Camp out run 03-23-07

[azdesertrhino]

A chapter camp out run is being planned for March 23, 24, 25 (Friday through Sunday).

The camping area will be off Cottonwood Rd in Florence with runs available to different trails in that area.

The tentative game plan at this point is to do a small run Friday after setting up camp with the main run(s), depending on turnout, on Saturday. Pack up and return home some time Sunday.

Potential for night runs etc does exist.

Checking for potential interest at this time, comments etc welcomed.

Another thread will be started for definite attendees etc in the near future.

Steve (XJ20) knows the area quite well and will be posting up information also.

:patriot:

[aszaunmi]

I should be able to make it. I go back to work on Feb 12th after 3 weeks off so I will have to check and make sure I can go. It shouldn't be a problem. I have been doing so much work on my jeep that it will need a good work out. By then it should have a couple of small easy runs and some highway miles on it to help shake things down...

Andrew

[AZRockRunner]

I should have the SYE and front and rear bumpers done by then so I will try to make it. Will have to see if the wife can get the time off or not.

so, I am a hopeful at this point.
Also, need camping gear. LOL

:gee:

[XJ20]

All you’ll need is a tent and sleeping bag. I’ll set up a kitchen for this event. Bring your own food. There will be everything else for cooking and some campsite amenities for anyone who wants to use them.

This campout is just going to be an off the side of the road gathering so we can all get together around a campfire and do a little wheeling nearby.

And a little eating. How about a ruben.http://www.dakotacom.net/~jeepster/tipshades.gif

http://www.dakotacom.net/~jeepster/rubens105-1.jpg

[aszaunmi]

Those sammiches look good.

[FLAGXJ]

Hell yeah! Sounds like a good time. Count me and WoundedXJ in! Hopefully he won't be wounded this next time and we can get home at a decent hour! hehe

When I had a Tacoma and was in the Toyata Tacoma Club, we used to do something similar. It was always a great time.

[AZXJ]

Jim,

You need to check the National Guard firing Dates and Times: Florence Junction to make sure the area is clear... :D

[azdesertrhino]

Good point Dave.

I haven't found the N.G. site where the dates are posted but found another off-road club that had them posted. If they are correct, there is nothing going on with the military on that week end.

Anyone know where to locate this information to confirm? :patriot:

[XJSROCK]

Jim,

I can't answer the NG firing question, but I am planning on going to the camp-out. If you and Steve need any help organizing the event just let me know. I live relatively near-by.

With all the controversy concerning closing the FJ trails, will they be still open that weekend in March?

Sandy

[aszaunmi]

Didn't they used to have a sign posted out there with the dates of the next NG event? If so I am in East Mesa about 30 mins away from the NG post. I may be able to head over there when it gets closer to the camping trip. I know its not a lot of help right now. But it may save a bunch of people driving up to just find out its closed. Let me know if you want me to head over there in a few weeks to check it out.

[o2bgpn]

I'm going to try to make it.

[azdesertrhino]

Another group (Tucson Offroad) also has a campout run planned for that same weekend. Plan on coming early to get a good campsite.

It appears the trails will be open and military activity will be minimal for that weekend.

Hope for awesome weather and a good turn out!! :patriot:

[xjnco]

I'll try and make it ! :clap:
This will be the opportunity to break in the tent and sleeping bag combo set I bought at Pep-Boys last fall, just before it started to snow .

Mike

[azdesertrhino]

Also, just an FYI. The other offroad group that was going to be out there the same weekend has changed their plans to a different weekend. :patriot:

[LiquidOps]

ok... so since i know absolutely nothing about the AZ area just yet... I think it would be helpful if i had some more information.

What kind of weather can we expect?

What kind of room at the campsite do we have?

I need to get a tent and some sleeping bags. Will there be facilities near by? (for the wife)?

Also... what kind of trails will we be running? What kind of ratings?

The more info the better :)

Thanks!

Steven

[azdesertrhino]

Steve, (XJ20), Can answer this better than I can but I know it is primitive camping where we will be. facilities in town but nothing at the camp site area.

Variety in the trails in the area from probably 2 to 2.5 up to maybe 3.5 - 4.0.

I think it's going to be an awesome time. Thinking about going to one of the camping stores and getting a, for lack of a better word, potty chair for us as my wife will be there also!

[Fergie]

Poop bucket...just because we are out there, doesnt lessen our civic duties(no pun).

AZD- Get my email?

[XJ20]

I’ll bring a pro poop deal. I have access to a nice one used on rivers. It’s for #2 only so you got 900 acres to do #1 first in. BLM approved. http://www.dakotacom.net/~jeepster/tipshades.gif

[azdesertrhino]

I’ll bring a pro poop deal. I have access to a nice one used on rivers. It’s for #2 only so you got 900 acres to do #1 first in. BLM approved. http://www.dakotacom.net/~jeepster/tipshades.gif

LMAO!! Excellent description of a delicate matter! Thanks Steve!! :patriot:

[AZXJ]

I'll be in Vegas that weekend, Sorry I'm missing out on this one.. I'm taking the kids to the Monster Trucks World Finals!!! :D

Have fun!!

Dave

[AZRockRunner]

my 6 year old son is SOOOOO excited about this run, he has made a calander to count down till the 23 or March.

ARE WE THERE YET?????

[AzFlexJ]

I too am looking forward to this run but unlike your son i am not counting down the days...i have a lot of work to get done on the jeep but i will make it...i think first run for my jeep will be on the 10th which will be a good feeler out run...lol.

[xj92]

I'll be there barring unforeseen circumstances. I'll bring the whole family.

Jason
xj92@hotmail.com

[Uglygreenxj]

Going to try to make it with my son. I attended a similar function with the Toyota Tacoma Off Road Association when I was a member, they called it "Arizona Rocks" I believe. It was a great time. I've got alot to do but I should be able to make it. I might have to stick to the easier trails and make it my shake down run!

[CommandoXJ96]

I will have to see whats going on, but I think I'll be there for this one. By then I can turn red too. :D

[chrslefty]

i think i may have my junk done in time ,is this the boxcanyon area ?

[azdesertrhino]

i think i may have my junk done in time ,is this the boxcanyon area ?

Same general area, yes! Should be a great time. :patriot:

[XJSROCK]

I have a pile of old 2X4s in my side yard I need to get rid of, about 30 of them anywhere from 6 to 8 ft long. If anyone has a skill saw and a truck to get the wood to the camp site we can use it for firewood.

Sandy

[XJ20]

Sandy, if nobody picks up the 2x4’s I’ll get rid of them for you sometime with my truck. We won’t need to bring wood to the campsite unless you want to. I am planning a little wheeling trip fri across the road from camp to a place where we will load up the truck with mesquite.

Anyone who wants to help gather wood can come along but you’ll need a rear locker and like hill climbing.http://www.dakotacom.net/~jeepster/tipshades.gif

[azdesertrhino]

Sandy, if nobody picks up the 2x4’s I’ll get rid of them for you sometime with my truck. We won’t need to bring wood to the campsite unless you want to. I am planning a little wheeling trip fri across the road from camp to a place where we will load up the truck with mesquite.

Anyone who wants to help gather wood can come along but you’ll need a rear locker and like hill climbing.http://www.dakotacom.net/~jeepster/tipshades.gif

Steve, if you are talking about Friday the 23rd, I plan on being up there in the morning and make a full weekend out of it. I'll help load wood.

Will we need a chainsaw or anything like that?

[XJ20]

We’ll gather wood arizona style. We could go up together the 23rd from florence to pick out a camping area. http://www.dakotacom.net/~jeepster/tipshades.gif

[XJSROCK]

Sandy, if nobody picks up the 2x4’s I’ll get rid of them for you sometime with my truck. We won’t need to bring wood to the campsite unless you want to. http://www.dakotacom.net/~jeepster/tipshades.gif

Steve,

I don't need to bring the wood to the camp, just thought it was a good way to get rid of it. Thanks for the offer, I'll most likely take you up on it.

Sandy

[Gasman]

Any decison on trails or times for Sat? Like come out now that my junk is back on the road. Don't think I can camp out but would come out Sat to run some trails.

[azdesertrhino]

Any decision on trails or times for Sat? Like come out now that my junk is back on the road. Don't think I can camp out but would come out Sat to run some trails.

There have not been any definite times or trails set up yet. I think as time gets closer we'll have a better idea of who is coming out, vehicle capabilities and then we can start planning runs etc.

There will be an official sign up sheet for the run posted in the near future.

[Gasman]

Cool, good deal. I'll keep an eye out.

[Wounded XJ]

I hope we could do some sort of night run. I plan on camping out, but have to be in Chandler for a meeting from 9am to 2pm on Saturday :doh: .

[AZRockRunner]

I will be adding some cheap harbor frieght lights soon so I am hoping to have night runs also.

And I might be able to get use of a toy hauler camper that my jeep will tow, so WOOOHOOOO, camping in style.

[azdesertrhino]

This trip is still a "GO"!! Will be posting a sticky soon intended as a sign up page for the trip.

It's been a busy and sad weekend but trying to move forward.

I'll post up some stuff this evening after work.

Steve (XJ20) will also be putting up some information.

[XJ20]

Here are some plans for the weekend campout. If you have any suggestions please post them.

The campsite will be on cottonwood canyon rd 5+ miles east of hwy 79. Look for the Arizona chapter logo on the side of the road just after the cattle guard on blm land.

Some of us are going up early fri to set up our camps and the main social amenities for the group. Then we are going to run the upper woodpecker trail leaving camp at 1:00pm. Anyone who wants to join this trail ride should be at the campsite and ready to go at 1:00 fri. No stock jeeps on this run, please.

Later after returning to camp we will go on a fire wood run down in cottonwood canyon wash.

Sat we will have a group run to martinez canyon. You should be ready to leave the camp site around 9:00am if you want to attend. Stock jeeps may have to stop where the trail becomes more difficult near the martinez cabins. The rest of the group can continue on to the canyon area a short distance further up the trail.

A second sat trail run destination of greater difficulty may be organized depending on participation.

Come on and join us.http://www.dakotacom.net/~jeepster/tipshades.gif

[bigazxj]

damn i wanted to run upper wood pecker but cant get there till late on fri.
i have some tranining for a new diesel engine that day.
have a good time at uw guys. what trail are you thinking for later fri?

justin

[AZRockRunner]

OH BABY, a hard run without Justin to break things. LOL Just kidding JJ

Another option is to go get the firewood before the run. Just incase a few more want that run.

I dunno, I just know that I will be there with my condo on wheels by 0830 hours.

[x*BIGASSALEX*j]

If I were to go, I would have to meet up with you guys Friday night, but before I go I need to fix my Motor mounts since I blew the bushings at TDS, last week. Would anyone want to help me install them, Ill buy beer?


Pm Me Im in PHX

[azdesertrhino]

I posted a "sticky" sign up thread. Please use it for signing up only so we can get an accurate head count without having to weed through a bunch of :

"I'd like to go but my dogs got a hairball" :jester: I though that was funny!!

The sign up thread is HERE!! (http://www.naxja.org/forum/showthread.php?t=911003)

Looking forward to this run/campout!

[azdesertrhino]

In one short phone call this morning, my whole schedule for next week went down the hopper.

Due to an equipment delivery screw up by an equipment manufacturer, a major job I had scheduled for Monday, the 19th, had to be pushed to Wednesday, the 21st. Unfortunately this job requires a complete shut down of a supermarket refrigeration and air conditioning plant and I have to be on site. This just about completely rules out my ability to make the memorial run for Roger (LOWTECH) on Wednesday.:smsoap:

Due to this situation, other minor jobs that I was juggling with my crew to be completed on Wednesday, the 21st had to be pushed off until Friday the 23rd which really puts a crimp in my plans for the camping run. I’m still trying to juggle the Friday thing but already had a guy on vacation and now this really complicates matters.:smsoap: :smsoap:

[AZRockRunner]

That REALLY bites Jimbo. May all work out and you can still make it Wed, if only for a little bit. Also Friday morning shove off. I am leaving my house at 0630 hours and heading that way. If you cant make it, then I will have to get steves number to meet up with him since I dont know where it is exactly.

[ashmanjeepxj]

Here are some plans for the weekend campout. If you have any suggestions please post them.

The campsite will be on cottonwood canyon rd 5+ miles east of hwy 79. Look for the Arizona chapter logo on the side of the road just after the cattle guard on blm land.

Some of us are going up early fri to set up our camps and the main social amenities for the group. Then we are going to run the upper woodpecker trail leaving camp at 1:00pm. Anyone who wants to join this trail ride should be at the campsite and ready to go at 1:00 fri. No stock jeeps on this run, please.

Later after returning to camp we will go on a fire wood run down in cottonwood canyon wash.

Sat we will have a group run to martinez canyon. You should be ready to leave the camp site around 9:00am if you want to attend. Stock jeeps may have to stop where the trail becomes more difficult near the martinez cabins. The rest of the group can continue on to the canyon area a short distance further up the trail.

A second sat trail run destination of greater difficulty may be organized depending on participation.

Come on and join us.http://www.dakotacom.net/~jeepster/tipshades.gif
I heard they may have locked the Martinez cabin off because of vandall issues? Same thing with Coke ovens?

If its a problem you guys could run upper woodpecker or lower ajax, Id consider them equivalent to martinez canyon.

[xj92]

I'll be there. I'll finish up the longer lca's tomorrow and just throw some 1 1/4" blocks or some extra stock mains in the back to level it out for now since I don't have time to do it properly.

[AZXJ]

Jim,

Is this a NAXJA only run ?? Might want to post this up on the ArizonaXJ list.
Might actually get some new members out of the run..

[azdesertrhino]

Jim,

Is this a NAXJA only run ?? Might want to post this up on the ArizonaXJ list.
Might actually get some new members out of the run..


Thanks Dave, I think that's a good idea for attracting members. Only stipulation is they be XJ owners.

[AZXJ]

Like I said I'll be in Vegas but wouldn't of come along cuz the MJ isn't done.. I still have an XJ but it's DED!!

[XJ20]

Here’s a link to the campsite coordinates via google maps. Look for the NAXJA az chapter logo once you get there.

http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&q=33%C2%B011.595n+111%C2%B016.023w&layer=&ie=UTF8&z=12&ll=33.218584,-111.267128&spn=0.098803,0.278091&om=0&iwloc=addr

Saturday...Mostly clear. Highs 77 to 85. Lows 42 to 48.http://www.dakotacom.net/~jeepster/tipshades.gif

[Winks00XJ]

That is a long way for me to go from Prescott. I would trailer the jeep down but dont know where to leave the truck and trailer. Any ideas on how I could make this happen?

[XJ20]

Yep you can park it at the campsite. The dirt road in is 2wd and the reason we selected a roadside camp area is to accommodate trailers and such. There’s another toy hauler coming and maybe a camper. Then it’s all trail to everywhere from camp.http://www.dakotacom.net/~jeepster/tipshades.gif

[Mdub]

Thanks Dave, I think that's a good idea for attracting members. Only stipulation is they be XJ owners.

Jim I was looking forward to coming out for a run on Saturday but a buddy of mine was gonna come too. He drives an FJ80. So this is more of a chapter meeting thing huh, meaning EXCLUSIVE to XJs? Not a biggie, just wonderin?

[Wounded XJ]

That is a long way for me to go from Prescott. I would trailer the jeep down but dont know where to leave the truck and trailer. Any ideas on how I could make this happen?

Mine is going down on a trailer and I'm coming from about the same distance, so you have no excuses not to come:wave1:

[azdesertrhino]

I don't think we would exclude anyone from running with us as a guest. Heck, they might see the light and leave the dark side!!:angel:

Jim I was looking forward to coming out for a run on Saturday but a buddy of mine was gonna come too. He drives an FJ80. So this is more of a chapter meeting thing huh, meaning EXCLUSIVE to XJs? Not a biggie, just wonderin?

[XJSROCK]

This is a Heads-Up for those of you who are headed to FJ via US 60.

There’s a Golf Tournament going on all this week and this weekend out by Gold Canyon. The main event begins Thursday and continues through the weekend. The tournament is at the first light you run into on the 60 past Apache Junction by the Basha’s. The people driving directly to the tournament will be making a left turn at that light so if you’re going early stay in the right lane for less traffic. On the right side of the road will be parking. The intersection will be controlled by a police officer. There will be buses crossing the street carrying the passengers from the parking lot to the tournament. Over 200,000 people attended this tournament last year. I was given this information by someone who lives at Gold Canyon who recommended that if you want to be to FJ by a certain time take this delay into consideration and leave early.

And of course five miles up the road on the right is the Renaissance Festival. I don’t think it’ll be a problem on Friday but Saturday for sure.

Sandy
97 XJ

[AZXJ]

Just take Hunt Hwy save yourself the hasstle..

[XJSROCK]

Just take Hunt Hwy save yourself the hasstle..

I agree.

[Wounded XJ]

For some of us that have no idea how to get through the PHX area where is this other Hwy?

[Winks00XJ]

For some of us that have no idea how to get through the PHX area where is this other Hwy?

Yes, driving directions would be wonderful.

[Mdub]

Yes, driving directions would be wonderful.

For the alternate route (the non US60 way) do this:

+Take I-17 South from Rimrock, Prescott etc.
+From I-17 take I-10 East (actually ends up going South) all the way through Phoenix like you are going to Tucson.
Go past US60, past the 202, and take Left (East) on Riggs Road.
+Go east about 11 miles to a Road called Higley (if you miss Higley you can turn right on Power or Ellsworth).
+Turn right (south) on Higley, this road turns into Hunt Highway.
Stay on Hunt Highway (you have to turn right to stay on it at Ellsworth) until you get to Arizona Farms Road (about 7-8 miles through the town of Queen Creek).
+Take a left so you are going East on Arizona Farms Road.
Stay on that road until it comes to Route 79.
+Go left (North) on 79 and drive for 3-4 miles until you get to Cottonwood Canyon Road.
+Take a right on Cottonwood Canyon rd. and go East. This is the road you are looking for.

Several times along this drive you will likely ask yourself if you are still on the right road. Don't worry, you are. It is a back way and I'm not sure if it is any faster for you guys coming from up north, but may be fun to try it.

[Wounded XJ]

For the alternate route (the non US60 way) do this:

+Take I-17 South from Rimrock, Prescott etc.
+From I-17 take I-10 East (actually ends up going South) all the way through Phoenix like you are going to Tucson.
Go past US60, past the 202, and take Left (East) on Riggs Road.
+Go east about 11 miles to a Road called Higley (if you miss Higley you can turn right on Power or Ellsworth).
+Turn right (south) on Higley, this road turns into Hunt Highway.
Stay on Hunt Highway (you have to turn right to stay on it at Ellsworth) until you get to Arizona Farms Road (about 7-8 miles through the town of Queen Creek).
+Take a left so you are going East on Arizona Farms Road.
Stay on that road until it comes to Route 79.
+Go left (North) on 79 and drive for 3-4 miles until you get to Cottonwood Canyon Road.
+Take a right on Cottonwood Canyon rd. and go East. This is the road you are looking for.

Several times along this drive you will likely ask yourself if you are still on the right road. Don't worry, you are. It is a back way and I'm not sure if it is any faster for you guys coming from up north, but may be fun to try it.

I'm lost already! I will do some online maping with your directions and I'm sure I will make my way. Thanks for the directions!

[Gasman]

Talked with Jim (AZDesertrhino) and want to gage the interest for a tougher run on Sat. Thinking Upper Woodpecker then Upper Ajax. I'm willing to lead the run if there is interest. I can't camp out Fri night but want to come out on Sat and run. Take off from the campground area at 9 am.

Post up if you're interested.

[Mdub]

Talked with Jim (AZDesertrhino) and want to gage the interest for a tougher run on Sat. Thinking Upper Woodpecker then Upper Ajax. I'm willing to lead the run if there is interest. I can't camp out Fri night but want to come out on Sat and run. Take off from the campground area at 9 am.

Post up if you're interested.

Hey Gas, I'm definitely interested in some tougher runs. I've never done those two however. I've done lower woodpecker, Charleau's Gap, Powerline (Hackberry), Crown King etc. Based on those, wondering if I could make it. I'm more than willing to take a stab at it, and my rig is pretty reliable. But I don't want to get people pissed because I slow them down. Either way, I'll be at the camp at 8:30ish.

[bigazxj]

Talked with Jim (AZDesertrhino) and want to gage the interest for a tougher run on Sat. Thinking Upper Woodpecker then Upper Ajax. I'm willing to lead the run if there is interest. I can't camp out Fri night but want to come out on Sat and run. Take off from the campground area at 9 am.

Post up if you're interested.

awsome i have a tj from out of state coming with me and i was planning on running upper ajax and upper woodpecker. i guess great minds thinks alike

justin

[Gasman]

Hey Gas, I'm definitely interested in some tougher runs. I've never done those two however. I've done lower woodpecker, Charleau's Gap, Powerline (Hackberry), Crown King etc. Based on those, wondering if I could make it. I'm more than willing to take a stab at it, and my rig is pretty reliable. But I don't want to get people pissed because I slow them down. Either way, I'll be at the camp at 8:30ish.

I would say the requirements for Upper Wood and Upper Ajax are 32" tire min, one traction aiding diff (locker preferred), 4" min lift, lower gearing, adequate pull points front and rear. Some kind of rocker protection is recommened. Some of the obsticles have multiple lines so they can be easy or difficult depending on what you choose. I'll size up the rigs that want to go. I don't want to see people tearing up their rigs (unless they want to!).

For anyone that isn't familiar with the trails, check them out here:
http://www.virtualjeepclub.com/forumdisplay.php?f=73

[Mdub]

I would say the requirements for Upper Wood and Upper Ajax are 32" tire min, one traction aiding diff (locker preferred), 4" min lift, lower gearing, adequate pull points front and rear. Some kind of rocker protection is recommened. Some of the obsticles have multiple lines so they can be easy or difficult depending on what you choose. I'll size up the rigs that want to go. I don't want to see people tearing up their rigs (unless they want to!).

For anyone that isn't familiar with the trails, check them out here:
http://www.virtualjeepclub.com/forumdisplay.php?f=73

I am so in.

[AZRockRunner]

perfect timing. I will have my new rear bumper, gastank skid and T-case skid installed by Thursday at the latest, so that will be a good test of there strength. All this givin the fact that I can get the front tow hook installed at the camp site Friday.

Brian

[Winks00XJ]

Are we still planning on going? It has been raining most of the day here in Prescott and the forecast is for more.

[azdesertrhino]

Everyone I've spoken to and all the feedback I've gotten, says it's still a go.

Due to unforseen scheduling complications which I alluded to a couple of days ago, looks like Nev and I won't be there. Just worked a 22 hour shift, got some sleep and have similar shift to pull Friday beginning at 0630.

If things work out better, I'll come up some time Saturday, but to be honest, it's not real likely my old body will be in any shape for it.:doh:

[Wounded XJ]

From what I have heard tomorrow will be warmer than today with a 40% chance of rain (Today was 50% at 70 degrees). While the chance of rain is still high the accumulation rate is going to be very low. According to weather.com it will be 75 degrees tomorrow, 73 degrees on Saturday (30% chance of rain), and 81 degrees (10 % chance of rain). While we might see some wet stuff I think the air temp will be just about right. I'm still in :wave1:

[XJ20]

That’s a bummer jim. I hope you come up just for an hour or two around the campfire.

Hmm, I guess that makes me the highest-ranking official at the event. Therefore I say the campout is ON. Hopefully the rain will be a miss in that area. I’ve had some of my most interesting trips on these trails in the rain and know their flood aspects very well. We’ll be okay and have a great time.

We’ll have a fire so big… and the firewood runs to my favorite wash might get interesting with the hill climb and allhttp://www.dakotacom.net/~jeepster/tipshades.gif.

[Gasman]

Looks like there is interest from several people for running Upper Wood and Upper Ajax on Sat so I'm in. I'll be at the campsite around 8:30 A on Sat. The rain is supposed to let up and move out on Sat so we'll see. These trails are slippery fun when wet!

Look forward to meeting everyone.