ROCKTOBERFEST - Big Bear run, OCT 21st

[rpraterxj]

Hey gang,

I am planning a Big Bear run for October 21st, and maybe the 22nd! The 22nd depends on interests.

I am calling this ROCKTOBERFEST.. original, huh? I would like to eventually make this a NAXJA official Fall event.

A couple of folks have already stated they will be camping at Serrano that weekend.


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/), 8:30 AM, depart at 9:00 AM.

Trail Choices:
Gold Mountain
Holcomb Creek
John Bull
Deep Creek (Dishpan Springs)
Hearbreak Ridge

Trail selection will be finalized at the Discovery Center.

There will be easier trails avialable for those that wish to run scenic or less difficult trails.

Lunch will be on the trail. Bring food, drinks, and appropriate clothing.

CB Channel:
Primary, 4; alternate, 14

Thanks!

[tcm glx]

I think i may finnally have to get out there....

[Jeepsterboy101]

I'll be there.

[Gerr]

Tony,
Big bear is a blast. can be totally senic or totally hard core and every thing between. Your rig should be able to make basicly any trail you choose but rock rails are sugested for the harder stuff

[Brady's XJ]

OOOHHH Man I want to go! Just dumped $300 for JCR Sliders today that'll be on the doorstep soon. I love buying things I can't afford. It's about a 3-hour dig for me to get up there, but for 2 days of wheeling I could be talked into it. DIg it man. Count me in for a definite maybe hopefully.

[99GreenMachine]

I will be there for sure. is anyone staying at Serrano? I am going to get a campsite there. im ready to go wheeling finally!

Nick

[chelms27]

I will stay at serrano with you and I am bringing Julie again.

[tcm glx]

Am I ok without the sliders?

[rpraterxj]

Am I ok without the sliders?

That's your call. Rock rails are not a requirement, but front and rear tow points are.

There is a chance you can ruin a rocker, but we will do our best to guide you through any area you need.

I know guys run it all the time without them, but I have seen folks crush them up good as well.

I know that does not help you much, but it is truly your decison.

[Gerr]

I ran up there a few times with only minor scrapes on my rockers but I had to take the easiest lines there now I just use the c-roc rocker guardes and not worry about it when I take a more fun line

[Monkey55]

I'm going to try and make it. I don't know if the wife's interested or not. I'm trying not to overload her with wheeling.. :)

Elias

[tcm glx]

Well, planning my moms 70th BDAY party that saturday, so I am going to have to pass......

[-96JeepSpeed-]

Hmmm. You might have to count me in! I hear john bulls kinda tuff, hopfully and stock axels W/O lockers will make it? please tell me what you think.
And also i prefer the 21st.

[rpraterxj]

Hmmm. You might have to count me in! I hear john bulls kinda tuff, hopfully and stock axels W/O lockers will make it? please tell me what you think.
And also i prefer the 21st.

What are the other specs on your rig? Are you lifted? What tire size? Any skids plates or rock rails?

I am planning on two days of wheeling, Oct 21st & 22nd. Alot folsk will come up just for Saturday, and that's OK. There will be some that can stay overnight and run on Sunday as well.

We will run different trails each day.

There is a lot of interest and I have at least 9 rigs confirmed right now.

[itsHud]

[QUOTE=

There is a lot of interest and I have at least 9 rigs confirmed right now.[/QUOTE]

Robert,

Make that 10 rigs... I look forward to seeing you guys.

Ken

[rpraterxj]

Robert,
Make that 10 rigs... I look forward to seeing you guys.
Ken

Hey Ken,

I was hoping you would miss out this.

I do anticipate more interests as we get closer. Alot of folks are focused on Moab. Once they return, we may hear more.

If the group gets too large, we may plit into two groups. It depends on the vehicle set-up and driver's abilities.

We will just play that by ear on each morning.

If enough folks are staying over-night, maybe we coudl do a dinner or BBQ.

We will see as we get closer.

[Cherikon]

Hey-

I might be able to make this trip with the new XJ- I'm only giving it a BB and Rocker Guards for now, but that has never stopped me from wheeling my junk.

It will be good to see Ken and Scott and maybe get to meet a few other people. I haven't done Big Bear yet and the pics are always awesome.

I'm thinking the wife will make it out as well, she likes to camp.:sunshine:

L8r,
Coullt

[-96JeepSpeed-]

4 inch lift 31s all skids.

[rpraterxj]

4 inch lift 31s all skids.

No problem. All you need is front and rear tow points.

See you up there!

[-96JeepSpeed-]

Sweet!

[99GreenMachine]

I will be there and am getting a spot at Serrano for friday night and saturday night. So I plan on wheeling Saturday and sunday. Does anyone have other plans for sleeping or is everyone going to camp? Just wondering.

Nick

[rpraterxj]

I will be there and am getting a spot at Serrano for friday night and saturday night. So I plan on wheeling Saturday and sunday. Does anyone have other plans for sleeping or is everyone going to camp? Just wondering.

Nick

My wife and I will probably get a room at a local hotel/motel. We don't have camping gear, yet...

I have heard of at least 4 other folks say they are camping.

It would be cool for folks that are staying over night to gather at a campsite and shoot the breeze around a campfire....

[-96JeepSpeed-]

ill prolly. be staying at a lodge by big bear lake.

[chelms27]

I will stay, and have plenty of camping gear/extra tent and sleeping bags if you would like to use them rpraterxj. Oh, do you think it is necessary to reserve a campsite at Serrano?

[rpraterxj]

I will stay, and have plenty of camping gear/extra tent and sleeping bags if you would like to use them rpraterxj. Oh, do you think it is necessary to reserve a campsite at Serrano?

I would recommend reservation so that you are guaranteed a spot.

[IMORTL]

are there going to be kids there? Im thinking about bringing my 5 year old...
Ken

[rpraterxj]

are there going to be kids there? Im thinking about bringing my 5 year old...
Ken

We may have our 3 yr old son.

[xDUMPTRUCKx]

Well guys since i live so close to big bear, depending on what day of the week depends on what side of big bear i live on too.....

im in.

if i can get an aw4 in by then, well i will, im just lazy so ill make this my goal to attend.

camping gear can be on me, being a marine we get the mad hookups with $1 rentals on base, i can get a hold of as many tents, lanterns ice chests, chairs, shovel etetc anything that has to do with camping for extremely cheap.

odd everyones down for big bear.....this could be fun!

ive got a friend with a decent Xj who im trying to get to check out NAXJA weve also got a couple more decent Xj guy we will try to get to tag along.

hopefully SSGt Kennedy aka shelbyluv will also attend to help represent the USMC.



i would be willing to lead the way on a little group of trails starting on the backside of BB that includes heartbreak ridge/pontiac sluice and some other fun rocky trails in that area. its my backyard pretty much ive run those trails more times than i can count.

and ken(immorl) mabey we can take care of that thing, still got that d44 slider skid plate thing? hit me up PM style.

[-96JeepSpeed-]

I might be breaking in my project MJ up there.

[IMORTL]

what campground number are you guys camping at?

I want to get one near

Ken

[rpraterxj]

what campground number are you guys camping at?

I want to get one near

Ken

Great idea Ken.

Post up your site #'s.

Also, we need to have a campsite to hang out, drink, and have a fire/dinner at on Saturday evening.



Also, I had 4 other folks say they are coming. We have about 14 rigs now: A couple of broncos, a couple of TJ's, a Rubi, and a Toy... and of course, lot's of XJ's..... there may be a Liberty or two as well.

[xjsarejeepstoo]

I would love to go. Never been with a group of xj's. How serious are the trails? what are there ratings? Im itching for some fun but i have open diffs. 5.5" lift on 30"s 4.0 m/t very capable but i know i need lockers.

[xDUMPTRUCKx]

I would love to go. Never been with a group of xj's. How serious are the trails? what are there ratings? Im itching for some fun but i have open diffs. 5.5" lift on 30"s 4.0 m/t very capable but i know i need lockers.
The big bear trails are pretty easy.....as in anyone with 4wd should be okay. Your rockers will take a beating on john bull with 31s and smaller.


They are perfect for those who wanna get into rock crawling. Gotta crawl before you walk.

Open diffs don't matter. Sure it will take longer and you'll get stuck on some spots that ill walk over effortlessly without tire spin, but you'll make it through fine.

Hope to see you there.

[rpraterxj]

I would love to go. Never been with a group of xj's. How serious are the trails? what are there ratings? Im itching for some fun but i have open diffs. 5.5" lift on 30"s 4.0 m/t very capable but i know i need lockers.

You will be fine. Do you have front and rear tow points?

[IMORTL]

Im in Space 91, Im open to my area being a BS, Dinner, Hangout area as long as it doesnt get too roudy... my boy will prolly go down at 9:00... (I have not seen a BB event get roudy, but ive only been to 3 or 4)...

It will only be my Jeep and my boy there with one tent, so there should be enough stand around, cooking and eating room...


Ken in Corona

[99GreenMachine]

I reserved spot #90. And its me and the girlfriend and a tent trailer. If and when kens kid goes to bed and if its to loud over there we could have a fire and drink over at my site. Lets all try to get in that area. See you guys up there!

Nick

[-96JeepSpeed-]

Anybody know possible weather conditions up there?

[rpraterxj]

Anybody know possible weather conditions up there?

It's little early to tell, but it's usually cool at night, low's in the low 40's and upper 30's. The daytime temps range from low 50's to mid 60's.

I will keep an eye on the weather as we get closer.

http://www.weather.com/weather/tenday/USCA0094?from=36hr_fcst10DayLink_undeclared

[99GreenMachine]

well i guess my reservation online didnt mean anything. haha I called Serrano today and they said 90 was taken so i am at spot #100 if anyone wants to camp close. Cant wait!

Nick

[fish1976]

Sounds likes it will be a blast. We are going to be up in Big Bear for the October Fest at the convition center on the 21st. Then thinking about wheeling on the 22nd. 89 xj with 31's not point on the front end, a Rangle with a two inch lift. No sure if we are going to look for the moderate routes or keep it simple for fun. I'd like to join up but it sounds like the trail might make it or break it. There is a lot of work to be done to the xj, it is just time and money and meeting the right people to help me out. I'll keep it in mind the time and place to meet up.

[rpraterxj]

Sounds likes it will be a blast. We are going to be up in Big Bear for the October Fest at the convition center on the 21st. Then thinking about wheeling on the 22nd. 89 xj with 31's not point on the front end, a Rangle with a two inch lift. No sure if we are going to look for the moderate routes or keep it simple for fun. I'd like to join up but it sounds like the trail might make it or break it. There is a lot of work to be done to the xj, it is just time and money and meeting the right people to help me out. I'll keep it in mind the time and place to meet up.


Please feel free to join us at the Discovery center either (both) mornings. There will be a varieyt of vehicles therefore, a variety of trails!

I want to make sure that everyone that wants to wheel, has a chance. We may be spliting the group. It depends on who shows, what the vehicle is prepared for, and the driver's ability.

We will definitely have a moderate to difficult run each day and mostly likely an easy to moderate (Gold Mountain) each day as well.

See you all there!!!

[ruggedjeep]

Anybody know possible weather conditions up there?
I just got back from BB last night. Fri night was 27* freakin cold.. During the day is very nice, mid to upper 60's.

[fish1976]

How is gold mountain compared to white mountain? I have been up over white moutain a couple of time with the lost kj west group and on my own.

[Gerr]

Gold mountain is a little harder in a couple spots but shorter. the hardest area has a bypass. it does have a some great views and some of the best cell coverage in the area :)

[rpraterxj]

OK gang, We are just a couple of weeks away.

I want to hear what trails you are interested in running. I have several in mind.

We have a good group so far, about 16 rigs. XJ's, TJ's, Toyota, Rubicon, Bronco, and more. We have a variety of vehicles and drivers. We have at least ladies driving their own rigs!

I am hoping more folks join.

Don't worry about the group getting to big, we will divide up at the Discovery Center.

Remember this is 2 days of wheeling, so if you can't make it on Sat., come up on Sunday!!

One more thing, bring appropriate clothing as well as food and water (beverage) Lunch will be on the trail both days.

We are going to try to do something for dinner on Saturday night. I was up there with the LOST KJ's group and they went to a BBQ place near Big Bear Ski resort. It looked like a fun place and the food smelled great. I did not get to stay. I am not sure how much it costs, but it is in doors and can hold a large group.

I am open to ideas as well. Remember, there will be women and children there so we don't want to be stuck outside in the cold. Of course, if the group decided on BBQ'ing at the camp ground, we can do that to.

Post up trails and dinner ideas!!!

[corbinafly]

I'm there for one of the days. Not sure which one yet. Woohooo.

Kyung

[rpraterxj]

I'm there for one of the days. Not sure which one yet. Woohooo.

Kyung

Awesome!

You gonna bring your wife to this one? There is going to be more ladies so they can all talk and get to know each other.

[Jeepsterboy101]

Wont be able to make it guys. Have fun.

[corbinafly]

Awesome!

You gonna bring your wife to this one? There is going to be more ladies so they can all talk and get to know each other.
We'll see.......

[ruggedjeep]

I'm there for one of the days. Not sure which one yet. Woohooo.

Kyung


Same here...

[Gerr]

I should be there for sunday

[99GreenMachine]

I will be up there camping friday night and saturday night at Serrano, spot #100 . I would like to do Deep creek and John Bull. I wasnt able to make those ones last time i was up there. And Holcomb was fun also. I love eating so I dont care what we do. I will have my girlfriend, so guys bring some girls. she hates being the only girl. Can't wait!

Nick

[chelms27]

Ok, I am staying with Nick at spot 100 with my wife. I will run whatever I can make it up!! So count me in for sure on SAT and SUN. And no I am not coming from NE, I am in Cali right now.

[chelms27]

Ok, I am staying with Nick at spot 100 with my wife. I will run whatever I can make it up!! So count me in for sure on SAT and SUN. And no I am not coming from NE, I am in Cali right now.
Ok, so I lied I am being sent to SanFran to show cops how to use non lethal weapons. 2 weeks of that place. Well, I hope you all have a great time, I will be going the weekend after, or early NOV I hope.

[corbinafly]

Awesome!

You gonna bring your wife to this one? There is going to be more ladies so they can all talk and get to know each other.
Wifey's got a baby shower to attend that weekend, so it'll be just me.

Kyung

[mikeyl]

sorry guys.o go since my rig didn't make it to moab. unfortuantly i have a full day training class for for my hazmat ( hazwopper tech level) refresher course on saturday. if i get a chance i may be able to make sunday, but we'll see. sounds like a good event!
keep the traction side down!

[rpraterxj]

Hey gang,

A little bad news, at least for me. My wife's TJ will not be ready for next weekend. The axles did not make it here yet and there is still alot of work to get done.

I will be there in my XJ still.

On another note, I will only be able to do a single day run on Saturday. Family issues that I do not care to go into.

There are several folks staying overnight and/or coming up for the Sunday run. I need someone to gather the group at 8:30 at the Discovery Center on Sunday and lead the trails.

For the Saturday run, the moderate/difficult run will be either Gold Mountain and John Bull or Deep Creek (Disphan Springs) and Holcomb Creek.

Easy/moderate can include Gold Mountain (with rock garden by-pass) and Jacoby Canyon. I will be looking into other trails as there are alot.

We will discuss this on Sat. morning, so please be on time to have input on the trail selection. Feel free to post up here of known or desired trails.

Thanks.

[corbinafly]

On another note, I will only be able to do a single day run on Saturday. Family issues that I do not care to go into.


:(

[rpraterxj]

:(

Thanks...

Everything is and will be fine. I just can't stay overnight and wheel on Sunday... got to take care of family things.....

Oh well......

It will still be a fantastic weekend in Big Bear!!

[rpraterxj]

OK, I have been reading in the CA Backroads & 4WD Trail (Charles Wells) and have a list of trail possibilities:

Difficult:
John Bull
Holcomb Creek
Dishpan Springs (Deep Creek)
Heartbreak Ridge

Easy to Moderate:
Gold Mountain (Moderate) You do not have to run the rock garden.
Jacoby Canyon (Easy/Moderate)
Clarks Summit (Moderate)
Butler Peak (Easy, scenic)
Skyline Drive (Easy, scenic)

Now, I have not been on Heartbreak Ridge, Clarks Summit, or the scenic runs. I am looking for trail leaders for any of the trails.

Please remember, this is NOT an official NAXJA event. Each person is responsible for their own rig and safety.

Rigs must have required equipment to participate:
Hard top or roll bar
Seatbelts for all passengers
Tow points front AND rear
Tow strap (NO metal hooks)
Full Size Spare & suitable jack
Fire Extinguisher


Also, bring food, water, and appropriate clothing. Lunch will be on the trail.

The weather forecast is mild durign the day, upper 60's and cold at night upper 30's:

http://www.weather.com/weather/weekend/USCA0094?from=36hr_topnav_undeclared

http://www.bigbearweather.com

Meet at the Discovery Center at 8:30 AM both days, depart sharply at 9:00 AM

See you all there!!!

[99GreenMachine]

See you there!

Nick

[fish1976]

As I mentioned before we are still going up to Big Bear for the October-Fest at the convintion center Saturday. Then getting up Sunday and hitting the trails. The other people going with me want to go at thier pace. So I think we are going to take the climb up to Buttlers peak, play around on Gold Mountain and finish it off with a drive through Jacoby Canyon. If there wasn't already a group with plans I'd be there with you guys. Maybe I'll see some of you in passing.
Fish:cheers:
89xj

[rpraterxj]

Getting close!!

I just ordered my new shocks! THey will be here Friday, so I will eb wrenching a little on Friday: installing new shocks, rebuild trac bar, tighten everything, and gease all fittings!

[chelms27]

Ok, I am going again! See you guys up there!

[99GreenMachine]

BIG BEAR tomorrow! See you guys up there whoever is camping tommorow night at Serrano and also see everyone saturday at Discovery Center at 8:30. Can't wait.

Nick

[rpraterxj]

Woo Hoo! wheeling tomorrow!!!!

[IMORTL]

WARNING - I am bringing Jake, My 3 year old on his first camping trip... he is a little wild... Taz would prolly run from him... if your site is near mine, you may want to bring ear plugs... you have been warned...

We'll be there tonight... in about 7 hours... Run little critters, Run!

Ken

[99GreenMachine]

Im leaving here in San Diego and heading up to big bear around NOON. Im at spot 100 at Serrano and my buddy Chris is bring his jeep and camping there also. Can't wait for tommorow! WHEELIN!!!!!!

Nick

[rpraterxj]

Woo Hoo! What a great time.

Pics are here

http://www.naxja.org/forum/showthread.php?p=957303#post957303

I will post a trail report later.

[johnnyc]

Today, Nick (99greenmachine), Chris (chelms27), Kyung (corbinafly), and I ran Gold Mountain and John Bull.

We ran into a little difficulty at the entrance to John Bull, because we were attempting a difficult line.

Chris did a great job running open/open. And Nick now hates ARB. :)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v702/xjohnnyc/IMG_0213.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v702/xjohnnyc/IMG_0206.jpg

And I just like this picture...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v702/xjohnnyc/IMG_0195.jpg

[chelms27]

Cool pics Johnny, Thanks for all of the help John Bull was pretty tough without lockers!!

[99GreenMachine]

Very good weekend! I had a blast cant wait for another time in big bear. I have alot of pictures!! I will post some up tommorow and Johhny PM me your EMAIL and Kyoung and I will send you guys all the pics I have of your Jeeps. its all about the EGO Johnny, haha! Thanks guys! see some pics tommorow!

[corbinafly]

Cool pics Johnny, Thanks for all of the help John Bull was pretty tough without lockers!!
You did great! Just imagine what you could do with a few more upgrades.........

Kyung

P.S. It was cool meeting you and Julie.