Hey now~! I'm "new" as in I just started last year but I've been running so many trails I gotta put on a new axle this weekend!!
Sorry I was late to the meeting, there was a medical emergency at my house (my partner has epilepsy and had a seizure while in the shower)... But I really wanted to be able to get to know everyone more yesterday. Also, I did have some things I wanted to bring up.
I have some ideas for trip recommendations...
#1 Barney Riley Trail - This trail kicked my ass last year, the guide book (Northern Nevada Trail Guide) has this trail listed as a lv.1 but during that brutal winter of 2016 there was a lot of changes. Fortunately, now I know the easier way in/out. I think this trail is ok for stock rigs, and is a good opportunity to gain some valuable experience without the risk of death. The trail is beautiful and ends along the Carson River at a hot spring - where I would recommend camping for the night. This is also a good "shake down" trail for those who want to make sure their rigs are ready for all the summer adventuring.
#2 Lovelock to Black Rock - This is a trip I think will be better suited for experienced (or confident) drivers. I have no idea what to expect out on the trail other than it's REMOTE. And if anything happens we need to be able to deal with whatever. On this route, I have discovered several points of interest. First there is a murder mystery on the way from the 70's. Then there is a ghost town, and lots of historic ghost mines. After that there is an opal site, for anyone who likes opals. There is a lake bed along the way where several meteorites have been found also. Then ya come over a pass and have a series of springs (I've never been to so I can't report on them, but I'd like to check them out) and a pilgrimage spot. Then finally there is a hot spring under a willow tree on nice flat ground just before the black rock. Out at the black rock there are HEAPS of rocks to be found, and plenty of fun to be had on the flat desert. At this point we've probably already spent 2 days and 1 night out exploring, so it would be up to the group rather they want to continue on or not, but there is a place called Steven's Camp out past the Black Rock, and this is a cabin built in the middle of nowhere that's kind of become a rally point for adventure seeking people.
#3 Lahontan - Lake Lahontan is an awesome spot for day trips and camping... there are trails all along the backside (south) and I've been out there 3 weeks in a row running around with my friends who just bought their first 4x4. I think this is a terrific spot for new people to go out and have some fun without having to worry about anything too crazy happening. There is lots of soft sand (but I was able to negotiate it w/o airing down) and after a rain some terrific mud puddles! Loads of wildlife to check out too!
#4 Nevada BDR - Not sure if anyone has looked at this, but there is an off road route that spans (North to South) across the entire state. This would be a fantastic group trip - and I think would be ideal for once things start to cool down in like October.
Other than that. I do have a map I've spent a lot of time putting together. You can view it here:
https://goo.gl/ZRkXSY if you have any areas or categories you'd like to add let me know the GPS coordinates and what it is. And we'll have a kind of group directory of trails and such.
I go out just about every weekend and explore something in the area. But as this heat turns up I'm starting to seek refuge in the mountains and doing more stuff on the California side. So if your ever looking to do something and its "last minute" just shoot me a message or email and we'll see if we can go together. I go out alone A LOT, it's discouraged, and sometimes it's dangerous. Don't do what I do... and if you do, carry loads of water and have a radio. Never drive anything you aren't 100% comfortable with alone. And if at all possible, invite someone to come with you!
That being said, I'm on vacation from the 30th till the 8th. The first couple days I'll be replacing my axle but after that I was planning on heading out to do some exploring. Then my next section of time off is September 1st - 9th, and for that trip I'll probably be going up to the PNW to do something up there.
It was nice to (briefly) meet you all yesterday. It looks like you all had a great time out there~ sorry I didn't get to run it with you! Next time I will though. Also... one last thing.
For all those looking to get their HAM license, the next testing date is July 21st @ Shepherd of Sierra Lutheran Church, 3680 US Highway 395 S, Carson City. If a church freaks you out or you don't think you'll be ready by then, the following test is
August 18th @ Regional Emergency Operations Center, 5195 Spectrum Blvd, Reno. Both test the time is 9am. If you need help studying...I recommend this site:
https://hamstudy.org/tech2018. I'd recommend taking the practice test, see how you do, and then look at the answers you got wrong. Keep taking it over and over until your familiar with the question pool. Alternatively you can print out the flash cards or buy a book...
Cheers everyone~