Re: Goler Wash
Posted by LockedUp on April 22, 2002 at 10:57:37:
In Reply to: Goler Wash posted by Lara on April 21, 2002 at 13:51:08:
I also drove up Goler Wash on Saturday, mid-morning. The topo maps don't name the first spring, which emits from the canyon wall just above the roadbed and flows mainly down the road, but settles into a few "canyon meadows" before disappearing into the bedrock. It has always been running whenever I've been there. (Since you mentioned it, I'll probably refer to it as Lara's Spring from now on!) Not too far past Lotus Mine is the detour to Barker Ranch. Fortunately, it was deserted this time, so I seized the opportunity to climb the little hill behind the house and relax on one of the chairs. At first, the solitude is halting; however, it soon settles into a quiet meditation that beckons you with its remoteness. Some turkey buzzards soared overhead and circled a few turns, then continued on - obviously disappointed that I was still breathing. I exited the back way, via the dump, and sidetracked up to the overlook before diving into the short wash that takes you back to Goler Wash Road. Mengle Pass has rocky section on the Butte Valley side that can challenge torque and traction, and the sand wash leading up to the pass requires perpetual motion in some places to stay on top, but you are rewarded with a visit to the Stone (or Geologist's) Cabin and a grand view of Striped Butte. From Lotus Mine, your next trip would require another few hours to take in Striped Butte Valley, but is a worthy destination. You mentioned that you were geocaching this trip. Did you place a cache this trip?