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— Matt Niswonger & Cathy Claesson

Question Of The Issue

Question: Should California residents be given priority for reservations within California State and National Parks?

Results: 75% said YES & 25% said NO

NEXT Question of the issue: What’s more intimidating: kayaking down Class V rivers or big wave surfing in the ocean?

Tell us what you think at river-ocean. adventuresportsjournal.com. The results and comments will be shared in the next print edition.

Poetry

A Fine Discovery

Morning light sweeps over the horizon full of adventure, we breathe in fresh air, lungs sigh with pleasure.

Slipping arms through straps his life passion my curiosity rose at fifty-six one boot in front of the other fir and pine trees proudly flank the trail butterflies the color of snow, so pure, elegantly float from bloom to bloom the golden sun follows, our thirst sated from water bottles a slight breeze promises relief like an invigorating dip in fresh water.

Resting on the shore, legs stretched, ankles crossed, feeling inconsequential in its vast presence, the surface shines like an exceptional jewel unearthed.

Relatives by nature, dragonflies, like miniature jets, and damselflies with their blue, iridescent wings, gracefully flit about. Surely, they are aware of our captivation.

Tiny threads of peace weave into the marrow of our souls mending any fretting that stirred relentlessly.

A great fortune to play a part with nature in this magical moment of existence, to discover such a gem, just the two of us relishing our sixth decade, just the two of us with our trusty, blue backpacks.

— Lauren Scott, Bay Area

Larren Scott has won $50 and a gift certificate for a bottle of wine from mantrawines.com

ASJ poets, submit your poetry for a chance to get published and win money and wine. Email poems@ adventuresportsjournal.com

CORRECTION: We misspelled our last poetry winner, Talley Kayser’s last name. We regret the error.

MY “OLD FRIEND”

My nephew recently surprised me with an Adventure Sports Journal membership as an exchange for a Sierra Club membership I had gotten for him several years back. hadn’t seen a copy in over seven years. Your team not only sent me the recent issue, but also a back issue via 2-day priority mail. You must have known I needed my ASJ “fix” and what a “fix “ I got! When the copies of ASJ arrived in my mail devoured both issues immediately. The articles (and especially the heartfelt Editor’s Note) inspire me. try to live my life so I have no regrets but I have to admit regret not getting a membership years ago. Your publication touches an emotional chord like no other publication. It is satisfying on so many levels. If there is anything I can do to get ASJ into the hands of those in my area (Lake Tahoe/Carson Valley) please let me know. Your publication needs to stay in circulation, so it can reach and touch more lives. Thanks, from the bottom of my heart, for all you do to keep ASJ alive. I am aware of all the sacrifices you must take to make it happen.

— Michael Caughlan, Gardnerville

EAR TO THE GROUND News and notes from the outdoor industry

Silencing The Sundown Siren

Folks from Nevada and California gathered together in Minden Park, NV over Memorial Day weekend for the Siren Run to show unity and continued spirit to silence one of the last sundown sirens in the US. A sundown siren was used in communities across the US to give people of color (primarily African Americans) an evening warning to get out of the town limits before sunset or face repercussions like arrest, verbal abuse, possible physical assaults and other extreme measures. The Minden siren was used to get the Washoe Indians, the original inhabitants of the Carson Valley, out of town. The Washoe would become refugees in their own homeland!

The 2023 SIren Run was the third annual event to bring awareness of the original intent of the siren. The event also consisted of a run from Genoa to the upslopes of the Sierra Nevada. As of press time NV Senate Bill 391 is sitting on the governor’s desk for his signature. If he signs it, a loophole in the 2021 legislation that was meant to silence the siren will be closed and the Town of Minden (Douglas County) will face a $40,000 fine for each infraction.

Thacker Pass Mine

Despite serious environmental concerns and the availability of more sustainable alternatives, the proposed Thacker Pass open pit lithium mine in northern Nevada continues to progress despite better alternatives for lithium extraction elsewhere. The project faces opposition from environmentalists and local communities due to potential harm to delicate ecosystems and water sources. Moreover, the land holds cultural and spiritual significance to Native tribes including the Fort McDermitt Paiute and Shoshone Tribe, and the Duck Valley Shoshone-Paiute Tribe among others who view it as part of their ancestral territory. The mine’s advancement raises concerns about the preservation of Indigenous rights and the need for meaningful consultation.

“There are more important considerations than just money. This proposed mine is just wrong no matter how you look at it,” said Gary Mckinney of the Duck Valley Shoshone-Paiute Tribe during a recent interview with ASJ editor Matt Niswonger.

Wildlife Conservation Board Funds Environmental Improvement And Acquisition Projects

The Wildlife Conservation Board (WCB) approved approximately $83.15 million in grants to help restore and protect fish and wildlife habitat throughout California and, in some cases, provide new and improved public access, recreational and educational opportunities.

Among the 28 projects approved, the WCB provided a $24 million grant to The Wildlands Conservancy for a cooperative project with the State Coastal Conservancy to acquire approximately 11,691 acres of land in the Carmel Valley in Monterey County for the protection of upland and lowland habitats and the wildlife species they support. The property, which exceeds the total acreage of some state parks, will provide wildlife-oriented education and research along with compatible public and private uses.

IN-RIVER SALMON FISHERIES IN CALIFORNIA TO CLOSE FOR REMAINDER OF 2023

The California Fish and Game Commission acted unanimously to enact a full closure of California’s recreational salmon fishing season in the Klamath River Basin and Central Valley rivers. In a separate emergency action, the Commission also voted to close recreational salmon fisheries in the Smith and Eel Rivers, and the summer season in the Klamath and Trinity rivers. Additionally, the Commission voted to allow federally recognized tribes that currently or historically used the river segments affected by the recreational fishing closures, to continue fishing under existing inland sport fishing regulations. The regulations are expected to take effect no later than July 1, 2023.

“This decision, while difficult, is intended to allow salmon to recover in order to provide future fishing opportunities,” said California Department of Fish and Wildlife Director Charlton H. Bonham. “Salmon are an iconic species in California. We treasure them for their intrinsic, cultural, recreational and

Nevada State Parks Introduces New Reservation System

In response to a surge in visitors and growing demand for camping and dayuse facilities, Nevada State Parks is set to launch an online reservation system this fall. The system will enable users to reserve campsites, cabins, group use areas, tours, and special events. It will also provide the convenience of purchasing annual and day-use permits. Additionally, select parks will pilot dayuse reservations to alleviate traffic congestion.

While reservations are not mandatory, they are recommended for those seeking specific dates and locations. Reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance, with modifications allowed up to a month prior to arrival, subject to applicable fees.

California Investments In Outdoor Recreation

California’s Governor Gavin Newsom introduced the California Comeback Plan, which includes a $1 billion investment in conservation, climate, and outdoor recreation. The plan addresses the increased popularity of outdoor activities and aims to enhance access and meet the growing demand. The proposed investment covers deferred maintenance, new urban greenspaces, outdoor equity grants, K-12 outdoor educational programs, and coastal access grants. The plan also includes building new parks and green spaces.

The goal is to conserve 30 percent of California’s land and coastal waters by 2030. These investments promote outdoor recreation access and climate resiliency. California’s investment in outdoor recreation sets an example for other states and emphasizes the need for infrastructure development and staff resources to sustain outdoor spaces.

Five Magic Parks

These National Parks are road trip worthy

Olympic

Location:

School’s out and the open road beckons, inviting you to embark on an unforgettable summer adventure. While California boasts remarkable natural wonders, venturing beyond state lines to explore US National Parks unveils a whole new world of breathtaking landscapes. Whether you embark on a solo journey or gather the whole family, a road trip to these out-of-state gems promises an experience you’ll cherish for a lifetime. Although popular during this season, with careful planning and an open mind, discovering the wonders of out-of-state National Parks is a rewarding escapade. Here are five enticing picks to ignite your wanderlust.

Great Basin

Location: Nevada • EST: Oct 27, 1986 • Most known for: Ancient forests and limestone caves • Fun fact It’s home to the only glacier in Nevada • Average temps: June — Avg High 76 & Avg Low 48 // July — Avg High 86 & Avg Low 57 • Distance and drive time: San Francisco — 520 miles // 9 hours • Los Angeles — 400 miles // 7 hours • Las Vegas — 300 miles // 4.5 hours • Reno — 380 miles // 6 hours *

Great Basin National Park is a refreshing mountain getaway, offering respite from the Nevada desert heat. It is also one of the least visited National Parks in the US. Take a hike to the foot of Wheeler Peak Glacier, the only glacier in Nevada, and marvel at the icy formations. Adventurous families can tackle the challenge of reaching the summit of Wheeler Peak, the second highest peak in Nevada at 13,065 feet. Other scenic trails like the BristleconeGlacier View Trail, showcase ancient bristlecone pine trees and panoramic mountain views. For beautiful alpine lakes, head to Stella Lake and Teresa Lake which are easily accessible via the Alpine Loop/Bristlecone trail. Make sure to explore the Lehman Caves, where guided tours take visitors through stunning limestone formations.

Crater Lake

NPS tip: Great Basin National Park is located in extremely remote, eastcentral Nevada, five miles west of the town of Baker. This is a remote area with limited services, little to no cell coverage, no public wifi, and large stretches between gas and grocery services. Plan ahead and pack diligently in case of breakdowns, unexpected snow/dust/lightning storms, and no quick access to many conveniences. nps.gov/grba

PETS: Leave Fido at home. National Parks have strict restrictions on pets. So, though your pets are cherished family members, leaving them at home during national park visits allows you to better immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the experience.

Location: Oregon • EST: May 22, 1902 • Most known for: Large deep blue lake, which was formed by the collapse of an ancient volcano • Fun fact It is the deepest lake in America and clearest lake in the world • Average temps: June — Avg High 75 & Avg Low 45 // July — Avg High 80 & Avg Low 53 • Distance and drive time: San Francisco — 400 miles // 6.5 hours • Los Angeles — 800 miles // 12 hours • Las Vegas — 740 miles // 11.5 hours • Reno — 300 miles // 5 hours * Start enjoying the only National Park in Oregon by embarking on a scenic drive along Rim Drive, where the whole family can marvel at the deep blue waters of Crater Lake and enjoy the various viewpoints along the way, such as Watchman Overlook, Discovery Point, and Cloudcap Overlook. Hiking trails, like the Garfield Peak Trail or Discovery Point Trail, provide opportunities to explore the park’s unique volcanic landscape and encounter diverse flora and fauna. The Cleetwood Cove Trail leads to the lake’s edge, where families can take a refreshing swim or enjoy a boat tour to Wizard Island. Parts of the rim of Crater Lake are steep and can be dangerous, especially for young children, so please make sure to keep an eye on little ones.

NPS tip: May and June are months of transition in the park, as winter slowly gives way to summer. They can also be months of frustration, as lingering snow prevents access to much of the park. The road around Crater Lake and the park’s North Entrance might be closed due to snow. Before you visit, learn about seasonal road closures and check the current conditions to find out which roads are open. nps.gov/crla

CAMPING: If you don’t have a site confirmed, check regularly for cancellations, or try first-come, first-served sites, overflow camping, nearby national forests or private campgrounds. Consider using a thirdparty camping app to find availability. Flexibility and arriving early are key.

Olympic National Park is very large, offering a diverse array of ecosystems to explore and appreciate. Home to three national wildlife refuges and Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary, the Pacific coast’s most popular areas are Kalaloch and Ruby Beach. Four rainforests, including Hoh, one of the finest remaining examples of temperate rainforest in the United States, are popular destinations to experience this grand lush, green environment year-round. Elwha and Sol Duc valleys provide dense, green forests and sparkling rivers. Glacially

Yellowstone

carved Lake Crescent is an alluring attraction for pristine, natural beauty.

NPS tip: Hurricane Ridge is closed indefinitely following the tragic loss of Hurricane Ridge Day Lodge due to fire on May 7. Access to Hurricane Ridge area remains closed beyond Heart of the Hills entrance station. In addition, a portion of North Shore Road (Lake Quinault) is closed due to storm damage. nps.gov/olym

PASS OPTIONS: $35 one week / $70 annual / $80 America the Beautiful provides year-round access to multiple parks. nps.gov/planyourvisit/passes

Glacier National Park offers stunning mountain scenery, crystal-clear lakes, and plenty of opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing. The park’s Going-to-the-Sun Road is a must-drive, offering spectacular views of the park’s alpine landscape. Be sure to take the time to hike to some of the park’s most popular attractions, including Hidden Lake, Trail of the Cedars, Grinnell Glacier, and Avalanche Lake. If you’re visiting with kids, consider taking a guided horseback ride or boat tour for a unique perspective on the park. With 700 lakes, there are endless opportunities for picnicking, swimming, and kayaking. Wildlife enthusiasts can go on wildlife spotting adventures to catch glimpses of bears, moose, and mountain goats.

NPS tip: In summer 2023, a vehicle reservation is required for four areas of the park: Going-to-the-Sun Road, the North Fork, Two Medicine, and Many Glacier. Each location has unique details and requires a separate reservation. Glacier has become an extremely busy park. Expect crowds on roads, at visitor centers, on popular trails, and on shuttles.

Location: Northwest Wyoming into Montana and Idaho • EST: March 1, 1872 • Most known for: Old Faithful geyser • Fun fact Yellowstone is the world’s first National Park • Average temps: June — Avg High 70 & Avg Low 40 // July — Avg High 75 & Avg Low 45 • Distance and drive time San Francisco — 900 miles // 15.5 hours • Los Angeles — 1,000 miles // 15.5 hours • Las Vegas — 750 miles // 10.5 hours • Reno — 700 miles // 10 hours *

Yellowstone is one of the most popular National Parks in the country and for a good reason. It’s home to a wide variety of wildlife, including bison, elk, and grizzly bears, and features geysers, hot springs, and canyons. The park has an extensive trail system to explore, and you can also book a whitewater rafting trip or enjoy fishing in pristine lakes. Old Faithful, the park’s most famous geyser, erupts every 90 minutes or so and is a must-see for anyone visiting the park. Other popular sights in Yellowstone include the Grand Prismatic Spring, Mammoth Hot Springs, and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.

NPS tip: Take the pledge. Tell a friend. Protect the park. The National Park Service works hard to protect Yellowstone and they need your help. The best way to start is by taking the Yellowstone Pledge. It’s a personal promise you make to yourself and the park. It can be taken anywhere: it doesn’t need to be taken out loud or in front of anyone. Tag #YellowstonePledge and encourage others to do the same. “I pledge to protect Yellowstone National Park. will act responsibly and safely, set a good example for others, and share my love of the park and all the things that make it special.”

* Travel times and distances provided are approximate and can vary depending on road conditions and traffic. Check for road closures and make sure your point of entry to the park is open. Some of these drives are quite desolate, so plan to fill up the tank and have a plan for bathroom emergencies and make sure you have plenty of snacks on hand.

MY TRAIL NAME IS “DETOUR”

A Pacific Crest Trail Journey: Part 2

By Matt Johanson

Sugar

Foot,

Take Five, Bad Sherpa, Mr. Clean, Resilience, All You

Can Eat … and Matt? Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) hikers rarely use their real names with each other. Early on their way from Mexico to Canada, most adopt a trail name connected to a funny story or their personality. Trail names help build community and give hikers something to talk about when they meet.

Ididn’t have one when started my “North State” (Northern California) section hike at Lassen Volcanic National Park. Because I began in July, joined the trail halfway through its 2,650 miles. That should let me reach Canada before snow sets in, and can detour south for the California desert next spring.

So in my first days of hiking, felt a bit out of place every time gave my real name to another PCT hiker. No one rushed to suggest a trail name either, as happens often early on the route. How does one choose a new identity? thought about that for a few hundred miles.

Along the way, a bear who wandered through camp surprised me but did no harm. A skunk alarmed me more but left me no stinkier than before. On the other hand, the quarter-sized blister on my right heel proved a real problem, forcing me to hike in sandals for 50 miles while my wife Karen shipped my running shoes.

I love Lassen Volcanic National Park, where I’ve enjoyed many hikes, climbs, and ski outings. So it hurt to see results of the 2021 Dixie Fire which burned about two-thirds of it. Fire occupies the minds of all PCT hikers, who know a blaze could end the journey at any time.

But I enjoyed detouring to the summit of Fairfield Peak, and then later, to Subway Cave and Burney Falls. Most other hikers stick to the trail and avoid any extra mileage, but like taking side trips to see more scenery, and the Cascades are mostly new to me.

Hat Creek Resort provided my first bed and shower, which felt great. All the hikers congregate at such havens from trail rigors. The resort’s hosts kindly tolerate the pack of dirty vagabonds drinking beer, stuffing themselves and charging their phones. In such places, hikers also resupply with food and supplies for the next push, either at stores or from boxes they ship themselves.

Summer heat requires an early start, so in Lassen National Forest, I hit the trail by 5am. The trail rewards long hiking days with quicker arrivals at trail towns, which allows lighter pack weight. I planned on hiking 15 miles a day but I’m averaging 20, and plenty of others do more than that.

Though I’ve been backpacking for decades, I find still have more to learn. For instance, water requires more attention here than other places I’ve hiked. In the North State, the PCT often extends more than a dozen miles between sources. These days, virtually all hikers rely on the FarOut app to locate water sources, campsites and more; no longer is the backcountry a retreat from phones and technology.

So in my first days of hiking, I felt a bit out of place every time I gave my real name to another PCT hiker. No one rushed to suggest a trail name either, as happens often early on the route. How does one choose a new identity? I thought about that for a few hundred miles.

I also found new ways to lighten my gear, shipping home unneeded clothes and trading in my sleeping bag and cookware for lighter replacements. That brought my base pack weight (without food or water) to 17 pounds, which isn’t bad, though many travel with even less.

I’m losing weight, too, and not on purpose. Hiking all day while eating little takes a toll and I lost more than ten pounds in my first weeks. Pack weight or no, I need to eat more on the trail. was glad to discover Packit Gourmet backpacking fare; meals like Texas State Fair Chili and Pasta Beef Bolognese help to satisfy my considerable appetite.

After the burned trees of Lassen, was glad to reach the healthier Shasta-Trinity and Klamath National Forests, even though they introduced the challenge