Later...Clint

[jjmat3]

Group getting ready to go.
http://www.lostkjwest.com/images/GMxjgroup.jpg
John (jjmat3) cruising through Gold Mtn. rock garden.
http://www.lostkjwest.com/images/GMjjxj.jpg
Rob down in the rock garden, Beautiful day!
http://www.lostkjwest.com/images/GMRobxj.jpg

[jjmat3]

Great, Fun, Relaxing run on an awesome day up in Big Bear! Thanks Robert for putting it together. That has got to be the greatest mix of 4wd vehicles I have ever seen on a run. XJ's, Toyota PU's, Full size Diesel Ram PU, YJ, Old GMC Jimmy, etc. out wheeling in the Big Bear mtn's, what more could you ask for?! Nada!
John

[johnnyc]

Well, we had 20+ vehicles in the Discovery Center parking lot. One group going to Gold Mountain and another going further up the road to do John Bull. When we got to the turnoff for Gold Mountain, just about everyone pulled off. So there were only 6 of us going to John Bull.

We had my XJ, a ZJ, a camo KJ, a YJ, a TJ and a Rubicon on 35s. So quite the gamut of Jeeps.

When we got to the first obstacle, someone suggested that we stagger the Jeeps so that there was a winch on every other vehicle. That's when we discovered that all 6 of us had winches. :D But there was only two occasions when the remotes had to come out all day.

We ran into a lot of deep powder that had not been driven in since the last snowfall. That proved to be one of the biggest challenges.

The Outlaw ZJ and the Rubicon did very well. And I have to say, the Libby surprised us all. Overall, it was a beautiful day. All I can say is, thank God for rock rails and diff guards.

Thanks Robert for organizing the run. And thanks for the shirt Clint.

[jjmat3]

You should see that Camo Libby haul the groceries! (WTG Wally!) BTW, Your post is worthless w/out some pics!

[johnnyc]

Your post is worthless w/out some pics!
No...I'm worthless. I'm an Asian without a camera.

But seriously, I don't think there were many pictures being taken.

[rpraterxj]

WOW! is about all I can say. Thanks to everyone for showing up. I am sorry I did not get to meet and wheel with you all. I will post a run report for Gold Mtn. Maybe Johnny can post a few more details and find some pics for the John Bull group.

We need to do this again very soon! Maybe we can get something together in Feb.?

Who know's, we may add a "new" Jeep to the family...My wife really enjoyed herself today, especially when she was driving. Now she wants a CJ or Wrangler to build up a little. I will keep you guys posted.

I will post the few pics I have. If you have some you want posted, please let me know or just send them (rpraterxj@yahoo.com).

Look for the posts tomorrow!

Robert

[jjmat3]

See page 5 for the couple pics I posted from the run. (figured they would get buried and missed) February sounds good, Holcomb Creek?

[rpraterxj]

Thanks! I saw those. Holcomb Creek in Feb sounds like a plan. If it is icy/snowy we may not be able to make it.

I will post a new thread for a Feb run in a couple of days.

Thanks again,

Robert

[skrracing]

By the way...for the guys that did not make this run...You missed a great run. We ended up with 20 vehicles. We split up into 2 groups so that everyone could do the trails they really wanted to do. We had 14 that ran Gold Mountain and 6 that ran John Bull. Both trails had a lot of snow and ice and that made for a lot of fun. The weather was just UNREAL. We were wearing t-shirts even with the snow and ice...you could not ask for any better weather in Big Bear. The guys that ran Gold Mountian also ended up taking the Jacoby Conyon trail out to the 18. It's an easy trail but very cool when you have lots of ice and snow. That one climb towards the end was a blast. We all had a great time and you guys that missed it should plan to make the next run. Here are a few pictures of some of the other jeeps that made the run. Later...Clint

http://www.lostkjwest.com/images/bbxj4.jpg

http://www.lostkjwest.com/images/bbxj3.jpg

http://www.lostkjwest.com/images/bbxj2.jpg

http://www.lostkjwest.com/images/bbxj1.jpg

[rpraterxj]

Pictures are available:

http://www.ofoto.com/I.jsp?c=xj7ztxt.40dougy9&x=0&y=qns5p2


Thanks,

Robert