yosemitenews.info - Yosemite National Park News, Information, Advice and Discussion Forum

Scenic Drive through Lassen Volcanic National Park to Open for the Holiday Weekend

eeek — Sat, 18 May 2013 21:10:40 -0700

Scenic Drive through Lassen Volcanic National Park to Open for the Holiday Weekend
Date: May 17, 2013
Contact: Darlene Koontz, (530) 595-6102

MINERAL, CA - Superintendent Darlene M. Koontz announced today that the main park road through Lassen Volcanic National Park is scheduled to open at noon Friday, May 24 in time for the Memorial Day weekend. "The unusually warm spring weather has really helped in snow plowing operations and will give greater access for visitors this coming holiday weekend," stated Superintendent Koontz. The road to Butte Lake is also open while the roads into Warner Valley and Juniper Lake are scheduled to open June 14. Road repairs continue at Sulphur Works, with one lane opening for through travel May 24-27. The road to Sulphur Works will be closed to vehicles May 28-June 5, however it will remain open for walkers and bicyclists.

For those planning to camp Memorial Day Weekend, Manzanita Lake and Southwest campgrounds will be open May 24 and dry camping will be available at Crags campground. Other campgrounds will open soon after; Butte Lake campground will open June 7; Warner Valley and Crags fully open on June 14; Summit Lake and Juniper Lake campgrounds will open June 28.

Many of the park trails still have snow coverage, including Lassen Peak and Brokeoff Mountain trails. Hikers will find that travel in snow-covered areas requires sturdy hiking boots and trekking poles. Kings Creek Falls and Bumpass Hell trails are not accessible due to snow. The trail to Lassen Peak summit is closed at the 1.3 mile "Grandview Overlook" as work on the Lassen Peak Trail will soon resume for the season. This summer the trail to Lassen Peak Summit will be open on the weekends of June 21-23, July 4-7, August 16-18, and August 30-September 2.

For those hikers wishing to avoid snowy areas, they can enjoy trails in the Manzanita Lake and Butte Lake areas. One hike frequently overlooked is Cinder Cone volcano trail which begins along Fantastic Lava Beds and opens up with wonderful views of the Painted Dunes, Snag Lake and Lassen Peak. Visitors should dress in layers to adjust for changing weather conditions and bring food, water, sunscreen, and sunglasses.

Trail work to re-open trails located in the 2012 Reading Fire burn area is to begin May 20 and we anticipate necessary work to be completed by June 7. This area includes trails such as the Pacific Crest Trail, Cluster Lakes trail, Twin Lakes trail, and a portion of Nobles Emigrant Trail. Once opened, visitors are advised that unmarked and unknown hazards may exist in the areas burned by the fire. These hazards may include unstable terrain, rockfalls, falling trees, and stump holes/root chambers. Extra caution is needed when hiking in these areas.

Ranger-led programs beginning June 28 are offered throughout the summer. Other special programs and events are scheduled such as the Lassen Dark Sky Festival which features Lassen's incredible, dark, night sky through junior ranger programs, a solar system hike, constellation tours and stargazing. For National Get Outdoors Day on June 8, Lassen kicks off an Explore Safely Trail Challenge for different fitness and experience levels of hiking. Other events include the Art & Wine of Lassen, Summer Fun BBQ-Auction, and Ed-Venture Workshops in photography, geology, and birding. For specific program and event information please refer to the summer park guide, Peak Experiences which can be found at park entrance stations, visitor centers, and posted on the park website, www.nps.gov/lavo.

The historic Loomis Museum will be open Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and Memorial Day beginning May 24 and daily beginning June 16. The concession-run Camper Service Store (Manzanita Lake) and Lassen Café and Gift will open May 23. The Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center and Lassen Association Bookstore are open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

To learn more about facility opening activities, trail status, receive updates, or check for current conditions, go to the park website at www.nps.gov/lavo, on Twitter @LassenNPS, on Facebook or contact park staff at (530) 595-4480.

Re: Rainbows in waterfalls

hotrod4x5 — Fri, 17 May 2013 20:23:21 -0700

Vernal has a great one every afternoon in spring. You can also see one in the morning, looking down the Mist Trail.

Re: Zion National Park Accepting 2014 Artist-in-Residence Applications

hotrod4x5 — Fri, 17 May 2013 20:18:11 -0700

Wow, I wish I could afford to not work for a month! Too bad they don't pay a stipend.

2013 Fire Season Begins in Yosemite National Park

eeek — Fri, 17 May 2013 15:16:12 -0700

2013 Fire Season Begins in Yosemite National Park
Date: May 17, 2013

The 2013 Fire Season in Yosemite National Park will begin on Monday, May 20, 2013. Fire season officially begins when seasonal firefighting equipment and personnel are in place, prepared and ready to respond. Additionally, grasses and other vegetation at the lower elevations have begun to dry out. This year, vegetation is drying out faster than average due to the low snowpack the park received over the last two winter seasons, making for fire danger above average for this time of year.

The park is currently transitioning to fire season preparedness and fire resources will be available seven days per week for suppression efforts within the park. In park fire resources for the season include: Yosemite fire manager, four Type 3 wildland engines, one helicopter, and one hand crew.

In preparation for the fire season, the park will begin defensible space inspections throughout Yosemite's communities, including Aspen Valley, Hodgdon Meadows, Foresta, El Portal, Yosemite Valley, and Wawona starting on Monday, June 10. Residents and homeowners are urged to clear a defensible space of 100 feet around homes and other structures in an effort to reduce the risk of fire hazards.

With the official declaration of fire season, pile burning will be discontinued until further notice.

The fire potential is elevated statewide and has moved peak fire season conditions earlier than predicted. Yosemite National Park urges local residents and visitors to "Please be Fire Safe," when residing and visiting the park and other public lands. Special attention should be given when departing campgrounds, backcountry camping sites, and picnic areas to make sure all campfires have been appropriately doused with water.

For more information about fire in Yosemite National Park, please visit http://www.nps.gov/yose/parkmgmt/firemanagement.htm.

Re: El Cap shuttle

DantheMan — Fri, 17 May 2013 14:05:43 -0700

I saw those dates on the NPS site. I didn't know how accurate that was. Last time I was in the valley in 2011, we rode the El Cap shuttle on Memorial Day weekend. I was wondering if that was going to be the case this year.

Re: El Cap shuttle

eeek — Fri, 17 May 2013 13:55:27 -0700

It runs from mid June through early October.

Ostrander

BrandonL — Fri, 17 May 2013 13:51:20 -0700

Does anyone know what the conditions are like out to Ostrander lake? Thinking about a trip out there for memorial day and was wondering if it's iced-out and how much snow to expect on the way there.

El Cap shuttle

DantheMan — Fri, 17 May 2013 13:15:34 -0700

Any body know if the shuttle is running? Or when it might begin running?

John Muir Trail Closure Update

eeek — Fri, 17 May 2013 12:23:19 -0700

The John Muir Trial is closed until further notice due to rockfall from the Mist Trail Junction above the Vernal Fall Footbridge to Clark Point. The Mist Trail and Ice Cut section of the John Muir Trail remain open. Due to this closure there is currently no stock access to Little Yosemite Valley from Yosemite Valley.

Re: Earl Backcountry Survival Tablet

JustKeepWalking — Fri, 17 May 2013 09:40:26 -0700

Balzacomm: solar charger: up, extra weight, but they are working on allowing Earl to charge other devices from its battery. And as Chick-on states, even with the solar charger, it's 10.8 ounces. They say they are using 18% efficient monocrystalline solar cells, so it should be equivalent to the performance of the Goal Zero panels and the like. The panel can't charge devices directly by itself, the regulator is in the body of Earl... I say it's handy enough and if the entire package is 10.8 ounces, I'm willing to try..

chick-on: Yah, I do hope we get it!

Re: Solio. We did not enjoy it. Returned it. The one we are carrying now is a Goal Zero 3.5 solar panel. Basilbop actually received a larger one, the Nomad 7 kit for Christmas from a friend, and then promptly found the little 3.5 panel that he is carrying at an REI scratch and dent sale (no battery, but works with almost any). You can charge almost any USB battery device with it. NOTE: my iPhone 5 does not like to charge directly from the panel. We charge a little 2600mAh Tenergy "power bank" and the iPhone happily feeds from the power bank. In fact, all the little rechargeable devices can feed from the little power bank. So... if they do manage to let Earl charge other devices, and Earl's solar panel works.. we can chuck a few other items and move into the Earl and save further weight. (Battery packs capable of recharging a full size iPad are too heavy for us! So is the full size iPad!)

Re: Maps.. No, we did not buy the 24K map pack on the 32 GB microSD card. The unit can handle up to 64 GB cards, and if they use a particular brand of map, my bird isn't going to be pleased. I guess I should ask them directly which map pack they will be distributing. They will support other map sources, however, so we decided to wait on that. If we can get he map source we want, and put it on a 64 GB card, that makes more sense to us. Also, since the promise is that we get to enjoy the 30% discount on all future purchases for hardware or accessories, then we can buy the map pack later for the same amount, so we are only out a bit of time. Basilbop really likes Gaia on our various toys because it supports multiple map sources... Here's hoping Earl delivers on that front.

Re: Color.. Sadly, color e-ink screens are not ready yet. There is hard work being done on that front, but not yet. I'm an e-ink fan for durability, long battery life, high-contrast, sun and polartized lens-readable screens with no eyestrain. Earl is backlit, which is nice at night. Basilbop put some maps on the kindle and we decided we could easily read the maps. The contour lines are clear. We'll have to see in the field so to say if we really end up missing color, but for our intended purposes, I'm not concerned. I much prefer reading books on my Kindle than any other device.

ttilley: it's Open Source - go to town to write a photo app to change that pink bird butt into Yos falls! I'd buy it! :)
RE: Music - and it can play MP3s.

It's based on Android 4.1 and will ship with Google Play so you can add Google Play Store apps. Have at it!

I just hope they execute the concept well!....

Re: Campsite ads to flag

Royalist — Fri, 17 May 2013 09:14:28 -0700

http://orangecounty.craigslist.org/for/3808366425.html
http://losangeles.craigslist.org/lac/for/3808329217.html

Re: 1st Yosemite Backpacking Trip

Torero14 — Fri, 17 May 2013 08:51:02 -0700

It is unlikely that your friends will be disappointed with this trip. I took a very similar route a few years back and to date it was one of my favorites. After you come across the pass and descend to Lewis Creek a side trail runs to Bernice Lake. It’s an additional 2 miles or so (about 1 mile each way), but IMHO it is well worth the time and effort. It would be an enjoyable place for lunch and an afternoon swim.

Re: Peninsula Lake in 3D

chick-on — Fri, 17 May 2013 08:28:29 -0700

Quote
atomicmonkey
Great picture. Do you think anyone has explored up the canyon to Lost Lake? It looks to be more than just a scramble. Just curious!

Lots

Look here:
http://yosemitenews.info/forum/read.php?3,24825,24949#msg-24949

There used to be a trail right thru there. Although come to think of it I can't really recall ever seeing an old map with it on it.

Others who frequent here have done it. Maybe they will chime in.

Gotta run. Have a good wkend. :)

Re: Peninsula Lake in 3D

atomicmonkey — Fri, 17 May 2013 08:05:17 -0700

Great picture. Do you think anyone has explored up the canyon to Lost Lake? It looks to be more than just a scramble. Just curious!

Re: 1st Yosemite Backpacking Trip

chick-on — Fri, 17 May 2013 07:40:40 -0700

Just bear in mind you drop about 700 ft. from the high trail jct. with JMT to the
CR/JMT junction. But it's 2000 ft. up to summit of Clouds from that same jct.
(so... that be about 2700 ft. up from CR/JMT Jct. to CR Summit)
Hiking 2700 ft up is much easier carrying some water and snacks than carrying
30+ pounds. It will be nice and warm too... which plays into it.
I've spewed about a million times now how much Merced River Canyon kicks
booty... so you can't really go wrong if you end up deciding to head towards
LYV instead of going that higher trail... and then just hiking up HD from there...
(maybe skipping CR) (it's a "fairly" simple dayhike from Tenaya Lake if u got the time)

Anywho.... have fun and I hope you do wutt ur goal is.

As for camping... there's a zillion nice places to camp... spend some time exploring
to find ur Nirvana. For me great place doesn't have to have any water anywhere near.
Just a nice view with no one else in sight.

Have fun

Re: Peninsula Lake in 3D

chick-on — Fri, 17 May 2013 07:10:39 -0700

Looking thru the large number of these things done ... turns out I had already done
one of Broderick/HD and also one of Grizzly Peak/Sierra Pt.

Here's the Broderick one... the more I stare at it... the more I like it. Enjoy

Re: Earl Backcountry Survival Tablet

ttilley — Thu, 16 May 2013 21:54:31 -0700

Did they mention anything about software that detects images containing pink bird butt and replaces said images with views of Yosemite falls?

Re: Earl Backcountry Survival Tablet

chick-on — Thu, 16 May 2013 21:47:58 -0700

Glad u enjoy. It's much better when there is give and take.

(can't say how many times say to self ... 'self wutt ewe dewing? if want to talk to self... could just write own website/blog thingie' )

Hopefully they make it for you... and you get it... and love it..

And then they make it in purple... so that Bearpoof will have to get one for his wife.
:P

Did you pay the extra for the better res. maps?
I'm not sold. Gotta have colour. :)

I am warming to that solar panel thingie Basil has been carrying though.
Need to figure if much better than the Solio classic..

Re: Peninsula Lake in 3D

chick-on — Thu, 16 May 2013 21:40:31 -0700

Yeah. That's from Dog Dome.

A better 3D of Lembert may be from the trail itself that runs thru the meadow.
Dunno how good Pothole will be. Almost always up there in the morning light...
I'll see what can do...

But we need Calavaras to try. His stuff way better than my feeble attempts.
I have a lot of fun with it though.
I do so many of these I really forget what I've done.

I'll let u figure this one:

Re: Cherry-Bopping Dandy

chick-on — Thu, 16 May 2013 20:17:58 -0700

Z Perret stole ur pack cover on a previous trip:
http://yosemitenews.info/forum/read.php?3,59254,59298#msg-59298

After I showed a buddy at work that photo.. he said I was nuts not to get one.

Here's basil and his wife on the chockstone route:

Re: Cherry-Bopping Dandy

basilbop — Thu, 16 May 2013 20:04:40 -0700

Another view of the Chockstone route:

The normal disclaimers apply: experts only, climb at your own risk, remember you have to go back down this thing, etc...

Also, I know that there are stories about Cherry Creek Canyon being a paradise, where after a hard day hike you can bathe au naturel in warm pools and then dry off and warm up on glistening granite:

But in fact it's a place that only a special kind of insane would find "awesome":

"That's Awesome!"

Which isn't to say there isn't plenty of granite...

And remember:

It will take a lot of experience before Cherry Creek Canyon is pure "Type 1" fun... Expect some short-term "Type 3" experiences the first few times. You have been warned!

Re: Cherry-Bopping Dandy

basilbop — Thu, 16 May 2013 19:26:40 -0700

Quote
JustKeepWalking
After this round in Cherry, both Basilbop and Chick-On expressed interest in my orange packcover.

I can see where I would need a satellite-rated pack cover, unless I was fortunate to get in trouble tail-side-up:

But chick-on...? :chickon2:

Re: 1st Yosemite Backpacking Trip

Bullseye — Thu, 16 May 2013 18:14:00 -0700

Thanks for posting the photo for me!

I like your idea of setting up camp and then going to Clouds Rest. Makes a lot more sense.

Re: 1st Yosemite Backpacking Trip

Bullseye — Thu, 16 May 2013 18:12:11 -0700

worded it wrong. I just want them have a blast since I convinced them to take a week off work and buy a cross country plane ticket to cross off one of my bucket list items.

Re: Cherry-Bopping Dandy

JustKeepWalking — Thu, 16 May 2013 18:07:08 -0700

If you are interested in the hi-vis orange pack covers: http://www.shop.backpackingadventuregear.com/Orange-Sil-nylon-Packcovers-Starting-at-orangepc.htm

Back a number of years ago, I bought mine from ULA Equipment, who actually bought them from Etowah. After this round in Cherry, both Basilbop and Chick-On expressed interest in my orange packcover. ULA said to just order straight from Etowah, so I ordered one for Basilbop last week, and it just shipped and should be here next week! Yay! With our O2 Rainwear jackets and the orange packcovers, we'll have to work pretty hard at losing sight of each other! :)

Re: Earl Backcountry Survival Tablet

JustKeepWalking — Thu, 16 May 2013 17:59:49 -0700

Okay. I've lurked enough... Been enjoying reading the site for a while now...

I'm Basilbop's wife. I am a gear junkie... Trying to avoid any more new (and mostly unnecessary) goodies, though. Love the gear if it makes me happier/safer out there. You have been warned....

Thanks to qumqats for the heads up on Earl... after reading about this for a bit, and sloshing through the questions and answers to glean more info (until i got smart and found a way to have the system burp all the answers up for me on a webpage so I could read quickly and search..) we just ordered one in Snow, but if all goes well, they are thinking of making other colors (requests for high vis units have already been made) and I'd switch to a bright yellow, hi-vis green or orange, in a heartbeat. The answer in the questions forum indicated they will do a final poll with the final colors for the backers and we can change color requests before they ship. Again, crossing fingers! :)

I really hope they hit their target and produce. I'm curious to see how well the hardware works and how creative folks are with the software. We've enjoyed our Nexus 7 in the backcountry, and though we'd be giving up color, we've always enjoyed e-ink screens in daylight and some of the testing Basilbop did with maps on a Kindle a while back indicated it could work quite well. Sadly, with "real" work, he didn't have time to pursue it in more detail.

We are also amateur radio enthusiasts and carry little Yaesu VX-3Rs with us everywhere we go. In the backcountry, we've found them invaluable when we deliberately separate on/off the trail. Apparently, the Earl team says they "plan" on releasing a true amateur radio-capable unit (different transceiver, I'm guessing only 2m, but that's a good start) in the future. We decided to order one now, anyway. The comm features it does have will probably be useful out of the box. But c'mon... if it's 2m and someone writes a good SDR for it... yummy!

Oh, and they confirmed the battery will be replaceable. Not easy to do in the field, but they will sell a DIY kit, or do it for you for a fee.

If any of you end up getting one (assuming all goes well with the crowd-funding and development), I would LOVE to hear what you think when you start using it!

Re: 1st Yosemite Backpacking Trip

QITNL — Thu, 16 May 2013 17:42:59 -0700

^That's a good idea. Or take the shuttle bus up to TM on Day 2, camp in the backpacker's camp there, eat a hamburger, dayhike Lembert Dome. You'll be bright and bushy tailed as you hike out to Vog on Day 3.

Re: Peninsula Lake in 3D

yosemitejim — Thu, 16 May 2013 16:49:38 -0700

Cool finagaling. Is that from on Dog Dome? This talk of Lembert Dome makes me wonder if you have one from Pothole Dome(with Lembert in it)

Scientific Consensus On Anthropogenic Climate Change

eeek — Thu, 16 May 2013 16:46:49 -0700

May 15, 2013 — A comprehensive analysis of peer-reviewed articles on the topic of global warming and climate change has revealed an overwhelming consensus among scientists that recent warming is human-caused.

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/05/130515203048.htm

Re: Yosemite Falls streaming live!

chicagocwright — Thu, 16 May 2013 16:42:58 -0700

Quote
PineCone

Quote
eeek
Obviously it'll be a pizza cam:

There are no doubt many people who would make a generous donation to the Yosemite Conservancy to make that dream a reality! :devil:

Where do I send the money!?

Re: Camping on Tioga Road

JamesMac — Thu, 16 May 2013 16:42:01 -0700

Basically anywhere where there won't be many if any people. Preferably not at a campground.

Re: 1st Yosemite Backpacking Trip

The Other Tom — Thu, 16 May 2013 16:25:06 -0700

One more thought. I recommend you spend at least on night in TM to acclimate. Don't underestimate the effect of altitude, regardless of your level of fitness. So you might want to start at TM, and hike to Vogelsang, then to the valley. Then take the shuttle back to your car.

Re: 1st Yosemite Backpacking Trip

The Other Tom — Thu, 16 May 2013 16:17:21 -0700

Quote
chick-on
It has been out of commission recently... so that may not be so. May have to dig for it.

Q-rect. It's out of commission but still serves as a "landmark". The back packers campground is in the vicinity of the outhouse. Any campsite in the area is where the OP should set up unless he/she wants to go to Townsley or Vogelsang lake. To me, Townsley and V. Lake are more picturesque and probably less crowded.

Re: Yosemite Falls streaming live!

parklover — Thu, 16 May 2013 16:12:32 -0700

I am not having a problem loading either size. I have wanted a live view for years and I am happy that they finally did it. Sound of the falls would be nice. Now I can check out the falls along with the live views of Old Faithful and Yellowstone's North Entrance. A tiny visit to my favorite parks when I am not there.

Re: Yosemite Falls streaming live!

Ohnivy-Drak — Thu, 16 May 2013 15:33:04 -0700

As long as it's able to filter out certain noises, I'm all for it. "Gases de Geyser"...pee-yew! :no:

Zion National Park Accepting 2014 Artist-in-Residence Applications

eeek — Thu, 16 May 2013 15:22:34 -0700

Zion National Park will begin accepting applications for the 2014 Artist-in-Residence program on May 26, 2013. Applications must be postmarked by July 19, 2013 and received by July 24, 2013.Four artists will be selected for two spring and two fall residency slots. Artist selections will be made and announced in October. All visual (painters, photographers, sculptures, etc.), performing (drama, dance, music, composers, etc.) and literary artists are welcome to apply.

The Zion National Park Artist-in-Residence program offers professional artists the opportunity to live and work in the majestic desert environment of southern Utah for a period of one month. This call for artists applies to four sessions: February 3-March 4, 2014, April 1-30, 2014, September 1-30, 2014, and October 16-November 14, 2014.

The works completed under this program will contribute to the public understanding and appreciation of Zion National Park and should reflect the National Park Service's mission to preserve and protect the park's cultural and natural resources. During the Residency period the artist will be expected to present two public programs, tailored to the individual's medium, interest, and experience. One will take place at Zion National Park and the other at Southern Utah University as part of their Art Insights program. Zion National Park will work in conjunction with faculty and staff at Southern Utah University in Cedar City, UT to select artists who will work in Zion for the four-week residency period. Selected artists will be given a rent-free, furnished house inside the park.

For complete details about this program and to download application materials, visit www.NPS.gov/Zion. For more information contact: 435-772-0184 or email zion_artist_in_residence@nps.gov.

Re: Yosemite Falls streaming live!

plawrence — Thu, 16 May 2013 15:18:36 -0700

Quote
Ohnivy-Drak
Beautiful. What could be next?

Audio!

Have a highly directional mic pointed towards Yosemite Falls, so not only can we see the falls but hear them too!

.

Re: Yosemite Falls streaming live!

PineCone — Thu, 16 May 2013 15:12:11 -0700

Quote
eeek
Obviously it'll be a pizza cam:

There are no doubt many people who would make a generous donation to the Yosemite Conservancy to make that dream a reality! :devil:

Re: Yosemite Falls streaming live!

Ohnivy-Drak — Thu, 16 May 2013 14:56:27 -0700

Actually has problems loading in regular view. Enlarged view in separate window is much more reliable.

Re: 1st Yosemite Backpacking Trip

tomdisco — Thu, 16 May 2013 14:50:14 -0700

Always have the old plastic spade w/ me.

Re: 1st Yosemite Backpacking Trip

chick-on — Thu, 16 May 2013 14:45:20 -0700

It has been out of commission recently... so that may not be so. May have to dig for it.

Re: Glen Aulin Hike, 6/25/11

chick-on — Thu, 16 May 2013 14:43:47 -0700

This one from basilblop is purty kewl:
http://yosemitenews.info/forum/read.php?3,43562,43562#msg-43562

(esp. the Return Creek muddy waters)

Re: 1st Yosemite Backpacking Trip

tomdisco — Thu, 16 May 2013 14:40:08 -0700

As you approach Vogelsang HSC a side trail heads left towards Evelyn Lake. Just a very short ways along that trail is the backpacker's camping area, including a very small toilet building so you will not have to dig cat holes that first night.

Re: Cherry-Bopping Dandy

chick-on — Thu, 16 May 2013 14:36:53 -0700

Was poking around... and I know we talked quite a bit about Cherry... so figured I'd throw this pict. up.

The Chokstone Route is the dotted line. No rope rqd. Much easier than the solid line.
Def. not trivial though.

Word of advice: just stay out of the canyon entirely... it's very dangerous...
:P

And thx to them... remembered I was suppose to get one of them UFO visible pack covers..
(the stealth garbage bag works... but... )

Re: 1st Yosemite Backpacking Trip

chick-on — Thu, 16 May 2013 14:15:08 -0700

I forgot to say if ur friends are disappointed... sheesh.

Re: 1st Yosemite Backpacking Trip

chick-on — Thu, 16 May 2013 14:14:43 -0700

I edited ur post so the picture shows up...

I dunno about camping right AT Vogelsang. I think you are suppose
to camp at the "BP Campground" near the HS camp. I prefer Townsley.
Or if REALLY early... Vog Lake.
One option you should consider is to hike to your 3rd dot (Sunrise Crk / CR Jct)
with your packs... setup shop... and then dayhike up to CR and back down.
Your buddies will prob. thank you... and some of them may opt. to lounge instead.
Just an idea. Either that or extend a day or so and camp near CR.

Have fun

(to show ur pict. I hit quote to get the url... and then saw the other share options to get the link correct)

Re: Camping on Tioga Road

basilbop — Thu, 16 May 2013 13:41:28 -0700

I'm not sure what you mean by "backcountry" camping. Lee Vining Canyon is day-use only, so dispersed camping (car camping outside of developed campsites) is not allowed there. There is plenty of dispersed camping--and several primitive campgrounds--in the national forest lands between Mammoth Lakes and Lee Vining--consult the Inyo National Forest website for information and regulations.

Re: Yosemite Falls streaming live!

eeek — Thu, 16 May 2013 13:02:52 -0700

Obviously it'll be a pizza cam:

Spring 2012 Earliest on Record

eeek — Thu, 16 May 2013 12:58:35 -0700

March 2012 set records for warm temperatures that promoted early leafing and flowering across large areas of the United States. A team of scientists at the USA National Phenology Network, which is sponsored by the U.S. Geological Survey, have published a study which shows that 2012 was the earliest spring over the 48 U.S. states since 1900 when systematic weather data began to be available for the entire area.

http://www.spinics.net/lists/usgs/msg00490.html

Re: Yosemite Falls streaming live!

Ohnivy-Drak — Thu, 16 May 2013 12:32:06 -0700

Beautiful. What could be next? 3-way cam from Sierra Point! :tux12:

Did I just see a pink tail go over? hehe.

Weekly Yosemite Traffic Forecasts

eeek — Thu, 16 May 2013 12:18:20 -0700

The first Weekly Yosemite Traffic Forecast of the year has been published at http://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/traffic.htm. This forecast is regularly updated and is based on the three most recent years of traffic data.

Re: Amazing Photography Exhibit in LA Featuring Yosemite

hotrod4x5 — Thu, 16 May 2013 12:14:54 -0700

Sounds great. If artist's receptions are $10, then you might want to update your website, which says $5. http://www.theg2gallery.com/

Amazing Photography Exhibit in LA Featuring Yosemite

G2 Gallery — Thu, 16 May 2013 12:10:36 -0700

Nolan Nitschke is a trail guide and Bishop native who is having his own solo exhibition in Venice, CA on June 11 - it's going to be an incredible show, and Nolan's a fantastic guy who cares about the region. The show is going from June 11 to July 28 at The G2 Gallery and is going to feature breathtaking shots of Yosemite and the span of the Eastern Sierra. Figured the forum users here would love the local stuff, and it's always good to support a Sierras artist who's always giving back to nature and the community.

Info below!

The G2 Gallery
1503 Abbot Kinney Blvd.
Venice, CA 90291

Big opening reception on June 15, from 6:30 to 9 where Nolan will be present! We'd love the support, and 100% of admissions (10 bucks) will go to charity!

Yosemite Falls streaming live!

hotrod4x5 — Thu, 16 May 2013 12:08:00 -0700

The webcam now streams live images!

http://www.yosemiteconservancy.org/webcams/yosemite-falls

Re: Camping on Tioga Road

JamesMac — Thu, 16 May 2013 11:59:29 -0700

Is there any "backcountry" camping you can do in this area?
Or do you know of any areas just outside Yosemite?

Some friends and I are hoping to do a 2-3 night backpacking trip around June 10.
I have a fire permit from the USFS station and have most of my gear ready.

Any suggestions are appreciated.

1st Yosemite Backpacking Trip

Bullseye — Thu, 16 May 2013 11:47:40 -0700

Hello all! I'm planning a week long Yosemite trip in July and would greatly appreciate a planning review and reality check. I've been reading this forum for several months and greatly enjoy the knowledgeable feedback you always provide. Thank you in advance!

Background info:

We will be a three person party (1 advanced and 2 intermediate in fitness) going for a slow and beautiful trail-only adventure through the park. We will be renting two bear cans at the park. I tried to get a wilderness permit for a Cathedral Lakes to Happy Isles route but was unsuccesful. Luckily I was able to get a Rafferty Creek to Vogelsang permit instead. My entry date is July 16, and the route I've planned so far should be in the photo below;

Days 1-2: Valley camping and sightseeing
Day 3: Hiker bus to TM. Rafferty Creek to Vogelsang area (best place to set up tents?)
Day 4: Up to Vogelsang Pass, down Lewis Creek, past Merced Lake and camp in Echo Valley.
Day 5: Up to Clouds Rest via a "pack trail" and down the back side to camp at JMT/CRT junction.
Day 6: Morning Half Dome summit (included in my permit) and down mist trail to the valley.

Basically I'm looking for any insider knowledge, thoughts and opinions on my trip I've planned, and camp locations. I just don't want to dissapoint the others for which I've promised alot. I know this is a ton of eleveation +/- but we plan on taking it slow. Thanks again!

Re: Photos from last weekend

vdrummer — Thu, 16 May 2013 08:17:31 -0700

Great image quality! What camera & lens?

Re: Photos from last weekend

plawrence — Thu, 16 May 2013 00:11:18 -0700

Awesome photos! Thanks for posting more of them.

.

Re: Yosemite Last Week

plawrence — Thu, 16 May 2013 00:09:36 -0700

Quote
Old Dave

I'm aware of the past problems at Olmstead and their valid concern about being there too early, but there was absolutely no snow anywhere near the point. I know it's been warm lately and the budget problems they are having, but it seems it could have opened a little earlier.

Oh my goodness, May 11th wasn't early enough for you? Boy, you're really getting spoiled. I'm just happy when they open Tioga Road before the Memorial Day weekend.

Also, it's not that they only need to plow the snow. The Park Service (or its contractors) have to remove not only fallen trees that might have block the roadway but also weakened trees that might topple over during the summer months, before they open the road to the public at large. They also have to smooth out the asphalt in numerous places along Tioga Road since the asphalt tends to buckle over the winter months.

Re: Yosemite Last Week

Old Dave — Wed, 15 May 2013 23:39:23 -0700

I'm aware of the past problems at Olmstead and their valid concern about being there too early, but there was absolutely no snow anywhere near the point. I know it's been warm lately and the budget problems they are having, but it seems it could have opened a little earlier.

Re: Photos from last weekend

QITNL — Wed, 15 May 2013 23:07:01 -0700

Here are a few more shots to give you an idea of how things look. A few more here, and more to come when I get around to it:
http://www.qitnl.com/v/051113/

Re: Rock slide

gophersnake — Wed, 15 May 2013 20:49:04 -0700

Thanks for that Rockfall Hazard and Risk Assessment link. I've saved a copy and printed some of the maps and diagrams for my notes.

Of course the bottom line has to be that the next rockfall could happen pretty much anytime and anyplace (though the middle of the Merced River is probably pretty safe).

Re: National Park Service Staff to Apply Herbicide within Developed Areas of Grand Canyon National Park

gophersnake — Wed, 15 May 2013 20:42:39 -0700

In 2012, a few days after Labor Day, I noticed a crew with backpack sprayers working their way up Yosemite Valley between the Merced River and Northside Drive. I first saw them between El Cap Bridge and the El Cap Picnic Area.

About two days later I glimpsed the same crew(?) between Yosemite Village and Ahwahnee Meadow. I imagine they were doing the same kind of weed control as at Grand Canyon. Has anyone heard any specifics?

Re: Astronomers to Provide Free Telescope Viewing at Grand Canyon National Park, June 8-15, 2013

Ohnivy-Drak — Wed, 15 May 2013 19:54:54 -0700

Keep these things away from those that bawk.

Re: Campsite ads to flag

Dave — Wed, 15 May 2013 19:18:36 -0700

Quote
Royalist
Do we think the ads claiming to have booked two sites and only need one (which would probably work OK, because the original booker would still be there), or wanting to swap dates (which obviously won't work if anyone checks id) are legitimate, or do we think they are more subtle efforts by the odious Tran?

They sound like one of Tran's tactics. He would offer to swap, but when the dates are not avaiable (they never were) he would try to sell them a different date.

Re: Glen Aulin Hike, 6/25/11

Paris92 — Wed, 15 May 2013 19:04:08 -0700

Amazing pics. You can see why some of the HSC open so late some years... Wow.

Astronomers to Provide Free Telescope Viewing at Grand Canyon National Park, June 8-15, 2013

eeek — Wed, 15 May 2013 18:26:48 -0700

Grand Canyon Star Party 2012 (NPS Photo)

Grand Canyon, AZ - The 23rd annual Grand Canyon Star Party will be held from Saturday, June 8 through Saturday, June 15, 2013 on the South and North rims of Grand Canyon National Park. This event is sponsored by the National Park Service, Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association (South Rim), and Saguaro Astronomy Club of Phoenix (North Rim), with funding from the Grand Canyon Association. Amateur astronomers from across the country will volunteer their expertise. Free slide programs will be offered and numerous telescopes will be set up to view planets, star clusters, nebulae, galaxies, the moon, and the sun. National parks such as Grand Canyon are protective harbors for some of the last remaining dark skies in this country. Weather permitting; you can expect spectacular views of the universe!

On the South Rim, events include a slide show nightly at 8 pm in the Grand Canyon Visitor Center theater, followed by telescope viewing behind the building. The slide show is open seating and doors open at 7:40 pm. Green-laser constellation tours will be offered at 9, 9:30 and 10 pm. Parking is available in Lots 1 through 4 (Lot 4 is recommended for visitors with accessibility needs), or arrive by the free Village Route shuttle bus, which runs until 11 pm. Telescope viewing is best after 9 pm and continues well into the night; visitors may arrive anytime after dark. A flashlight is recommended for the walk to the viewing area, however, white lights are not permitted on the telescope lot. Give your eyes time to dark-adapt, or use a red flashlight, which can be easily made by covering any flashlight with red cellophane, nail polish, or permanent marker.

On the North Rim, telescopes will be set up on the porch of the Grand Canyon Lodge every evening. Check the North Rim Visitor Center and park bulletin boards for additional daytime and evening events.

Nighttime temperatures on both rims can be quite cool, even in summer. Those attending the star party are encouraged to bring warm layers of clothing.

When traveling on the South Rim, it is best to find a parking space and use the free shuttle bus system to access points of interest in the Grand Canyon Village area. See the park newspaper The Guide for tour bus routes and schedules. If you plan to stay overnight at Grand Canyon National Park, plan your visit well in advance. Browse the park's official website at www.nps.gov/grca, or download the 2013 Trip Planner or 2013 Summer Guide at http://www.nps.gov/grca/parknews/newspaper.htm.

For additional information on the Grand Canyon Star Party see http://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/grand-canyon-star-party.htm or contact Marker Marshall at 928-638-7830. For questions about visiting Grand Canyon National Park, visit the park web site or call 928-638-7888.

Re: Campsite ads to flag

eeek — Wed, 15 May 2013 18:21:59 -0700

Either way they need to be flagged.

National Park Service Staff to Apply Herbicide within Developed Areas of Grand Canyon National Park

eeek — Wed, 15 May 2013 18:21:09 -0700

Grand Canyon, Ariz. - Throughout the upcoming field season, National Park Service staff will be applying herbicide to targeted high priority invasive plant species in Grand Canyon National Park's developed areas. Developed areas of the park have increased levels of human disturbance, which contribute to the high concentration of invasive plants in these areas.

Vegetation Program staff are attempting to restrict the spread of invasive plant species, reduce the number of high priority invasive species, and improve native habitat in areas where they are located.

In spring 2009, an Environmental Assessment (EA) was prepared for implementation of the park's Exotic Plant Management Plan and a Finding of No Significant Impact was signed by the Regional Director in July of 2009. The EA identifies the need to use an integrated approach to managing exotic plant species, which includes the use of herbicide when it is the most effective and efficient tool to accomplish program goals. All herbicides planned for use in the development zones are rated low toxicity and have been reviewed and approved by the National Park Service's Regional Integrated Pest Management Coordinator.

Herbicide will only be used on species considered high priority for control in the park and which are not easily controlled using non-chemical methods. Species that fall within this category include Dalmatian toadflax (Linaria dalmatica) and Rush skeletonweed (Chondrilla juncea), both of which have extensive underground root systems causing mechanical control methods to be ineffective. Also targeted with herbicides are Siberian elm (Ulmus pumila) and tamarisk (Tamarix ramosissima), which will continually resprout without the use of herbicide when cut. Finally, species such as puncturevine (Tribulus terrestris) and jointed goatgrass (Aegilops cylindrica) may be treated with herbicide due to the inefficiencies involvedin mechanically treating extensive populations of countless individuals.

All herbicide use will be closely monitored to assure that negative impacts to native vegetation, wildlife and humans are minimized. Herbicide will be applied using only hand or backpack sprayers, which focus the herbicide spray directly on the targeted plants. Areas in which herbicide applications are planned will be appropriately signed and/or flagged to warn visitors to avoid the area. Signs will be removed once the herbicide has dried and it is safe for re-entry. When applying herbicide in residential areas, residents will be notified at least 24 hours prior to the application and will be instructed to keep children and pets out of the application area until the spray has dried.

Park biologists will carefully track control methods and population trends in all treatment areas and will continue to analyze the effectiveness of treatments and adaptively manage areas where control is inadequate.

For more information, please contact Marybeth Garmoe, Invasive Plant Biologist, at 928-638-7651.

Sunrise High Sierra camp

chatka — Wed, 15 May 2013 17:52:37 -0700

Hello I was wondering if somebody knows if Sunrise High Sierra camp will be open earlier than July 4th. since Tioga road is already open.

Re: Rock slide

qumqats — Wed, 15 May 2013 17:28:56 -0700

Quote
gophersnake
. . . snip . . .
And of course there was the 1980 rockfall onto the Upper Yosemite Falls Trail -- 3 killed, 19 injured.

It's hard not to think of that as you're going up that section of the trail, upper gully with all the switch backs that go up right against the cliff, and lookup at the HUGE cliff you're under. . .
And people worry about Ledge Trail?

Re: Yosemite Last Week

Royalist — Wed, 15 May 2013 17:07:14 -0700

Yeah, I was thinking that traverse looks a bit sketchy...

Re: Campsite ads to flag

Royalist — Wed, 15 May 2013 17:06:06 -0700

Do we think the ads claiming to have booked two sites and only need one (which would probably work OK, because the original booker would still be there), or wanting to swap dates (which obviously won't work if anyone checks id) are legitimate, or do we think they are more subtle efforts by the odious Tran?

Re: Peninsula Lake in 3D

Royalist — Wed, 15 May 2013 17:00:58 -0700

Quote
chick-on
Scaling?

You should see a good dentist, err, rostrumist for that.

Yellowstone Seeks Comment On Energy Company Proposal To Upgrade Substations and Land Mobile Radio System

eeek — Wed, 15 May 2013 16:20:18 -0700

The National Park Service (NPS) is seeking public comment regarding a capital improvement plan proposed by the utility company that provides electrical service to Yellowstone National Park.

The NPS is planning to prepare an environmental assessment (EA) to analyze impacts associated with a proposal by NorthWestern Energy to construct seven new 60-foot towers, small equipment buildings, back-up power generators, and propane fuel tanks at seven existing substation sites inside the park. These infrastructure improvements are being proposed to provide remote computer monitoring and control of the electrical distribution system and to replace an obsolete radio communications system utility crews need when working inside Yellowstone. These improvements are intended to reduce the number and duration of power outages in the park, which impact the visitor experience, park operations, and visitor and employee safety, and to improve safe communications for utility crews during repair operations.

The first step in preparing an environmental assessment is to ask the public to help identify issues or concerns that park staff should consider. This process, known as public scoping, is now open and runs through June 13, 2013.

The public is encouraged to attend one of the following public meetings to learn more about the proposal:

Tuesday, May 21 in Cody, Wyo.: Park County Library Grizzly Hall, 1500 Heart Mountain Street
Wednesday, May 22 in Bozeman, Mont.: Holiday Inn, 5 Baxter Lane East

Both open house-style meetings begin at 6:30 p.m. and are scheduled to conclude by 7:45 p.m.

Additional information on the proposal along with instructions on how to submit comments online at the National Park Service's Planning, Environment and Public Comment (PEPC) website at http://parkplanning.nps.gov/NWEPlan.

Respondents are encouraged to submit their comments through the PEPC website. Comments may also be mailed to the National Park Service, Compliance Office, Attn: NorthWestern Energy Communication and Automation Plan, P.O. Box 168, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming 82190. Comments may also be hand-delivered during normal business hours to the Mailroom in the park's Administration Building in Mammoth Hot Springs, Wyoming.

This project will be developed in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act and Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act and other applicable laws, regulations, and policies.

Comments will not be accepted by fax, e-mail, or in any other way than those specified above. Bulk comments in any format (hard copy or electronic) submitted on behalf of others will not be accepted. Comments must be received by midnight MDT, June 13, 2013.

Re: US-395 Closed at Bridgeport due to accident

eeek — Wed, 15 May 2013 16:18:42 -0700

I wonder how much damage there was to the bridge.

Watercraft in Yellowstone Required To Be Invasive Species Free

eeek — Wed, 15 May 2013 16:14:32 -0700

In order to more thoroughly protect the waters of Yellowstone National Park, all motorized and non-motorized watercraft entering the park's lakes must first pass an Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) inspection on their boats as part of the watercraft permitting process. National Park Service (NPS) staff will also conduct daily required inspections, seven days per week, for all boats that launch from Bridge Bay, Grant Village and Lewis Lake boat ramps.

Aquatic invasive species are non-native plants and animals that can have significant ecological and economic impacts on the park's natural resources. Examples of destructive species that have become established in park waters over the past several years include New Zealand mudsnails, whirling disease and lake trout in Yellowstone Lake.

These species not only damage Yellowstone waters, but they may affect the entire delicately-balanced ecosystem as well. They also require a great deal of time and money in personnel and equipment needed to study them and remove them from park waters and in many cases, removal is not feasible. Since 2009, Yellowstone's AIS program staff has had contact with more than 7,000 park boaters and performed more than 3,000 watercraft inspections, which resulted in more than 120 affected boats being cleaned with the use of a non-chemical AIS decontamination treatment.

Motorized boating is allowed on Yellowstone and Lewis lakes. Only non-motorized boating is allowed on most other park lakes, and permits are required for all boats and float tubes. The park's South Entrance, Grant Village Backcountry Office and Bridge Bay Ranger Station sell all boat permits, while the Mammoth Backcountry Office, Lewis Lake Campground and West Yellowstone Visitor Information Center sell only non-motorized permits. The Northeast Entrance, Bechler Ranger Station and Canyon and Old Faithful backcountry offices sell only float tube permits. Watercraft owners must pass a successful AIS inspection or have their affected watercraft treated prior to being issued a permit. Violations should be reported to the nearest Ranger Station, or dial the park's main information line at (307) 344-7381.

Information on boating and boat permitting in Yellowstone can be found at http://www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/boating.htm. Information on AIS can be found at http://www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/fishingexotics.htm.

Yellowstone's AIS education and prevention programs are funded in part by generous donations from the park's official fundraising partner, The Yellowstone Park Foundation. Information on YPF can be found at http://www.ypf.org.

Re: Photos from last weekend

QITNL — Wed, 15 May 2013 16:12:53 -0700

I posted this on the Snow Line thread:

Quote

Below the 8600 ft, there's very little snow. Plowing didn't take much work. TM Campground is pretty dry. About as snow-free as I've ever seen it on opening day.

Go up another 500-1000 feet and conditions change pretty quickly. In fact, this is as much snow as I've ever seen on opening day, going back 5 odd years.

It's shaping up into a nice bed of Sierra cement but I'm glad I brought my snowshoes.

For the next couple of weeks, if I were heading up over 9000ft on north facing slopes, I'd bring snowshoes - or be prepared to posthole. Below that, they shouldn't be necessary.

Re: Photos from last weekend

edg — Wed, 15 May 2013 15:34:14 -0700

QITNL, what's snow coverage like? Floatation necessary? I'm thinking about playing in the TM or Tioga Pass areas this weekend, trying to decide what to bring.

Re: Photos from last weekend

edg — Wed, 15 May 2013 15:31:49 -0700

Good choice. That ridge was dicey enough for me with a few patches of snow early last year. I wouldn't have wanted to tackle it with the amount of snow that's on it now.

Re: DNC Openings

Jayabrams — Wed, 15 May 2013 15:07:30 -0700

You got me all excited. I was getting my resume ready!

Hmmm...I wanna be the the bartender at the Curry deck for a couple afternoons per week!

Re: Peninsula Lake in 3D

plawrence — Wed, 15 May 2013 14:15:06 -0700

Nice photos.

The one of the snake really pops out in 3D.

But sad to see that the Twinkies was already missing from the Young Lake photo. :(

.

Re: DNC Openings

plawrence — Wed, 15 May 2013 14:11:20 -0700

Quote
eeek

Degnan's Loft is opening for the season this Friday, May 17th, hours of operation for the Loft are 5 - 9 pm daily. The Loft is located at Shuttle Stop #4.

Finally, one can enjoy a decent pizza again in Yosemite Valley.

:wink:

Re: Earl Backcountry Survival Tablet

Ohnivy-Drak — Wed, 15 May 2013 12:51:52 -0700

Quote
chick-on

Don't like to watch The Bachelorette in grayscale?

Here's some grayscale for ya:

(purty sure I watch even crappier TV than that though)
(by that I mean Bachelorette... not my butt)

:P

This is an NCIS screenshot. Bird farted, water turned yellow, a bear died from the fowl stench. Typical b/w screen before commercial break. (:P)

Re: US-395 Closed at Bridgeport due to accident

hotrod4x5 — Wed, 15 May 2013 12:40:47 -0700

Looks like it is back open:

1-WAY CONTROLLED TRAFFIC 0.3 MI SOUTH OF THE JCT OF 182 /IN BRIDGEPORT/
(MONO CO) FROM 1030 HRS TO 1600 HRS ON 5/15/13 - DUE TO ACCIDENT CLEANUP

Re: Photos from last weekend

eeek — Wed, 15 May 2013 09:21:52 -0700

Quote
vdrummer

Quote
QITNL

I had an axe but the snow was wobbly and loose and there was no room to self arrest, a couple thousand feet straight down on either side of this.
I wanted to write Happy Mother's Day! in the book (and perhaps bag the year's first summit?) but it was probably buried so this is my Happy Mother's Day! shot.

Rule #1: get home safely! Sounds like fine judgement on your part.

Yes!

DNC Openings

eeek — Wed, 15 May 2013 08:50:13 -0700

Rafting opens for the season today, May 14th. The raft stand will open at 10am and the last raft goes down the river at 4pm. Raft Rentals are available at Shuttle Stop #13a and #21.
Degnan's Loft is opening for the season this Friday, May 17th, hours of operation for the Loft are 5 - 9 pm daily. The Loft is located at Shuttle Stop #4.

Re: Peninsula Lake in 3D

chick-on — Wed, 15 May 2013 07:47:44 -0700

Been some talk about Lembert Dome... so how about this one just finagled togetha.

Gorgeous day last late October... had entire Lembert to myselfs... and all of Young Lake... wit my buddies:

For those that just think I'm whacked in the head:
http://yosemitenews.info/forum/read.php?1,66105,66263#msg-66263

Half Dome a Nice Day
:chickon2:

Re: Peninsula Lake in 3D

chick-on — Wed, 15 May 2013 07:41:46 -0700

Scaling?

Re: Rock slide

plawrence — Wed, 15 May 2013 06:28:18 -0700

All what anyone needs to know about rockslides and Yosemite Valley:

NPS/USGS: Quantitative rock-fall hazard and risk assessment for
Yosemite Valley, Yosemite National Park, California (2012)

.

Re: Rock slide

gophersnake — Wed, 15 May 2013 02:01:25 -0700

Quote
parklover
They do. 1996 Happy Isle rockfall one person was killed and several injured when winds generated by the rock fall blew down trees. The climber that was killed in 1999 by a rock fall below Glacier Point Apron. Three people injured in 2008 rockfall onto cabins at Curry Village. Since 1857, rock falls have killed 15 people and injured 85.

And of course there was the 1980 rockfall onto the Upper Yosemite Falls Trail -- 3 killed, 19 injured.

Re: Earl Backcountry Survival Tablet

chick-on — Tue, 14 May 2013 22:39:44 -0700

Sometimes I forget to. Alvin/Albert/Alan OVD been giving me a hard time...
So I tried to remember... esp since he was invited... guess he had some lame excuse
of having to work or something...

He still owes me 200 dollas for rollin snake eyes btw.

As for Earl... I think it has MP3/etc... since it's an Android device... at least that is what
it alludes to... You would think they would drive that home... but maybe it's a dumbed
down version with just these "survival" things in it... sorry... but I need my TV to survive
out there... well... ok I don't need it... but it's kinda nice to have... I can only stare at the
stars and contemplate life for so long...

Re: Photos from last weekend

vdrummer — Tue, 14 May 2013 22:36:41 -0700

Quote
QITNL

I had an axe but the snow was wobbly and loose and there was no room to self arrest, a couple thousand feet straight down on either side of this.
I wanted to write Happy Mother's Day! in the book (and perhaps bag the year's first summit?) but it was probably buried so this is my Happy Mother's Day! shot.

Rule #1: get home safely! Sounds like fine judgement on your part.

Re: Photos from last weekend

QITNL — Tue, 14 May 2013 22:15:40 -0700

Thanks, guys. Yeah you got the IDs on those shots. Evelyn outlet last year was no big deal, your gonna get wet boots anyway when you are wading around all day in slush. In anticipation, I added a pair of thin neoprene diving boots to my pack, a couple of ounces, $15. They came in handy at Delaney Creek which looked about 10 foot deep where the trail crossed. If worse came to worse, I figured I could wear them inside my boots.

I didn't make it to the top of Ragged, or Conness, for that matter - I'd been up both before, so I wasn't too bothered. With the latter, I could throw a rock at the summit but there was one sketchy stretch right here:

I had an axe but the snow was wobbly and loose and there was no room to self arrest, a couple thousand feet straight down on either side of this.
I wanted to write Happy Mother's Day! in the book (and perhaps bag the year's first summit?) but it was probably buried so this is my Happy Mother's Day! shot.

I sure hope nobody follows my descent tracks, they are totally "off-route." As are most of my paths; it feels strange leaving evidence. I just wanted to see if that gully would go - it did.

Re: Rock slide

parklover — Tue, 14 May 2013 19:37:29 -0700

Quote
hotrod4x5
I always marvel at how these things never hit anyone.

They do. 1996 Happy Isle rockfall one person was killed and several injured when winds generated by the rock fall blew down trees. The climber that was killed in 1999 by a rock fall below Glacier Point Apron. Three people injured in 2008 rockfall onto cabins at Curry Village. Since 1857, rock falls have killed 15 people and injured 85.

Re: Earl Backcountry Survival Tablet

ttilley — Tue, 14 May 2013 18:41:32 -0700

Do you take pictures of your chicken's butt on every trip just in case they might come in handy?

"Earl" actually sounds kind of cool, still reading through the verbiage though. Adding an MP3/etc-format play feature would be killer.

Re: Campsite ads to flag

SoCalCPA — Tue, 14 May 2013 18:05:06 -0700

That did it - thanks

Re: Rock slide

hotrod4x5 — Tue, 14 May 2013 18:00:00 -0700

I always marvel at how these things never hit anyone.

Re: Campsite ads to flag

Hitech — Tue, 14 May 2013 17:39:44 -0700

I clicked on "Prohibited".

Re: Rock slide

ttilley — Tue, 14 May 2013 17:38:30 -0700

Pics should be available here: Rock Slide Pics

Re: Campsite ads to flag

SoCalCPA — Tue, 14 May 2013 17:23:21 -0700

When I click the link the site is either deleted by author - or it shows the ad but the "Flag" link on top of the ad is blacked out - There is no way to flag it

Re: Rock slide

SoCalCPA — Tue, 14 May 2013 17:20:07 -0700

Update from Yosemite NPS on Facebook

A small (by Yosemite standards) rockfall damaged four switchbacks on the John Muir Trail below Clark Point this past Saturday. The rockfall was probably triggered by precipitation from the significant thunderstorm that occurred on Thursday, May 9. (It's not uncommon for precipitation-triggered rockfalls to happen 24 to 48 hours after rain.) This segment of trail will probably be closed for at least a few weeks. (The John Muir Trail above Clark Point and the Mist Trail are open.)

So now we've gone from indefinitely to at least a few weeks - Personally, I'm hoping it's open by the end of June when I hike down that trail with my daughter - much easier on my knees.

Re: Photos from last weekend

vdrummer — Tue, 14 May 2013 16:44:33 -0700

Quote
chick-on
Lembert isn't visible in the pict.

Oops- yeah you right! Pothole & Daff it is.

Quote
chick-on
I think Conness isn't visible from Lembert either.
He's on top of Conness taking some of those pix...

Yes, I think no Conness from Lembertty, but Conness in #4