"Standing in a slide zone Falling through a time zone Steppin' in a slide zone He had me falling through a time zone"
Moody Blues 7/78
Jake and I had just started the steep climb down into the bowl of Iceberg Lake. The lake is nestled at the base of Clyde Minaret and the feeling of high mountain wilderness was all pervasive.
The lake was almost totally iced over except for a few pockets that reflected a striking blue/green color. A small cascade of water flowed into the lake.
Zo and Dingo had decided to make an attempt on Clyde Minaret. Above I thought that I heard repeated distant screams of "Test!" "Test!"
I had no idea it was Dingo screaming "Self Arrest"
After reaching the bottom, we climbed around the perimeter of the lake and followed a stream out to Ediza Lake. The stream crossings had been very tricky, the flow was heavy and fast.
At one point Jake came close to being swept away.
We hiked up to Garnett lake and returned to camp late and fatigued, having logged 17 tough miles. Dingo and Zo were anxiously awaiting us. We had told them that we were just doing Iceberg lake and would return early.
They also had quite a day and were eager to relate their adventure.
Zo took a serious fall on the snow/ice and screeched down the mountain at break neck speed for about 60' before he had the presence of mind to get his ice axe planted. He stopped fifty feet from the edge of Iceberg Lake, a 2000' drop.
He would have gone through the ice and never got.out ...dead or alive. I can
picture him with his hands and feet up, on his back, looking up through the ice. Ten thousand years from now they would have discovered the "Zo Man"
Zo, being the man he is, got up, and they continued the ascent but wisely called it quits when they hit pure vertical ice with about 1500' to go.The conditions were not right. Retreating would give them another day.
Agnew Meadows to Ediza Lake-Ansel Adams Wilderness
Many say that this area is the cream of the crop of all Sierra lakes, where amid towering evidence of mountain building and glacial action, we were in awe of the colossal forces that shaped these incredible landforms.
Ediza Lake is a true alpine beauty and a primo destination. It can be used as a base camp for day hikes or for scaling the classic peaks in the Ritter Range.
The mosquitoes were vicious!!
Ediza Lake
Ritter Range-13ers-Minarets, MT. Ritter, and Banner Peak
Dingo was a man on a mission. He had just returned from Jamaica and wanted to drive all night. He was quite disappointed that the rest of us that preferred to get some sleep.
This was unfinished business. He had made an attempt on Ritter 15 years ago and after getting most of the climb completed, his partner could not continue and they went down.
The seven mile uphill pack in was arduous. None of us had back packed in quite a while and the packs were heavy with bear canisters and alpine equipment.
Dingo was intent on nailing Ritter. The failed attempt on Clyde only fed his compulsion and I wanted no part of it, preferring death by mosquitos to a climbing fatality.
Dingo was intent on going and when I refused, he decided to go by himself. I could not talk him out of it. He got up before the rest of us and was gone. Jake and Lorenzo packed up and started down. They had a wedding to attend in the Bay Area.
I was left to worry, develop a rescue plan, and try not to go crazy with the swarms of mosquitoes on attack.
At 2:00, Dingo returned triumphant.
Loco Dingo
A great relief raced through my mind and we proceeded to cover ourselves with insect repellant and drink all the rum and tequila that should not be consumed at high altitudes or anywhere.
The next morning we packed out with packs that seemed heavier than when we came in.
At the trail head we were delighted to find our Guinness cold in the car. Even though we were totally exhausted Dingo's insatiable appetite for adventure was not satisfied and he insisted that we hike (without packs) the three miles to an impressive Rainbow Falls.
From here we drove to the legendary Golden Trout Wilderness where we explored and camped before the long drive back to Phoenix inferno.
Men Behaving Badly
-Dingo for hiking and driving like an animal just escaped from his cage.
-Dingo & Zo for no communication and not bringing a tent.
-Dingo for crying mutiny because the group wanted to stay at a hotel and drink instead of hiking in the dark with the mosquitoes.
-Dingo-For screaming "This is not a vacation! This is a climbing expedition!"
-Dingo for trying to kill Zo on the steep icy snow slope.
-Zo the fearful, for begging Lobo for a huge knife for protection against the bears and never took it out of his pack.
-Lobo for drinking his full flask of tequila and ordering everyone to get his gear and food so he would not have to leave his chair.
-Lobo for bringing his biohazard pee bottle because he was too lazy to leave his tent at night.
-Lobo for disturbing mid-afternoon valley peace by taking a cold shower, butt naked on a large rock and yelling "YEAH BABY" at the top of his lungs over and over.
-Bear for pissing all over Dingo's tire and car.
-Jake & Zo for packing out early and leaving the bear canisters and all the heavy stuff for Dingo & Lobo to carry out.
8/01/2006
6/28/2006
11/11/2005
Mountaineering-Jepson Peak & San Gorgonio
I like big fat men like you. When they fall they make more noise !" — Tuco in The Good Bad & The Ugly
Falling was not an option on this epic winter route. The gullies were steep. (steeper near the summit) assuring trauma if we stumbled on descent.
The gullies as well as the surrounding slopes were subject to avalanche. The snow was not consolidated and the summit ridges above the gullies were corniced.
Rescue could not be dispatched until the following morning and a fallen climber would be left on the mountain for the night- chances for survival would be slim.
Escaladores:
Brian
Carlita
El Lobo
Summits nailed:
MT. Jepson
Gorgonio Peak
Twenty two miles and 16,000' of elevation gain/loss.
"If you don't know where you are going, any road will get you there." Lewis Carroll
Road Trip
My REI colleague and amiga Carlita left the Valley of the Sun Friday afternoon and arrived in Redlands, California five hours later.
The following morning we met Brian Hall.
Brian worked at REI in Phoenix but now lives in Southern California. Brian is a skilled, experienced mountaineer and would lead us to the promised land.
Where the Hell is Dry Lake?
At 7000' we lifted our fifty + lb. packs on our backs and started our trek at the South Fork trail head. Our tools included full crampons, ice axes and snowshoes. We left behind harnesses and rope .
Our base camp destination was Dry Lake, where we planned a Gorgonio South East ascent the next morning.
The weather conditions were great, we quickly shed layers and after two miles put on our snowshoes.
At a fork, we elected to follow some ski tracks and climbed to 9500' and dug out our snow camp. We had overshot Dry Lake.
During the snow melt operation we discovered that one of the fuel canisters was inoperable. This would put us short of water and cause us to turn back the next morning.
Brian studied the map and GPS data and a new plan was agreed upon. If we had enough fuel for water we would climb to a ridge line and survey the Jepson Peak bowl and make a decision on our plans there.
The fuel canister was put in the tent for the evening and successfully put into operation by switching stoves the next morning.
Morning has Broken
At the ridge line Brian surveyed the peaks and felt that getting back to Dry Lake would take too long for a Gorgonio ascent and that Jepson, although a very steep climb, was doable in our daylight time window.
At 11,205 feet Jepson Peak is the 2nd highest mountain in Southern California and offers some of the best snow climbs in Southern California. There are 3 main chutes or gullies that rise 1,300 vertical feet out of the Jepson Bowl on the north side of the mountain.
Jepson Peak
We chose to climb a spectacular ridge on the north side of the mountain from the Jepson Bowl directly to the summit.
The going was extremely strenuous.
"That which does not destroy me makes me stronger." (Nietzsche)
Carla climbing the North Face of Jepson Peak---"A Woman's Place Is on Top." — T-shirt from first American woman's ascent of Annapurna.
The view from Jepson was spectacular. We were all pleased with making this pure alpine climb.
Carlita quipped "Dry Lake-You Bastard" Although elated to get on top of Jepson, she was disappointed that she had not conquered Gorgonio. This was her second try. She had turned back last year during an adventure race. Gorgonio was unfinished business.
Brian surveyed the ridge line to Gorgonio and surprisingly announced that he thought that we could bag Gorgonio and get down in a daylight time window.
"Let's do it"
San Gorgonio Saddle/Jepson Peak
An hour later we hunkered down in a rock shelter on top of Gorgonio. The winds were bitter and strong.
MT. San Gorgonio, also known as "Old Greyback", at 11,490' it is the highest mountain in Southern California.
The goal had been met but the trek was only half done. Now we had to get down.
"Be careful when you go down a mountain. Remember, there's only one step but it's a big one !"
We headed back down the ridge line and Brian picked the safest route.
He went first and moved quickly but carefully. Crampons were balling up, so we had to rely on our footing and ice axe placements. This was really dangerous.
I followed and then Carlita.
Carla was spooked and moving tentatively but overcame her fear and made steady progress. We were both relieved when she joined us.
The rest of the descent went smoothly. We did some glissading.
Ancient bristlecone pines, (Pinus longaeva) the oldest known tree species in the world, peppered this exposed, windswept harsh environment. The oldest bristlecones usually grow at elevations of 10,000 to 11,000 feet.
At the bottom we looked up at the chutes, amazed of our accomplishment.
Brian's GPS gave us an inaccurate reading in the woods and we overshot our camp by climbing an unnecessary 600'.
Brian made the adjustment and led us into camp.
It was a beautiful sight.
The next morning we packed up and started out with snowshoes but quickly abandoned them. The snow had gotten quite slushy.
We were out in three hours.
"Well I woke up this mornin' and got myself a beer"--Jim Morrison (The Doors)
In Redlands, Brian took us to an old fashioned A& W where we gulped down draft root beers in icy mugs and devoured burgers & fries. It was paradise!
Carla the road warrior, drove all the way back to Phoenix that afternoon. I kept her awake by talking her ear off.
This was an outing, that none of us will ever forget.
Thanks to Brian for his patience, planning and expert execution.
Thanks to Carla for inviting me, and demonstrating admirable courage. She is one tough woman that more than held her own and defeated the fear within.
Thanks to both Brian and Carla for the time we shared.
Next year Brian has promised to put together a San Bernadino Ridge line trek----San Bernadino summit to San Gorgonio summit along the ridge line crossing East San Bernadino Peak, Anderson Peak, Shields Peak, Charlton Peak, Little Charlton, and Jepson.
Perhaps we will cross the wild new junction where skiing and mountaineering converge. I am thinking about a short, fat, light approach set of skis with alpine -touring bindings.
I would love to ski down one of those chutes. And I will.
Men, Women and Varmints Behaving Badly:
-A dirteeeeeeeee sweet toothed varmint that got into my food bag and ate my whole bag of cookies, leaving the rest of the food alone.
-The Sweet, innocent Carlita who again was using the vernacular of a truck driver.
-Dingo Dan & Zo who did not make this trip because they were afraid of their respective bosses-Richard & Jeanie
-Brian & Carla who were flaunting their new Patagonia "Puff"
jackets. Carla kept hugging hers like it was some small pet and mumbling something like "My Puff, My Puff-I Love You?"
-Carla for complaining about being down wind of Lobo and then stepping to the side and "tooted"
Why is it that women only toot? C'mon Carla you just plain farted!
A solo mountaineer/skier who said "right on" 15 times in the course of a 2 minute conversation.
Lobo and Carla for creating a scandal at their workplace by not only spending the night together in a cheap motel but spending 2 nights in El Lobo's den. (New Black Diamond FirstLight tent)
This could make the cover of one of the outside adventure tabloids!
Carla for claiming that she was not "hogging the tent" and that the ice floor was causing her to slide and take up most of the tent.
El Lobo spent his nights pinned to the wall of the tent.
Falling was not an option on this epic winter route. The gullies were steep. (steeper near the summit) assuring trauma if we stumbled on descent.
The gullies as well as the surrounding slopes were subject to avalanche. The snow was not consolidated and the summit ridges above the gullies were corniced.
Rescue could not be dispatched until the following morning and a fallen climber would be left on the mountain for the night- chances for survival would be slim.
Escaladores:
Brian
Carlita
El Lobo
Summits nailed:
MT. Jepson
Gorgonio Peak
Twenty two miles and 16,000' of elevation gain/loss.
"If you don't know where you are going, any road will get you there." Lewis Carroll
Road Trip
My REI colleague and amiga Carlita left the Valley of the Sun Friday afternoon and arrived in Redlands, California five hours later.
The following morning we met Brian Hall.
Brian worked at REI in Phoenix but now lives in Southern California. Brian is a skilled, experienced mountaineer and would lead us to the promised land.
Where the Hell is Dry Lake?
At 7000' we lifted our fifty + lb. packs on our backs and started our trek at the South Fork trail head. Our tools included full crampons, ice axes and snowshoes. We left behind harnesses and rope .
Our base camp destination was Dry Lake, where we planned a Gorgonio South East ascent the next morning.
The weather conditions were great, we quickly shed layers and after two miles put on our snowshoes.
At a fork, we elected to follow some ski tracks and climbed to 9500' and dug out our snow camp. We had overshot Dry Lake.
During the snow melt operation we discovered that one of the fuel canisters was inoperable. This would put us short of water and cause us to turn back the next morning.
Brian studied the map and GPS data and a new plan was agreed upon. If we had enough fuel for water we would climb to a ridge line and survey the Jepson Peak bowl and make a decision on our plans there.
The fuel canister was put in the tent for the evening and successfully put into operation by switching stoves the next morning.
Morning has Broken
At the ridge line Brian surveyed the peaks and felt that getting back to Dry Lake would take too long for a Gorgonio ascent and that Jepson, although a very steep climb, was doable in our daylight time window.
At 11,205 feet Jepson Peak is the 2nd highest mountain in Southern California and offers some of the best snow climbs in Southern California. There are 3 main chutes or gullies that rise 1,300 vertical feet out of the Jepson Bowl on the north side of the mountain.
Jepson Peak
We chose to climb a spectacular ridge on the north side of the mountain from the Jepson Bowl directly to the summit.
The going was extremely strenuous.
"That which does not destroy me makes me stronger." (Nietzsche)
Carla climbing the North Face of Jepson Peak---"A Woman's Place Is on Top." — T-shirt from first American woman's ascent of Annapurna.
The view from Jepson was spectacular. We were all pleased with making this pure alpine climb.
Carlita quipped "Dry Lake-You Bastard" Although elated to get on top of Jepson, she was disappointed that she had not conquered Gorgonio. This was her second try. She had turned back last year during an adventure race. Gorgonio was unfinished business.
Brian surveyed the ridge line to Gorgonio and surprisingly announced that he thought that we could bag Gorgonio and get down in a daylight time window.
"Let's do it"
San Gorgonio Saddle/Jepson Peak
An hour later we hunkered down in a rock shelter on top of Gorgonio. The winds were bitter and strong.
MT. San Gorgonio, also known as "Old Greyback", at 11,490' it is the highest mountain in Southern California.
The goal had been met but the trek was only half done. Now we had to get down.
"Be careful when you go down a mountain. Remember, there's only one step but it's a big one !"
We headed back down the ridge line and Brian picked the safest route.
He went first and moved quickly but carefully. Crampons were balling up, so we had to rely on our footing and ice axe placements. This was really dangerous.
I followed and then Carlita.
Carla was spooked and moving tentatively but overcame her fear and made steady progress. We were both relieved when she joined us.
The rest of the descent went smoothly. We did some glissading.
Ancient bristlecone pines, (Pinus longaeva) the oldest known tree species in the world, peppered this exposed, windswept harsh environment. The oldest bristlecones usually grow at elevations of 10,000 to 11,000 feet.
At the bottom we looked up at the chutes, amazed of our accomplishment.
Brian's GPS gave us an inaccurate reading in the woods and we overshot our camp by climbing an unnecessary 600'.
Brian made the adjustment and led us into camp.
It was a beautiful sight.
The next morning we packed up and started out with snowshoes but quickly abandoned them. The snow had gotten quite slushy.
We were out in three hours.
"Well I woke up this mornin' and got myself a beer"--Jim Morrison (The Doors)
In Redlands, Brian took us to an old fashioned A& W where we gulped down draft root beers in icy mugs and devoured burgers & fries. It was paradise!
Carla the road warrior, drove all the way back to Phoenix that afternoon. I kept her awake by talking her ear off.
This was an outing, that none of us will ever forget.
Thanks to Brian for his patience, planning and expert execution.
Thanks to Carla for inviting me, and demonstrating admirable courage. She is one tough woman that more than held her own and defeated the fear within.
Thanks to both Brian and Carla for the time we shared.
Next year Brian has promised to put together a San Bernadino Ridge line trek----San Bernadino summit to San Gorgonio summit along the ridge line crossing East San Bernadino Peak, Anderson Peak, Shields Peak, Charlton Peak, Little Charlton, and Jepson.
Perhaps we will cross the wild new junction where skiing and mountaineering converge. I am thinking about a short, fat, light approach set of skis with alpine -touring bindings.
I would love to ski down one of those chutes. And I will.
Men, Women and Varmints Behaving Badly:
-A dirteeeeeeeee sweet toothed varmint that got into my food bag and ate my whole bag of cookies, leaving the rest of the food alone.
-The Sweet, innocent Carlita who again was using the vernacular of a truck driver.
-Dingo Dan & Zo who did not make this trip because they were afraid of their respective bosses-Richard & Jeanie
-Brian & Carla who were flaunting their new Patagonia "Puff"
jackets. Carla kept hugging hers like it was some small pet and mumbling something like "My Puff, My Puff-I Love You?"
-Carla for complaining about being down wind of Lobo and then stepping to the side and "tooted"
Why is it that women only toot? C'mon Carla you just plain farted!
A solo mountaineer/skier who said "right on" 15 times in the course of a 2 minute conversation.
Lobo and Carla for creating a scandal at their workplace by not only spending the night together in a cheap motel but spending 2 nights in El Lobo's den. (New Black Diamond FirstLight tent)
This could make the cover of one of the outside adventure tabloids!
Carla for claiming that she was not "hogging the tent" and that the ice floor was causing her to slide and take up most of the tent.
El Lobo spent his nights pinned to the wall of the tent.
10/15/2005
The Eagles
Veteran Cosmic Rockers,
Well I can now die a happy man. I finally was able to get to see the Eagles in concert and hear "Hotel California" live.
I have been to "THE" Hotel California in Todos Santos Mexico where there was plenty of room and dozens of old dusty suitcases left in room that have never been opened. ("You can check out anytime you like but you can never leave")
Hotel California was one of five number one hits for the Eagles and they played non-stop for 2 1/2 hours. The audio visual was fantastic.
Tickets were outrageously priced but worth every penny.
The night before I caught the Boxtops,(The Letter) Jay & The Techniques and Marrillee Rush (Angel of the Morning) at the Fort, for a Veterans Day concert. It was great! (and free)
I have attached for your enjoyment a copy of my lifetime concert list that includes over 200 artists/groups and 452 performances.
Please review and let me know if there are any groups that you have seen that are not on my list. (If there are any, I may have to kill you!)
Gerry has me trumped with The Beatles at Candlestick in August of 66. She also has the Troggs, Jefferson Airplane and Pete Seeger that are absent from my list.
Life is so unfair! I am so jealous!! I need them on my list!
I will sign off with this food for thought.
Was I really at THE Hotel California in Todos Santos or is the Hotel California a state of mind? What do you think?
Far out!!
"Stay Hungry Stay Foolish"
El Lobo H. Grande
Well I can now die a happy man. I finally was able to get to see the Eagles in concert and hear "Hotel California" live.
I have been to "THE" Hotel California in Todos Santos Mexico where there was plenty of room and dozens of old dusty suitcases left in room that have never been opened. ("You can check out anytime you like but you can never leave")
Hotel California was one of five number one hits for the Eagles and they played non-stop for 2 1/2 hours. The audio visual was fantastic.
Tickets were outrageously priced but worth every penny.
The night before I caught the Boxtops,(The Letter) Jay & The Techniques and Marrillee Rush (Angel of the Morning) at the Fort, for a Veterans Day concert. It was great! (and free)
I have attached for your enjoyment a copy of my lifetime concert list that includes over 200 artists/groups and 452 performances.
Please review and let me know if there are any groups that you have seen that are not on my list. (If there are any, I may have to kill you!)
Gerry has me trumped with The Beatles at Candlestick in August of 66. She also has the Troggs, Jefferson Airplane and Pete Seeger that are absent from my list.
Life is so unfair! I am so jealous!! I need them on my list!
I will sign off with this food for thought.
Was I really at THE Hotel California in Todos Santos or is the Hotel California a state of mind? What do you think?
Far out!!
"Stay Hungry Stay Foolish"
El Lobo H. Grande
PDOG goes down in Supai
Flash Flood News-Havasupai Grand Canyon
"People are strange-When you're a stranger-Faces look ugly-
When you're alone "-Doors-1967 Summer of Love
The following event recently sent shock waves through the Havasupai Tribe
in the Grand Canyon.
PDOG,(Patrol Dog) the alpha wolf and one of the largest dogs in the canyon got the stuffing beat out of her by "Stranger", a mellow, medium sized dog whom had wandered into the camp.
The tribal council had an emergency session to discuss if this was a bad omen and to determine if a message was being sent down from the spirits.
PDOG had successfully chased any and all dogs that had previously entered our camp, interested in the bountiful scraps that were being fed to PDOG.
P had shown no mercy in her hostile attacks of rivals.
But "Stranger" persevered and hung around and eventually one of the guides started putting out a plate for him. Even though PDOG always had a bountiful plate, she would viciously charge Stranger and take his plate.
Until---one day---- Stranger jumped out of the way while being attacked, jumped on top of PDOG and knocked the mighty P to the ground. The aging PDOG's size was no match to Stranger's youthful speed and agility. He took the big old girl down quickly. PDOG retreated, lucky to be alive.
Our client group of 17 Travel Writers stared in disbelief, they had witnessed a fine example of survival of the fittest.
The fur had flown and a Stranger had emerged as the alpha wolf.
.
PDOG during happier times
"Is it strange I should change? I don't know, why don't you ask her?"
Buffalo Springfield-1967 Summer of Love
Stranger and PDOG now peacefully coexist in our camp, both of them are well fed. Stranger has however, taken over PDOG's place sleeping on my tarp.
Note: PDOG is the helicopter pilot's dog. No one knows where Stranger came from.
PDOG going down is bigger news than TYCO Jeffrey in Supai
No more Toga parties for you dude!
The Havasupai Reservation is located in one of the most beautiful and remote areas of the western Grand Canyon. The Village of Supai, is located in Havasu Canyon, a southwestern branch of the Grand Canyon, and is accessible only by foot, horseback, or helicopter. The village is the tribal center for the Havasupai Tribe and is noted for its four blue-green waterfalls and camping facilities. Havasupai translates to People-Of-The-Blue-Green-Waters in English.
"People are strange-When you're a stranger-Faces look ugly-
When you're alone "-Doors-1967 Summer of Love
The following event recently sent shock waves through the Havasupai Tribe
in the Grand Canyon.
PDOG,(Patrol Dog) the alpha wolf and one of the largest dogs in the canyon got the stuffing beat out of her by "Stranger", a mellow, medium sized dog whom had wandered into the camp.
The tribal council had an emergency session to discuss if this was a bad omen and to determine if a message was being sent down from the spirits.
PDOG had successfully chased any and all dogs that had previously entered our camp, interested in the bountiful scraps that were being fed to PDOG.
P had shown no mercy in her hostile attacks of rivals.
But "Stranger" persevered and hung around and eventually one of the guides started putting out a plate for him. Even though PDOG always had a bountiful plate, she would viciously charge Stranger and take his plate.
Until---one day---- Stranger jumped out of the way while being attacked, jumped on top of PDOG and knocked the mighty P to the ground. The aging PDOG's size was no match to Stranger's youthful speed and agility. He took the big old girl down quickly. PDOG retreated, lucky to be alive.
Our client group of 17 Travel Writers stared in disbelief, they had witnessed a fine example of survival of the fittest.
The fur had flown and a Stranger had emerged as the alpha wolf.
.
PDOG during happier times
"Is it strange I should change? I don't know, why don't you ask her?"
Buffalo Springfield-1967 Summer of Love
Stranger and PDOG now peacefully coexist in our camp, both of them are well fed. Stranger has however, taken over PDOG's place sleeping on my tarp.
Note: PDOG is the helicopter pilot's dog. No one knows where Stranger came from.
PDOG going down is bigger news than TYCO Jeffrey in Supai
No more Toga parties for you dude!
The Havasupai Reservation is located in one of the most beautiful and remote areas of the western Grand Canyon. The Village of Supai, is located in Havasu Canyon, a southwestern branch of the Grand Canyon, and is accessible only by foot, horseback, or helicopter. The village is the tribal center for the Havasupai Tribe and is noted for its four blue-green waterfalls and camping facilities. Havasupai translates to People-Of-The-Blue-Green-Waters in English.
Climbing A Wet Needle
"But still they begin--Needles and pins"
Searchers -3/64
Climbers
El Lobo Grande
Zo
Our destination was Weavers Needle in the Superstition Wilderness. Weavers Needle is one of Arizona's most striking and famous landmarks.
This 4,553 -foot-high peak yields an easy but potentially dangerous four pitch ascent on crumbling rock.
The approach is somewhat of a bitch. It is four miles, starting from the Peralta trail head, with an elevation gain of 2800'. There is about a mile off trail climb on steep talus.
Rain was in the forecast and we left Phoenix with the attitude of giving it a try, and if nothing else checking it out for better conditions.
We free climbed the first pitch. The rock was wet and dangerous. Zo did not like the conditions. If it rained we would be screwed. It was time to back off. Zo belayed me down and we headed for a nice lunch at a water runoff into a large pool.
We will return when there is safer conditions. This is unfinished business.
Stunning wildflowers on the well used Peralta trail. Weavers Needle looms in the background.
The Needle-A cross country scramble before you start any technical climbing.
Dingo-Te gustan mes pistolas?
[Unable to display image]
Retreat
Men Behaving Badly
Lorenzo for yelling "I can't talk now" when Lobo called him at work to plan this outing. Geeeeeeeeeeez Lorenzo, El Lobo also happened to be under a lot of pressure, trying to learn how to use his new IPOD and watching the NCAA basketball game at the same time.
Lorenzo for missing climbing at the gym because he had to buy some Qtips and get a haircut after work?
Lorenzo for letting the foulest fart ever launched in Superstitions and claiming revenge. The full environmental damage has yet to be determined.
Lorenzo for flaunting the fact that he climbs 5.11s and stealing El Lobo's ATC
El Lobo for going back on the Soup Diet.
Searchers -3/64
Climbers
El Lobo Grande
Zo
Our destination was Weavers Needle in the Superstition Wilderness. Weavers Needle is one of Arizona's most striking and famous landmarks.
This 4,553 -foot-high peak yields an easy but potentially dangerous four pitch ascent on crumbling rock.
The approach is somewhat of a bitch. It is four miles, starting from the Peralta trail head, with an elevation gain of 2800'. There is about a mile off trail climb on steep talus.
Rain was in the forecast and we left Phoenix with the attitude of giving it a try, and if nothing else checking it out for better conditions.
We free climbed the first pitch. The rock was wet and dangerous. Zo did not like the conditions. If it rained we would be screwed. It was time to back off. Zo belayed me down and we headed for a nice lunch at a water runoff into a large pool.
We will return when there is safer conditions. This is unfinished business.
Stunning wildflowers on the well used Peralta trail. Weavers Needle looms in the background.
The Needle-A cross country scramble before you start any technical climbing.
Dingo-Te gustan mes pistolas?
[Unable to display image]
Retreat
Men Behaving Badly
Lorenzo for yelling "I can't talk now" when Lobo called him at work to plan this outing. Geeeeeeeeeeez Lorenzo, El Lobo also happened to be under a lot of pressure, trying to learn how to use his new IPOD and watching the NCAA basketball game at the same time.
Lorenzo for missing climbing at the gym because he had to buy some Qtips and get a haircut after work?
Lorenzo for letting the foulest fart ever launched in Superstitions and claiming revenge. The full environmental damage has yet to be determined.
Lorenzo for flaunting the fact that he climbs 5.11s and stealing El Lobo's ATC
El Lobo for going back on the Soup Diet.
Extreme Hot Springs
Awesome Nevada
Four days relaxing, visiting family and checking out our condo at Incline-now that's extreme!
Highlights of the trip included:
-Tahoe- What more need to be said
-Lunch at the Hounds Tooth overlooking the beautiful Genoa Valley near Heavenly Valley
-Lunch in historic, beautiful Markleeville California
-Soaking in the awesome natural mineral pools of Walleys Hot Springs-A Nevada Historic Site
-Genoa-Nevada's first settlement
-Hiking the Faye Luther Trail that connects with the Tahoe Rim trail
-Strolling the Carson Valley arts & crafts fair in Minden
-Awesome wedding and reception at Walleys for our niece Lindsay & new spouse John
-Champagne brunch at the Peppermill with my parents Wally & Thelma
Nevada and Walleys Rock!!
Respectfully submitted
J. Gordon Liddy (how long do I have to hold my finger over this match?)
Four days relaxing, visiting family and checking out our condo at Incline-now that's extreme!
Highlights of the trip included:
-Tahoe- What more need to be said
-Lunch at the Hounds Tooth overlooking the beautiful Genoa Valley near Heavenly Valley
-Lunch in historic, beautiful Markleeville California
-Soaking in the awesome natural mineral pools of Walleys Hot Springs-A Nevada Historic Site
-Genoa-Nevada's first settlement
-Hiking the Faye Luther Trail that connects with the Tahoe Rim trail
-Strolling the Carson Valley arts & crafts fair in Minden
-Awesome wedding and reception at Walleys for our niece Lindsay & new spouse John
-Champagne brunch at the Peppermill with my parents Wally & Thelma
Nevada and Walleys Rock!!
Respectfully submitted
J. Gordon Liddy (how long do I have to hold my finger over this match?)
Hola,
Hope all had a good weekend. It was a great one here. The weather is really nice for June and the activities were the best!
Concert # 448
Friday night Ger and I went to see Janis Ian at the Cave Creek Coffee Company. The Coffee Company is a fun place that serves world class wines and roasts all their own coffee. It is Arizona's version of "Austin City Limits" The ambiance can't be beat.
The show was fabulous, up close and personal, only 200 tickets were sold.
There were some dirteeeeeeee liberales there, caring about other people and accepting alternative life styles, but an obnoxious cowgirl in a mini skirt balanced everything out. MMMMMMMMMMMM
Janis has aged, but her voice and song writing talents appear even more refined than when she stunned New York folk audiences in the 60's.
In 1967, at sixteen years old and four foot seven, she shook the music industry with Society's Child, a composition about a white girl and black boy kept apart by an unfeeling society. The song was banned from many southern radio stations.
I remember it well. My girlfriend and I loved that song.
"Your name was never called, when choosing sides for basketball"
In 1975 Janis released a Grammy award winning album-Between the Lines that included the hit single At Seventeen that soared to number three on the charts.
This hit seemed to touch a common nerve with many young people, particularly the female gender.
Like a vintage wine, Janis flowed through the evening. Everyone loved the show.
.
Janis Ian is almost 60, Jewish and gay. She lives in Memphis Tennessee with her partner.
Society's child has made an important contribution to the world. God Bless her.
That is what Janis says that they say to her all the time in the south. They are still looking to convert her.
Gorging ourselves-Canyoneering the headwaters of Clear Creek
Dingo
Lobo
Jacobo
Jacobo & Dingo having a special moment together
West Clear Creek is the classic Mogollon Rim canyon. We descended steeply down the Maxwell trail to the Creek and boulder hopped and waded downstream where we enjoyed lush shade loving vegetation, clear pools of trout, crawdads and frogs, as well as petroglyph panels. The Coconino sandstone cliffs and narrows were spectacular. There are many deep pools where you can fish or huck your carcass.
Navajo Sandstone
We found much bear scat along the way but did not have an encounter. Brightly colored butterfly's fluttered by and hawks soared in the high currents.
This is one of the most beautiful places in Arizona. (or anywhere)
We all agreed that this would be a great area to pack into and do a little fly fishing.
Arizona or Hawaii?
Men & Woman Behaving Badly
Carlita for backing out at the last minute because "something came up"?? and then wanted a copy of the trip report! Some Nerve!
Juan for not going because he is afraid of his wife.
Zo (motorcycle boy) for not going because he was on a p*^*y motorcycle trip to Canyon De Chelle where he was sitting down the whole time.
Men Behaving Good
Dingo, Lobo, and Jacobo for getting along very well, enjoying special moments together and not fighting and insulting each other like everyone does when Juan and Zo are along.
Drewsky (Mr. Sony) who graciously got my precious digital camera repaired that I fried at Havasupai. Thanks Drew!! Wish that you could have made this trip!!
Hope all had a good weekend. It was a great one here. The weather is really nice for June and the activities were the best!
Concert # 448
Friday night Ger and I went to see Janis Ian at the Cave Creek Coffee Company. The Coffee Company is a fun place that serves world class wines and roasts all their own coffee. It is Arizona's version of "Austin City Limits" The ambiance can't be beat.
The show was fabulous, up close and personal, only 200 tickets were sold.
There were some dirteeeeeeee liberales there, caring about other people and accepting alternative life styles, but an obnoxious cowgirl in a mini skirt balanced everything out. MMMMMMMMMMMM
Janis has aged, but her voice and song writing talents appear even more refined than when she stunned New York folk audiences in the 60's.
In 1967, at sixteen years old and four foot seven, she shook the music industry with Society's Child, a composition about a white girl and black boy kept apart by an unfeeling society. The song was banned from many southern radio stations.
I remember it well. My girlfriend and I loved that song.
"Your name was never called, when choosing sides for basketball"
In 1975 Janis released a Grammy award winning album-Between the Lines that included the hit single At Seventeen that soared to number three on the charts.
This hit seemed to touch a common nerve with many young people, particularly the female gender.
Like a vintage wine, Janis flowed through the evening. Everyone loved the show.
.
Janis Ian is almost 60, Jewish and gay. She lives in Memphis Tennessee with her partner.
Society's child has made an important contribution to the world. God Bless her.
That is what Janis says that they say to her all the time in the south. They are still looking to convert her.
Gorging ourselves-Canyoneering the headwaters of Clear Creek
Dingo
Lobo
Jacobo
Jacobo & Dingo having a special moment together
West Clear Creek is the classic Mogollon Rim canyon. We descended steeply down the Maxwell trail to the Creek and boulder hopped and waded downstream where we enjoyed lush shade loving vegetation, clear pools of trout, crawdads and frogs, as well as petroglyph panels. The Coconino sandstone cliffs and narrows were spectacular. There are many deep pools where you can fish or huck your carcass.
Navajo Sandstone
We found much bear scat along the way but did not have an encounter. Brightly colored butterfly's fluttered by and hawks soared in the high currents.
This is one of the most beautiful places in Arizona. (or anywhere)
We all agreed that this would be a great area to pack into and do a little fly fishing.
Arizona or Hawaii?
Men & Woman Behaving Badly
Carlita for backing out at the last minute because "something came up"?? and then wanted a copy of the trip report! Some Nerve!
Juan for not going because he is afraid of his wife.
Zo (motorcycle boy) for not going because he was on a p*^*y motorcycle trip to Canyon De Chelle where he was sitting down the whole time.
Men Behaving Good
Dingo, Lobo, and Jacobo for getting along very well, enjoying special moments together and not fighting and insulting each other like everyone does when Juan and Zo are along.
Drewsky (Mr. Sony) who graciously got my precious digital camera repaired that I fried at Havasupai. Thanks Drew!! Wish that you could have made this trip!!
Brittish Invasion-Havasupai
"I have a rock in me bum and one in me tit!"
"OK Audrey, just step and grab and that will take care of it."
A few minutes earlier Audrey had removed her pants (too tight for climbing) and was ascending in her white panties up to the top of the Esplanade.
After taking 21 fun loving, crazy Brits for a week of adventure in the Grand Canyon I am tired, but fulfilled with a restored faith in the human spirit.
On Friday, after kayaking 18 miles on the Colorado , we celebrated the completion of their charity challenge at the great American Pub -Gordon Biersch, in Las Vegas.
All 21 were successful and was ready to parteeeeeeeeeee. Not that they had denied themselves down at Havasupai.
They came to the Grand Canyon to complete a challenge in order to raise money for several charities in the UK such as youth hospices and cystic fibrosis. All had been touched by the charity they were working for. Some had young children that had been stricken, some were suffering from a debilitating disease.
This group was the happiest, most caring, kindest people that I have ever met. They were brave and they all lived for the moment.
They invaded Havasupai and treated the Grand Canyon as if it was pure magic. Their eyes sparkled when they saw the blue green water.
They hiked 35 miles in the heat and paddled 18 in strong winds. They jumped off Navajo Falls into the deep pools. They showed much courage when they climbed down Mooney Falls.
All worked very hard helping the guides with every chore. They were most appreciative of our guide work and made you feel wonderful. Most had never met before but loved each other.
I can name that tune in three notes
On the road I played the oldies station and identified each song in less than two notes to the cheers of the entire van. They sang along with every song and knew all the words.
Patrol Dog
At our camp in Havasupai they met and fed "PDOG" (real name is Otis, although female) PDOG is the helicopter pilot's dog but spends most of her time at our camp and is very well fed with leftovers. Other Indian dogs like Yoda and Shadow also hang out and are subservient to PDOG but if the alpha wolf catches them eating any scraps she rips into them.
When we hiked out PDOG was up at the Supai village. She has an arthritic hip and sometimes can not make it down to camp.
Paradise?
"I go where the sound of thunder is." Alfred M. Gray
One night a monsoon blew in and the thunder rumbled through the canyon walls. The distant lightning was spectacular. It was eery and we were on alert for a possible flash flood.
The swimming was great
Simon, Clare, Dave and Georgia.
(It's a tough job but somebody's got to do it!)
How's this for a swimming hole?
Late Friday night I left the group at the Hard Rock Casino. They had 5 Pacificos lined up for me but I just had to get some sleep.
At the airport the next morning we all said our goodbyes. I was promised T-shirts from the Beatles shop in Liverpool.
There weren't many dry eyes and I found myself fighting back tears. It had been a privilege sharing time with these people.
"The road to hell is paved with adverbs".
The long drive back to Phoenix was pure hell. Just outside Vegas, at 65 miles an hour and in heavy freeway traffic, my trailer shimmied badly and I averted a serious accident by getting to the side of the road. I don't know how I did it. Upon examining the trailer, I discovered that the pin holding the hitch was gone. It blows me away to think how that could happen. Vandalism? Who knows?
A young man pulled off the Freeway to help me. He gave me the pin off his hitch and helped me lift the trailer back in place. Thanks to this act of generosity and kindness I was able to get back on the road.
When we got to Phoenix, I 17 was closed and I had an hour's delay.
Finally I made it to the AOA office. After cleaning the coolers and gear I as more than ready to get home. I jumped in my truck and was greeted with a dead battery. Of course I did not have my AAA card with me.
Somehow these events were met with perspective .
"Lets live for today"
EL Lobo H. Grande
"OK Audrey, just step and grab and that will take care of it."
A few minutes earlier Audrey had removed her pants (too tight for climbing) and was ascending in her white panties up to the top of the Esplanade.
After taking 21 fun loving, crazy Brits for a week of adventure in the Grand Canyon I am tired, but fulfilled with a restored faith in the human spirit.
On Friday, after kayaking 18 miles on the Colorado , we celebrated the completion of their charity challenge at the great American Pub -Gordon Biersch, in Las Vegas.
All 21 were successful and was ready to parteeeeeeeeeee. Not that they had denied themselves down at Havasupai.
They came to the Grand Canyon to complete a challenge in order to raise money for several charities in the UK such as youth hospices and cystic fibrosis. All had been touched by the charity they were working for. Some had young children that had been stricken, some were suffering from a debilitating disease.
This group was the happiest, most caring, kindest people that I have ever met. They were brave and they all lived for the moment.
They invaded Havasupai and treated the Grand Canyon as if it was pure magic. Their eyes sparkled when they saw the blue green water.
They hiked 35 miles in the heat and paddled 18 in strong winds. They jumped off Navajo Falls into the deep pools. They showed much courage when they climbed down Mooney Falls.
All worked very hard helping the guides with every chore. They were most appreciative of our guide work and made you feel wonderful. Most had never met before but loved each other.
I can name that tune in three notes
On the road I played the oldies station and identified each song in less than two notes to the cheers of the entire van. They sang along with every song and knew all the words.
Patrol Dog
At our camp in Havasupai they met and fed "PDOG" (real name is Otis, although female) PDOG is the helicopter pilot's dog but spends most of her time at our camp and is very well fed with leftovers. Other Indian dogs like Yoda and Shadow also hang out and are subservient to PDOG but if the alpha wolf catches them eating any scraps she rips into them.
When we hiked out PDOG was up at the Supai village. She has an arthritic hip and sometimes can not make it down to camp.
Paradise?
"I go where the sound of thunder is." Alfred M. Gray
One night a monsoon blew in and the thunder rumbled through the canyon walls. The distant lightning was spectacular. It was eery and we were on alert for a possible flash flood.
The swimming was great
Simon, Clare, Dave and Georgia.
(It's a tough job but somebody's got to do it!)
How's this for a swimming hole?
Late Friday night I left the group at the Hard Rock Casino. They had 5 Pacificos lined up for me but I just had to get some sleep.
At the airport the next morning we all said our goodbyes. I was promised T-shirts from the Beatles shop in Liverpool.
There weren't many dry eyes and I found myself fighting back tears. It had been a privilege sharing time with these people.
"The road to hell is paved with adverbs".
The long drive back to Phoenix was pure hell. Just outside Vegas, at 65 miles an hour and in heavy freeway traffic, my trailer shimmied badly and I averted a serious accident by getting to the side of the road. I don't know how I did it. Upon examining the trailer, I discovered that the pin holding the hitch was gone. It blows me away to think how that could happen. Vandalism? Who knows?
A young man pulled off the Freeway to help me. He gave me the pin off his hitch and helped me lift the trailer back in place. Thanks to this act of generosity and kindness I was able to get back on the road.
When we got to Phoenix, I 17 was closed and I had an hour's delay.
Finally I made it to the AOA office. After cleaning the coolers and gear I as more than ready to get home. I jumped in my truck and was greeted with a dead battery. Of course I did not have my AAA card with me.
Somehow these events were met with perspective .
"Lets live for today"
EL Lobo H. Grande
Born In The USA
"It stays with you, and it makes life feel so good!" Wolfman Jack on Top 40 radio
Hola cosmic rockers,
How was your fourth? I hope you all enjoyed our USA freedom to share time with friends and family, barbeque, catch some fireworks etc.
We caught a "free" (I love that word) concert under the stars at the Fort McDowell Casino and it was absolutely incredible as was the fireworks. The night before we enjoyed a fun barbeque at the Hofdahl Ranchero in Paradise Valley. Isn't it wonderful to spend time with good friends?
Note: Juan Hofdahl is a investment genius buying in PV. He got abused in the last trip report but he is one good friend and smart guy.
Back to the Concert
Gerry was not thrilled to be going to this concert. She is not the aficionado of late 50's early sixties music like I am. She preferred to stay home and listen to Mozart or Bach and watch the fireworks poolside. Also she thought that everyone that would be there lived in a trailer park in Apache Junction.
I don't know where she got this type of arrogant, rico Republican attitude. Once she got there she got caught up in the fervor of the moment, had a few Bud Lights and she was a Democrat again.
The groups that played are Rock & Roll Legends. The lead singer of the Diamonds, David Sommerville is now 72 years old. He looks and sounds great. There were at least one original member in each group. They are still carrying the torch. This music is eternal it will never die.
The Lineup
Opening Act
The Diamonds were a clean-cut white vocal group that had sixteen hits between 1956 and 1961, ten which were covers of songs sung by black R&B artists. Their biggest hit, LiL Darlin is in the top all time 100 of Rolling Stone's greatest hits.(#98)
Chills ran down my spine when he rolled into that one.
Next
The Marvelettes-One of the great Motown groups they hit number one on the charts in 61 with Please Mr. Postman. C'mon everyone knows that one! Beechwood 4-5789 played through my head while I was at Billinghurst Jr. High (you can call me any time) Other hits included Playboy and Don't mess with Bill.
They really got the geritol crowd of 4,000 going.
The Crystals
I am an aficionado of the girl group sound, and I believe that there can't be five acts more beloved than the Crystals. Their best-known songs, which include "He's a Rebel," "Uptown," "Da Doo Ron Ron," "Then He Kissed Me," and "There's No Other Like My Baby," are what I consider to be some of the finest examples of the best that American rock & roll had to offer in the period before the British Invasion.
The sisters were fantastic!! You go girls!!!
Closing
The Contours was a soul singing group on the Motown label during the 60's. Their biggest hit, "Do You Love Me (Now That I Can Dance)", was a pop hit in 1962 (#3 on the charts) and was prominently featured in the 1987 movie, Dirty Dancing.
They brought down the house and then the great fireworks was the icing on the cake.
Ok that's it, concert # 452, & 206 different groups/artists seen in concert.
Hola cosmic rockers,
How was your fourth? I hope you all enjoyed our USA freedom to share time with friends and family, barbeque, catch some fireworks etc.
We caught a "free" (I love that word) concert under the stars at the Fort McDowell Casino and it was absolutely incredible as was the fireworks. The night before we enjoyed a fun barbeque at the Hofdahl Ranchero in Paradise Valley. Isn't it wonderful to spend time with good friends?
Note: Juan Hofdahl is a investment genius buying in PV. He got abused in the last trip report but he is one good friend and smart guy.
Back to the Concert
Gerry was not thrilled to be going to this concert. She is not the aficionado of late 50's early sixties music like I am. She preferred to stay home and listen to Mozart or Bach and watch the fireworks poolside. Also she thought that everyone that would be there lived in a trailer park in Apache Junction.
I don't know where she got this type of arrogant, rico Republican attitude. Once she got there she got caught up in the fervor of the moment, had a few Bud Lights and she was a Democrat again.
The groups that played are Rock & Roll Legends. The lead singer of the Diamonds, David Sommerville is now 72 years old. He looks and sounds great. There were at least one original member in each group. They are still carrying the torch. This music is eternal it will never die.
The Lineup
Opening Act
The Diamonds were a clean-cut white vocal group that had sixteen hits between 1956 and 1961, ten which were covers of songs sung by black R&B artists. Their biggest hit, LiL Darlin is in the top all time 100 of Rolling Stone's greatest hits.(#98)
Chills ran down my spine when he rolled into that one.
Next
The Marvelettes-One of the great Motown groups they hit number one on the charts in 61 with Please Mr. Postman. C'mon everyone knows that one! Beechwood 4-5789 played through my head while I was at Billinghurst Jr. High (you can call me any time) Other hits included Playboy and Don't mess with Bill.
They really got the geritol crowd of 4,000 going.
The Crystals
I am an aficionado of the girl group sound, and I believe that there can't be five acts more beloved than the Crystals. Their best-known songs, which include "He's a Rebel," "Uptown," "Da Doo Ron Ron," "Then He Kissed Me," and "There's No Other Like My Baby," are what I consider to be some of the finest examples of the best that American rock & roll had to offer in the period before the British Invasion.
The sisters were fantastic!! You go girls!!!
Closing
The Contours was a soul singing group on the Motown label during the 60's. Their biggest hit, "Do You Love Me (Now That I Can Dance)", was a pop hit in 1962 (#3 on the charts) and was prominently featured in the 1987 movie, Dirty Dancing.
They brought down the house and then the great fireworks was the icing on the cake.
Ok that's it, concert # 452, & 206 different groups/artists seen in concert.
Salome Jug
"With the eyes of a child You must come out and see That your world's spinning round And through life you will be A small part of a hope of a love that exists In the eyes of a child you will see".
Our children's children-Moody Blues
"The Jug"-A spectacular granite gorge-5 miles round trip
Canyoneers-
Dingo
Bailey (Dingo's 13 year old niece)
Lobo
Zo
This was an absolutely fantastic day's worth of adventure.
This gorge is an amazing place with it's pink- hued polished granite, forming marble smooth walls. Salome Creek plummets down steeply and slippery slides often times were our only access downstream. At the bottom of the slides, rippling, deep, clear pools spanned from wall to vertical wall.
Bailey had an absolute ball sliding into these pools. It was wonderful experiencing "the jug" through the eyes of a child. (teen)
We all enjoyed wading and swimming through the gorge. With temperatures exceeding 100 the cool water felt so nice!! The pools are still chilly, and we all wore wet suits, and were glad to have them.
We periodically would warm our wet bodies on sun warmed slabs of granite.
Head of the "Jug" --Dingo, Bailey & Lobo PIC by Zo (The Preacher)
The "Cathedral" PIC by ZO
Towards the lower end of the gorge there is a 20' waterfall with a long pool sitting at the bottom. Bailey had never rappelled before, but she showed 'no fear" and smiled all the way down. She is a great Kid-fun loving, interested, poised and focused.
Our theme song for this trip was "The Hanging Tree" (Frankie Laine) and she recited over and over one of the lines-- "to really live, you must almost die"
All good things must pass and we were disappointed to finish our last swim to find the smooth canyon walls ending and the Sonoran desert now surrounding Salome Creek. We had a steep hike in extreme hot temperature but everyone was in great spirits and joked and chatted all the way to the car. We were all still in awe of "The Jug."
At the car we enjoyed our customary cerveza ritual. Bailey had ice tea even though ZO behaved badly and offered her a beer.
Back in Scottsdale we had a pizza party at Lobo's Den to celebrate.
Thanks to Dan and Zo for helping to get me through the Jug, I have the best outdoor adventure partners on the planet.
Our children's children-Moody Blues
"The Jug"-A spectacular granite gorge-5 miles round trip
Canyoneers-
Dingo
Bailey (Dingo's 13 year old niece)
Lobo
Zo
This was an absolutely fantastic day's worth of adventure.
This gorge is an amazing place with it's pink- hued polished granite, forming marble smooth walls. Salome Creek plummets down steeply and slippery slides often times were our only access downstream. At the bottom of the slides, rippling, deep, clear pools spanned from wall to vertical wall.
Bailey had an absolute ball sliding into these pools. It was wonderful experiencing "the jug" through the eyes of a child. (teen)
We all enjoyed wading and swimming through the gorge. With temperatures exceeding 100 the cool water felt so nice!! The pools are still chilly, and we all wore wet suits, and were glad to have them.
We periodically would warm our wet bodies on sun warmed slabs of granite.
Head of the "Jug" --Dingo, Bailey & Lobo PIC by Zo (The Preacher)
The "Cathedral" PIC by ZO
Towards the lower end of the gorge there is a 20' waterfall with a long pool sitting at the bottom. Bailey had never rappelled before, but she showed 'no fear" and smiled all the way down. She is a great Kid-fun loving, interested, poised and focused.
Our theme song for this trip was "The Hanging Tree" (Frankie Laine) and she recited over and over one of the lines-- "to really live, you must almost die"
All good things must pass and we were disappointed to finish our last swim to find the smooth canyon walls ending and the Sonoran desert now surrounding Salome Creek. We had a steep hike in extreme hot temperature but everyone was in great spirits and joked and chatted all the way to the car. We were all still in awe of "The Jug."
At the car we enjoyed our customary cerveza ritual. Bailey had ice tea even though ZO behaved badly and offered her a beer.
Back in Scottsdale we had a pizza party at Lobo's Den to celebrate.
Thanks to Dan and Zo for helping to get me through the Jug, I have the best outdoor adventure partners on the planet.
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