Calgary Jeep Association
Off Highway Staging Area => Open Trail Rides => Topic started by: BrendonR on August 04, 2009, 03:50:37 PM
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Hey folks....
a friend of mine and I are interested in heading out on Aug 29th (possibly).
I've got a 2008 Jeep Liberty, She's got a Ford (yeah - not a jeep). I missed out on the 101 due to budgetary reasons... but I was wondering if anybody could suggest a place for my friend and I to go muck about - hopefully where neither of us will get into too much trouble. Anybody willing to come with us and help out/winch etc?
Where's a more "stocker"/"beginner" friendly place to head - McLean? Waiprous (sp?)?
Thanks alot folks
Brendon.
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Hi Brendon,
If your both stockers and don't have skid plates, I would highly recommend that you go to Waiprous and take the trail all the way to the Water falls. Or if you have your heart set on Mclean Creek. I would recommend the trail that leads to Top of the World.
Its kind of hard to know what my plans will be 4 weeks from now, but if my schedule is open, I'd be happy to join you guys and show you those trails. I'm in a stock 08 Rubicon, and didn't have a problem with either one. But the easiest of the two, would be Waiprous.
Alex
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Well thanks alot for the advice..
I'm not set on either one really - as I've never been out - and not been to either. We ARE both stock, and no skid plates either.
Supposedly however, we're not looking at August 29th anymore, but rather, the 16th...
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If Im back up and running I can take you guys on the falls trail in Waiparous. It depends how much work is done this weekend.
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Hi There Tinkerer - I can't actually speak for Kyla (the Expedition), however I can say that I've got front tow hooks, a hitch receiver/shackle on the rear, a strap, and a full sized spare. I do not however, have a CB or radio....
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If Im back up and running I can take you guys on the falls trail in Waiparous. It depends how much work is done this weekend.
You should be able to make that one, Fras.... oh, wait.... you don't have your 31"s anymore.....
BAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!
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fras i'm sure you can do that in your stock ZJ, the whole 1" of clearance gained from your 31s over your stock 30s ain't that much ;)
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i am in for this as i have only been out a couple of times this year
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hey guys (and/or gals),
I've found a couple maps that seem to be pretty good to me, on the Gov't SRD website.
McLean:
http://www.srd.gov.ab.ca/fieldoffices/southernrockies/pdf/McLeanCreek_Trails_kiosk21x39_Revised080710Watermark.pdf (http://www.srd.gov.ab.ca/fieldoffices/southernrockies/pdf/McLeanCreek_Trails_kiosk21x39_Revised080710Watermark.pdf) (warning, large file)
Ghost/Waiparous:
http://www.srd.alberta.ca/lands/recreation/fluz/ghost/pdf/ghost_map_large_2008.pdf (http://www.srd.alberta.ca/lands/recreation/fluz/ghost/pdf/ghost_map_large_2008.pdf) (warning, large file)
Can anybody point me in the direction of the top of the world/falls trails on their respected maps? Does anybody know where i can find named/labled maps?
Are my friend and I (and our trucks) going to survive this trip out? How likely is damage? Hopefully we can hook up with a few/couple of you guys to help us along - keeping in mind of course, we're beginners, you've gotta be patient ;)
Thanks alot folks.
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a fullsize stock expedition may be intersting on top of the world.........
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Oh? How so? Does it get too narrow?
I don't really know anything about the capability of Kyla's expedition - is it not going to be able to handle the trip?
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well i haven't run it yet this year (thank god) but last time i ran it there are some tight rock spots, and last time i checked an expedition has quite bad overhang/approach/departure angles, and less than desireable tires........... there are bypasses to it all, but i've no clue what your clearance issues are with a stock libby and a stock expedition...........
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Top of the world with the stock Liberty (I have one) should be okay going up and down the cutline (though I've never tried it with the Liberty - my wife would kill me). May want to take advantage of the bypasses. Waiparous - should be okay - may be a few fun spots but nothing too bad.
Top of the world with the expedition ( I had one) - um... maybe not. It would probably do Waiparous okay but if it got really stuck... it's bit heavier than a jeep...
There is a good chance of getting some pin striping anytime you go out, in fact, I would guarantee a couple lines on the ford.
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Top of the world with the stock Liberty (I have one) should be okay going up and down the cutline (though I've never tried it with the Liberty - my wife would kill me). May want to take advantage of the bypasses. Waiparous - should be okay - may be a few fun spots but nothing too bad.
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better question maybe how much experience do you have wheeling? an experienced wheeler maybe able to get your expedition through, or your liberty, i don't know. i would advise going with someone who knowledgeable and willing to get out and spot you through; there are a few 'interesting' spots, specially if you run it backwards
that being said, i've see a stock nissan titan run the trail..... it did not get out unscathed however............
i'd hit up waiprous. you can get out to the lake with minimal issues.
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Thanks for the advice everyone, i looks like waiparous will be the better bet for us for sure.
Neither of us have ANY experience wheeling. I'm trying to get at the very least, another buddy of mine to come out - haven't heard from him yet though. If anybody here's willing to come out/spot/winch/tow etc. it definitely would be GREATLY appreciated ;)
When you say "the lake" in Waiparous, you mean margaret lake? following the markers 49-77-87-89-91-125-129-139-140? Am I right? What's out at marker 135? (these markers are coming from the map I had posted back on PG 1 BTW.
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i'd hit up waiprous. you can get out to the lake with minimal issues.
I agree with ya Johnny. I have also seen expeditions out in Waiparous playing around. Should be fine if going with someone else.
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The trail to the lake is relatively easy especially if you go in on the road past camp Mockingbird. However, you should note that body damage can happen on the easiest of trails. It only takes a small miscalculation of a rut to rip off a piece of body work and cost big $$. It happens to all of us at some point so be prepared for the cost. Start slow and build experience.
I have a 2008 Liberty and have been impressed with its traction on hard surfaces and snow. The stock tires will not do very well if in deep mud. I have not tried to take it off road yet. It is our family vehicle and I am only allowed to bust up the old TJ, that’s what it is for.
Have fun and be safe. Please make sure you have proper tow points and a recovery strap with looped ends so you can get unstuck once you have made your first mistake. We all get stuck that’s how we learn. If someone else is heading out it is advisable to go with a bigger group, safety in numbers. This is a great sport but please note it can be a very costly one.
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take mocking bird in... that WOULD be fun.... hehehehe.....
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take mocking bird in... that WOULD be fun.... hehehehe.....
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i feel as if there's a hint of sarcasm there..... and now i'm somewhat afraid :-\
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i'm up for mockingbird
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I wouldn't worry about the trail up to Margaret Lake. I've only done it in winter, but it should be just fine in summer too. It's actually the first trail I ever did, by myself (not something I would ever recommend or do now that I know better and realize why), which speaks volumes for the trail's gentle nature. A good beginner's trail. That being said, please respect and don't underestimate the trail. To echo Blair, there is potential for a lot of expensive damage to our rigs, and as some people have experienced first hand, potential for damage to ourselves. That's why larger groups can be a great asset. But you have to learn somehow, so good on you for wanting to try. Too bad about missing the 101.
Please also make sure you have the right recovery gear, including tow straps and proper tow points, ect. If you're looking to get stuck, I hope you have your own winch, especially the larger vehicle, as it's unfair to ask/expect someone else to burnout or wreck thier own rig/equipment to rescue you because you're unprepared - I actually was in possession of my winch before my Jeep. Otherwise, start small and build your confidence/experience up while building up your arsenal of off-road goodies. There's a lot of experience on this site, so please ask if you have any questions.
Remember: Respect the trails and they'll love you back. Have a great time out there :)
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Thanks alot for the help and advice everyone.
I think the plan is to head up to Margaret Lake then with the Liberty and Expedition, and hopefully a couple other folks.
Tinkerer, if it's not too much trouble, I'd LOVE to see the Garmin track uploaded, or e-mailed to me! I think one of my biggest hesitations here is that I have no clue where I'm headed, and would hate to take a wrong turn, and get in over my head on the wrong trail. Are the trails to the lake marked well out there?
Thanks again everyone.
Brendon.
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If you are thinking of going out on the 15 - 16th weekend, I could probably tag along for that one if you don't mind. I have both the waterfall and Margret lake on my GPS. Also, if there is a larger vehicle there I might have a bit better success pulling them out without breaking anything. Let me know if there is enough people up for the ride, and I will see if I can round up a passenger (aka - winch runner).
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Well, a quick update here...
I just saw Kyla this weekend, evidently I'm a little slow in the head... She's got an Explorer, not an Expedition. I couldn't find any front tow hooks on her truck, although she does have a hitch on the back end. I'll be picking up a strap and clevis for my hitch on Saturday (or maybe before).
Still not sure if the Garmin i've got will accept the SRD Maps, I have to check that out tonight.
It looks like my buddy's going to be away while we want to head out. If anybody's willing to come out, that'd be great (again), meeting places/times would be helpful. How much time is generally needed for a lake run?
Thanks.
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Ill come out, if you go on sunday. I haven't been out in a couple years and im a newbe too. only a few runs under my belt. If we can find a couple of experienced wheelers, to come and play. A stocker run sounds like fun.
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any updates?? is anyone going or is this abandoned?
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Well folks - It's about that time, Kyla and I are planning on heading out on Sunday
I think our plan is to head out there for around 11:00/11:30 - if anybody wants to come along and help out, feel free to PM me.
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I just did the Margaret Lake run on Aug 2 from Camp Mockingbird and it was great! I'm a newbie, so I wouldn't be comfortable leading, although I kinda know the way from Mockingbird. Don't know the trailhead from the Gravel Pit though. I've got a tow strap & tow points front & rear, but no winch.
As for the trail, it was quite easy - easier than the Jeep 101 even. Some nice splashy puddles if you like to get a bit dirty, but not mud bogging like McLean Creek.
I'd definitely be up for a run on Sunday - was planning a run Saturday or Sunday (or both) anyways.
Just name the time and a meeting place - if any experienced people are coming, I'd love to try for the falls too.
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alright then... I've looked, and looked, and looked some more - where exactly is 'camp mockingbird'?
I simply can not find it at all..
Also where's the gravel pit at Waiparous? I can't seem to find it either. What's the route from the south Waiparous staging area? Or is it better to go to the airstrip?
Oh - and JeepJunkie - I'll PM you my phone number so that hopefully we can get together.
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I could tag along on Sunday... gotta change an axle shaft out on Saturday. I have been out to the falls at Waipairous and to Margret lake, nice runs. I have the whole Waipairous trail system on my GPS.
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Yeah i am down as well, I've done the falls and the 101 trail if anyone wants to try out mclean.
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Contrary to popular belief... the Jeep 101 course is a fairly intimidating run for stockers... but a little bit of "pucker factor" won't kill you. It is a trail that is worth doing just for all of the "I can't believe that me, or my Jeep did that!!" comments afterwards. It puts a smile on my face to watch as more people get hooked into this addictive sport.
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and that’s exactly the way i felt after i did the 101 in my stocker for the first time! Would love to share the feeling, possibly a sick feeling and nervousness as you stare up the hill.... seriously thinking you got in way over your head, then going too HOLY **** we just did that! My friend did it in his sagging stock xj with bald tires though i had to pull him up the top of one hill. It’s an absolute blast I just want to go again!...the falls by comparison IMO is not as fun, but the scenery was much better. I have never gone down the hills on the 101 though which i assume is easier...
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If you want some fun we'll do the Falls in the middle of winter. Trevor, you probably should try not to get so stuck if we go.
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Contrary to popular belief... the Jeep 101 course is a fairly intimidating run for stockers... but a little bit of "pucker factor" won't kill you. It is a trail that is worth doing just for all of the "I can't believe that me, or my Jeep did that!!" comments afterwards. It puts a smile on my face to watch as more people get hooked into this addictive sport.
I can't agree more ... best trail I've done yet. Totally addictive!
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I'm down. Just need time and meet place. will everyone have cb's?
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Sunday might be a possibility for me depending on how today's events go. Meeting in Cochrane?
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If we could find a good central place in Cochrane to meet - that would work with me, should be out there around 11:30.
We do not have CBs unfortunately.
I should mention - don't know cochrane very well - somebody else pick the place.
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11:30 seems late. 9:30 is more common. The trail head is a fair drive from town if you're talking about not even airing down until 1 pm. The guys meet at the Smitty's earlier than that if they want breakfast first - commcercial strip west of hwy 22 going through. Turn at the light by the Husky (Quigley Dr) and go a block west before going south down Westside Rd). In any event you can see the Smitty's from the highway (22) anyway.
You should try to borrow some handheld CB's. Not having them toast you from club runs. I've got a spare 3" x 30' snatch strap and tree saver I can lend. Channel 10 btw if you land a CB. You could also buy one today and be done with it. Don't forget adequate food, water, clothing, etc.
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i have two frs radios i picked up today, might be able to get a 3rd. i say around 10:00-10:30 leave time. I have tow strap.
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I'm in for meeting at Smitty's at 10 or 10:30 am. If anyone wants to meet earlier for breakfast, that's OK too.
I have strap, clevis, tow points etc that are required, but don't have a CB Radio yet. Looking to get one but don't know anything about them, so maybe I can pick some brains on that tomorrow.
If anyone has an extra I can borrow for tomorrow, great. I won't be leading anyways because I'm too new.
Cindy
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http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/7/Electronics/CarAudioVideo/CBRadios/PRD~0350105P/Cobra%253F%2B37ST%2BCompact%2BHandheld%2BCB%2BRadio.jsp
Can anybody comment on this one? I'm at least semi-willing to pick one up today... just don't know anything about them.
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I would get a cab mounted one, they are about $100 for a full setup from the Road King. I have found that I get better reception from the ones that are mounted to the Jeep. The reviews seem good for it though
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Try Wal-Mart....last time I checked they were cheaper for good Cobra.
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I've got a handheld Midland that works like a damn. I don't have it left in the vehicle to steal. It wasn't cheap but I can snap on the battery pack it's own mini antenn and walk around the woods with it. In vehicle mode it's wired under the seat, the cable clipped in under the tub lip with the rear washer fluid and wiring pack to the antenna rear. Very slick. In the Jeep you only see the top half and without the antenna portion on the top left.
Dean Allen - Comtek Services at Roadking, 4949 Barlow Tr. SE Cell: 403-852-6315 Tel: 403-272-7717
(http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e399/RedDogAlberta/Alberta/75-822_large.jpg)
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Trying to get ahold of Kyla or Greg (my Explorer friends)... but 10:00 at Smitty's/Cochrane sounds good to me. I'm headed out hopefully shortly to pick up a strap and maybe a CB
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dunl is right. If you can't get to Comtek Services at Roadking, check Walmart and Canadian Tire. An affordable Cobra handheld has served many people well on club runs.
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Just talked to Greg - we'll be at Smitty's tomorrow at 10:00am
Look for this in the parking lot
(http://i435.photobucket.com/albums/qq80/BrendonR00/Jeep/IMG_2109-2.jpg)
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will see you there at 10:00
ill try to pick up a cb tonight, keyword TRY
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Yeah, sounds good to me too looking forward to meetin y'all
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Welp I couldn't find a CB... anybody out there have an extra handheld I can borrow for the day?
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Just wonderin....which run are we doing? or is that still being decided, I don't really know Waiparous half as well as i know Mclean..Mclean is much closer. but I wouldn't mind getting to know Waiparous better
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I'll be at Smitty's at 10:00 am. Sorry, but have no CB yet. I have a couple of Cobra 2-way radios that I'll bring in a pinch.
Cindy
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Jrama - My impression is that we're doing the Mockingbird trail to the falls
See everyone at 10:00 tomorrow @ smitty's
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I can't make it tomorrow, maybe next time... house hunting...bitter sweet...have fun boys!
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Somebody move on Tinkerer's hand helds. You can't lose at that price for what will really mean 2 or 3 club runs a year for most. It's all you need to qualify in the door.
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If you happen to check this before heading out - it'd be nice if you brought em with you tinkerer, i'd like to see/talk to you about em.
Brendon.