July, 20-21 2024, Los Padres National Forest, CA
Five rovers, seven people and three dogs started up the mountain to Nordhoff Ridge and everyone returned safely! The only casualty was one rear tire that decided to challenge a sharp rock…and lost.
Saturday consisted of a busy drive from Oceanside to Ojai, followed by a nice lunch at a local Ojai park where the dogs (and humans) could enjoy a leg stretch before tackling the trail. After lunch, we journeyed up the 33 to Rose Valley campground to access the gate to Nordhoff Ridge. Once past the locked gate, we had the trail to ourselves. The rovers climbed the rocky road to Nordhoff Peak and then the humans climbed up the abandoned fire lookout tower for a truly epic view. Finally, we travelled to our campsite at Elder peak and enjoyed a sunset happy hour and a full moonlit evening. Sunday was a leisurely breakfast and a bouncy drive back down the mountain (we love hill descent control), then a non-eventful drive home (the best kind). We all agreed that we’ll do this run again next year. Meanwhile, things we’ve learned:
- Never pass up a chance to fill a rover tank with gas before hitting the trails. Worrying about range when you’re on the top of a mountain is nerve-wracking.
- A small trolley jack left at home doesn’t help the scissors jack you have with you when changing a tire on sketchy ground.
- Dogs that CAN reach the happy hour snacks WILL reach the happy hour snacks.
- A cold drinks tastes extra good after a day in the dirt.
- Climbing abandoned fire lookouts is a great way to get a 360 degree view and also get an adrenaline rush from the creaky, flexible, rusty grating up top.
- The full moon shining in your windows makes you wish you had purchased those shades you were looking at online.
- Mia, Walter and Enzo enjoyed the trail smells…(now guess which name goes with which dog!)
- Time spent around camp with friends is the best way to spend an evening.
Who says Southern California doesn’t have water crossings (OK a muddy water pit…but still)
🏔**LRCSD Trail Leader is a volunteer position. We have leaders with a ride range of trail experience – you do NOT need to have competed in a Camel Trophy or be able to navigate narrow trails blindfolded. Interested in becoming a trail leader? Or maybe you’d like to hear more about what would entail, please Email The Board or inquire at the next club meeting!
