Southern California Club Xterra

Southern California Club Xterra => SCCX Xcursions => Topic started by: Ghost65 on February 02, 2017, 10:16:51 AM

Title: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: Ghost65 on February 02, 2017, 10:16:51 AM
Back on topic...

A few thoughts on planning CANVAZ 2018:

~ I have enjoyed involvement in these events in the past, *but* I no longer own a Nissan and feel it is inappropriate to take the lead on something as a Toyota owner.

~ With that said, I'd like to help my friends here on SCCX with basic planning and structure...ie:  location selection, trail selection, trail leader recruitment, lodging/camping selections, daily planning and timing, as well as potentially seeking out a sticker/shirt/morale patch vendor for the event that isn't an event.

~ Final thought...I'm not even sure I can make CANVAZ, because I'm seriously considering attending this  Rocktober Therapy  (https://forum.ih8mud.com/threads/rocktober-therapy-2017.966430/) in '17 and '18.

Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: Ghost65 on February 02, 2017, 10:20:10 AM
So, putting this out there...lets brainstorm and see if its worth the undertaking/planning/time to make CANVAZ '18 a non-event event worth bringing firewood to.  ;)
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: Jayrat on February 02, 2017, 10:56:20 AM
I am willing to help Co-plan
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: Ghost65 on February 02, 2017, 11:18:35 AM
I am willing to help Co-plan

Perfect Jay, thanks.

Anyone else interested?

Depending on the location, and number of days for CANVAZ, we may need up to 4/6 trail leaders?

In the past, CANVAZ has been scheduled over a 4 day weekend, with trail days on Friday, Saturday, and sometimes a Sunday morning quick trail. 

This is completely open for discussion.

IMO - trail leaders with actual trail experience for their selected trail are the critical component of any event.  This makes for a smooth trail run, and ensures that all of the participants expectations are met.

Pre-running the trail a couple of times before CANVAZ, knowing the timing, obstacles, view points, lunch spot(s), fuel requirements, any cool history along the trail...all things to consider as a volunteer trail leader.
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: JFanaselle on February 02, 2017, 12:29:51 PM
Last time, it was done on Columbus Day Weekend since some folks have an extra day off. The holiday this year is October 9th, so the 4 day weekend would end up being Friday October 6th through Monday October 9th. We should think about locking in those dates if we want to start some serious planning.

With that in mind, it would also be helpful to start talking about WHERE we will hold the event, as different folks have experience on trails in different regions. I'd be hesitant to volunteer myself as a trail leader now only to discover later that we're going to hold the event somewhere that I haven't been wheeling before.
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: Ghost65 on February 02, 2017, 12:50:15 PM
Last time, it was done on Columbus Day Weekend since some folks have an extra day off. The holiday this year is October 9th, so the 4 day weekend would end up being Friday October 6th through Monday October 9th. We should think about locking in those dates if we want to start some serious planning.

With that in mind, it would also be helpful to start talking about WHERE we will hold the event, as different folks have experience on trails in different regions. I'd be hesitant to volunteer myself as a trail leader now only to discover later that we're going to hold the event somewhere that I haven't been wheeling before.

Good points all Joe.  Keep in mind this is planning for 2018, so we have a full year and a half to set things up.  With a group effort, and volunteers, this should prevent any event "burn-out" as well as having several folks involved, so if at the last minute someone has to bow out, another can pick up the pieces and continue on for the events sake. 

And since you offered, I'll make the suggestion of Anza Borrego for a hosting location.

AB is a great location as its local, which makes pre-running trails a snap...literally a day trip if necessary.

There is everything there trail wise...from green trails (Arroyo Salada Trail, Truckhaven, etc.) to wild trails (Truckhaven again, and the Superstition Mountain Area).

Lodging is available in Borrego Springs, and there are plenty of campgrounds/dispersed camping as well.

The other suggestion is Big Bear, where we hosted CANVAZ in 2012.  A great location for all the above reasons, buuuut, a little harder to get to for trail pre-runs.

Open forum, lets hear some more... :) :)

Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: CAWoody on February 02, 2017, 12:53:33 PM
I'm willing to help plan.  I don't know much about Anza Borrego, is there enough diversity in the trails?
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: JFanaselle on February 02, 2017, 01:10:40 PM
Derp... the date I listed was for Columbus Day 2017.  :o Columbus Day 2018 is actually the 8th, so we'd in theory be looking at the 10/5/18 - 10/8/18 if we want to utilize the long weekend.

Like CAWoody, I don't have any experience wheeling around AB, but that doesn't mean I can't get any experience over the next 18 months. :)  Just keep in mind Ghost that it's only local to the SD folks - anyone coming from the OC or IE is likely closer to Big Bear. That being said, I like the idea of shaking up the location a little from the usual Big Bear locale... plus, they do Oktoberfest up in BB all month long, which makes the campgrounds and restaurants crowded as all heck.
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: Ghost65 on February 02, 2017, 01:36:53 PM
Derp... the date I listed was for Columbus Day 2017.  :o Columbus Day 2018 is actually the 8th, so we'd in theory be looking at the 10/5/18 - 10/8/18 if we want to utilize the long weekend.

Like CAWoody, I don't have any experience wheeling around AB, but that doesn't mean I can't get any experience over the next 18 months. :)  Just keep in mind Ghost that it's only local to the SD folks - anyone coming from the OC or IE is likely closer to Big Bear. That being said, I like the idea of shaking up the location a little from the usual Big Bear locale... plus, they do Oktoberfest up in BB all month long, which makes the campgrounds and restaurants crowded as all heck.

Hmmmm.....very true.  Apologizes...AB is local to us SD guys...BB is more local to the OC/LA/IE group. 

We all seem to have more experience in the BB area, as far as trails and the like.  The suggestion of AB was to try for a desert locale, and camping in the mountains in October can be chilly...and the desert for that matter.

Trail choice and location has a factor on who trail leads as well...one of the reasons we had issues getting advanced/black trail support was, not a lot of SAS/fully locked guys showed an interest in the event from the get go.  Also keep in mind, a lot of the big rock crawler crew supported the Nissan West Coast Meet this past year that Steven Lutz organized in the Lucerne Valley/KOH area over the same dates as CANVAZ....

Again, just throwing things out to see where they stick...maybe we could get Terry, Tom, Toro, or Celt to lead a couple of black trails through either Big Bear (John Bull, Dishpan Springs) or in Anza Borrego around the Truckhaven area/Pinyon Mountain Trail/Heart Attack Hill/Diablo Drop Off Trails??
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: Sage Bromax on February 02, 2017, 02:09:50 PM
I have a bunch of trail experience in AB and would be happy to lead trips and help plan.  Also, if we camp outside the park itself, we can avoid Park restrictions.
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: Ghost65 on February 02, 2017, 06:16:53 PM
I have a bunch of trail experience in AB and would be happy to lead trips and help plan.  Also, if we camp outside the park itself, we can avoid Park restrictions.

Excellent Tony...either AB or BB, both will work.
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: Jayrat on February 02, 2017, 06:31:09 PM
Not trail leader in BB ,but I can help with other Stuff .
If in AB I could lead a Pink Run ??? LOL
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: RBduffer on February 02, 2017, 09:13:43 PM
I like the AB idea to mix it up a little, and it was great weather last October :D

I would be happy to lead a trail or three whether I know them or not >:D

I'm not much on pre-planing but when the time comes, I will be there for the team.

Thanks for "not" taking point on this John ;)
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: Celt on February 03, 2017, 12:40:04 AM
I would be glad to jump in for anything in Anza Borrego. The squeeze and heart attack hill are some of my favorites (Pinyon Mountain). Big Bear, John Bull is always fun no matter what. Anything else in Anza Borrego is super easy for me as I'm always lurking around down there. Anza Borrego can really be nice because guys don't have to have a lot of modifications and the trails can be easily changed around a bit to accommodate. Salton City is close enough for food/fuel and guys coming in from AZ and NV. Visitors from out of state or county should really love Calcite Mine for the views and the Pumpkin Patch with the surrounding mud hills just because it's really cool. Fish Creek is not to be missed for the visitors. Lots and lots of places to set up camp out of the way that holds a large group and not be bothered by drunks playing dueling mariachi/rap music until 0400. Let me know what I can do in the planning phase or leading a trail or two.
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: Ghost65 on February 03, 2017, 09:00:55 AM
Not trail leader in BB ,but I can help with other Stuff .
If in AB I could lead a Pink Run ??? LOL

Don't sell yourself short...didn't you recently take a group out on The Bradshaw Trail?

No worries if your not interested in trail leading...this whole discussion is exploratory anywhoo  ;)
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: Ghost65 on February 03, 2017, 09:01:40 AM
I like the AB idea to mix it up a little, and it was great weather last October :D

I would be happy to lead a trail or three whether I know them or not >:D

I'm not much on pre-planing but when the time comes, I will be there for the team.

Thanks for "not" taking point on this John ;)

Cool Randy, and thanks for chiming in.
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: Ghost65 on February 03, 2017, 09:02:41 AM
I would be glad to jump in for anything in Anza Borrego. The squeeze and heart attack hill are some of my favorites (Pinyon Mountain). Big Bear, John Bull is always fun no matter what. Anything else in Anza Borrego is super easy for me as I'm always lurking around down there. Anza Borrego can really be nice because guys don't have to have a lot of modifications and the trails can be easily changed around a bit to accommodate. Salton City is close enough for food/fuel and guys coming in from AZ and NV. Visitors from out of state or county should really love Calcite Mine for the views and the Pumpkin Patch with the surrounding mud hills just because it's really cool. Fish Creek is not to be missed for the visitors. Lots and lots of places to set up camp out of the way that holds a large group and not be bothered by drunks playing dueling mariachi/rap music until 0400. Let me know what I can do in the planning phase or leading a trail or two.

I figured AB would be your first choice Erik...lets see who else has a preference, but I like all of your ideas...thanks for posting up.  :)
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: Sage Bromax on February 03, 2017, 11:33:04 PM
Any of the runs I am on I will be happy to add geologic interpretation.  There is some pretty cool stuff out there.  Any of you been to the cold gas wells?  They are in a remote area on top of some hills out closer to the Salton Sea.  Depending on where we camp, there are also the geothermal mud pots out by the southeastern side of the Salton Sea. 
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: Celt on February 04, 2017, 11:21:44 AM
A geologic run would be a heck of a lot of fun. My Dad does guided trips down there for ABNA all through the year so I'm sure he would participate and give some historical input and take people to native encampments etc. There are still remnants of places where Patton trained the troops prior to the N. African campaign so that alone with the historical value is pretty darn cool. With enough forethought and planning I think Anza Borrego could be a really great place to go and folks attending could leave with a lot more appreciation of what has happened there through time while getting in some real quality wheeling.
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: RBduffer on February 04, 2017, 12:17:37 PM
Tony and Eric, I for one would really like that.  And I'm sure everyone else would too.  This is shaping up Quickly!
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: Sage Bromax on February 04, 2017, 09:55:55 PM
I'll try to remember to bring some reference books and maps next weekend.  We can start planning this out.  Of course, we will have to do a recon next fall and the following spring to verify our site and routes.   8)
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: ultrapc40 on February 04, 2017, 10:09:51 PM
Explore Death Valley will be fun. There is so much to do there.
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: Celt on February 05, 2017, 08:59:18 AM
I'll try to remember to bring some reference books and maps next weekend.  We can start planning this out.  Of course, we will have to do a recon next fall and the following spring to verify our site and routes.   8)

  Recon, ahem, yes, yes that's exactly what we need to do and how I can sell getting out of the house. Perfect idea there!
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: Ghost65 on February 05, 2017, 10:43:10 AM
Not sure if you guys follow Roger Mullins of Just Runs...but they have a new term there, which I like and is in reference to your last few posts...it's called "scouting."

So, if there are neckerchiefs and smokey the bear hats...I'm all in.  :D

 [ You are not allowed to view attachments ]
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: Celt on February 05, 2017, 02:15:27 PM
Not sure if you guys follow Roger Mullins of Just Runs...but they have a new term there, which I like and is in reference to your last few posts...it's called "scouting."

So, if there are neckerchiefs and smokey the bear hats...I'm all in.  :D

 [ You are not allowed to view attachments ]


  I dunno bout any neckerchiefs but someone might wear a Batman cape and a fez in place, does that work?
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: Ghost65 on February 07, 2017, 04:03:32 PM
Capes and fez' yes...no mosquito netting or name tags.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: RikRong on February 10, 2017, 02:50:43 PM
I personally don't know any of the mentioned areas all that well.  However, should you all start doing pre-runs, I'd be more than happy to tag along, learn the trails, and maybe assist as tail on some of the runs.  I also don't mind helping out with anything else, should you all need it. 
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: Celt on February 12, 2017, 12:50:32 PM
I personally don't know any of the mentioned areas all that well.  However, should you all start doing pre-runs, I'd be more than happy to tag along, learn the trails, and maybe assist as tail on some of the runs.  I also don't mind helping out with anything else, should you all need it. 

 Weeeellllllllllllll, funny you should mention that. I'm back to Mo-Tu-Wed off for the next few months, The Duffman and I are already planning some more mid-week desert shenanagens should you wish to attend.
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: Jayrat on January 04, 2018, 10:32:11 AM
Just Bringing this thread back to life.
2018 is our turn
October will be here before we know it.

We need Organizers ( I volunteer )

Location?

Dates?


Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: xxSVxx on January 04, 2018, 02:38:43 PM
Just Bringing this thread back to life.
2018 is our turn
October will be here before we know it.

We need Organizers ( I volunteer )

Location?

Dates?



Count me in to help organize as well
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: Jayrat on January 04, 2018, 07:12:50 PM
So looking back,
 Joe suggested 10/5 -10/8 ?? can we set those dates in Stone??

If we are doing AB there is a lot of options for camping and trails

Apple Valley Campground has toilets , no water , close to a lot of trails and FREE
Vallecito Regional Park
Agua Caliente
or BLM Free  & no nothing

Just throwing out some Ideas
not trying to take over >:(
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: Sage Bromax on January 04, 2018, 10:58:30 PM
There are several campgrounds by the Colorado River that have facilities.  We should anticipate a large crowd.  I will be at one north of Blythe at the beginning of March and will be able to give a review.  I am happy to help coordinate, lead trips, etc.
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: JeffBett on January 05, 2018, 07:51:42 AM
Does anyone know the typical number of rigs that show up and possibly the percentages from each CA/NV/AZ.  The numbers makes a difference as to they type of runs done.  I have not been to one of these yet so I don't know if the group is split up into multiple runs rotating each day so there are not 35 trucks all on one run taking 10 hours to go 5 miles.
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: RikRong on January 05, 2018, 08:38:58 AM
Does anyone know the typical number of rigs that show up and possibly the percentages from each CA/NV/AZ.  The numbers makes a difference as to they type of runs done.  I have not been to one of these yet so I don't know if the group is split up into multiple runs rotating each day so there are not 35 trucks all on one run taking 10 hours to go 5 miles.
CANVAZ this year had one blue-ish run (I'll get into that more, later) on Friday, three different rated runs on Saturday, and one or two on Sunday. 

This was the list from this year, so there are quite a few trucks usually.  We'll definitely need to get different levels of trails planned.

Arizona Attending:
pinchel (Rob)
PitSnipe (Kyle)
Pax (Eric)
Clifford
m.sainz12
XterrasNameIsMolly (Justin)
Grey Spider
Azfronty99 (100% sure)
hawairish (Patrick)
14frontier
AZGeorge

California Attending
CAWoody  (overwhelming HELL YA I'M IN)
Robert B.
JFanaselle
RikRong
Sage Bromax
VetxSquared (Definite maybe)
Edwin562 +2
RBduffer

Nevada Attending
Rogue Overland (5 Rigs)

Utah Attending
DaveN
GDPearson

Colorado Attending
unixmandt

We also need to make sure we pre-run each trail and know exactly where it's going and what the trail is like. 
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: Jayrat on January 05, 2018, 08:41:07 AM
Does anyone know the typical number of rigs that show up and possibly the percentages from each CA/NV/AZ.  The numbers makes a difference as to they type of runs done.  I have not been to one of these yet so I don't know if the group is split up into multiple runs rotating each day so there are not 35 trucks all on one run taking 10 hours to go 5 miles.
This was 2015 , post #2
http://www.sccxterra.com/smf/index.php?topic=3311.0
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: CAWoody on January 05, 2018, 10:20:19 AM
Many if the comments we got at the last CANVAZ was to pick somewhere that wasn't too heavy on the desert experience since the NV and AZ guys live in it.  Maybe there's something in the San Diego Mountains that could be a change from the typical Big Bear trails.  Hungry Valley has some back country trails but most are easy rated, but that may be too far for the AZ guys to come.
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: Jayrat on January 05, 2018, 11:00:03 AM
Many if the comments we got at the last CANVAZ was to pick somewhere that wasn't too heavy on the desert experience since the NV and AZ guys live in it.  Maybe there's something in the San Diego Mountains that could be a change from the typical Big Bear trails.  Hungry Valley has some back country trails but most are easy rated, but that may be too far for the AZ guys to come.
Then we should stick with Hanna Flats Big Bear or similar
no real forrest off roading down here
lots of non-desert wheeling up there
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: JeffBett on January 05, 2018, 11:09:06 AM
Most the mountain trail in SD County are ruined by locked gates so the alien smugglers can't use them to bypass border patrol.
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: JeffBett on January 05, 2018, 11:30:46 AM
I assume you are only interestd in doing it in So Cal. but there is a lot of great stuff around Bishop and Mammoth and at the time of year the fall colors are fantastic.  I did a trip that weekend in 2017 and had a great time. 
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: xxSVxx on January 05, 2018, 11:35:09 AM
I assume you are only interestd in doing it in So Cal. but there is a lot of great stuff around Bishop and Mammoth and at the time of year the fall colors are fantastic.  I did a trip that weekend in 2017 and had a great time.

Pre running comes to mind as an issue with holding it here, but other than that....I'd love to try it up there.  I attended the CANVAZ in 12 when it was held in Big Bear, and we had an awesome time, but I think we could totally benefit by broadening our horizons a little too....just my .02
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: Ghost65 on January 05, 2018, 04:02:26 PM
Trying to zero in on a location that has the most breadth of trail experience for the group of hosts should be a critical focus. 

Having experienced trail leaders for your chosen trail selections will free up other paths of resistance to organziation/coordination/communication to the masses.

9 months away...location should be nailed down soon... ;)
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: Celt on January 05, 2018, 04:43:51 PM
"9 months away...location should be nailed down soon"


  Instead of a bunch of different runs Cerro Gordo unless Sage Bromax is already in the planning phase for a 2.0 of that run?

If we go to Big Bear I'd be glad to lead a John Bull/Gold Mountain kinda deal.

If we go to Anza Borrego I'll be your Huckleberry for Pinyon Mountain.
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: JFanaselle on January 05, 2018, 10:46:22 PM
1) count me in for helping with the planning, and for potentially leading a trail run or two
2) With the concerns around making sure we have plenty of qualified trail leaders who have run these trails before, we are really narrowing our choices down to Big Bear or the Anza Borrego / Ocotillo Wells area. Either one is fine with me. I live almost exactly halfway between the two locations, so "scouting" will not be an issue for me.

Between the two, it's a tough choice. I know we want to "wow" our guests with a cool area, but in 2012, I seem to remember only having a few out of state folks in attendance. To answer JeffBett's question about the ratio of who comes, it really seems to be about 90%-95% locals to the state, and 5% to 10% guests of varying skill levels and rig capabilities. I only remember meeting two people from AZ on the 2012 trip, and one was bone stock and the other was highly modified. It always seems like folks from the other states are really excited about attending, and then fall out toward the actual dates (that includes us CA folks traveling to AZ or NV, too).

I kind of like the idea of AB/Ocotillo, because we can establish a big community campsite and those who are "less social" can hang out on the outskirts. If I've learned anything from my favorite trips with this group, it's that the food and fun in camp is what makes the trip. This is where we can really shine, because we do that stuff really good. A big community breakfast or a pot-luck style dinner is easier achieved in a big desert setting than it would be in a mountain established campground. If we do Big Bear and camp somewhere like Hanna Flats, we end up in designated campsites and have to wander around to be together. It tends to lead to little cliques hanging out together instead of one big fun group. Plus, depending on who our neighbors end up being, we can get a little too loud for them. Those guys from the other states do see a lot of the desert, but they also like to wheel in the desert. AB/Ocotillo is some world-class desert, with plenty to see and do. I think the area is capable of keeping even the most desert-savvy folks nicely entertained for a few days.

So I'll make my vote official: I suggest camping just outside of Anza Borrego Park, the weekend of 10/5, 10/6, 10/7 and 10/8. We could do a big group camp Friday and Saturday nights, with an optional Sunday run and even an optional Sunday night camp if anyone wants to stay the 3rd night (I'd think most people will probably go home on Sunday).

I'd also like to suggest a pot-luck style dinner on Saturday night, where everyone just makes a signature dish/item and ensures they have enough to feed themselves/their crew, along with a few more. Not everyone needs to make enough food for the entire group, but if everyone makes a little more than they need, there will be PLENTY of food and we'll all get to try something new and see cool ideas/recipes from other people. I'd be happy to take the lead on planning/coordinating the pot-luck if you guys want.
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: Jayrat on January 06, 2018, 12:24:00 AM
1) count me in for helping with the planning, and for potentially leading a trail run or two
2) With the concerns around making sure we have plenty of qualified trail leaders who have run these trails before, we are really narrowing our choices down to Big Bear or the Anza Borrego / Ocotillo Wells area. Either one is fine with me. I live almost exactly halfway between the two locations, so "scouting" will not be an issue for me.

Between the two, it's a tough choice. I know we want to "wow" our guests with a cool area, but in 2012, I seem to remember only having a few out of state folks in attendance. To answer JeffBett's question about the ratio of who comes, it really seems to be about 90%-95% locals to the state, and 5% to 10% guests of varying skill levels and rig capabilities. I only remember meeting two people from AZ on the 2012 trip, and one was bone stock and the other was highly modified. It always seems like folks from the other states are really excited about attending, and then fall out toward the actual dates (that includes us CA folks traveling to AZ or NV, too).

I kind of like the idea of AB/Ocotillo, because we can establish a big community campsite and those who are "less social" can hang out on the outskirts. If I've learned anything from my favorite trips with this group, it's that the food and fun in camp is what makes the trip. This is where we can really shine, because we do that stuff really good. A big community breakfast or a pot-luck style dinner is easier achieved in a big desert setting than it would be in a mountain established campground. If we do Big Bear and camp somewhere like Hanna Flats, we end up in designated campsites and have to wander around to be together. It tends to lead to little cliques hanging out together instead of one big fun group. Plus, depending on who our neighbors end up being, we can get a little too loud for them. Those guys from the other states do see a lot of the desert, but they also like to wheel in the desert. AB/Ocotillo is some world-class desert, with plenty to see and do. I think the area is capable of keeping even the most desert-savvy folks nicely entertained for a few days.

So I'll make my vote official: I suggest camping just outside of Anza Borrego Park, the weekend of 10/5, 10/6, 10/7 and 10/8. We could do a big group camp Friday and Saturday nights, with an optional Sunday run and even an optional Sunday night camp if anyone wants to stay the 3rd night (I'd think most people will probably go home on Sunday).

I'd also like to suggest a pot-luck style dinner on Saturday night, where everyone just makes a signature dish/item and ensures they have enough to feed themselves/their crew, along with a few more. Not everyone needs to make enough food for the entire group, but if everyone makes a little more than they need, there will be PLENTY of food and we'll all get to try something new and see cool ideas/recipes from other people. I'd be happy to take the lead on planning/coordinating the pot-luck if you guys want.

^^^^^
ROCK "N" ROLL
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: Ghost65 on January 06, 2018, 10:31:13 AM
1) count me in for helping with the planning, and for potentially leading a trail run or two
2) With the concerns around making sure we have plenty of qualified trail leaders who have run these trails before, we are really narrowing our choices down to Big Bear or the Anza Borrego / Ocotillo Wells area. Either one is fine with me. I live almost exactly halfway between the two locations, so "scouting" will not be an issue for me.

Between the two, it's a tough choice. I know we want to "wow" our guests with a cool area, but in 2012, I seem to remember only having a few out of state folks in attendance. To answer JeffBett's question about the ratio of who comes, it really seems to be about 90%-95% locals to the state, and 5% to 10% guests of varying skill levels and rig capabilities. I only remember meeting two people from AZ on the 2012 trip, and one was bone stock and the other was highly modified. It always seems like folks from the other states are really excited about attending, and then fall out toward the actual dates (that includes us CA folks traveling to AZ or NV, too).

I kind of like the idea of AB/Ocotillo, because we can establish a big community campsite and those who are "less social" can hang out on the outskirts. If I've learned anything from my favorite trips with this group, it's that the food and fun in camp is what makes the trip. This is where we can really shine, because we do that stuff really good. A big community breakfast or a pot-luck style dinner is easier achieved in a big desert setting than it would be in a mountain established campground. If we do Big Bear and camp somewhere like Hanna Flats, we end up in designated campsites and have to wander around to be together. It tends to lead to little cliques hanging out together instead of one big fun group. Plus, depending on who our neighbors end up being, we can get a little too loud for them. Those guys from the other states do see a lot of the desert, but they also like to wheel in the desert. AB/Ocotillo is some world-class desert, with plenty to see and do. I think the area is capable of keeping even the most desert-savvy folks nicely entertained for a few days.

So I'll make my vote official: I suggest camping just outside of Anza Borrego Park, the weekend of 10/5, 10/6, 10/7 and 10/8. We could do a big group camp Friday and Saturday nights, with an optional Sunday run and even an optional Sunday night camp if anyone wants to stay the 3rd night (I'd think most people will probably go home on Sunday).

I'd also like to suggest a pot-luck style dinner on Saturday night, where everyone just makes a signature dish/item and ensures they have enough to feed themselves/their crew, along with a few more. Not everyone needs to make enough food for the entire group, but if everyone makes a little more than they need, there will be PLENTY of food and we'll all get to try something new and see cool ideas/recipes from other people. I'd be happy to take the lead on planning/coordinating the pot-luck if you guys want.

^^^^^^^^^^
ROCK N ROLL X2!!



Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: RBduffer on January 06, 2018, 11:53:30 AM
I suck at planning.  But I will be happy to lead a trail, pre-run, bring wood, sing and dance, and drink.  You can count on me.
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: knightrider on January 09, 2018, 09:59:44 AM
I guess lets do a vote. 

Anza has alot of great trails but desert.
Big Bear also has great trails but has been a few times.
Other locations would need a variety of trails from green to black, and pre runs of trails to make sure they are suitable.
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: Ghost65 on January 15, 2018, 09:34:56 AM
I guess lets do a vote. 

Anza has alot of great trails but desert.
Big Bear also has great trails but has been a few times.
Other locations would need a variety of trails from green to black, and pre runs of trails to make sure they are suitable.

Anza Borrego FTW.

Sorry, I've been trying to not plan this planned trip, but the "I just want to help a group of friends" gene constantly foils my plan of not planning/posting.

Sooooo...with that said, and after reading this thread through several times, I'd like to offer these thoughts, please feel free to C&P (cut & paste) as necessary:

What:  CANVAZ 2018

When:  Friday October 5th, Saturday October 6th, Sunday October 7th, and optional day Monday October 8th

Where:  Anza Borrego/Truckhaven/Ocotillo Wells SVRA...specific camps spots TBD (to be disucssed)

Who:

SCCX Crew who have volunteered to Trail Lead/Assist with Pre-Run:

Celt
Jayrat
RikRong
JFanaselle
RBDuffer
Sage Bromax



SCCX Crew who have volunteered to Organize/Food Plan:

CAWoody
Jayrat
JFanaselle
xxSVxx


If I missed anyone, please post up the specs and I'll add you before we start an official "CANVAZ 2018 Thread" here on SCCX. 

To keep this simple, so you all are monitoring ONE thread, don't cross post a new CANVAZ thread to other forums. 

A link might be cool, to this thread specifically, but I would keep that to the AZXC forum. 

Since there is no Nevada specific forum, maybe just hitting one of the Rogue Overland folks with a PM here linking them to the thread here could help to spread the Silver State word.

Thoughts???

Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: Ghost65 on January 15, 2018, 09:46:06 AM
Suggested Green Runs:

Sandstone Canyon/Mud Caves

Sheep Canyon

Blair Valley/Pictographs/Marshall South Cabin

Old Borrego Springs Road from S-22 to Highway 78 overland route

Old Kane Springs Rd. from Highway 86 to Split Mountain Rd.

Metal Sculptures scattered throughout Borrego Springs, Galleta Meadows

Suggested Blue Runs:

Calcite Mine/Truckhaven Trail

El Diablo Drop Off/Canyon Sin Nombre/Sandstone Canyon Combo

Oriflamme/Rodriguez Canyon

Suggested Black/Dark Blue Runs (depending on which rigs show):

Pinyon Mountain/The Squeeze/Heartbreak Hill

Truckhaven Hills/Phone Booth/Fire Hydrant locations

Superstition Mountain/Sand Dam Area
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: RBduffer on January 15, 2018, 10:24:04 AM
Seeee!  I told you guys that if we acted stupid enough, for long enough, that JT3 would not be able to control his 'control gene'.

Leaders ARE born, not made.  It is your blessing and your curse, the universe is calling to you John.  And we are thankful for your answer :-*
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: Ghost65 on January 15, 2018, 11:38:54 AM
Seeee!  I told you guys that if we acted stupid enough, for long enough, that JT3 would not be able to control his 'control gene'.

Leaders ARE born, not made.  It is your blessing and your curse, the universe is calling to you John.  And we are thankful for your answer :-*

Lol...I prefer to term it "help gene".  :D

Now Joe, Jay, et al, take the info and run with it.
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: Jayrat on January 15, 2018, 08:01:18 PM
Lol...I prefer to term it "help gene".  :D

Now Joe, Jay, et al, take the info and run with it.
I volunteer to lead the Canyon Sin Nombre/ Diablo Run??
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: RikRong on January 15, 2018, 09:45:45 PM
I don't feel like I have enough experience in this area to lead anything. However, I'm more than happy to help scout trails and maybe get a little experience to help the trail leads.

Sent from my XT1635-01 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: xxSVxx on January 16, 2018, 02:34:38 PM
I've only been to AB a handful of times and couldn't tell you where anything really is, so I'm thinking support is more suited to my role for this....but I'm open to helping wherever it's needed
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: Celt on January 16, 2018, 08:47:10 PM
 I'd be glad to lead any run out there. Pinyon Mtn. is by far my most favorite but there will no doubt be some carnage through the squeeze as long as people understand they may be the "victim". I would like to lead one long trail maybe something like the Tectonic wash into crossover/military trail and into fish creek. If I end up leading Pinyon Mtn. we will run that same general way anyway only in reverse. I would also volunteer for a Calcite Mine run which can get just about anyone going up there.

I have several campsites in mind but N. Palm Wash comes to mind as the best. It's flat for you roof top tent glampers, very close to gas that's not overly expensive, supplies etc. It's secluded from all the bro's and the mariachi music permeating through the air well into 0400 and no ATV/Dirtbike etc traffic is allowed. You can have a fire/fires and is close to many of all those trails everyone is talking about doing. Were out of SD County and the Imperial Co. rangers seem to be much more friendly although I've never seen one in that area. The guys coming from AZ and NV can easily get in with basic directions and it's probably a lot closer than other options.

My concern with the camping is we will need to have at least one person in camp through the day while everyone is out on the trails. Just too much stuff available for a five finger discount if a large camp is left unattended. I'm probably out for the group meal planning as I've found it's just too much work to try and feed an Army before and after trail runs so I'm just going to be that hermit guy who is eating Mountain House freeze dried food or MRE's. Our big chow lines produce some fine meals and are fantastic but I just don't think I'll have the time or energy to contribute and still enjoy the event while leading trails and assisting where I can to make sure visitors have a good time. I can compile a great list of 2M frequencies that I've found cover the majority of the valley and I'm sure others have good info too. Keeping this simple with less to go wrong is probably a good idea and everything will work out I'm sure.
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: ultrapc40 on January 17, 2018, 08:22:15 AM
I have done calcite mine a few times, but that is a pretty short run so there will need to be something else plan for the blue group.

I can’t commit yet because I am still planning my October trip to Asia. But if I am open I will be happy to help and lead trail.
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: Celt on January 17, 2018, 09:36:44 AM
I have done calcite mine a few times, but that is a pretty short run so there will need to be something else plan for the blue group.

I can’t commit yet because I am still planning my October trip to Asia. But if I am open I will be happy to help and lead trail.

  I agree that Calcite Mine is a fairly short trip. I think incorporating it with something down into Truckhaven might work out or even a night run up there?
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: JFanaselle on January 17, 2018, 04:35:32 PM
If we did camp in the north fork of palm wash, Calcite Mine would be an easy night run. It's right there.
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: Celt on January 17, 2018, 05:48:35 PM
Just a thought out there if you guys would like me to take overall responsibility for CANVAZ I will. If you want to keep it more loosely organized that's fine too as we have some great talent here that always performs making our trips top notch.
Title: Re: CANVAZ 2018 Planning Thread
Post by: Jayrat on January 18, 2018, 12:24:11 PM
I'll keep camping up to you guys , as I don't really know camping out there.
My question is do we want to be completely off the grid like Desert Rendezvous
or have toilets and water like Mountain Rendezvous