Yeh, yeh I am still around. Not only sporting a new make of 4x4, but also some new improved trail gear.(girlfriend)(finacee)
My excuse for this trip is Patrick made me do it <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cheers.gif" alt="" /> Seriously with a house being built next summer, Snowy River and getting married.....This is probably a good time for a trip.
I like using Easter for 1-2 free holiday days for many people. Also, I am looking at a 5 day Escalante Duckie float trip in May.(if anyone is interested in that trip PM me as well)We could make it later in April though. Due to EJS I would suggest 11-18. Patrick has suggested a full week, maybe Sat-Sat.
As far as location, the maximum dirt, trail camping concept seems popular as it is traditional for us. I scratched out some ideas on paper.....
Friday Night: Meet at the Hole-N-The-Rock tourist trap. There is nice camping just off the highway along the creek, in the Cottonwoods.
Saturday: Drive Kane Springs Canyon. Scenic, very wet, deep canyon, challenging end. Begin Lockhart Basin Trail and Camp???
Sunday: Scenic, LONG Lockhart Basin trail, very remote, challenging beggining. OPTIONAL: Get gate key and do Lavendar canyon. Camp under Cliff Dwellings.(requires a 10-20 mile insult of paved roads) <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/frown.gif" alt="" />
Monday: Supply up at Needles Outpost(hopefully they got the memmo about lower gas prices)Do Elephant Hill, some short Needles Hikes. Cross Bobbys Hole, Impossible Hill, and enter the Beef Basin/ Ruin Park district. Explore Ruins and Camp??
Tuesday: Cross from Beef Basin to Arch Canyon(pray for light snow)OPTIONAL: Check Out and Camp Dark Canyon. Hike?
Wednesday: Stop Hotel Rock, continue down challenging back way into Arch Canyon(a SERIOUS jungle now)Camp best campsite in Utah.
Thursday: Head to Hole-N-The-Rock(the real trail)and @ 80 miles of pavement unfortunately. That pavement could be cut by 80%, but would take a couple of days of less then exciting trails. Supply up at Halls Crossing. Camp mid way?
Friday: Visit Rincon(may be closed again) or travel to end.
Saturday: Head out, and head home.
The optional items could be substituted for trail delays, a relaxing day, or more time on Hole-N-The-Rock....or more dirt portions of Hole-N-The-Rock.....Regardless, 2 supply points, probably 3 jerry cans. Only 1-2 shower points?
Let5 me know what you think?
