EASTERN WASHINGTON OFF ROAD EasternWaOffRoad.com
January 2011 We are into family adventures most people can do with a slightly built rig, stock dirt bike or stock ATV. Most of the adventures are family oriented and not hard core. Eastern Washington Off Road is a different way to enjoy off road adventures. Come and join us!
EASTERN WASHINGTON OFF ROAD rCONTENTS Glass Creek Scoping Run South Cle Elum Ridge Backroad Run Thanksgiving Snow Run at the Ahtanum State Forest Christmas Tree Run DNR Vehicle Counter Recovery Run Sledding Run at Ahtanum State Forest Leavenworth Christmas Lighting Festival Eastern Washington Off Road Events
As Muddy always says: "Respect our public lands or lose them!" Become a friend of Muddy on Facebook
EasternWashingtonOffRoad.com
January 2011
Page 2
EASTERN WASHINGTON OFF ROAD The trail drops in elevation very fast. Here we are coming up to the steepest part of the trail.
Glass Creek Scoping Run Report by Clay Graham
The Forest Service is doing a project called, "Glass Angel Restoration Project" that will affect 4W697 - Clover Springs Trail AKA Glass Creek Trail. (Click here to for project info) The Forest Service let us know at the November 2nd, 2010 TWIG meeting we had a week to send in comments about the Glass Angel Project. On Saturday November 6th, 2010 the Yakima/Kittitas Forest Watch did a run to get pictures to send in with comments to show the Ranger how tight the trails is and what will be missed if they remove all the trees they are talking about removing. We met up at the Oak Creek Ace Hardware store in Naches. We had 5 rigs on this run. TJ40's TJ, Guido's TJ, Craigen's XJ, Test Dummy's XJ and 4WheelingPlus.com's XJ, . Foxracer rode with 4WheelingPlus.com and I rode with Test Dummy.
It was a slick slide to the bottom.
We headed to the Nile Area and ran FS1600 up. Here we pulled off to air down.
Here we are turning onto 4W697.
Craigen was the next one to come down.
EasternWashingtonOffRoad.com
January 2011
Page 3
EASTERN WASHINGTON OFF ROAD Two rig safe at the bottom. 4WheelingPlus.com was next to come down.
Guido seem to be sliding even faster down the hill.
TJ40 coming down a little faster.
Here we are coming into about the area where the Forest Service plans to remove a lot of trees including the small ones. This trail will not be the same without these obstacles.
EasternWashingtonOffRoad.com
January 2011
Page 4
EASTERN WASHINGTON OFF ROAD
We found a lot of trees marked with blue paint and others with these tags.
There are tags on both these trees and many more along the trail close to Glass Creek.
EasternWashingtonOffRoad.com
January 2011
Page 5
EASTERN WASHINGTON OFF ROAD Moving up from Glass Creek.
There are a lot of trees marked with blue paint at the top of the ridge.
EasternWashingtonOffRoad.com
January 2011
Page 6
EASTERN WASHINGTON OFF ROAD Forest Service quote, "Approximately 2 miles (part of the 2.8 miles identified in this section) of System Trail 697 would be closed during timber harvest operations and used as a haul road. The trail would be rehabbed and returned to the trail system after harvest operations are completed."
Well it looks like they are doing that in this section by the pink ribbons. It looks as they are making the Trail 697 straight across the top of the ridge taking away from the adventure.
EasternWashingtonOffRoad.com
This ribbon was one of many on this stretch of the ridge. It looks at maybe an alternate route or the road to the Joker’s house. We hope someone knows. ď Š
January 2011
Page 7
EASTERN WASHINGTON OFF ROAD Here is a Possible Reroute around the top of the meadow.
At this point the trail goes down hill to the left. The user made trail ahead will be rehabbed.
Here is the route as it is right now.
EasternWashingtonOffRoad.com
A closer view of the user made trail.
January 2011
Page 8
EASTERN WASHINGTON OFF ROAD The Yakima/Kittitas Forest Watch President Hank Graham AKA “Test Dummy� getting rocks to hold up the trail marker.
One possible reroute is to make the trail come straight from this area to hook up to the downhill section.
On up the trail we did not see any more project ribbons or other signs of what the Forest Service has planned. We did find snow though.
Going downhill on the section though the meadow they may use.
EasternWashingtonOffRoad.com
January 2011
Page 9
EASTERN WASHINGTON OFF ROAD Coming up to the 4W697 & 4W665 intersection.
We headed on 4W696 toward FS1601.
It was getting late so we turned off 4W697 onto 4W665 to head out.
Here at the intersection of 4W665 & 4W696 we took a break.
We turned down FS1601 and aired up down at Saw Mill Flats. This was a very educational fun run thanks to who all came. This report was sent into the Forest Ranger with our commits.
EasternWashingtonOffRoad.com
January 2011
Page 10
EASTERN WASHINGTON OFF ROAD
EasternWashingtonOffRoad.com
January 2011
Page 11
EASTERN WASHINGTON OFF ROAD Moving on up FS3550 we came to a point with a great view and took a break.
South Cle Elum Ridge Backroad Run Report by Clay Graham
On November 13th, 2010 I rode along with Jerry on a South Cle Elum Ridge Run the Pacific Northwest Backroad Adventures group put on. I am happy to say we had a few Forest Watch Volunteers on the run looking out for our Public Lands. Jerry picked me up in Selah very early in the morning and we head to Cle Elum Washington. We stopped to top off before meeting the group.
After the break we drove a short distance and turn onto FS3352. Here Jerry is dashing through the snow, in a little Bronco II.
We headed to the Sunset Cafe for breakfast and to meet up with the others for the driver’s meeting. Once breakfast and the DM were over, we drove through South Cle Elum. We went out Westside Rd. and up FS3550 until we found a spot to air down.
EasternWashingtonOffRoad.com
Well that didn't last long. The Bronco just stopped running. A few guys worked on Jerry's rig. The fuel pump was not working.
January 2011
Page 12
EASTERN WASHINGTON OFF ROAD All but two of the other rigs moved on with Steve as the new trail boss. This rig stayed to follow us out.
We aired up at the bottom of the ridge and headed back to Cle Elem. Nothing like a stroll through Cle Elum on a strap.
Back at the Sunset Cafe where we met for the run, Jerry bought all of us lunch. Thanks Jerry! Our tow rig.
Jerry called a tow truck and we were on our way back to Yakima. This Bronco II can do 60 MPH backwards. lol
This was a very fun day for me getting to hang out with these guys. I want to thank Jerry for the great time, the ride, the food and talk. Also I want to say sorry about your rig breaking down Jerry. I know this was a very spendy trip for you.
EasternWashingtonOffRoad.com
January 2011
Page 13
EASTERN WASHINGTON OFF ROAD Turning onto the Sedge Ridge 4x4 Trail.
Thanksgiving Snow Run at the Ahtanum State Forest Report by Clay Graham
On Saturday November 27th, 2010 we met up in th Tampico around 10 AM for the 6 Annual All Wheelers Off Road Club Thanksgiving 4x4 run. Most of the members aired down at the Tampico Church. Two rigs had to be off loaded down the South Fork Road at a member's family's place. Here on the South Fork Road we are grouping up for the run.
Heading up the South Fork Ahtanum Creek Road with Foxracer’s dog “Scout” lead the way. Looking out Foxracer's Rubicon back window.
EasternWashingtonOffRoad.com
January 2011
Page 14
EASTERN WASHINGTON OFF ROAD This hill climb slowed us up and gave Foxracer's rig a workout.
At the top of the hill at the Duel Climb Area. A few took turns at the climb.
EasternWashingtonOffRoad.com
January 2011
Page 15
EASTERN WASHINGTON OFF ROAD Looking down at bottom of the Duel climbs.
Foxracer made it up. See video I had to walk up since my ride was on top. Looking up from about 1/2 way up.
Here I found Foxracer.
EasternWashingtonOffRoad.com
Here Nevada is winching up.
Nevada helped winch some of the other rigs up.
January 2011
Page 16
EASTERN WASHINGTON OFF ROAD The five rigs headed on up the trail and four rigs turned back for home.
Waycrazy, Havo, BlindPilot, Foxracer & Nevada.
The trail was real fun in this next tight section. A lot of snow was falling off the trees as we brushed the branches.
The snow got real deep.
EasternWashingtonOffRoad.com
Foxracer took a lot of runs at the Cultus Rim Climb but could not top it. Waycrazy took a run at it. He decided to winch past an icy area. Foxracer loaned him a tree saver.
January 2011
Page 17
EASTERN WASHINGTON OFF ROAD The climb was just too slick so we decide since it was getting late just to turn around. We regrouped in an open area. A few played as we waited for everyone to come back down.
Once all the rigs were grouped up, we ran on down to the South Fork and Sedge Ridge 4x4 Trail intersection. This part of the trail was a lot of fun.
BlindPilot having deep snow fun.
Foxracer lost his mirror and stopped to try and find it but had no luck. I guess we will find it in the spring if someone else doesn't get to it first.
Nevada’s tires not so big in this stuff.
We dropped on off the Rocky Climb and then headed out the South Fork Ahtanum Creek Road. This was a fun snow run thanks to all that came. Thanks for the ride Foxracer.
4" and 7" versions! Super bright 35 watt HID bulb encased in a durable ABS housing with glass reflector. Built-in ballast and heavy-duty indexed adjustable mount make installation easy. Includes a snap-on clear cover and wiring harness with switch and relay. Sold individually FOR OFFROAD USE ONLY
EasternWashingtonOffRoad.com
January 2011
Page 18
EASTERN WASHINGTON OFF ROAD Christmas Tree Backroads Run near Rimrock
We found a good place to hunt for Christmas Trees.
Guido telling us a fish story.
Report by Clay Graham
On Saturday December 4th, 2010 we met at Ace Hardware in Naches for the annual All Wheelers Off Road Club Christmas Tree Run. This was a great spot to meet so people could buy their $5 Christmas Tree permits.
Heading back toward home.
We headed on Hwy 12 toward Whites Pass.
Ron the Parts Guy got his tree and headed back out.
We turned off on Tieton Road near Clear Lake.
Demontang came back with a few trees for his crew.
Passing Rimrock Lake.
Demontang is trying to load them in his Bronco. Next we turn onto FS1207.
Another great day in the Forest!
EasternWashingtonOffRoad.com
January 2011
Page 19
EASTERN WASHINGTON OFF ROAD DNR Vehicle Counter Recovery Run Report by Clay Graham
On Sunday December 5th, 2010 the Yakima/Kittitas Forest Watch Association had a mission to get the DNR's Vehicle Counter off a mountain in the Ahtanum State Forest. We did get the mission accomplished but had a few problems. Here are a few pictures with details of this trip. Right off the bat HavoJr's rig had a starter problem on the way to the run. HavoJr got some help getting his rig home and we headed up with Havo's Toyota and my XJ. Greg from the DNR Recreation program rode along with me. We aired down at the end of the paved part of Cowiche Mill Road.
Heading up the mountain it started snowing.
EasternWashingtonOffRoad.com
At this point Havo lost a u-joint cap off a drive line. He stopped and waited for us to make sure we made it back.
We kept radio contact all the way to where the Vehicle Counter was. Greg did the digging as I took a few pictures.
January 2011
Page 20
EASTERN WASHINGTON OFF ROAD We stopped for a short break.
Here is the vehicle counter. I was thinking it was some box chained to a tree with a black hose. I was wrong. It was just a little electronic thing inside to plastic boxes. Here we are back down where we started all aired up and ready to go home.
We turned around to go back down the mountain. It really had a Christmas feeling up there.
Mission complete!
EasternWashingtonOffRoad.com
January 2011
Page 21
EASTERN WASHINGTON OFF ROAD
Sledding Run at the Ahtanum State Forest
We drove to the end of the pavement on Cowiche Mill Road to air down.
Report by Clay Graham
On Sunday December 12, 2010 the All Wheelers Off Road Club hosted their our annual sledding run at the Ahtanum State Forest for the Eastern Washington Off Road forum members. It was a very fun day thanks to all of those who came.
Here are some pictures of the day. We met up at the Quick Stop in Cowiche about 10 AM.
EasternWashingtonOffRoad.com
Above us was a big herd of elk at the feeding station.
January 2011
Page 22
EASTERN WASHINGTON OFF ROAD After everyone aired down we head up Cowiche Mill Road.
We turned off onto C-1000 and then up the Cowiche Ridge Road.
The snow was packing great
This hill climb was a little slick.
EasternWashingtonOffRoad.com
January 2011
Page 23
EASTERN WASHINGTON OFF ROAD Victor made the climb on his own with a stock Nissan pickup. We were impressed.
Don making the climb.
Once everyone was up on top we headed on. The snow got deep and soft. I stopped to let everyone get caught up. We were all together again so we pushed on.
We came up to a long hill climb. BlindPilot took over since his rig is locked front and back.
At this point BlindPilot had some trouble making it up.
EasternWashingtonOffRoad.com
January 2011
Page 24
EASTERN WASHINGTON OFF ROAD BlindPilot was able to top the hill. I on the other hand could not get going forward again. Victor was stuck right behind me and had to have a pull. We both headed back to the bottom for another try. Waycrazy headed on up as we went down. Waycrazy made it to the top. I gave it another try but could not get past the area BlindPilot had trouble. Most everyone else started sledding as I aired down to 3 PSI. I was able to climb a little higher but was not moving to far each try.
I decided I burnt enough fuel in one spot so I turned around and parked.
This slope was great for sledding.
EasternWashingtonOffRoad.com
Looking up the hill climb.
Everyone was cold so it was time to turn around and head back down.
My house is somewhere under the rainbow.
January 2011
Page 25
EASTERN WASHINGTON OFF ROAD Moving on down the Cowiche Ridge. The sun shining in the valleys below.
I took the tail gunner spot to get a few pictures.
For some reason my rear brakes where dragging. We are guessing it was from all those times backing up to make that last climb. With some help from the guys in the group I was able to go again. Thanks guys for helping get the brakes loose.
EasternWashingtonOffRoad.com
January 2011
Page 26
EASTERN WASHINGTON OFF ROAD
At the bottom of Cowiche Ridge now on C-1000.
EasternWashingtonOffRoad.com
January 2011
Page 27
EASTERN WASHINGTON OFF ROAD Right before turning onto Cowiche Mill Road we met up with my son, Test Dummy in his K5. He had came up to help me get the XJ back to the shop.
A picture from the bridge we were close to.
TJ40 giving Waycrazy a pull start.
They got it started and we push on to the parking area to air up. Here is a picture of most of the group right before heading home. On down Cowiche Mill Road Waycrazy's CJ died and would not start.
EasternWashingtonOffRoad.com
January 2011
Page 28
EASTERN WASHINGTON OFF ROAD Forest Watch Volunteer Program
Proud sponsors of the Forest Watch Volunteer Program
"Forest Watch Volunteer Program" is open to everyone nationwide. All outdoor enthusiasts including campers, hikers, bird watchers, horsemen, fishermen, hunters, ATV riders, 4 wheelers, snowmobilers, etc are encouraged to participate. This is a volunteer program for those who are willing to report violators that break the rules on our Public Lands. If people know we are watching then hopefully we can lessen damage done and keep access to our public lands open and reduce the amount of taxpayers money being spent for repairs to these areas. No meetings, work days or membership dues are required. Just Vigilance and a willingness to take pictures of and report offenders caught in the "act". The "Forest Watch Volunteer Program" is a nationwide program funded by "Project Funds" through the non-profit group Yakima/Kittitas Forest Watch Association by donations from people who care to keep public lands open. If you would like to donate to this "Project Fund", you can send a check or money order to "Forest Watch" at 3250 Selah Loop Rd. Selah, WA 98942 or use the PayPal Donation button on the web site ForestWatchVP.org. These donations go directly to the "Forest Watch Volunteer Program" and are not used for any other purpose. You can get 2 free Forest Watch decals by sending a 4.25"x4.25" or bigger stamped self addressed envelope to:
_____________________ Volunteers do make a difference keeping public land access open.
Forest Watch Decals 3250 Selah Loop Rd. Selah, WA 98942 Note: We count on donations to have the decals made so at times we are out. Decals will be sent as donations come in to have them made. If you would like to donate you can send a check or money order to "Forest Watch" at the address above or use the PayPal at ForestWatchVP.org. Thank you for your support.
Charlie Graham picking up trash at Ahtanum State Forest
Volunteer today at ForestWatchVP.org EasternWashingtonOffRoad.com
January 2011
Page 29
EASTERN WASHINGTON OFF ROAD Leavenworth Christmas Lighting Festival
As we sang Silent Night the stars came from each side of town. As they walked in front of each building, the Christmas Light came on.
Report by Clay Graham
On Sunday December 19th, 2010 the Eastern Washington Off Road Group met up in Leavenworth Washington for the last day of the 2010 Christmas Lighting Festival. Our family was running last and got to Leavenworth just before 1 PM. We parked in a $10 a day parking area next to the Adventure Inn and headed to meet the others. The M端nchen Haus has a heated outdoor courtyard, family atmosphere, great food and beer so this was the place to have lunch to start our Leavenworth Adventure. Then came the countdown to light up the trees in the park. Very cool! We took a walk around town enjoying the lights as the music plays in the park.
What a wonderful life! Graham kids at M端nchen Haus
Walking around the town of Leavenworth this time of year really give you the Christmas spirit. There is Christmas music being played in the park, kids sledding, people shopping and Christmas characters walking the Front street. Around 4:30 things started happening for the Christmas Lighting Ceremony.
EasternWashingtonOffRoad.com
The day was a lot of fun thanks to the people of Leavenworth that put so much work into making the Christmas Lighting Festival happen. We want to thank all the people that came out to this Eastern Washington Off Road get together.
Click here for the whole write up and pictures of our Leavenworth Adventure.
January 2011
Page 30
EASTERN WASHINGTON OFF ROAD Up-coming Events ___________________________________ Eastern Washington Off Road Slab Meet & Greet
Eastern Washington Off Road Thursday Night Get Togethers
Hosted by All Wheelers Off Road Club February 5th, 2011 This is the annual Slab run which is more of a Meet & Greet. This run is rated Easy to Most difficult. Warning! Damage may occur to your rig. This run is open to everyone and all ORVs. We plan to meet up by. We will be on CH#7 if you are running late.
These events are a great way to meet other people with the same interest over a few drinks and some good food. The Thursday Night Get Togethers are held at different places around Yakima and Kittitas Counties. You must be 21 years of age with valid ID. These and more events are posted on the Eastern Washington Off Road forum under
Up-coming Events.
The Slab ORV Area Clean-up Hosted by the Dust Dodgers, Yakima/Kittitas Forest Watch & All Wheelers Off Road Club 10 AM Saturday, March 26th, 2011 Main parking area. See the past clean-ups: 2010 2009 2008
Send in your events If you would like your event or report added to the Eastern Washington Off Road News letter, you can post on the forum or e-mail it to ceg@easternwashingtonoffroad.com
Beverly Dunes Clean-up Hosted by Yakima/Kittitas Forest Watch & All Wheelers Off Road Club with cooperation from the DNR. 10 AM Saturday May 7, 2011 Main parking area. Past Beverly Dunes clean-up reports: 2010 2009 2008 2007
EASTERN WASHINGTON OFF ROAD
Ahtanum ORV Trails Clean-up Hosted by Yakima/Kittitas Forest Watch & All Wheelers Off Road Club with cooperation from the DNR. 10 AM Saturday July 30, 2011
Free camping at the Ahtanum Sno-park with Friday & Saturday night meet & greets. See the past clean-ups: 2010 2009 2008 2007
EasternWashingtonOffRoad.com
EasternWaOffRoad.com 3250 Selah Loop Rd. Selah, WA 98942
January 2011
Page 31
EASTERN WASHINGTON OFF ROAD
EasternWashingtonOffRoad.com
January 2011
Page 32