Alberta Land Rover Enthusiasts Club Forum
General => Events => Topic started by: binch on December 13, 2017, 10:27 PM
Dates: Saturday, JULY 28 to Sunday, Aug 12th, 2018
The word has been going around for quite sometime now and there seems to be very good interest in running the AMT again. We worked our butts off the last trip and had several long hard days....but we had a GREAT time of it, all things considered. So I'm putting out the word to get some feed back on interest. We are currently looking at 12 days total in the last half of August to run the trip.
We will be holding a meeting (date TBA) for those folks who expressed an interest in this home grown Camel Trophy event, so we can begin to discuss gear, menus, logistics, etc. Looking for a little adventure in your life.....??? if you are interested in this trip please let it be known!!!!!
Let me start by saying "I'M IN LIKE DIRTY SHIRT!!!!" ;D
And just in case you needed some motivation.... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PrWdnFflDKk (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PrWdnFflDKk)
Bushrat are most definitely in!!
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I am in. Just like The Pointer Sisters say:
https://youtu.be/8iwBM_YB1sE
Off course, I am thinking of Tigger lol
Slot me in as tentative at this point guys. Definitely interested on doing the run again, and west --> east would be nice to try.
My son and I are in. I've been hoping I would have the opportunity to get in one of these amazing looking AM trips one day!
I will most likely take the 110.
I know Yoda is also interested and possibly Simon also as a copilot.
Looks like we have some good interest for this trip.....The original five vehicles from the 2015 trip sound interested again and we have lots more interest too. Maybe.....with a bit of Luck we'll get two teams starting from each end.....maybe...... 8)
Now I guess I have to get in gear and whip the discos into fighting shape. No sleeping untill August!
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Prep for wading and fuel carriage. The d110's diesels can do the trail on a single tank of fuel but it's good to have spare can or two. The D90's diesels with the smaller fuel tank (unless modified) should bring at least two cans. The petrol vehilces.....bring four to six cans of spare fuel (whether you're a 4, 6 or 8 cylinder). There is an option of caching fuel ahead for pick up on Day two and again near day 4 or 5. But that means someone will need to go a day ahead of the group to spend a day caching. So far the two trips I've been on we carried all our own fuel and that's with diesels, 4 and 8 cyl petrol vehicles and it worked out okay.
But we'll be sending out an overview for the trip to give those interested a better idea of what they need to do to prepare. Once we have the group meeting (in February or march) we can start with the fine tuned details indicating, spares, tools, meal plans, travel days, etc.
;)
Underbody protection is a good plan. There are a lot of hidden rocks on the trails. Diff guards as a minimum.
Everyone should really have a winch. There are some possible long winching sections and it is a pain if there are winchless trucks.
And a chainsaw. Maybe a chainsaw safe use training day would be a good plan.
I would recommend for this trip that EVERYONE be trained on proper chainsaw use, and be prepaired to use one. That did kick us in the ass last time with only a few people running saws.
Hopefully one doesn't see that amount of deadfall again, but I would expect to see a comparable amount for the first leg at least. No one has run that portion of the trail since us (all other groups bailed before the last leg), and with all the pine beetle kill there will a lot across the trail.
The big question is what were the effects of the wildfires on the trail There were quite a few throughout that area.
I was going to send out more details later but I'm glad to hear some of the "Experienced" speak out on this. The first trip I did in 2008 or so took us 6days. But the pine beetle hadn't hit the area yet. Now that pine beetle has hit this area there is a lot of standing dead timber, and our 2015 trip took us 8 days and could easily have turned to 9 days. If it's standing it's not so bad. But now that the roots are dead and the trees still have crowns they are very susceptible to wind throw (they fall over, root and all). As Trevor explained....we had A LOT of trees to clear!!!!! And it slowed us down considerably. The Camel Trophy guys would have been proud I'm sure.
I'll be sending out an over view eventually that will give a list of equipment you will want for your trucks, as well as a list of what we will share (in order to keep weights down). This time around we will be doing one or two clinics on chainsaw work (safe operation, hazards, felling, bucking and dealing with hangers, chain sharpening, and basic maintenance). We had 3 saws on the last trip and 3 gallons of saw gas. Well we came very close to running out of saw gas and we DID run out of chain oil (nothing a little 15w40 diesel oil won't cure). So...if you aren't cutting you WILL be moving logs....but it's ALL hard work! When it's all said and done, and everyone comes home in one piece, it will have been an Amazing adventure!!!
As for the burnt areas Trevor....they will stay standing for a few years after the fire and will eventually start falling over too. But the big burnt trees act as lightening rods in the new regen. But that won't affect us now. If anything the pine beetle stuff that got burnt will have had the small branches cleared off the crowns and pose less of a risk of being blown over right away. If you remember the second big crossing we did, just before the logging area, that area was burnt out and it was some of the fastest trail we had ;-) Over the next five years after the fire you will see a lot of pine regen growing back thick and heavy, and it could start to grow over the trail if it's not used. One note to make....burnt wood is very hard on saw chains.
Hope I didn't scare anyone away...that's not my intention. It will be a lot of work but it will also be very rewarding. And if I'm not mistaken there was talk of adding a second rest day into the trip ;-)
It's official....the whole gang from the 2015 is ready to tackle the AMT again ;-)
We better make sure there is more ice on this trip ;D LOL
Quote from: binch on December 17, 2017, 09:47 PM
It's official....the whole gang from the 2015 is ready to tackle the AMT again ;-)
We better make sure there is more ice on this trip ;D LOL
Need some Yeti coolers for the ice...or another ARB on freezer mode!
Haven't scared us off bunch, we love the trail blazing aspect of overlanding. Have a couple saws I use on a weekly basis out here at the homestead, and a pelican cooler! If I get my butt in gear, there will also be a folding tow bar available in case of major breakage( my non- folder has rescued several Jeep's now, but awkward to carry)
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Binch! Stupid auto correct!
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LOL......try yelling out that nick name in a crowded room and see the reaction on the faces?!??!?! ;D
Look what Emad found on the web.... :D
http://graveltravel.ca/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=125 (http://graveltravel.ca/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=125)
Okay folks...the words in on the dates and the majority consensus was a Option 1:
We leave home Saturday morning, JULY 28 to Sunday, with the intent of starting on at the trail head on the following Monday morning. From there we plan to be on the trail Aug 12th, 2018. We are allowing two days travel time at the beginning and the end of the trip as it will be a long haul for some. It is likely that we will be off the trail by August 8th, but we cannot guarantee it, hence the couple extra days. The intent this time around is to start on the west end of the trail and work east, ending in Quesnell, BC.
So, that's the gest of it.....A prospectus of trip will be sent to all those who have emailed me, with all the details of the trip itself. If you have not been receiving those emails please send me a pm and I'll get you on the mailing list right away.
LET THE GAMES BEGIN!!!! ;)
Looking forward to it Bill!
I think the West-->East will be a nice change, and allow us to pace ourselves better...and include a bit more R&R time at some nice fishing spots too :)
I look forward to deciding on those fishing spots....We have some great options to explore ;-)
This is shaping up to be an amazing trip of a lifetime.
What range of vehicles will be attending? RRC, Defender, Series, etc...
Quote from: headdamage on January 27, 2018, 07:17 PM
What range of vehicles will be attending? RRC, Defender, Series, etc...
I'm trying to recall here but at this time we have 6 def 110 (4x300tdi & 2x200tdi), 1 def 90, one RRS, one 101fc, 1 disco1, 1 disco11, and I can't recall if there is a SWB series as well.
But the trail has been done with LR3s, RRC's, Series trucks (both lwb and swb).
AT this time I still anticipate approximately 50% drop out. But if they all come along we may divide the group into two and go at the trail from both ends. As it stands the initial plan is to do the trail from west to east, starting at Bella Coola and then Gotcha Lake.
Quote from: binch on January 28, 2018, 11:29 AM
AT this time I still anticipate approximately 50% drop out. But if they all come along we may divide the group into two and go at the trail from both ends. As it stands the initial plan is to do the trail from west to east, starting at Bella Coola and then Gotcha Lake.
Juat as an aside Bill, if you get to the point where you are looking to split into 2 groups, you can remove my name from the list. I have no deisre to do a split group format.
Quote from: Trevor on January 28, 2018, 03:23 PM
Quote from: binch on January 28, 2018, 11:29 AM
AT this time I still anticipate approximately 50% drop out. But if they all come along we may divide the group into two and go at the trail from both ends. As it stands the initial plan is to do the trail from west to east, starting at Bella Coola and then Gotcha Lake.
Juat as an aside Bill, if you get to the point where you are looking to split into 2 groups, you can remove my name from the list. I have no deisre to do a split group format.
Based on the numbers we have now....I strongly doubt we'll be running two groups.
How much fuel would a 200tdi need to carry?
In 2015 non of the 5 110's used a complete tank of fuel to complete the trip from Quesnell to Anahim. When John and I did the trip in 2008 I used just over half a tank to complete the trip over the 6 days, while John used about a tank. I lent john a Gerry can of fuel just to make sure he could get out. So the diesels did very well for mileage.
The petrol vehicles used a great deal more fuel on the trip. I believe John estimated as much as 300lt were required for the petrol engines (v8 or 4 cylinder).
Quote from: binch on January 28, 2018, 09:58 PM
Based on the numbers we have now....I strongly doubt we'll be running two groups.
Rgr that Bill. Just wanted to give you a heads-up so there's no surprises.
Quote from: headdamage on January 28, 2018, 11:03 PM
How much fuel would a 200tdi need to carry?
For our trip, I wrote it down. The V8 guys refused to admit to how much fuel they used. They brought a lot with them. Bill and I were there as a team and coordinated our spare parts, tools, food and fuel. I think he carried 4 jerry cans. I used one. It could be a higher number if a lot more time is spent clearing. If the whole group coordinates these things, it works out to a lot less extra baggage.
Quote from: red90Just to note for future reference. I used 54 liters (200 TDI 90 / military LT77 / 1.4 LT230). binch used 60 liters (200 TDI 110 / R380 / 1.6 LT230).
Phil used more but he towed a RR for the last while....
The trip was 433 km between gas stations with around 200 km in low range.
For my 300TDI defender 110 CT (I was the heaviest rig as well) I had a full seat tank and a full main tank when we left Quesnel, as well as 1 jerry can.
I burned about 1/4 of the main getting to the trail head from Quesnel. I then switched to my seat tank and ran it for the entire trail. I switched back to the main at Gotcho lake when we came off the trail as the seat tank was empty. The jerry can topped off the main tank.
Not sure if I can go yet but if I did I need to chose between the 90 and the rrc ( both are diesel).
I too vote no split group
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I got a note from Jeffrey and it sounds like he's replaced Lori as his co-pilot and found a Kiwi to join us ;)
Bill were you still thinking of having a planning meeting on the Saturday of the Easter weekend? If so, just wanted to let you know I won't be able to make it as that is the day we are going to do our big feast.
If someone could take some notes as to who is bringing what, to post here after the fact, that would be handy.
Quote from: Trevor on March 23, 2018, 04:08 PM
Bill were you still thinking of having a planning meeting on the Saturday of the Easter weekend? If so, just wanted to let you know I won't be able to make it as that is the day we are going to do our big feast.
If someone could take some notes as to who is bringing what, to post here after the fact, that would be handy.
Sorry Trevor....I just got back from Hamilton last night from a 10day whirlwind driving tour.......I had not access to comms so I'm going to blow off any attempt at getting together this weekend until I get back from Kelowna Monday or Tuesday. I'll be sending out an equipment form to find out who has what gear available to bring (spares, saws, tables, etc) which I'd like to get filled out before the meeting.
So stand by folks and I'll be back online on Monday or Tuesday.
cheers, Bill
I've just sent out an update to the participants of this years AMT expedition. If you didn't get your copy please let me know and I'll send it along. This trip will be WEST to EAST this time around. Should be a great trip...if the weather and fire season holds out ;)
Just a heads up boys, a group tried running it last week and made it just past the kluksoil park boundary. They ran into major deadfall from last years fire. They spent a couple days trying to get through but had to retreat. Bring lots and lots of fuel for saws, and lots of saws
They were heading east to west.
That's good news for us then!!! We are heading west to east and it sounds like they may have cleared some trail for us!!! We cleared the entire trail in 2015 from the spring blowdown of all the pine beetle kill. Sounds like the section from Basalt lake west to Gatcho lake has been closed by some locals upset with the damage down to the trail by a group in 2016. We we are bypassing that section (including the 'wet hill' and the infamous 'alder grove') and we'll start at Egliuk lake. The section from there all the way to the Mike and Linda Phillips ranch should be relatively clear. The section to Tsacha lake may need widening again too. And the section between Messue Crossing and Kluskus village should be cleared as well. That leaves the burn over area from the 2010 to 2013 fires just east of the village.
Did those folks say it was the burned timber starting to fall? Or was it the Pine Beetle killed timber falling over again...that's always worth a bit of heart ache. But unlike a certain expedition crew's second visit....we have plenty of saws, gas, cutting oil and operators trained to use the tools......not to mention plenty of time.
It's going to be a good trip!!! ;)
Quote from: binch on July 11, 2018, 06:00 PM
That's good news for us then!!! We are heading west to east and it sounds like they may have cleared some trail for us!!! We cleared the entire trail in 2015 from the spring blowdown of all the pine beetle kill. Sounds like the section from Basalt lake west to Gatcho lake has been closed by some locals upset with the damage down to the trail by a group in 2016. We we are bypassing that section (including the 'wet hill' and the infamous 'alder grove') and we'll start at Egliuk lake. The section from there all the way to the Mike and Linda Phillips ranch should be relatively clear. The section to Tsacha lake may need widening again too. And the section between Messue Crossing and Kluskus village should be cleared as well. That leaves the burn over area from the 2010 to 2013 fires just east of the village.
Did those folks say it was the burned timber starting to fall? Or was it the Pine Beetle killed timber falling over again...that's always worth a bit of heart ache. But unlike a certain expedition crew's second visit....we have plenty of saws, gas, cutting oil and operators trained to use the tools......not to mention plenty of time.
It's going to be a good trip!!! ;)
Yah it was burn from the big fire that happend in 2017. Why did the locals close the section of trail?
Yah we bypassed that section in 2016, came out the rainbow falls trail.
The group that went last week said the burnt wood slowed down their saws, only carried 3 saws with them. We are headed to do the trail at the end of August, will be super curious to see how your trip goes!
Well you should have a good time of it then! We will have cleared the trail from one end to the other...or at least as far as the fishing camp at the NW corner of Egliuk lake :-)
We have at least 6 saws with our group and field sharpening is a cake. We should finish nice and dirty then ahhahhahahhahah
Quote from: tacomaj on July 11, 2018, 06:14 PM
Why did the locals close the section of trail?
They said: "because of the damage to the trails caused by a Toyota group in 2016". But it was not said what group.
The natives around the Basalt lake area have been upset for some time now....I can't say exactly why as I don't really know. But word was out that they wanted to stop everything but quads from going through that portion of the trail.
Quote from: binch on July 12, 2018, 06:10 PM
Quote from: tacomaj on July 11, 2018, 06:14 PM
Why did the locals close the section of trail?
They said: "because of the damage to the trails caused by a Toyota group in 2016". But it was not said what group.
The natives around the Basalt lake area have been upset for some time now....I can't say exactly why as I don't really know. But word was out that they wanted to stop everything but quads from going through that portion of the trail.
Strange. I wonder which group that was. Either way, that section of trail looks to be the most over grown off camber section of trail. We never did run it, as Walt lampard said it was super over grown and not ran for years, so we strait up by passed it. That rainbow falls trail was no joke either.
Yup, our group cleared out that last section all the way to Gatcho lake in 2015. It was hard graft and we didn't finish the trail until 2am.....very tired but VERY satisfied campers! And the bath in the lake the next morning was sooooooo nice!!!!!!! The worst part of the last section was the Alder Grove.....We didn't cut...just pushed and had people walking right in front of the lead truck looking for deadfall in the thicket.
Brilliant Trip.....looking forward to doing it again. ;)
Well wish you guys all the best! 8)
It is too bad you can't do the western section. That was the most memorable area. I remember driving through the alders using the force to navigate. Every now and then a trail marker would appear and you could not believe that you had somehow managed to still be on the trail.
Quote from: Red90 on July 13, 2018, 06:14 PM
It is too bad you can't do the western section. That was the most memorable area. I remember driving through the alders using the force to navigate. Every now and then a trail marker would appear and you could not believe that you had somehow managed to still be on the trail.
I feel much the same way John....but after the 2015 trip I don't really mind missing the 'alder grove'. Those stems aren't 1/2" to 3/4" thick and 6' or 8' tall anymore. They are 1.5" to 2" and 15' to 20' tall and so thick you can't see more then 2' or 3' ahead of you hood. And with all the dead fall in the midst of it you can end up having to drive by brail. We started with one person walking in front of each headlight of the lead vehicle, and you struggled to see them there. Eventually the dead fall was bad enough we put a third person up there. You dare not cut it down as you'd end up with a million punji sticks that would eat the tires that followed you. There were sections in there I didn't recognize at all...but it followed the GPX anyway. And travelling in the dark didn't help..... The gentleman running the fishing camp tried to keep that western section open but gave up as it was a never ending battle. And with the local natives wanting to close it down to anything but quad traffic it all becomes a mute point unfortunately.
All that said...It was a lot of hard work to complete that trip...but worth every moment of it in the end! Hugely satisfying to say we did the whole thing ;-) With the groups that went through after us in 2016 I'm sure the trail will have lots of deadfall cleared out...but lots more will have fallen in behind it all. The area east of Kluskus Village is the only section that leaves me thinking we may have a bit more work in that area. The previous fires of 2010 to 2015 over that area have annihilated the pine beetle killed trees but at the same time all that standing dead/burned trees want to fall down. The trail itself looks like it may have been used for the fire crews...hard to say but it was in great shape up to the river with the big campsite on the south shore.
Looks like we have 6 vehicles (3x 110 wagons with tdis , 1 90 wagon with a tdi, two V8 disco 11's....and with a little luck and a lot of determination a second 90 pickup tdi. Now as long as we have enough spare tires/repair kits ahahhahahahahahahhahh
::)
And a trailer for fuel for the Discos! ;)
Quote from: Red90 on July 14, 2018, 01:15 PM
And a trailer for fuel for the Discos! ;)
ROFL....isn't that the truth! But shaving off that last section should save a lot of fuel by itself I'm thinking...and hoping. ;D
Almost time to head out on your expedition!
Really disappointed I had to back out as I had been looking forward to this for a very long time. So I shall have to experience the trail vicariously through you guys...again.
With that in mind I look forward to lots pictures and entertaining stories from the adventure!
Have fun and happy trails! 8)
3 more sleeps ;D
Well, I looks like everything has come together except for Dave Brandson's brilliant effort to get his chassis replaced on his D90 before the trip. The crew heading out on the trail this year is:
Bill and Craig in Bill's 110exmod
Trevor and Mark in Trevor's 110 Camel Trophy
Jeffrey and our kiwi visitor Cameron in Jeffrey's 110CSW
Glen and Av in Glen's D90 wagon
Nicole and Curtis in Nicole's Disco11
Orville and David in Orville's Disco11
The gang is loaded for bear and we have lots of chain saws and lots of gas. Let the games begin.
We meet up tomorrow (Saturday) morning for breakfast (sans Nicole and Curtis who will join us in Edson) at 8am at the Travel Lodge "Smitty's" on Stoney Plain Rd just about 182 st.
If you would like to follow our progress go to: http://share.findmespot.com/shared/gogl.jsp?glId=0ADPXPvKSQvsQ2xbiD4JfV85PnbzcLEMy
Good luck and safe driving !
In case you're curious how the MacKenzie team is progressing, but aren't checking the SPOT site, here's a map of their progress.
Well....once again the Land Rover Crew opened up the trail all the way from Eliguk Lake in the west to the Titetown crossing in the east. Gatcho Lake is a "No Go Zone" with the locals, which really "broke our hearts" but the Eliguk Lake Fishing Camp (with hosts Erin and Jennifer) was GREAT!!!!! We got off the trial yesterday shortly after noon I believe and REALLY BIG kudos to the effort the gang put into busting through the fallen trees again especially David, Mark and Trevor on the saws all day...But folks weren't on on saws they were slinging wood and did a fantastic job!!!! Two flats (Trevor for one and me for the other...both repairable). One failed UJ on a propshaft on the way down to the trail...30min fix and for the most part there were no serious breakdown. We came prepared and we made it through in VERY quick time, with some really nice fishing along the way. I think I can get to like this Victorian Expedition style travel. Orville is now king of the camp kitchen!!!!! Long live the king!
"You're a better man than I am, Gunga Din!"
We'll do a write up shortly....... ;)
Wow! That was much faster than expected. Great to hear everything went well. Really looking forward to pictures and the write up.
Did I mention driving through a forest fire....... ::)
It was a great trip indeed. Our plan to start at the worst end and finish on the easiest backfired though. We had very little clearing to do early on the trip, and the last 2 days were a definite grind, with us getting off the trail at 11:00pm the final night. Having Curtis, Dave and Mark on the big saws all day sped things up a lot. Everyone really worked well together clearing bush and sawing. The group size was about spot on imo, and having 6 saws (3 large, 3 small), made clearing the big mile-long snags much quicker than our first trip.
We got through quicker than planned due to a couple forest fires on the west end of the trail. One popped up right on the trail between Lamberts and Rob and Linda's lodge the day we arrived at Eliguk. It was under control but we also had one out of control fire burning north that blocked that exit route, and a new fire to the SE that was moving NW, threatening to block the trail we came in on. So rather than stay on the Blackwater near Lamberts for the planned 2 days and possibly get trapped without an exit, we decided to push through the fire that was on the trail and get ahead of all the burns.
Carnage was not horrific, but there was a bit. Orville has a nice wallup on his rear quarter fender, and I put a log through my drivers side floor board about 1 hr from the end of the trail. It will take some welding to repair, but it is quite repairable.
There we lots of pictures and video's taken. I think the plan is to upload everything to Jeffery's dropbox and share them that way.
Right on, congrats 8)
Glad to see you guys made it out safely! Sounds like quite the adventure and you made it easy for us headed there in a couple weeks. Looking forward to the trip report ! How were the bugs and water crossings?
They bugs were there and as could be expected. Take dope with you. The region has had a very dry past few weeks and the water levels a were showing it. Big water crossings in the Blackwater were very easy and straight forward. Missing the first leg (Basalt lake to the end of the west end of the trail on Gatcho lake is closed off by locals so don't even try that leg. But the trail was clear after we ran it and wide enough for any land rover.
I see that there are a LOT more fires popping up in the area around the trail so check those before you head out. With the waters down the water supply was much harder on the filters. The gravity fed filters we were using crapped out after their first use (about 20gal of river water). I would suggested getting a pumpable ceramic filter instead. If you are staying at Tsascha lake stay closers the shore with your vehicles as there is lots of nails, spikes, shards of steel from the brunt out cabins that were raised to the ground a couple years back.
There was a group of a 1/2 dozen quads going east to west to Eliguk lake fishing lodge (end of the trail now) and they will have a clear drive of it all now. No reason you can't do the trail in 5 days right now. But bring one set of cloths that can get really dirty, for working in the burnt areas....just in case. AS the trail sits you should have a cake walk of a trip ;-)
Hope you get one good frost ;-)
cheers ;)
How did you get directly into Eliguk Lake? The roads seems to stop a few km short/
Sounds like you you guys had a great time. Looking forward to the pictures.
Quote from: Red90 on August 08, 2018, 06:57 PM
How did you get directly into Eliguk Lake? The roads seems to stop a few km short/
The Rainbow Lake trail intersects with the AMT just east of Eliguk Lake. It's a 4-way intersection as you can continue north there and head out to Vanderhoof.
Quote from: Trevor on August 08, 2018, 08:06 PM
Quote from: Red90 on August 08, 2018, 06:57 PM
How did you get directly into Eliguk Lake? The roads seems to stop a few km short/
The Rainbow Lake trail intersects with the AMT just east of Eliguk Lake. It's a 4-way intersection as you can continue north there and head out to Vanderhoof.
And we have the gpx for reference ;D
Okay...the trip report begins with the preparation....(no pics now....we'll save them until Jeffrey returns) 8)
We got this...."What could go wrong????" ::)
After a successful push through the bush in 2015 (organised by Emad) we decided to try again last year but that fell apart early in the season. Not to give up I pressed for a trip in 2018 and had an overwhelming response from the club with some 15 plus vehicles signing up early. But if history has taught us nothing else we could count on at least 50% attrition before the bookings needed to be made. And that's exactly what happened..... The number of committed vehicles dropped to 4 defenders and 8 participants by June, with three on the fence maybies. We would be on the trail for 9 days with two extended camps at good fishing spots. At least...that was the original plan hahahahhahahhah
So we put together our meal plan based on the original 8 people and began our spares/camp equipment list based on those 4 defenders too. We had another meeting in June to review the route and then another meeting to review the menu and the equipment list, and to discuss any items folks had questions about. Jeffrey stepped up and took on the big job of collecting and organizing the food and supplies for the camp kitchen....becoming "The Quarter Master". Trevor offered to organize the booking of accommodation for the two day trip out to Anahim Lake, BC. He did a great job at that and in his efforts found out that the western section of the AMT between Gatcho Lake and Basalt Lake had been closed down by the local natives due to damage sustained during the 2016 trip through that area. At the same time he was chatting with Erin and Jennifer of the Eliguk Lake Fishing lodge, who showed us an alternate way into the trail avoiding the closed leg. In the end he had organized our Saturday evening camp just outside of Clearwater, BC. where the only thing that could offset the noise from the trucks on Hwy 97 was my snoring! Their Jake Brakes didn't stand a chance.... 8). We still had a full days drive to get to Anahim, BC so he booked us in with the Elliot Bay Lodge on the northeast shore of Anahim Lake, with our hosts Bill and Darlene. With our first night on the trail booked into Eliguk Lake fishing lodge this trip was going to be a good old fashioned Victorian Expedition! ;)
As July approached Orville, Curtis and Nicole started hinting that they would also be joining us in their Disco 11's. And in the background was David Buchanan with D90 200tdi that had failed it's out of province with a rotten frame. He was quietly working his heart out trying to get a replacement frame sorted so his 90 could join the team. I had Jeffrey hold off on the groceries and supplies until the middle of July before knowing for sure that the two disco 11's and Dave would be joining us......We were now up to 12 people on the trip. Only question was, "would David be in his d90 or riding shotgun in Orville's Disco 11.
By the end of the third week in July we had the menu sorted for 12 and Jeffrey was gathering supplies. Trevor had our accommodations sorted out and the spares list had been completes with everyone being informed what they should be bringing. This was to try and eliminate too much repetition and keep the weights down. We have water filtration system sorted (that's another story all together), chainsaws sorted, fuel sorted and Emad's exhaust jack for emergencies. We were pretty much set to go!!!! But still no news from David on his D90, as he was keep that a well guarded secret :-X
The forth week in July was our last chance to get it all right. I think we had all our ducks in a row (not to mention the arms to take those ducks out with). Curtis and Nicole were all set and going to join us on the road at the first westbound rest stop past Edson, Orville had his spare overflow tank and we had decided to meet up for breakfast at the Smitty's on Stoney Plain Road and 182st for 7am....inviting any other ALRE to join us in the send off. The BC fire reports indicated the rating was climbing to high but only two fires of concern in the area affecting the trail. One ten hectare fire that was 10km north of the trail and moving northward, while another small one over toward the west end was a recent lightening strike but very small. Come Thursday that the cat was out of the bag, with regards to David's 90. He pushed as hard as he could but it was not ment to be. He was SOOOOO close to having his truck's new chassis install and completed you could taste it. A FANTASTIC effort the likes I've yet to see!!!! But David elected to play it safe and finish the truck when he got back and finish it right......he would be travelling with Orville in the Disco 11.
If you are curious what our menu plan looked like here it is...in it's basic form (Breakfast, lunch and supper)
Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 Day 4 Day 5 Day 6 Day 7 Day 8 Day 9
(monday) (tue) (Wed) (thurs) (fri) (sat) (sun) (mon) (tue)
restaurant Eat at Fishing Blueberry Oatmeal French toast Scrmbled eggs Blueberry Oatmeal Grahm/sunflower
at Escott Bay Camp at pancakes Raisins sausage Toast pancakes Raisins Pancakes
Egliuk Lake (2 eggs - mark) Fruit cocktail Fruit cocktail bacon (2 eggs – mark) Canned
peaches
Sandwich Sandwich Sandwich Sandwich Sandwich Sandwich Sandwich Sandwich Sandwich
cookies cookies cookies cookies cookies cookies cookies cookies Cookies
Fruit Fruit Fruit Fruit Fruit Fruit Fruit Fruit Fruit
Eat at Fishing Lamb Stew Fish Chowder BBQ steak Chicken stew Pulled Pork Spagetti Pesto Feticcini Quesnell
Camp at Sunday salad carrot salad veggie paks Rice Bun meat sauce 3peper+shroom Egliuk Lake Eton Mess chocolate Pud watermelon coleslaw Carrot salad caesar salad Tinned chicken
fruit cocktail Banana Loaf chocolate Pud Halva cakes
Come the morning of July 28th we were off!!!! The adventure begins.......
(to be continued)
After meeting up for breakfast at the Smitty's on Saturday July we divided up the camp supplies between us and bit our well wishers farewell, and set up west on Hwy 16 under clear skys and pleasant temperatures. We picked up Nicole and Curtis at the Rest Stop west of Edson and continued on to Hwy 5 south and made our way down to Clearwater where we would camp for the night, between the highway and the North Thompson River. We got in with plenty of time to spare so Mark found a great place to eat in Clearwater called the Hop N Hog Tap & Smoke house. The food there was GREAT!!!!! And if the food wasn't enough the owner has a Series 111 in the back, that he'd rebuilt from the frame up ;)
Sunday we got up early, filled our tanks and began the long climb up over the pass from Little Fort, across Hwy 24 too 100 mile house, taking advantage of the cool morning temps for our engines. There we headed north again on Hwy 97 for Williams Lake, where we had a to stop at the local Canadian Tire for some last minute supplies and to snub up a wheel bearing. While we were there we had a bite to eat at the BBQ trailer and saw a massive Mann Overland vehicle. I think Jeffrey snapped a pic or two so he can post them later. From Williams Lake we used Hwy 20 west to climb up the long hill that would take us up onto the Caribou/Chilcotin plateau that would be our play ground for the next week or so.
I'm not certain what time we got to Anahim Lake but it was about 4 or 5pm I think. We had made good time and no issues so far, thought the V8's were getting a bit frustrated with the 200tdi's crawling up the hills ;D After topping up our tanks we headed off to the Escott Bay Resort on the northeast shore of Anahim Lake for dinner and a good nights sleep. http://escottbay.com/ Our hosts (Darlene and Bill van Es) were wonderful, greeting us with BIG smiles and a grand meal at 7pm. No one went to be hungry that night! They have a group of family cabins on the edge of the lake and it's kept nice and tidy.
The next morning we were in for breakfast at 7am and biding farewell to Bill and Darlene, thanking them for their hospitality. By 9:30 we where heading north of the haul roads looking for our first bit of trail that would bypass the "section from hell" that would be Basalt Lake to Gatcho Lake. But we had a cunning plan!!!!
To be continued..........
Hey all, we're back from our "extended AMT" which saw us swap out our faulty battery in McBride (solving our starting issue- the replacement yellow top and isolator will be ordered shortly) we then separated from the remaining convoy. Explored a bit around the area and refuelled (again!) Then on to Jasper for lunch and Hinton to resupply(and refuel)and do some laundry! Then headed north and west on the emerson Creek road, camping at the confluence of emmerson Creek and the Athabasca river two nights. Then headed up emmerson Creek road to old Amoco road and eventually up hwy 947 to hwy 43. Stopped at casino at White Court for lunch and fuel(it's a V8!)continued up thru swan hills and fort Assiniboine, crossed Vega ferry and home!ahhhhh
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BTW Bill, keep the travellogue coming. I was there, and I'm still riveted *lol*
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If you remember I anything about the 2015 AMT trip the last two days were VERY long and VERY hard going. We had mud to winch through, dead fall to clear and the infamous "Alder Grove" to concur. Our last day (Basalt Rock Camp to Gatcho Lake) took us 17 hours of hard graft to make it through....but we made it and were proud of ourselves for getting the job done. Having said that I was not looking forward to that section on this trip at all! After Trevor contacted Erin and Jennifer at the Eliguk Lake Fish Camp they told us that that section of the trail we all "LOVED" so much (NOT!!!!!!!) was closed off by the local natives. They also informed us that there was a route in from the south that would take us to the AMT trail just east of their camp on Eliguk Lake. "...is it possible that Christmas has come early this year?!?" I though to myself. But they gave us the directions and we were well on our way, driving up the Dean River Road head out off the NE corner of Anahim Lake. This is good, high grade, haul road and we made good time with it.
We headed north on this haul road until we passed Tanswanket Creek and found the Rainbow Lake Trail, another logging haul road into the area. It was much narrower then the Dean River Road but still good going. We travelled this gravel road for about 5km or so and found the trail that would take us to Eliguk Lake. Time to air down and get a group photo or twelve. It was after this point much of our driving would be in low range. This road wound back and forth, up and down, over lots of rocks and across the odd little creek. The area was dry....VERY dry! And we could see it in each creek crossing. As we meandered through the woods we were starting to see signs of the local wild life with deer and moose tracks. We even spotted a good size Grizzley track with it's bent over claw marks. Craig announced this to the crowd and stopped for folks to have a look...and Trevor to load his bazooka!
The trail was in very good condition as Erin and Jennifer use it frequently to fetch supplies from Anahim Lake, so it didn't take us long to get to the lake. Once we rounded the end of the lake we came to the meadow of an old abandoned homestead. Across the meadow we saw a black dodge 4x4 with a crushed roof and canopy, attached to a large trailer with a 20' seacan on it. We later learned that Erin had stopped to clear a tree off the trail and while he was doing that another tree fell on his truck. It was an ambush!!!! Erin was pulling in the seacan to use as part of a base for one of the cabins. I can't recall if anything was in it. We stopped for a bite to eat and then carried on along the AMT heading west. I was taking my 110 over some rocks (very slowly) when my rear axle got hung up on it. I couldn't pull my truck free under it's own steam as I couldn't get any grip! Now thinking the work I thought maybe a spun a drive member or something so I pulled the caps off the hub to check as neither wheel was turning. Then a voice came across the radio asking if I had locked my centre diff.....? Well you can guess what happened there.......I locked the diff and the 110 easily freed itself. The phrase "DUMB ASS!!!!" comes to mind here...
Not too long after that we arrived at the Eliguk Lake Fish Camp and were greeted by our hosts and their 2.25 dogs. Now I should mention here that the day before when I was about to cross a one lane bridge I met a couple of locals in Anahim Lake. They stopped me to ask where we were going.....When I told them we were heading for the Eliguk Lake fish camp their faces lit up. "Say hello to Erin and give Jennifer a BIG hug from Duke Stugartt!!" he told me. Well now that I've met Jennifer I asked if she was on good terms with "Duke Stugartt", as I didn't want to get walloped here. Turns out they were good friends...so I delivered the hug as requested. The dogs were very friendly Australian sheep dogs so there was fuzz therapy for all. And it didn't take long for the one dog to take a serious liking to Mark's leg. It was love at first sight! We sorted ourselves and our gear into the assigned cabins and it wasn't long before some of the gang had taken off in the camps fishing boats to try their hand at the Rainbow Trout here. Since I had dragged the rear diff guard across a rock earlier I thought I'd check it out. My "checking it out" end up with me breaking the cable that secures the front of the guard to the input of the diff housing. With Erins and Curtis' help we replaced the cable with a 1/8" steel band going "Binford" on it...good and strong. Jennifer told us not to eat anything as she was cooking up a storm for dinner. About 5pm or so she suggested that maybe we take the barge (45' long x12' wide aluminium pontoon boat) out on the lake for dinner. GREAT IDEA! We helped load up the BBQ, coolers, etc onto the USS MINNOW and set off at 6pm for our 3 hour tour. With Orvilled help dinner was cooked up and served on the barge, being pushed around the lake by a 15hp motor at nice lazy trolling speeds. In fact I thing Curtis was being taunted by one trout out there attacking, but never taking his lure. We had our deck chairs, food, beverages and deserts as we toured around the lake in a gentle breeze and no bugs. Lots of banter and chatter going on....what a brilliant way to spend an evening!!!!!! We got back about 9pm or so where some folks called it an evening, some went visiting and some fed the mosquitos around the fire. I swear the mozzies are fire proof there!!!!
While visiting with Erin and Jennifer we learned that a couple of forest fires had popped up in the area, that could affect our route. The route to the north of Lambert's homestead was closed due to a fire to north burning out of control. Another fire was threatening the route we took in to Eliguk Lake and there was a fire burning across the trail between Lambert's and the Phillips lodge. Having chatted with Walt lambert on the radio earlier they learned that he was able to drive through the burn area to visit with the Phillips the day before. Since we had scheduled a two night stop on the Blackwater River where the Carnlick Creek enters it, to do a bit of fishing and relaxing. But with the fire still burning between the Lambert's and the Phillip's properties we elected to push past both properties and get east of the fires causing all the grief. The plan was set.. we would push on to Tsacha Lake and spend two nights there.
The route in from Anahim Lake and be seen on this pic: https://www.flickr.com/photos/alre_club/43067476295/in/album-72157696878170222/
to be continued........
Tuesday was going to be a lazy day since the original plan was only to go as far as the Lambert homestead. But local fires made us reconsider the game plan a bit. We woke up to a wonderful blueberry pancake breakfast on the dock and since we didn't need any of our camp gear our trucks were already loaded ready to go. So we were off and heading east on the trail with the intent of making it past the fires to Tsacha Lake. We left Erin and Jennifer getting ready to install a sprinkler system on the roofs of their cabins, preparing for the worst and hoping for the best. We're hoping they made out okay...
It didn't take long to back track our trail to the meadow on the NE corner of Eliguk Lake. Craig and I lead the way in the 110 ExMOD, with Jeffrey and Cam in their 110 CSW, and Glen and Avrum in the 90 behind them. Trevor's 110 Camel Trophy, Curtis and Orville's Disco 11 were a bit behind but they caught up quick enough. Once we located the gate that would take us onto the east bound trail we were off like a hurdle of turtles! The trail itself had been kept well cleared by Erin and Walt (nearest neighbors) so there wasn't much for trees to clear. We made good time on that trail and I was sure I saw Erin's face at one of the stops along the way.....sounded like they were going to visit with Walt and decided to fallow us out. But when we finally did reach Walt Lambert's homestead we didn't see them any longer. Sure hope their jeep didn't leave them stranded on the trail ha ha ha. We came on the shore of the Blackwater river and the water looked very low compared to previous trips through the area. It the three years since we had been there the trail along the river had given way into the river in spots, so it was necessary to rearrange a few willow and alder shrubs. The familiar abandoned trapper's cabin can into few and then the little bridge that let us cross the river and take the trail through the Lambert's property. As we drove through we could see Nora Lambert out in the hay fields either mowing or bailing hey in the distance. We stopped in the yard but instead of seeing Walt we were greeted by his dog...a little shy but friendly enough. The guys looked around the yard at the collection of antique vehicles, admiring the old Dept of BC Indian Affairs Land Rover Series 1, in it's original paint. Since we couldn't find Walt we left a note on the door letting him know we had popped in to say hello, and were continuing on our way through to the Phillip's outfitting lodge to the east (next neighbor down).
The section of trail between the Lamberts and the Phillips was in the best shape of all the trail we would travel as it's very well maintained. We made good time on that trail....at least until we ran into the western boundary of the fire. I could see something was up when everything turned dull red! The trees, the trail, the grass...all red. The tell tale sign of fire retardant bombers... All that smoke we had been tasting for the past morning masked any sign of this fire crossing our path. As we came on the burn itself we could see green turn to black and ashes...mother nature at her worst! And the fire fighters we met there were a bit taken aback by the appearance of 1/2 dozen land rover appearing on the boarder. Craig got out first to go and explain what we were up to and get their approval to cross the fire. As this fire was small (only 2 hectares) and presently under control the fire crews were mopping up hot spots. After a few minutes on the radio to the "higher ups" we were given the go ahead to drive through. Black and ash...with several hotspots under logs and roots, 15' burning stumps of trees and several logs laying on the ground still burning themselves out. An to think.....in two years time you will see fireweed, paintbrush and lots of new pine seedlings popping up everywhere. The cycle of life in a pine forest! It didn't take us long to get through the fire and within an hour we were coming out on the runway that would lead us to Rob and Linda's "Pan Phillips Fishing Resort". Pan Phillips (Rob's father) was the original cattle rancher in the area. You can learn more about Pan with this NFB film:
You can see Rob (aka 'Bobby') when he was about 14 at 17:14 on the video.
And if you're interested there was a Canadian TV series "loosely based" the Pan Phillips and his partner in the Chilcotin called "Nothing to good for a cowboy".....Ran for about 4 years and it was rather amusing :)
We took a bit of a break there for some lunch an had a chat with Rob and Linda, passing on the regards of Duke Stugartt again. For obvious reasons they were quite interested in the status of the fire between themselves and the Lamberts. We passed on what info we could give them and continued on our way, following the trail north of Tsetzi and Blue Lakes. Tsetzi Creek was much drier then our 2015 trip so we were able to pass the boggy area with ease this time around. There was a little bit of wood to clear from the trail along this section but not bad at all so it was no surprise we made the push to Tsacha Lake airstrip and onto our camp on the south shore with lots of daylight to spare. Everyone found a good spot to set their tents and the camp kitchen was set up too. Since there are two outhouses there from a previous fish camp we were set up quite nicely. I think Curtis and Nicole had the best tent location out on a point. Good breeze, no bugs and far enough away from my snoring to offer a good nights sleep ;D
In our efforts to avoid the fires we had made some really good time and we were now a two days ahead of schedule. So with the pressure off we stayed at this camp for two nights.
These two maps cover the section we travelled on Tuesday:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/alre_club/30104294528/ (https://www.flickr.com/photos/alre_club/30104294528/)
https://www.flickr.com/photos/alre_club/29034866287/in/photostream/ (https://www.flickr.com/photos/alre_club/29034866287/in/photostream/)
To be continued........
Just a side note. Not sure if anyone has been following the situation with the Tolands, but for any that haven't: 4 fires started west of the lodge and have merged into one super fire. They have been on mandatory evacuation for several days now, but have chosen to stay and try to save the Lodge. If you wish to follow events, Jennifer is posting updates to her personal Facebook page- just friend request for access. Here's hoping their home is spared.
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Quote from: pechanec on August 12, 2018, 09:38 AM
Just a side note. Not sure if anyone has been following the situation with the Tolands, but for any that haven't: 4 fires started west of the lodge and have merged into one super fire. They have been on mandatory evacuation for several days now, but have chosen to stay and try to save the Lodge. If you wish to follow events, Jennifer is posting updates to her personal Facebook page- just friend request for access. Here's hoping their home is spared.
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And a good bush fix by Aron on his problematic caliper too!
(https://scontent-sea1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/38213714_10156184691182489_5098519307298537472_o.jpg?_nc_cat=0&oh=5aa5142bf36ea0e8fd804d9f6473ae49&oe=5BC5D080)
When did you get that photo Dave? Got the job done and got him home again....good man!
The little fire that we drove through.... It was 2 ha and considered under control. That's before a fire started about 8km to the SSW of it went nuts! Low duff moisture code, extreme fuel load, high temperatures and one good lightening strike very near the Home Ranch of Pan Phillips (where we considered going to circumvent the small fire) set off a 7000+ ha fire that went out of control to the NNE, consuming the little fire wen went through, and threatening Rob and Linda's place and not to far off from the Lamberts homestead too.
It won't be long before the majority of the trail will be burned over from one end to the other.
I do hope the best for the three families ???
8000 hectares....
Well that looks like it's very close to the Lambert Homestead then. He's cleared things around his building so they are are far enough from the woods to be saved..... if the embers don't get them. Hopefully he won't loose too much out there. Hard to say if the fire went far enough to the east to get Rob and Linda's place....but the north fire boundary almost looks like it's following either the AMT or the Blackwater River. :-\
AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH >:(
Just spent a pile of time typing up the next installment only to get timed out and thrown off....where's a FBH when you need one!!!!!!
I'll take another kick at the writer's cat tomorrow......when my blood stops boiling!!!!!
Tsacha lake for a day....Then on to Messue
Now that we've gotten on the east side of the three fires that were playing havoc with our route options we could afford to take a day off and enjoy the nature that greets us. Most of our tents were set up along the grassy shoreline, enjoying the cool breeze of the day. It didn't take long for Jeffrey to head off for his swim and the fly rods to come out. With our camp sitting just off a spring fed creek entering the lake it seemed like a good spot to test the waters. Heck, it didn't matter if these guys were catching fish or not. The idea of spending sometime casting a line just sounds like time well spent.
For me starting the day with a bar of soap and a nice leisurely soak was just the ticket! Even the clothes on my back got a good cleaning, to get some of the ash, dirt and sweat out of them. I'm not sure who appreciated it more...me or the mosquitos!?!? Since Curtis and Nicole had the campsite on the tiny peninsula it only seemed natural that folks bring their camp chairs there and have good visit, along with some Brie and crackers. It was a lazy day....a chance to clean up and service the vehicles. After dinner we settled in around the campfire and had more laughs. It's amazing how quickly the time flies when you aren't keeping track of it. The sun set as a big orange ball against the smoke blowing our way from the fires. With the loons making their last calls of the evening I turned in for a read and good sleep.
Thursday morning we were up and at 'er early, tearing down the camp, packing away the freshly filled water jugs and loading the trucks. We were off to our next camp at Messue Wagon Crossing for another couple of nights. Curtis tried a short cut through the lake, off the little peninsula that was their campsite. Unfortunately he found the only soft there was and required a we bit of assistance to bring him back to terra firma. Other then a few 'damp' items in the truck there were no problems. Trevor lead off today with Curtis taking the second position. The rest of us fell in line and if I'm not mistake David and Craig followed up the rear. By 930am we were on our way up the hill from the lake.
When we got to the intersection of the AMT and the Blackmore driveway sign Trevor decided to follow the alternate route up the Blackmore driveway. The trail was clear, bordered with an aspen/spruce/pine mix. So far the pine beetle hadn't done quite as much damage here...yet. About 1.5km up the trail the trees opened up to a large tidy farm, with rail fences, sheds and the obligatory tractor or dozer parked out of the way but still in view. As we rolled to a stop I could see an older gentleman coming up from the log farm house to greet us. This would be Jim Blackmore (not sure on the last name). Soon after came his son Troy and grandson Wes, who we had met back in 2015 when they came down to the lake to see what trucks were making all the noise (5 defender tdi's). Troy looked much like he did on our last visit but I didn't recognise Wes at all. He was about 13 or 14 in 2015 but the young man standing in front of us was a stranger ahhahhahah. We went through the introductions of everyone, which I'm sure ended up being "hey you #1, hey you #2, hey you #3, etc" by the time we were all done.
We stayed and had a short chat, explaining what we knew about the fires behind us and the neighbors to the west of their property. The smoke was getting thicker and the winds were picking up so we know the flames where being fanned into life for the day. Looking over their farm they had a very good clearing between them and the forest line. They wouldn't be seeing any flames up to the buildings, but the embers from the fires would need to be watched carefully.
Having said our farewells we were off down the trail again making pretty good time even with the dead fall on the trail that required clearing. It was a bit thicker but it was being cleared quickly by the team. For the most part the trail was in the thick of the woods, with the odd small lake popping into view through the trees. About 10km along the trail the Kushya Creek starts to parallel the trail on the south side, and in places the trail was the creek. But since the water levels were down so much at this time we only had some wet soil and the odd little puddle. Much different from the previous two trips.
Just before we got to the Messue Wagon Trail we had to cross the Kushya River....not a big river by any means but this time it was barely more then a creek about a foot deep. Tall wet grass on each side of the trail and a mine field of large rocks to navigate through, constantly trying to find a good line for you differentials. Cameron was driving Jeffrey D110 CSW in front of us. For a self proclaimed "inexperienced driver" he was going a pretty good job. The BFG AT's on the truck did an adequate job with only the odd 'love tap' from a rock on the crossing. Another couple of kilometers we found the intersection of the Messue Wagon Trail and turned north. At one time this trail was the main route out to the town of Vanderhoof (nearest airport and major services) for the residence of Kluskus Village. This route is slowly being replaced by the high grade logging haul roads coming into the area from the south. Because this route was important to the locals, and travelled frequently it was kept relatively clear.
We began the 100m decent down the hill to the river over a twisting and winding trail. For the most part it was not too bad. The last section, just off the south shore of the river, had bit of a mud hole as the trail was confined to a space between some large spruce trees. One by one the crew got through the mud hole with few difficulties and proceeded across the ford, through the labyrinth of islands. This was the first good size crossing...but with the waters down it was only mid thigh deep. Walking the river first was less of a chore then a pleasure as the water was cool, clear and welcoming. With pictures taken and video footage gathered everyone enjoyed the little adventure. Once on the north shore we found the old campsite used back in 2006 was heavily overgrown and not very appealing this time around. There was a nice meadow there so Trevor had the lot of us wait while he and Mark scouted ahead to look for a good place to camp. And did they ever! A great spot about 15' up off the Blackwater River, but right along the shore. A clearing about 20' deep offering a wonderful breeze of the water and good respite from the mosquitos.
Setting up the camp was a bit more of challenge this time..... Mark and his trusty chain saw were trying to clear a spot in the trees for the kitchen but the chips from his saw started to go up instead of down, and they changed colour from off white to yellow and black. Now we're not sure if he realized they were yellow jackets before they stung the rim of his ear or just before that. But let's just say the expletives were colourful! The kitchen was moved into more of a clearing, using a couple of trees and a couple of landies for tie downs.
I think it was about 4pm or so and our camp was up. It wasn't long before people were heading into the water with the fly rods, and they were biting now too! Squaw fish and Rainbows. Jeffrey found a honey hole and over manage to land a few good size fish which would become a breakfast soon after that. Dinner around the fire was filled with fishing stories, rules and regs and questions about legal size to keep. Lots of fun there!!!!! We went to bed with smiles on our faces and full bellies!
Friday morning began with the clang of a coffee pot and the clatter of fishing gear. People slowing got out of bed and we began another rest day at the Messue Wagon Crossing. Orville did his magic at breakfast and we just enjoyed the day. I watch Jeffrey and Craig walk up the river, fishing as they went. The view was right out of the movie 'The River Runs Through It' but neither of them resembled Brad Pitt or Robert Redford :-) But let me describe the picture.... A dark water river winding gently over three shallow steps or gravel bars, the water reflecting the suns light. Tall spruce trees encroach on both banks giving the impression of a dark, narrow corridor that the river runs down. In the middle is a lone fisherman standing in knee deep drawing his fly rod back and casting it forward. The light coloured, heavy line arching as he works the fly to the hole he's aiming for. I don't know if anyone took a picture but it sure would have been a good one. As it is this one will be imprinted in my memory for the rest of my days.
Jeffrey took a couple of tumbles out in the river giving his knew cap a very good goose egg. But it didn't seem to bother him anymore a day or two later. This was probably one of the best camping spot on the trip. Steaks for dinner and a couple of Curtis' Squaw fish cooking on the hot rocks that lined the fire. Yup...that was a good camp that was!
Saturday morning we broke camp early as we had a good distance to travel to our next spot near the washed out Bridge.....and more adventure.
Here are the maps for this section:
Tsacha Lake section
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/933/29034866287_65fbc6566a_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/LeHhbT)AMT_Detail4of7 (https://flic.kr/p/LeHhbT) by ALRE Club (https://www.flickr.com/photos/alre_club/), on Flickr
Messue Wagon Crossing section
https://www.flickr.com/photos/alre_club/43067476535/in/album-72157696878170222/ (https://www.flickr.com/photos/alre_club/43067476535/in/album-72157696878170222/)
To be continued.........
Sounds like a real adaventure. Thanks for the write up guys.
oh no...stand by there.....We still have more to come!!! But I won't be continuing until tomorrow. But now we have pics to add ;-)
cheers, Bill ;D
The fire map from BC shows the whole area red under state of emergency. I guess who ever charts the trail next time will have to get really busy with the timber.
Our trip for next week is obviously cancelled, the fire hasn't touched the trail yet but it's so close. Guess it's time to start planning for next year.
Quote from: Rabbit91 on August 16, 2018, 04:12 PM
Our trip for next week is obviously cancelled, the fire hasn't touched the trail yet but it's so close. Guess it's time to start planning for next year.
If you mean "not touching the AMT" you'd be wrong there. C11594 Tsacha Lake fire (2 ha) had already crossed the trail when we were there. We drove through the mop up sections on from the west and east flanks. That was across the trail about 1/2 way between Lamberts and Phillips homes. About a week later C11837 Shag creek fire (8000+ha) went right over the area burned by the Tsacha lake fire burning up a good chunk of the forest between those two properties. I don't believe their homes have been hit yet as they are well set back from the forest and I imagine they've been painted red by the retardant bombers by now.
Mean while the Nazko Rd is running up the west flank of C12328 Blackwater River fire (4500ha), separated only by the Blackwater River at this time. Neither the Shag Creek fire nor the Nazko Rd fire are being actioned on the ground, so they are still considered "out of control.
G41607 Chutanli Lake fire (10600ha) is east of the Messue Wagon trail (which connects into the Haul Roads leading out to Vanderhoof. That road is likely closed now....so most of the traffic on the east side of the AMT in that area has little or no access.
Postpone your trip for until late august or early sept and you should be able to access the area again. And since our crew has cleared out most of the downed timber for this year you will have a very little to slow you down. If you wanted to push it I think the trail could be done in as little as 5 or maybe even 4 days.
A good portion of the trail has been burnt over now so it's a very different landscape from previous years. But the more recent fires (last year) have already got lots of ground cover vegetation. And the less recent fires (2 to 6 years) have got lots of small pine and poplar growing up in the area already. The water crossing were very low this year as they just haven't had the precipitation they need. Bog areas are very easy to cross right now too.
So if you can....just put the trail off for a bit and watch the fire situation. The season can still be salvaged. ;)
Quote from: B-Red on August 16, 2018, 11:59 AM
The fire map from BC shows the whole area red under state of emergency. I guess who ever charts the trail next time will have to get really busy with the timber.
Don't sweat the small stuff.....it won't be nearly as bad as the pine beetle kill stuff!!!!
Messue Wagon Crossing to Kluskus Creek Ford, day 6
The Messue Wagon Crossing campsite was second to none and I think I can safely say that it was well worth the stay there. But one note I forgot to mention......There were two flat tires on this trip, which is quite remarkable compared to the 5 or 6 we had in 2015. I think it was on our way to the Messue camp that Trevor noticed his two week old right rear tire was getting a bit soft as we were driving along. He thinks he may have driven over a piece of metal back at the Tsacha Lake camp. The leak was small so he was able to add some air and get himself to the camp where he could repair it with a plug. We'll tell you about the second flat soon.....
It was a foggy morning with the dew staying close to the river valley bottom, holding the smoke from the forest fires down there with it. Folks took their time taking tents down as flies didn't want to dry off in any great hurry. So we set about having breakfast.....Once again Orville was on his game, and getting the rest of the gear packed up. It seem to get harder leaving these nice two night sites for some reason ahhahha! We got the tents packed up and the last thing to come down was the portable outhouse. Curtis stepped up and offered to assist in this....the least enjoyable job in the camp. As we drove away all we left behind was our campfire ring and some flattened grass, which will recover soon after were gone.
In true land rover fashion the group decided to try and follow the more direct trail to the Pan Meadows Crossing. So we continued on the Messue Wagon trail north to the intersection going up the hill, and we turned east to follow the trail for a little less then a kilometre or so. This was going to be a first for us as there were no indications in any of the forums of people using this trail, that any of us knew about. As it turned out this trail was very over grown and chalk a block full of downed trees on it, appearing to be the much slower option to the main trail through to the Kluskus Village further down river and a bit more to the south. So about face we went, back tracking up the same trail we used to access the Missue Wagon Crossing.
It didn't take long at all to get back on the AMT and because this section was used more by the locals to access the Haul Roads north to Vanderhoof it was cleared of logs more frequently...that's good for us! So we were making good time now. As we got closer to the west end of West Kluskus Lake we did notice the trail was getting wetter. Not from precipitation but from creaks and wet areas that just didn't drain real quick. And the mud had a good rocky bottom so there was no sinking up to you axles in mud here. But you did have to pick your route well as some of the rocks just loved "kissing" you differentials! And the tell tale signs of civilization were plan to see. Abondoned trucks and tractors could be seen along the trail. Some with numberous bullet holes in them, insuring they were put down humanly ;-)
This area was mostly spruce/aspen mix with several small open areas along the trail. By noon we come out at the clearing on the edge of Kluskus Creek where the water slowed and formed a small pond. The first thing you notice was how green with algae the water was. The lack of depth and green colour indicated that water wasn't moving through this area very quickly at all at this time. More indications of the dry conditions in this country. Since we had a good clearing and a ford to cross by foot before we drove it, we made this our lunch stop. While Orville and I waded out into the water looking for safe passage from large rocks that could hang us up, the rest of the group broke out the food and checked out the remanants of a camp that had once occupied this spot. Large wooden boxes for storage, poles still tied nd used for supporting a large wall tent or tarps now lay on the ground ready to be erected again at anytime. The outhouse was still in good condition and was utilized by the group. The temperature now had risen to a comfortable 25 celcius or so, much nicer then the 30+ degrees we were seeing earlier in the week. And with the sun reaching higher in the sky the breeze was picking up , faning the fires and blowing the smoke higher in the sky again. But still...this was a good spot for lunch. In 2015 we had trouble finding the truck trail to this point and ended up on the footpath, on the north side of the creek from the Kluskus Village. Definitely not a route for the faint of heart as the steep side slope ends in the water itself.
After a nice casual lunch we packed up our trucks and headed for the ford that would take us to the south side of Kluskus Creek and onto the Haul Road that would take us the 400m north into the Kluskus Village. Once we crossed the bridge into the village we turned east again to follow the trail along the lake. We kept our speed down here to minimize the dust we were kicking up and to not startle the horses left to roam in the meadow. It was funny seeing the horses all standing beside each other, completely covered in dust and alternating head and tail. That way they could keep the bugs down on their faces and butts!
We followed the trail along the north shore of the lake, passing the shrine type grave of one of the village elders who passed away back in 2014 or so. There was a white rail fence around a white and light blue house type structure. Not large at all...just big enough for the body or casket. A very peaceful place to rest. The area along the shore was scattered with larger spruce and aspen trees. A few of them needed clearing and required a bit more 'herump' to move the logs. I wasn't long before we came into another burn area. This region has been hard hit with the pine beetle for years now, with entire pine forest been killed off by the fungus associated to this bug. So monther nature cleans up with a good burn!
Most of what we have to clean up here is dead fall from beetle kill, but there was some charred logs that needed clearing as well. It was along this section that we found a large spruce tree down across the trail with the word 'STOP' carved into it with a chainsaw. We weren't sure if that was where someone stopped or if someone was trying to imbark a little wisdom on us. But since we had 6 saws, loads of saw gas and chain oil, and 12 people we ignored that log, cut it into pieces an removed the obstacle from our path!!!!
This is what the rest of our day would be..clearing fallen logs from the trail.... But the saws rang out and folks put there heads down and got the job done, making good distance as well! There was a good few kilometers of this stuff to cut through. I don't exactly remember where but it was but I was up on tail gate of my truck, getting some saw gas and cutting oil out when I stepped down of the truck. Unfortunately I found the only rock in the area to land on with my left foot and rolled off of it. That was the end of my running around for the trip. It turned black and blue on each side and began to swell. But nothing went "crack" or "pop" and had to take it easy on that foot from then on.
After a few hours of the cutting the east Kluskus Lake came into view and slowly drew closer to the trail, eventually bringing the two together. There used to be a bridge crossing the Kluskus Creek here but it been washed away some years back, leaving only the odd bit of stone grip to let you know a bridge had been there before. The ford to cross this section of the creek was just south of where the bridge was, with the shallow water on the west bank and the deeper water on the east bank. But with the water being down a good foot or two it was an easy crossing for the landies. One by one they cross the creek and climbed the bank on the far side. Since this fire had happened only a year or so ago it was difficult to recognise the landscape.... everything appeared so different! Once we got our bearings we were back on the trail again.
It wasn't even 200m along before we came to the old abandon homestead we'd camped at in 2015. Back then there were a couple of old, sorry looking log buildings and a meadow. At the bottom of the gentle slope there was what looked like a bog or marshy area, thick with alder and willow bushes. A small creek ran up agains the edge of the pasture. This time it was different! The building were all gone... The forests were gone.... The pasture was almost gone. The alder and willow brush along the creek was all burnt away, with new growth or scattered survivors left. In the middle of the pasture were two large, bare ash piles which once were buildings. The odd nail or metal cup giving the only clue of what it might have been once before.
But this was going to be our home for the night so up went the tents, the cook shelter was built between Trevor's and Jeffrey's roof racks and dinner was started. Now...you remember when I said there was another flat tire...? Well it was in the right rear tire of my 110 (yup, same tire as Trevor's...I'm a groupy I guess). Somewhere along the trail it looked like a small, fire hardend branch had gone through the edge of the tread (and belt) into the tire. While I had air in the tire I got the jack out from under the passenger seat (which was full of wet mud....don't know where that could have come from) and got the weight off the tire before it could go flat. I also got out the tool box, air compressor, Tire repair kit, and wheel wrench. Now I had a general idea of how to do it but I hadn't actually done one yet. So, under the expert tutelage and watchful eye of the 'big guy' I got Trevor to guide me through the process. Not really very difficult but threading the tacky, rubber plugs into the awl was a bit tricky to start. Having repaired the tire and pumped it up to check if the fix holds air, we left it for the night.
With the kitchen up dinner was started....It was pulled pork on a bun I think.....with freshly made apple sauce. Mmmmmmmmm! While waiting for dinner I collected Trevor's and Mark's chain saw's and gave them a well deserved sharpening....they needed it! All this time folks were making their way down to the stream to get cleaned up for the night. Washing off all the sweat, dirt, ash and dust! The water in the creek was relatively clear and it felt good to get cleaned up again!
After dinner I turned in so I could put my foot up for a bit as it was getting sore. Jeffrey came by with a couple of advils ('one now and one in the morning') as well as a tensor sock, to help keep the swelling down. The sock did it's job well but at one time I had to move it as it was beginning to cause more grief then relief. It wasn't long after that Jeffrey came back with a piece of chocolate Zuccini Loaf for desert. I had a couple of bites and saved the rest for breakfast ;-)
I don't know what the rest of the group did for the rest of the evening but I'm sure it involved gathering around a lovely campfire and having a good social of it. The gang worked very hard and accomplished lots that day, and so far they have had a great adventure. But tomorrow was really going to test their metal.
First leg from Messue Wagon Crossing east
https://www.flickr.com/photos/alre_club/30104294528/ (https://www.flickr.com/photos/alre_club/30104294528/)
Second leg arriving at Kluskus Creek Camp
https://www.flickr.com/photos/alre_club/42163912220/ (https://www.flickr.com/photos/alre_club/42163912220/)
To be continued.......
Kluskus Creek Ford to Kluskoil Lake Camp, Day 7
Like every morning of this trip the day started with the clatter of the coffee pot being put on the stove to brew up the first pot of the morning. Once folks heard that sound it became a race for the caffine junkies to get some of the first batch. From that moment on each morning the camp slowly came to life with people packing up there gear, the kitchen kicking into gear and the odd solemn march to a lonely corner of the woods (with a book of course) for a morning constitutional. The tent flies were damp with dew that morning and the sun rose as dull pink ball in the easter sky. There wasn't much for a breeze yet but we all knew that would come eventually.
The Rainbow Trout the guys caught back at Messue Wagon camp were on the menu for breakfast. Jeffrey used some butter and some of his homemade spice mix and the end product was very tasty indeed. Having the ARB fridges with us sure was nice for keeping things like the fish as fresh as we could. Once breakfast was done the gang set out to tear the camp down. I had a tire to check, to see that my plugs were holding air. And they did just that. The last structure of ours to come down at each camp was the "Loo"....Craig and Avrum volunteered for that job this time around.
Once we had all the gear loaded up into the trucks we were on our way once again. The burn area we came into the day before was to conture through the area for sometime yet. There wasn't a lot to clear from the trail for the first few hundred meters but slowing that changed. About 1500m along we came to an area known as Sandyman Meadows. The trail forked here with the normal route bearing off to the east through a boggy area. There was another trail following the base of the hill bearing off to the north here. On the GPS the north leg looked like it would cross the Blackwater river and join up with the AMT hiking trail on the north shore. This would inturn meet up with the wagon trail we were aiming for. Once again the land rover spirit took over and off we pressed...heading north, cutting our way through the dead and down trees that blocked our route.
We continued on this route for another couple kilometers in the burn and as we got closer to the river the burned area became a healthy forest that was spared the previous year's fire. The gang cleared downed trees from the trail for a most of the morning until we arrived a clearing along the river, with several boats pulled up onto the show. There were there waiting for the next time their owners want to cross. By now the two gravity filters we purchased from MEC were failing so we had to be a bit conservative with out water consumption now.
With all of us at the shore looking at a pretty wide bit of water we had to find out if it was a good place to ford or not. Those boats were the first hint. I looked back at Orville and asked "If I get soaked out there walking across will I be allowed back in the your disco...?" I don't remember hearing an answer to that question....even after the laughter settled down. Since David was driving my 110 I asked if he would be willing to give it a go. With a big grin his reply was a simple "Sure!". I didn't want to tell him about the puraanas, crocodiles or hippos that filled these waters...it would only scare him off! Okay, okay.....so we don't have any of those. It did get you thinking didn't it!?!
David dawned his river crossing gear and proceeded to walk out into the water. Up to the shins, then the knees, then the mid thigh, then the waist, then mid chest and then he was under..and he was only a third of the way across. Well that answers that....we weren't crossing here!!!!! David made it to the far shore, read the sign on the tree there and had a look for the trail that was suppose to travel along that shore. Once again we'd run into a deadend. As David returned to the south shore again that big grin was still on his face and he added "that was a really nice swim!". Since he had been out front cutting the past few hours I can imagine it was nice break ;-)
There wasn't a lot of room to turn all of us around so we did the best we could, making our way back to the fork in the trail at Sandyman's Meadows. Craig and David had already had a look over this area as we went by the first time. Orville and I joined them at the meadow and we walked the various channels in the creek as well as through the tall grass, looking for a suitable route through. Craig and David seem to have found a pretty good option and so we sent David on through in my 110. Eazy Peazy!!!! One by one the trucks made it through. Curtis and Jeffrey had a little bit of trouble making it through one spot so we winched them through. There was a clearing just beyond where we crossed the wet area and then the trail came back into view. The hillside ahead of us, once covered with lush green timber the entire area was now burnt. Only standing, blackened timber and ash could be seen up the entire hill as far as we could see, letting us see all the terrain that lay in our path.
In 2015 you could see more then a 100m through the trees and the pine beetle had left lots for us to clean up then. Now, it was just ashes, fireweed, Indian paint brush, poplar and other weeds, beginning the new cycle of life for this forest. We continued on the trail up the hill and through a narrow gully to start, before opening up to a slope falling off to our left (north). Progress was slow and steady as we cleared debris from the trail. I recognised this area but now I could see a long distance through the burnt out timber. There was a picturesque water fall some 80 or 100' tall about 400m off to the north. It was quite the site to see and having passed it on previous trips we had no idea it was even there!?!? We were now seeing signs of harvesting in this area now which was good as we were heading toward the main haul road and our next water crossing at Pan Meadows. Once we are on top of the hill we found the haul road we were looking for. Trevor had this route on his GPS and we slipped our transfer cases into high range and off we went, looking for the clear cut that ate so many of our tires in 2015. It wasn't 15 minutes before we pulled into the spot were we stopped for lunch on our last trip. There were lots of blue berries and raspberries too.....plenty for all,to add to our lunch.
With lunch done it was time to make some distance. But the challenge was to find the trail through the fire hardened stumps that eat tires! I got out front of the lead vehicle and was able to see the beaten path through the brush and regeneration growing through the area. Being close to the ground and travalling slowly it was much easier to see the tracks. It didn't hurt to have Trevor behind me confirming that we were indeed following the previous track. Once out of the clear cut area and into the burned timber beyond we started to see things we recognised. Two creeks, one with some big rocks on the west step out of the creek bed were there...but no water this time. From the spot we had our lunch until we crossed the river we were clearing trail. Paying the toll as we go.
We made good time here again and came on to Pan Meadows, on the south shore of the Blackwater river. We had moved a considerable distance down stream from a few days ago but the water level wasn't much higher here. In fact it looked like it could be down as much as 1 to 2 feet in depth. I walked the river again looking for large rocks to avoid, with the water never going passed mid thigh. My ankle really enjoyed to cool water soaks in the river....but not the slippery, rounded rocks on the bottom. Once across I called Trevor and his Camel Trophy over. One by one they came across, the odd diff kissing a rock. But the landies made short work of this obstacle. A short climb up the hill and we found the trail that "T's" off both W and E. Everybody turned east, except Jeffrey and Cameron. They decided to be different and turned west. Once they realized they were alone the rejoined the group on the east leg.
By now we were only a couple of kilometers west of the western boundary of Kluskoil Lake Provincial Park. This area showed some signs that the trail had been cleared but there was still plenty new logs left to do. We had a good 8km or so of trailt to clear and the saws were showing signs of wear. Curtis' saw last his on off switch when the tab was knocked off by the pull cord on it's recoil, but he sorted a way to start it and stop it using a small blade or something. Mark's lost his oil filler plug but he used a piece of branch and some electrical tap to make up a plug that would do the job. At one point Trevor asked me to break out the Binford 9000 (my 60cc saw) and send it up with David. Orville's saw need a quick onsite sharpening too. We had 4 good size saws going and two three smaller ones going too. It sounded like a proper logging operations from days gone by!!! I don't quite recollect where it was....I think maybe when we reached the west end of Kluskoil Lake or so, but the cutting seemed to stop and the trail was clear sailing now. And it couldn't have happened soon enough as we were losing our daylight now. Next thing we know the trucks are racing along the track like a bunch of rental horses heading back to the barn for the night. I was driving Orville's disco 11 a this point and it was the only time I haven't been able to keep up with Jeffrey's 110?!?! Following up the rear was David and Craig in my 110. We were now driving by headlights and though we could see lots infront of us there was NO lateral visibility...you had to remember what you saw and hope you missed the obstacles hahhaha.
Today we had managed to cover enough ground that would normally take two days to travel!!!! This was mostly out of necessity rather then choice as we couldn't find an earlier campsite. Next thing we know we were passing the westerly access trail to the Kluskoil Lake campsite, but the trail was marked off as closed. I found that very strange as it was the better of the two access trails down to the lake and the campsite. So we followed the bypass to the easterly access trail and down to the lake we went. This last section of trail is the rockiest! So you had to sacrifice speed for safety and comfort.
I don't know what time we rolled into camp but I think it was about 10 or 11pm before we were setting up camp. There were outhouses here so that was one job we didn't need to do. The fire was set up quickly and tents even quicker. The gang did an amazing job clearing the trail and keeping the group moving. We had some of the biggest logs on the trail that day, some easily reaching 16" or 20" in diameter. It was a fantastic effort applied to a Herculean task but they put out that day and it payed off. We all had a little bit to eat and drink but it wasn't long before people started turning in.
We were now a mere half day's drive to the Titetown water crossing, which represented the end of the trail for us. But we still had one day left to get off the trail.....
Kluskus Creek camp to Kluskoil Lake camp
https://www.flickr.com/photos/alre_club/30235937498/in/dateposted-public/ (https://www.flickr.com/photos/alre_club/30235937498/in/dateposted-public/)
To be continued......
Great stuff Bill! Keep it come coming.
Kluskoil Lake Camp to Titetown Crossing and Out, Day 8/9 (last 2 days)
We woke up monday morning with no other sense of urgency except to get some of the first pot of coffee. This camp is still in the BC Kluskoil Lakes Provincial Park. The camp is located on the north shore of Klukus very near the outlet to the Blackwater River. It was originally a private property with a couple of cottages and a dock, but was returned to the parks a few years back, to be used for camping.
We have now completed 99% of the AMT trail travelling west to east, across the Cariboo Forest of BC and we only had a half days trail driving left to get out to the Forest Servic Road now....approximately 18km. With all the effort put in on day 7 we had managed to cover two days of trail in one long day. The intent was to find a clearing on the west Kluskoil lake and camp there...but we didn't see one so the group pressed on. This section of trail laying before us sees the heaviest usage from locals so we expected it to be well worn and mostly cleared of trees. An easy day out if not a bumpy one!
One by one the group stirred awake, falling into the rhythm they had developed over the past week of packing their sleeping gear and tents. Coming out of the tent the and looking at the lake before me I could see a heavy green coat covery the water near the shore, algae bloom run amuck. A good indication that the flow of water through this area had slowed signicantly this year. That didn't stop people from going down to the water to clean themselves up! Cutting our way through all that timber, including the burnt areas, left folks looking "well worn and put away wet". A bar of soap and a little green water.....? Huh!.....it's an "irish spring" soap commerical in the making. (LOL).
Since we were at least a day ahead of time getting off the trail we had a bit of extra food, some of it perishable. So Orville went wild in the "kitchen" and came up with a good breakfast of pancakes with raspberries and hamburger with roasted peppars. We took our time getting the camp cleaned up and I think we departed at a very respectable 10am or so.
One by one the loaded landies began the back track up the rocky hill we came down late the evening before. Everyone was in a good mood as they know knew that most of the difficult part of trail was behind us now, and we had one more water crossing left ahead of us. Climbing up from the lake, back to the main AMT was slow going as this trail had seen much of the soil between the large racks get warn away with heavy use. It was first and second gear all the way up, keeping a good grip o the 'O_ S_ _T' handle all the way. It took a good half hour to get back on the AMT again. Once we found the intersection we bared off to the north and the quality of the trail slowly began to improve. The forest here hadn't see the fires yet but they were also changing. We started to find see small pockets of large Douglas Fir trees. When this area was orginally logged out the really big firs would have all been taken out and the smaller, less commercially desireable trees were left behind. Those trees left behind were now the dominant trees that stood before us now, and would be responsible for the younger seedlings, saplings and small fir trees that are slowing taking over the area again. There were a lot more big poplars here as well, with stumps easily measuring 18" plus in diambeter. But these big trees are short lived and you could see the signs that they were nearing the end of their lives. They were starting to come down on their own and small pocket meadows were openig up where they stood before. It's the spruce and fir that will take over here... if left to their own.
You know you're not too far off from civilization when you start finding newer model vehicle abondoned along the trail. There was a red Dodge 1/2 ton with an extended cab just like that....riddled with bullet holes (must have looked like a moose or deer hahaha), it's windows smashed out and a bit picked over. It's unlikely that truck will ever be removed. This section of trail had a few more wet muddy areas we found, but all very passable.
We we making very good time again, now that most of the big saws have been put away. As our group was nearing the area where we would find the final crossing we began a small descent on a hill. There were a bunch of treees that had fallen across the trail here so someone had established a bypass of the obstruction. As Trevor made his way around the obstacle he went over a piece of wood, kicking up the free end and driving it up through the floor board, right at the front edge of the seat box. I didn't see it happen but I'll bet he 'shreiked like a little girl' as the thought of losing any chance at offspring flashed before his eyes.....and legs!! You'll have to ask Trevor and Mark for a play by play of the event.
Typical....anytime a land rover opens it's hood a meeting is called and everyone shows up ;-) This was no exception...... Trevor, Mark, Curtis set about to removing the piece of wood and mending the damage to the floor panel and seat box base. We got lots pics to show the culprit and the damage. As we sat waiting we could hear the faint sounds of ATV's coming our way.
As Trevore and crew were making repairs to the Camel Trophy a group of 6+/- big quad atvs showed up, many of them hauling large trailers. Turns out they were out to do some fishng and were heading to where we started from.....the Eliguk Lake Fishing Camp. But we were now blocking their path and weren't going to be moving until the repairs were made. They stopped to chat for a bit but were in a hurry to put down miles themselves, so they got out their chainsaws and began cutting out the obstruction from the original section of trail we were bypassing. I have to admit they had two of the cutest little chain saws I'd every seen!!!! The one saw weighed no more the 6lbs and had an over all lenth (including bar and motor) of maybe 18". Not a bad saw for very light work, but they would have had fun on the trail we had just been on....if we hadn't been on it and cleared it out for them! Hopefully they made it wide enough for a vehicle and not just a quad. But needless to say we saved them a pile of work on the trail. You might be interested to know that they didn't make it through to Eliguk Lake as they were turned back at Rob and Linda Phillips Lodge, just west of Tsacha Lake, but the 8000ha fire that had growing over the trail between the Phillips lodge and the Lambert homestead.
It took the better part of an hour to get the bent metal sorted on the footwell of the Camel Trophy but it was good enough to get Mark and Trevor home again. So off we went! I'm not sure but I don't think it was more then an hour before we came out to the south shore of the Titetown crossing. This is where the waters of Euchiniko lakes and river flow in to long Titetown lakes at a narrows, where there's a gravel bar shallow enough to allow vehicles to cross safely. Once we crossed this ford we came to the camping area over looking the lake and mostly occupied by a fleet of pick up trucks and car haulers of biblical size. The must have belong to the fellas with the quads. We stopped at this point to air up our tires again to highway pressures, secure away any loose gear left for quick access on the outside of the vehicles and most importantly....LUNCH!!! The quarter master's truck (aka Jeffrey and Cameron's 110 CSW) opened up and layed out a fine spread of cheeses, cold cuts, cookies and fruit for all to enjoy! We had a leisurely lunch before heading to the official end of the trail a couple of kilometers, where it meets up with the Batnuni road.
As predictied we got to the Big AMT sign that indicated the official east end of the trail so we were as good as done now!!!! We took the standard congratulatory photos and and decided on the plans for our "extracation to swivellization". We were all going to Quesnell to fuel up now, but Curtis and Nicoles Disco 11 had developed a battery issure at the camp or at the lunch stop at the Titetown crossing that required a boost to get their truck started. So the lot of us made our way en masse to Quesnell. All that was left was to make our way home via Quesnell, Prince George, McBride and then home.
We all stopped in Quesnell for fuel. At this point Orville and David decided to do the hard push and drive all the way through to Edmonton. Jeffrey and Cameron were going going to use the extra time they made on the trail to go down to Jasper and the Columbia Icefields, where Cameron hadn't been yet. Glen and Avrum stayed the night in Prince George and left there 6am the next morning heading for Edmonton. Mark and Trevor took off for McBride while Curtis and Nicole went up to "Crappy Tire" to source a replacement battery of one of the two battery system they had that died. Craig and I stayed with Nicole and Curtis, booking rooms at the same place Trevor and Mark had booked into at McBride. Once Curtis had the battering swapped out we followed after Mark and Trevor.
It was a nice quite drive on the way back keeping our speeds between 90 and 100km/h. As we took the bypass around Prince George we had luck enough to catch four CL215 water bompers coming into the PG airport, at 20second intervals. That was kinda cool to see! I imagine thew would in that area for quite a while as the fire season there started to get busy!!!
Tuesday morning Trevor, Mark, Craig, Nicole, Curtis and I met up for breakfast. Curtis and Nicole still had some holiday to enjoy so now that the battery issue was sorted they were going to stay and investigate McBride before heading back to Alberta via hwy 40 I believe. Craig, Trevor, Mark and I hit the road good and early, in an effort to try and get through the highway construction areas early on in the day as they were plaguing Jasper National Park this year. On the way out to start the trip we got caught up in one of the ques that must have taken us an hour to get through!!!! It would have been far shorted if we were allowed to drive along the ditches ahahhhah.
In the end everyone returned home safe and sound, and under their own steam. Compared to 2015 there were far fewer mechanical issues this time around. Correct me if I'm wrong guys but I can remember these:
Bill's 110
1 flat tire from small fire harded branch going into tread. Plug and go.
Securing cable for rear diff guard required replacing.
CB decided to act up with bad connection internally.
Glen's 90
Accessories/cigarette plug failed limiting the use of the portable CB.
Jeffrey's 110CSW
Weld failed on his spare tire carrier.
Trevor's 110 Camel Trophy
Loose wheel bearing at Williams Lake. Just needed snugging up.
1 flat tire from scrap of metal at Tsacha Lake camp. Plug and go.
Log came up through floor board. Remove, straighten & continue.
Orville's Discovery 11
One 'love tap' on the front side of RR wheel arch. Ignore and continue.
Nicole's Discovery 11
failed battery at end of trip. Replace and continue.
Injuries
Bill fall down go boom. Sprained ankle.
Jeffrey fall down go boom. Swollen Knee.
Many, Many scraps and scratches... too many to count.
How did the Equipment do?
Water filters were not up to the job of filtering 15 to 20 gal at day. Filters plugged up after less then 200 litres. Not even close to the 1500lts advertised by MEC. Returned for refund and will consider ceramic filter next.
Chainsaws... We had lots of chainsaws and we used them all. We found small pruning saws are not suitable for this sort of work. Lots of fuel and saw oil too. Vise was handy for sharening chains.
Common camp gear like kitchen and tarps worked very well and kept loads down. We brought and exhaust jack but didn't really need it this time around. But it was VERY handy on the 2015 trip. The 3 ARB fridges worked out very well this trip, keeping frozend items frozen and maintaining a health stock of ice for the scotch ;-) Cooler worked well to defrost frozen items and keep other foods, but ice ran out early on trip. Some was able to refreeze in ARB's, which helped.
Having made an equipment list we were able to reduce duplication of some heavy and bulky gear, but still be well equiped to do the job.
Well, that's what she wrote! Overall this was a very well equipped group and the trucks well prepared. Working very well as a team they faced every challenge head on and came through with flying colours... and big grins on their faces. There was a bit of concern about the amount of fuel that would be required by the Discovery's V8 gas engines. But in the end I think they did pretty good on 6 20lt gerry can's each, if I'm not mistaken. Having one 20lt can of extra (unmixed) saw gas was a good idea, just incase it would be needed for saws or V8's. One more adventure on the AMT completed with Land Rovers ;-)
We will post some pics and videos as they come available.
Last leg of the AMT trip map
https://www.flickr.com/photos/alre_club/43415412704/in/dateposted-public/ (https://www.flickr.com/photos/alre_club/43415412704/in/dateposted-public/)
Final leg home map
https://www.flickr.com/photos/alre_club/42163912060/in/dateposted-public/ (https://www.flickr.com/photos/alre_club/42163912060/in/dateposted-public/)
Participants of the adventure
(https://previews.dropbox.com/p/thumb/AAKCAPGeZjvP9x9V0yAH7EhTmVoE-0-gijr-QHwvYjWg01Irp_4HhtzHw5YAYVz_27unlIXRz0gpTTkdoOpfGd-ghrLNn72LJE8GLFVmtLOhI2QpQgqWl56h_dw_6LX8ivAnzqN6_vFh6o_HpGTRYEHYv3Md5fZ5V9Sf4_DtgHbsCpSFVG_wnla2Wz3nRcAoJGI/p.jpeg?size=800x600&size_mode=3)
The Landies that did the job
(https://previews.dropbox.com/p/thumb/AAL_AkXwrSTCvxLtIInN_kJWeUptTdjjY1GBBcFp2SI2wKMpdnLYk-3vJIfnNyhWEua5Cuorle1Dm8MXoW2GvSmHrf-JKLPBZHe1Txe6waRrER71bXeNYuY3LmQ82DIm4slBaK3igfpHS20SWfFbBsyQN0v8tPo6Ocds5AKZPZRH5XYVHSzb9-JcLQdAgkQgVGk/p.jpeg?size=800x600&size_mode=3)
Thanks for doing this write up Bill! I enjoyed reliving the trip through your words!
Just watched the Pan Philips video too. He would have been quite the character to meet along the trail, back in the day!
VERY BAD NEWS :'(
We lost Orville Chubb on sunday when he passed away.....There are no details as to what happened.
It makes it difficult to celebrate our victory over the AMT when you lose an "integral cog in the machine".
He will be missed......
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1812/43280532825_16f3b2be26_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/28Wy3xc)LastChanceFuelStop (https://flic.kr/p/28Wy3xc) by ALRE Club (https://www.flickr.com/photos/alre_club/), on Flickr
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1845/44185913991_b11ca23a55_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2ajymPi)SmilinOrville (https://flic.kr/p/2ajymPi) by ALRE Club (https://www.flickr.com/photos/alre_club/), on Flickr
Take an extra jerry can Orville...we'll see you in camp ;)
http://www.avenueedmonton.com/Celebrating-the-Man-Behind-the-Magazine/ (http://www.avenueedmonton.com/Celebrating-the-Man-Behind-the-Magazine/)
Very sad news indeed!
Quote from: binch on August 12, 2018, 03:24 PM
Well that looks like it's very close to the Lambert Homestead then. He's cleared things around his building so they are are far enough from the woods to be saved..... if the embers don't get them. Hopefully he won't loose too much out there. Hard to say if the fire went far enough to the east to get Rob and Linda's place....but the north fire boundary almost looks like it's following either the AMT or the Blackwater River. :-\
Looks like the fire is back to life and growing across the trail. The other fires in the area are becoming immense. The one to the west is at 223000 hectares.
That top map (or maybe my Garmin maps) are not scewed to north the same. But it looks like the area of the first fire (C11594) pushed well through to Blackwater river to the north. But it appears the Lambers and Phillips are still okay. The Home Ranch is toast now...even if the building were taken out a few years back.
It also appears the fire is only 3 or 4km from the east end of Eliguk lake now with a lot of hot spots at that western tip. The fuel load over that direction is really bad as the pine beetle kill stuff is all over the ground now.
Sure hope they see some rain soon ???
Here is a similar map with the trail on it. Looks to be just about on top of Lampert's. Looks like rain is in forecast.
Great write up Bill, thank you.
Sad news about Orville.
There was an update posted by Jennifer Eliguk Lodge, showing a video taken at the Phillips'. The fire appears to have a few small sections that are quite close, but with the clearing around their place I'd assume they'll be relatively safe.
Also, an Incident Management Team, along with the Fire Commissioner showed up at Eliguk Lodge to survey their situation and give some advice as well as lend pumps, hoses, etc.
(all info via Facebook posts by Jennifer)
how do I find her page David...? I sure hope things work out for their place.
There is a new program been running around for a couple years now where they install wajax pumps with Hundreds of sprinklers in High value areas to try and increase the duff moisture as well as soak down buildings. They've had some good success with that by the sounds of it. I see they've had their first frost too....that's good. But nothing would be nicer then a good soaker from a multi day drizzle ;)
https://www.facebook.com/multitolanded
https://www.facebook.com/EligukLakeLodge/
I don't have a Facebook account, but if anyone that was on the trip does, please let Jennifer and Aron know about Orville's passing. They have a nice picture of him cooking breakfast one could comment to.
Here are links to here posts on you guys showing up. Hopefully they work...
Jennifer's first post. (https://www.facebook.com/multitolanded/posts/10156182689577489?__tn__=C-R)
Jennifer's second post. (https://www.facebook.com/multitolanded/posts/10156184694352489?__tn__=C-R)
Quote from: Trevor on August 21, 2018, 07:48 PM
I don't have a Facebook account, but if anyone that was on the trip does, please let Jennifer and Aron know about Orville's passing. They have a nice picture of him cooking breakfast one could comment to.
It is probably best if someone that was there passed on the news to them.
Quote from: Trevor on August 21, 2018, 07:48 PM
I don't have a Facebook account, but if anyone that was on the trip does, please let Jennifer and Aron know about Orville's passing. They have a nice picture of him cooking breakfast one could comment to.
Yes please!!! Could someone let them know please....
Quote from: Red90 on August 21, 2018, 08:19 PM
Quote from: Trevor on August 21, 2018, 07:48 PM
I don't have a Facebook account, but if anyone that was on the trip does, please let Jennifer and Aron know about Orville's passing. They have a nice picture of him cooking breakfast one could comment to.
It is probably best if someone that was there passed on the news to them.
Yes, very much agree John.
I just sent a message to Jennifer on behalf of all of us to let them know of Orville's passing.
Glen
Jennifer and Aron were shocked to learn of Orville's passing and share our sadness and pass along their condolences to all who knew Orville.
Interesting to hear Jennifer say that the natives are paid by the government to clear the trail. You guys need to get your cut.
Quote from: Red90 on August 22, 2018, 11:56 AM
Interesting to hear Jennifer say that the natives are paid by the government to clear the trail. You guys need to get your cut.
That's interesting...I wonder what part of the trail they are clearing.. ::)
She says they are supposed to clear the whole thing.
Quote from: Red90 on August 22, 2018, 07:05 PM
She says they are supposed to clear the whole thing.
Well, I can say unequivically that the local indians are failing miserably at that task.
...I can also say that I am not the least bit surprised...
I move that any future runnings of the AMT by ALRE be dubbed"Orville Chubb memorial" in honour of or departed friend
Sent from my XP7700 using Tapatalk
Quote from: pechanec on August 24, 2018, 05:56 PM
I move that any future runnings of the AMT by ALRE be dubbed"Orville Chubb memorial" in honour of or departed friend
Sent from my XP7700 using Tapatalk
Seconded!
Agree whole heartedly!
Looks like most of the fires have died off with the rain for the time being. Here is an overlay of the fire boundary on the trail map.
That was a good sized burn.
We're running out of green sections on that trail.
The one to the north west of this is 3000 square kilometers.
Looks like that burn made to both the lamberts and the Phillips properties, stopping at the old burn to the east.
A lot of growth over the past couple of days....did it break 10K Ha?
Quote from: binch on August 27, 2018, 08:59 PM
...did it break 10K Ha?
Here is the detailed fire page. The perimeter shown may be more accurate.
http://bcfireinfo.for.gov.bc.ca/hprScripts/WildfireNews/OneFire.asp?ID=732
QuoteShag Creek (C11837)
Last updated: Tuesday, August 28, 2018 at 1:47 PM
Location: North of Itcha Ilgachuz Park
Discovered: Wednesday, August 01, 2018
Size: 12,322.0 hectares
Status: Active
• 0% contained
The 12322 ha is the latest mapped fire perimeter.
http://bcfireinfo.for.gov.bc.ca/ftp/!Project/WildfireNews/8262018~101116_18%20C11837%20MAP%20Public%20Information%2020180825.pdf
That last map looks like it's missed Lamberts Place so far. And the Phillips land is hard to tell....but they have had a burn last year or the years before to the east and southeast of their property so not so much fuel left there.
I wonder if they had any of the precipitation they got a bit south of them. A big storm when through and kicked the fires down in that area really good. But the smoke is suppose to be still thick in PG.
Jennifer said it rained a couple of days ago and the radar shows some rain going through today.
That's good to hear....Hopefully enough to count :D
I've been going through the pics that I've collected from the gang, and there is well over 1500 of them now. But there are so many good photos from the trip it's difficult to select a good cross section. I'm at 104pic now and I'm only onto Day two of the trail portion of the trip. Be patient folks....I'll have them coming soon ;-) ;)
How do we get our pics to you binch? Cause, you know, you seem to need more lol
Sent from my XP7700 using Tapatalk
If you can bring them on a memory stick that would be best.......that's how I've been getting everyones so far. Any I can always use more pics ahhahahhahahahh ;D
Hey Gang!!!!
With a little help from Red90 I now have most of the photos from our trip up on the club's flicker site:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/alre_club/sets/72157696878170222/ (https://www.flickr.com/photos/alre_club/sets/72157696878170222/)
There are some 380 pics in there at low resolution. If there is something there you'd like to have in a higher resolution I have those copies too so just send me a PM. I still have to get a few pics from a couple of people...but I'll add them when I get them. But for now.....how about a taste of what we experienced ;D
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1910/43985316205_e59519eb8a_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2a1Qf5M)001.Cam_3__BrkfstMeeta (https://flic.kr/p/2a1Qf5M) by ALRE Club (https://www.flickr.com/photos/alre_club/), on Flickr Meeting for breakfast and splitting the gear.
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1950/29961141747_1980127e6e_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/MDyFBr)019.Jef_336_TrevorSnugBrgsAtCtWilmsLk (https://flic.kr/p/MDyFBr) by ALRE Club (https://www.flickr.com/photos/alre_club/), on Flickr Making it work - Williams Lake.
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1978/43985315335_ecd36e7cc5_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2a1QePM)021.Cam_54_Merc1017OvrLndWlmsLkCT (https://flic.kr/p/2a1QePM) by ALRE Club (https://www.flickr.com/photos/alre_club/), on Flickr Go big or go home!
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1919/29961141417_9b25b1d285_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/MDyFvK)029.Cam_72_LastFuelAnahimLk (https://flic.kr/p/MDyFvK) by ALRE Club (https://www.flickr.com/photos/alre_club/), on FlickrLast fuel stop in Anahim Lake, BC
Smoke filled sky with the fires that are starting to develop not too far south.
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1909/44897724741_cf89127c4d_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2bpszmr)035.Cam_96_EscottBayResort (https://flic.kr/p/2bpszmr) by ALRE Club (https://www.flickr.com/photos/alre_club/), on Flickr
A Trailhead photo of the gang while they are all still clean ;D
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1968/44847324802_bd11942df0_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2bk1gcY)040.Cam_109_TrailHdToEigukLkGroupShot (https://flic.kr/p/2bk1gcY) by ALRE Club (https://www.flickr.com/photos/alre_club/), on Flickr
Size 9 shoe vs front and back paw print of Bear. Who has right of way...?
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1976/44847324062_5d9f2eeb71_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2bk1fZd)051.Jef_361_BearPawSize (https://flic.kr/p/2bk1fZd) by ALRE Club (https://www.flickr.com/photos/alre_club/), on Flickr
Our hosts (Aron and Jennifer) at the Eliguk Lake Fishing Camp. GREAT People!!!
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1945/44177462174_8637252362_q.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2aiP3oj)063.Mark_09.51.30_HostsAronNJennifer (https://flic.kr/p/2aiP3oj) by ALRE Club (https://www.flickr.com/photos/alre_club/), on Flickr
And their Camp...
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1967/44897722661_8860614016_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2bpsyJz)062.Jef_380_EligukLodge (https://flic.kr/p/2bpsyJz) by ALRE Club (https://www.flickr.com/photos/alre_club/), on Flickr
The forest fire at 2ha in size when we went through. Two weeks later it was at 13000+ha in size.
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1975/29961136677_1d29a97d04_q.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/MDyE72)109.Mark_15.01.02_FireC11594LambertstoPhillips (https://flic.kr/p/MDyE72) by ALRE Club (https://www.flickr.com/photos/alre_club/), on Flickr
Fires from recent couple of years.
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1949/29961135837_aa6907d1bb_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/MDyDRx)125.Cam_353_FireRegenEofPanPhillipsLodge (https://flic.kr/p/MDyDRx) by ALRE Club (https://www.flickr.com/photos/alre_club/), on Flickr
Rest day at Tsacha Lake camp
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1922/43085712120_f3297e39ac_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/28Dkx8w)145.Cam_396_TsachaLk2NtCampVisitatPechanics (https://flic.kr/p/28Dkx8w) by ALRE Club (https://www.flickr.com/photos/alre_club/), on Flickr
Trevor's a happy camper...he's had his fix for the day.
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1932/44177455234_30fdf32b32_q.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2aiP1jE)188.Mark_14.07.00_TrevorsCatch (https://flic.kr/p/2aiP1jE) by ALRE Club (https://www.flickr.com/photos/alre_club/), on Flickr
Not all fun and games...there was lots of work required to clear the trail in spots.
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1956/44177454094_21e93b9d70_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2aiNZZ1)214.Cam_609_EofKluskusVillageTrailClearing (https://flic.kr/p/2aiNZZ1) by ALRE Club (https://www.flickr.com/photos/alre_club/), on Flickr
But the adventure is amazing.(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1931/29961132447_b7336ab653_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/MDyCR6)220.Cam_620_YearOldBurnWofBrdgCrsg (https://flic.kr/p/MDyCR6) by ALRE Club (https://www.flickr.com/photos/alre_club/), on Flickr
Lots of water crossings but the water levels were down this year.
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1977/44847315732_b38237fb63.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2bk1dvA)225.Cam_629_OldBrdgXingOrvilleBill (https://flic.kr/p/2bk1dvA) by ALRE Club (https://www.flickr.com/photos/alre_club/), on Flickr
We couldn't see this creek in 2015 when we camped here...and there were two buildings too. (https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1942/29961132007_79540e22c5_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/MDyCHv)235.Jef_702_BogCampEofOldBridge (https://flic.kr/p/MDyCHv) by ALRE Club (https://www.flickr.com/photos/alre_club/), on Flickr
Too deep to cross here
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1951/43085707200_4143e02d54_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/28DkvEG)257.Jef_747_BogCampToPanMeadowsFailedXing (https://flic.kr/p/28DkvEG) by ALRE Club (https://www.flickr.com/photos/alre_club/), on Flickr
This is the way across....
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1974/44177451414_76a5913a91.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2aiNZbN)275.Cam_705_HandymanMeadowsCrkXing (https://flic.kr/p/2aiNZbN) by ALRE Club (https://www.flickr.com/photos/alre_club/), on Flickr
From previous camps......about 100' down this hill. I've driven past this twice before and with all the foliage I never knew it was there?!?!
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1912/44177451224_f06fee849a_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2aiNZ8w)278.Cam_722_LoggingCampGarbage (https://flic.kr/p/2aiNZ8w) by ALRE Club (https://www.flickr.com/photos/alre_club/), on Flickr
Modern day chuck wagon
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1969/43985305015_236dd50138_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2a1QbKR)284.Jef_770_BogCampToPanMeadows (https://flic.kr/p/2a1QbKR) by ALRE Club (https://www.flickr.com/photos/alre_club/), on Flickr
Look close....there are two vehicles in that clear cut.
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1943/43985304935_b30256f63b_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2a1QbJt)286.Cam_739_CrossingCCwestOfPanMeadowXing (https://flic.kr/p/2a1QbJt) by ALRE Club (https://www.flickr.com/photos/alre_club/), on Flickr
Walk it before you drive it!!!
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1967/43085705680_f4bd762e65_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/28Dkvdu)295.Jef_777_BogCampToPanMeadows (https://flic.kr/p/28Dkvdu) by ALRE Club (https://www.flickr.com/photos/alre_club/), on Flickr
The bears were there.....but we really didn't see any.
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1957/44177449474_caf0eda317_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2aiNYBm)308.Cam_811b_KluskoilLkCampBlackBear (https://flic.kr/p/2aiNYBm) by ALRE Club (https://www.flickr.com/photos/alre_club/), on Flickr
This was the route....more or less.
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1838/42163912340_8372ce2b88_h.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/27eT5aS)AMT_Detail1of7 (https://flic.kr/p/27eT5aS) by ALRE Club (https://www.flickr.com/photos/alre_club/), on Flickr
This was a wonderful trip!!! We had great weather and conditions by this time of the year were getting very dry, with the water table dropping. The gang worked very well together. Our start at the Eliguk lake fishing camp was absolutely wonderful. But our next day on the trail came down to a choice of considering bailing from the trip due to the developing fire situation..... OR Push hard and cover two days worth of trail in one day, to get ahead of the developing fires. Well we pushed on ahead to Tsacha lake and took a day off there. The skys were constantly reminding us that the fires were nearby as smoke drift by us.
This was great trip and everyone got a great adventure out of it. But the "wind of celebration was taken from our sails" when one our team passed away suddenly the week after we returned. Orville was great to travel with...He loved to cook and was always volunteering for the job few stepped up to do without asking. He always had a smile on his face and he had a really good knack for getting his Disco 11 through some of the tricky spots. It was sad to hear of his passing....but it was a real pleasure to have met him and done this trip with him!!! Cheers to you Orville!!!!
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1845/44185913991_b11ca23a55_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2ajymPi)SmilinOrville (https://flic.kr/p/2ajymPi) by ALRE Club (https://www.flickr.com/photos/alre_club/), on Flickr
The video is now live on Youtube.
Do you happen to have a link handy Lloyd?
Edit: nevermind, found it...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=koniK2aA-50