BACKCOUNTRY & 4X4

Posted by Last Chance Rand on April 06, 2002 at 00:52:13:

Trail Report for: Warm Springs Canyon / Butte Valley / Goler Wash

We found Mengel Pass to be in the best shape in a long time. Watched a new Dakota 4-door 4x4 best it no problem.

It was Easter weekend, and all cabins were full from Thursday through Saturday nights. We were blessed with Stella's bunkhouse on Friday night, and the Geologist's Cabin on Saturday night.

Moon was nearly full both evenings, and the burros very active. Temperatures were a little too perfect for this time of year, but not unheard of, nor unwelcome.

We spent the day Saturday exploring the Gold Hill area, including outside the Bullet claim. The route is 4x4 high clearance and in good condition. If one ascends the ravine on the main Gold Hill route, exercise extreme caution and recognize that turning around may not be easy or possible in some situations.

Paid a quick visit to the Warm Springs Camp and found the swimming pool still closed due to last summer's discovery of several dead rabid bats floating in it.

We found the Butte Valley camps and the Barker Ranch to be in the best condition that I've ever seen. My sincere thanks to the generous people who volunteer their time and energy in preserving these treasures and making them a most comfortable shelter.

DeathValley.com Trail Reports are provided without warranties or representations. Although our scouts are invited by DeathValley.com to submit trail reports, their accounts and findings are not necessarily verified. Any opinions they express are those of their own and do not necessarily represent the opinion of DeathValley.com. Visiting the backcountry of the Death Valley region can be dangerous without proper preparation, and driving on backcounty roads may cause damage to your vehicle. DeathValley.com and its trail scouts are not responsible for any resulting property damage, injury or loss of life.