deepcreekhotsprings.net

Re: Special Weather Statement

Rick — Sat, 25 Feb 2012 14:01:24 -0800

Quote
Tom Foolery
Does this mean a Monday trip up to the springs from the Riverside area is a bad idea?

It probably would depend on how much you like being out in the rain. ;)

Re: Special Weather Statement

Tom Foolery — Sat, 25 Feb 2012 13:32:09 -0800

Does this mean a Monday trip up to the springs from the Riverside area is a bad idea?

Special Weather Statement

Rick — Sat, 25 Feb 2012 00:42:28 -0800

SPECIAL WEATHER STATEMENT
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE SAN DIEGO CA
951 PM PST FRI FEB 24 2012

CAZ042-043-048-050-055>058-060>062-261000-
ORANGE COUNTY COASTAL AREAS-SAN DIEGO COUNTY COASTAL AREAS-
SAN BERNARDINO AND RIVERSIDE COUNTY VALLEYS-THE INLAND EMPIRE-
SAN DIEGO COUNTY VALLEYS-SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY MOUNTAINS-
RIVERSIDE COUNTY MOUNTAINS-SANTA ANA MOUNTAINS AND FOOTHILLS-
SAN DIEGO COUNTY MOUNTAINS-APPLE AND LUCERNE VALLEYS-
COACHELLA VALLEY-SAN DIEGO COUNTY DESERTS-
951 PM PST FRI FEB 24 2012

...A VERY COLD STORM WILL IMPACT SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA SUNDAY NIGHT
THROUGH MONDAY NIGHT...

A STRONG AND VERY COLD TROUGH OF LOW PRESSURE WILL DIG ACROSS CALIFORNIA
SUNDAY NIGHT THROUGH MONDAY NIGHT. THE STORM SYSTEM WILL BRING MUCH
COLDER AIR AS WELL AS LIGHT TO LOCALLY MODERATE PRECIPITATION...AND
POTENTIALLY VERY LOW SNOW LEVELS. IT WILL ALSO BRING VERY STRONG
AND GUSTY SOUTHWEST TO WEST WINDS IN THE MOUNTAINS AND DESERTS.

MOISTURE WILL BE LIMITED WITH THIS SYSTEM...SO MOST OF THE
PRECIPITATION WILL FALL OVER AND WEST OF THE MOUNTAINS. AMOUNTS
LOOK TO BE LESS THAN ONE-HALF INCH IN MOST AREAS AT THIS TIME. THE
SNOW LEVEL WILL RAPIDLY FALL TO AS LOW AS 2500 FEET OVER PORTIONS
OF SAN BERNARDINO AND RIVERSIDE COUNTIES AND 3000 FEET OVER SAN
DIEGO COUNTY MONDAY AFTERNOON AND EVENING. SNOW LEVELS MAY BE LOCALLY
LOWER WITH HEAVIER SHOWERS...WHICH MEANS THAT THE HIGHER INLAND
VALLEY MAY SEE A MIX OF RAIN OR SNOW ON MONDAY AFTERNOON OR
EVENING. TWO TO FIVE INCHES OF NEW SNOW WILL BE POSSIBLE IN THE MOUNTAINS.

THERE WILL ALSO BE STRONG AND POTENTIALLY DAMAGING GUSTY SOUTHWEST
TO WEST WINDS IN THE MOUNTAINS AND DESERTS. GUSTS UP TO 75 MPH
WILL BE POSSIBLE OVER THE WINDIER MOUNTAIN RIDGES AND DESERT
SLOPES FROM SUNDAY NIGHT THROUGH MONDAY NIGHT.

WATCH FOR LATER STATEMENTS AND POSSIBLE ADVISORIES AND WARNINGS AS
THIS STORM DEVELOPS. THE STRONG WINDS...COLD WEATHER...AND POSSIBLE
SNOW WILL POSE A HAZARD FOR ANYONE HIKING OR CAMPING IN THE
MOUNTAINS. TRAVEL THROUGH THE PASSES COULD BECOME TREACHEROUS AS
TEMPERATURES FALL BELOW FREEZING...WINDS INCREASE...AND ROADS BECOME
SLIPPERY.

AS THIS SYSTEM EXITS THE REGION MONDAY NIGHT...OVERNIGHT
TEMPERATURES MAY FALL BELOW FREEZING IN SOME OF THE COLDER AND CLEARER
VALLEY LOCATIONS.

$$

PALMER

Fire Restrictions Lowered on the San Bernardino National Forest

Rick — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 20:55:54 -0800

Fire Restrictions Lowered on the San Bernardino National Forest
Release Date: Feb 22, 2012

SAN BERNARDINO, Calif., February 22, 2012—With recent winter weather across the southland, forest officials on the San Bernardino National Forest reduced fire restrictions effective today and will resume winter burning projects.

“We will continue to monitor the weather and fuel conditions across the landscape and change restriction levels as conditions warrant,” said Fire Prevention Officer Randy Unkovich. “We always encourage the public to be vigilant and know the current restrictions when on the national forest lands,” Unkovich added.

Under the reduced fire restrictions, visitors may have wood and charcoal fires in agency-provided campfire rings at campgrounds, picnic areas and yellow post sites. Recreational target shooting is permitted within designated sites in the Big Bear area and permitted areas on the San Jacinto Ranger District.

Current fire restriction and guidelines in effect on the San Bernardino National Forest are as follows:

Wood and charcoal campfires are allowed only in developed campgrounds, picnic areas and Yellow Post campsites within agency-provided fire rings or designated stoves.
Campfire permits are required for propane and gas stoves and lanterns used outside of developed recreation sites.
Recreational shooting is limited to designated sites and public shooting ranges operated under special use permit only, except those engaged in legal hunting.
The 1N09 Recreational Shooting area remains closed.
An approved spark arrester is required for any internal combustion engine operated on designated forest routes. These include chainsaws, generators, motorcycles, and off-highway vehicles.
Smoking is limited to enclosed vehicles, developed recreation sites and areas cleared of vegetation, three feet in diameter.
Fireworks are always prohibited on the San Bernardino National Forest. Tracer, armor piercing, steel core, and Teflon ammunitions are also prohibited, as is discharging a firearm at any exploding target.

Winter burning projects also will resume as part of a continuing effort to reduce the threat of catastrophic wildfire and improve forest health, the San Bernardino National Forest has started this season’s prescribed burning program. The prescribed fire program will continue through the winter months as weather and conditions permit.

The ignition of all prescribed burns is dependent on the availability of personnel and equipment, appropriate conditions, and in coordination with the National Weather Service and South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) before and during prescribed burns in order to manage smoke production and minimize impacts as much as possible.

Fire managers follow a burn plan that outlines the “prescription” or environmental conditions such as temperature, wind, fuel moisture, ventilation, and relative humidity that need to be present before the project begins. When the criteria are met, crews implement, monitor, and patrol each burn to ensure it meets the goals and objectives outlined by managers.

We appreciate the public’s tolerance of some smoke impacts in order to achieve the San Bernardino National Forest’s fire prevention and resource management goals, and the public can call our local offices to find out where we are burning at the following numbers:

Big Bear Ranger Station & Discovery Center 909-382-2790
Lytle Creek Ranger Station 909-382-2851
Idyllwild Ranger Station 909-382-2922
Mill Creek Work Center 909-382-2882
Santa Rosa & San Jacinto Mountains National Monument 760-862-9984

For additional information about the San Bernardino National Forest, please visit: http://www.fs.usda.gov/sbnf

About the U.S. Forest Service, San Bernardino National Forest

The San Bernardino National Forest is comprised of three Ranger Districts spanning 676,666 acres in San Bernardino and Riverside counties. From the desert floor to the pristine mountain peaks, the San Bernardino National Forest offers natural environments, spectacular scenery, developed campgrounds and picnic areas, numerous recreational opportunities, and the solitude of quiet wilderness and open space for the over 24 million residents of Southern California and those visiting the area. The forest environment also provides habitat for numerous plants and animals and is crucial in sustaining drinking water, air, and soil quality.

Re: Headed Out this Weekend

Splif — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 16:07:35 -0800

IbCalrr, Beautiful response! Yes, i've told everyone "thee rules" as they were passed down to me before the trip! We will be traveling from Rialto/Fontana and hope to reach the ranch by 10-11am .. Was

just worried about low clearance in a car. Great to hear the water crossing isnt THAT bad and the pools are fully functional! Will be sure to come back and post our travel experiences! Thanks again. Hope

to see you some of you this weekend!

-splif

Re: Headed Out this Weekend

lbcalrr — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 15:43:44 -0800

Splif, I was at the springs on Friday 2/10, the weather this coming weekend looks like it should be similar to when I was there on the 10th. It might be a little cool and breezy at the beginning of your hike down to the springs but once you drop down into the canyons the wind goes away and if the sun is out you stay nice and warm. I free hiked to and from the springs and did not have any issues feeling cold. I came in from the Bowen Ranch parking lot. If you are bringing in a bunch of people and are going to use the Bowen Ranch parking area remember the entry fee is $5.00 per person, not $5.00 per car. The gate keeper will track you down if you do not pay the correct entry fee. I drove to the parking area in a very low sitting sedan and never scraped the bottom of my car, just take your time and pick a good line. Crossing the creek was not an issue at all, the water only came up to my knees, it was a little nippy but nothing compared to when the water is up to your waist level. None of the pools had any leaks and were full of nice hot water to soak in. There are not as many people at the springs during this time of year compared to when you go in the summer.

Hope you can make the journey this weekend and send out a trip report to let us know how it went.

Re: Headed Out this Weekend

Rick — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 15:33:42 -0800

Quote
Splif
... all these view and no responses..

Give it some time.

Re: Headed Out this Weekend

Splif — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 15:15:11 -0800

... all these view and no responses.. thanks guys.. really just wanted to see if it was suitable to go this weekend. Considering, it is winter and my vist was in August.

Headed Out this Weekend

Splif — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 14:22:58 -0800

Bringing a group of friends; first timers who've I been telling about this Hot Spring for some time now. Joining this forum today; I was wondering has anyone been recently? and want to give advice on weather and road conditions. Simply want to make this trip/hike epic and rememerable for everyone.

Re: No more adventure pass

jobe — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 10:09:44 -0800

This is the best news I have heard in a long time !
No more adventure pass means to me ---
1) No more double taxation. Forbidden by our constitution.
2) No more government over reaching and abusing our rights, less likely anyway.
3) Less hassles in attempting to reconnect with nature.
4) Less time hopping around in Kangaroo courts.
5) Less litter in the forest created by forest adventure passes blowing in the wind.
6) fewer reasons to blame our government for abuse while soaking at D.C.H.S.
7) fewer attacks by police screaming "Do you have any weapons or drugs." A preposterous proposition ! There is no reason to scream while standing 5 feet from me.
When this program started they promised better kept forest. I have only seen more decay, graffiti, trash and bigger guns by the police state.
We have grown used to lies by the tax collector police. In fact, when I see their mouths move I see more lies. Forbidden by my religion.
I wish it were illegal to lie so they could just lock themselves up.
Thanks for the good news Katrina :~)

Re: No more adventure pass

Rick — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 14:28:18 -0800

Will the people that were objecting to the Adventure Pass now campaign to have Congress properly fund the national forests?

No more adventure pass

katrina island — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:17:40 -0800

9th Circuit Court rules visitors to national forest don't have to pay a fee
Steve Scauzillo, Staff Writer
Posted: 02/15/2012 06:56:48 PM PST

In a decision that could bring an end to the national Adventure Pass program, the U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that the U.S. Forest Service cannot charge for hiking, walking, picnicking or visiting undeveloped areas of national forest land......

http://www.sbsun.com/ci_19974329

Santa Barbara Ranger District Re-opens Road to Red Rock

Rick — Sun, 19 Feb 2012 18:01:15 -0800

Santa Barbara Ranger District Re-opens Road to Red Rock
Release Date: Feb 17, 2012
Contact(s): Andrew Madsen (805) 961-5759 Joe Pasinato (805) 961-5745

GOLETA, CA…. Los Padres National Forest’s Santa Barbara Ranger District announced today that the road to Red Rock has been reopened to motorized vehicles in time for the Presidents’ Day holiday weekend. The road to the popular recreation destination has been closed since last summer due to needed repairs to the bridge at Lower Oso Day Use Area.

Those repairs were completed this past fall. Since that time, the road remained closed to allow the Forest Service to clear the road of accumulated debris from last year’s winter and spring storms, and repair damage to other facilities caused by vandalism while the road was closed to vehicles. The concessionaire has also been working on general maintenance to the day use areas to prepare them for the public.

A reminder is that the entire Lower Santa Ynez Recreation Area is managed under permit by Rocky Mountain, Inc. and an Adventure Pass (day or annual) is required. There are numerous day use areas with picnic tables, restrooms, BBQs, and access to the river.

Camping in the Upper Santa Ynez Recreation Area is limited to established campgrounds through the reservation system http://www.recreation.gov/.

Visitors are strongly encouraged to plan ahead, come prepared, and contact the Los Prietos Ranger Station for the latest conditions by calling (805) 967-3481.

Re: Burning Man 2012 / Ticketing Boondoggle

Wizard — Sat, 18 Feb 2012 12:54:50 -0800

More here on the current status of the Burning Man 2012 ticket fiasco: http://blog.burningman.com/2012/02/news/ticket-update-rebuilding-black-rock-city-2012/

Re: Possible missing hiker

Wizard — Sat, 18 Feb 2012 11:47:52 -0800

Mr Wayne, The marker for this incident shows it as being at the junction of the Bowen Ranch Rd and Coxey Truck Trail ( route 3N14 ). The last comment I see " BLM unit states this was at Bowen Ranch Road and Coxey Truck Trail. Power lines, rocks, and close to the hot springs area ", does describe correctly features in at the marker area, but is erroneous in describing that location as being " close to " the hot springs area. That spot is maybe a couple of miles north ( away from DCHS ) from the cattle guard on the Bowen Ranch Rd, and my rough approximation would put it maybe 5-6 miles from the hotsprings. I have not heard anything else about this missing woman so maybe they have not found her yet.

Re: Possible missing hiker

Mr_Wayne — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 11:37:19 -0800

I haven't been able to find any updates since yesterday. Shorts, T-shirt and snow on the ground, maybe you guys could start your weekend at the springs early and head up there. I'd go, but I'm in Connecticut...
I was just thinking, there have been a few newbies that have reported taking a wrong fork in the trail leading down to the springs. It sounds like a particular spot where people unfamiliar with the area typically make the same error. Maybe someone could check that out. Just a thought...

Re: Possible missing hiker

Paul P. — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 10:51:53 -0800

Did anyone find her?

Possible missing hiker

Mr_Wayne — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 06:07:43 -0800

Anyone know anything about this? Seems like Jobe, Wizard...etc. would be invaluable if a search becomes necessary

http://vicinitas.com.s133227.gridserver.com/?p=1671

Re: Bowen Ranch Road -- current condition?

JoelTDahl — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 10:23:17 -0800

Thanks, Jobe & Paul (and Hiker). We'll have to think about whether we want to risk it . . .

Re: Burning Man 2012 / Ticketing Boondoggle

Paul P. — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 09:23:17 -0800

Last night, Wed Feb 15) to address an outcry from festival veterans, organizers announced they'd be releasing a reserved block of 10,000 tickets to camps and teams of Burning Man regulars, based on criteria including years attending the festival. Those burners would have the opportunity to buy them at the regular price of $390. More info below:

http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/news/la-et-burning-man-tix-20120216,0,1332653.story

Re: Bowen Ranch Road -- current condition?

Paul P. — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 09:18:34 -0800

Joel, the snow on Bowen Ranch Road should be melted by the weekend when you plan to go. The only issue you may encounter is that last stretch of the road once you are inside the ranch as you near the dirt parking area. Some low-slung cars could bottom out in a few places. A friend of mine just damaged his oil pan there. But you could still park before that portion of the road and walk the extra 200 yards or so.

Re: Bowen Ranch Road -- current condition?

jobe — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 07:31:42 -0800

I see you posted late last night. The road is covered in snow right now. Thursday morning, the sky is cloudy too. Perhaps a rental truck w/ clearance ? I would bet the creek is much colder also. Happy hot springing.

Re: Bowen Ranch Road -- current condition?

hiker — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 22:28:46 -0800

Bowen Ranch Road was in pretty good shape last week. A little washboard like in areas but otherwise fine. The worst areas are actually at the ranch on the way down to the lower parking area.

Bowen Ranch Road -- current condition?

JoelTDahl — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 21:36:12 -0800

Hey folks,

Can anybody post current info on the state of Bowen Ranch Road? Last time I was at DCHS was in September. I know we've had a pretty mild winter, but you never know. Have the recent snows out there overly messed with the road? Has it been graded recently? A bunch of friends and I are planning to go this weekend, and we all drive regular-size sedans, not high-clearance vehicles.

Thanks!

Joel

Re: advice, help, info.....

mdskibum — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 18:39:29 -0800

Thanks Wizard, for great clarification. Sounds like closures (ongoing for several days) from recent snows.
Hopefully gone soon.

Re: advice, help, info.....

Wizard — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 17:53:19 -0800

Mdskibum you can also call the Sky Forest Ranger station to find out if ( a month from now when you go ) HWY 173 is open all the way to the Kinely Creek Bridge where the Bradford Ridge Trail head is. The phone number is: 909-337-2444

Re: advice, help, info.....

Wizard — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 17:49:38 -0800

The dirt portion of HWY 173 that goes from the pavement down by the Mojave Forks dam on up the mountain to where the pavement begins again right near the Kinely Creek bridge ( where the Bradford Ridge Trail starts ) has been closed for a while now. From the report you listed Mdskibum it appears that due to snow conditions a portion of the pavement from the Kinely Creek Bridge back southeast towards Lake Arrowhead is closed also at this time. The Rifle Range mentioned is maybe a mile and a half down this pavement rd from the Kinely Creek Bridge. So on HWY 173 coming from the west you can go only as far as the Mojave Forks Dam area. And coming down HWY 173 from the Lake Arrowhead area, as per your report, you can only drive as far as the Rifle Range, and if you parked there you would still have to walk another mile and a half or so just to get to the Bradford Ridge Trailhead. It snowed for a few hours this afternoon where we live in Apple Valley, about 15 miles north of where DCHS is. Warmer weather is supposed to start building again tomorrow which will melt off this light snowfall pretty quickly. If you were to go up the Bowen Ranch Rd tomorrow there still may be snow in the higher elevations and the road most likely will be pretty muddy.

Re: advice, help, info.....

mdskibum — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 16:02:15 -0800

Is Route 173 open to the Bradford ridge parking area?
Hoping to go that way in a month.

I'm puzzled since this was on the Caltrans winter road site for several days:
Anyone know anything here ?

http://www.dot.ca.gov/hq/roadinfo/display.php?page=sr173

SR 173
IS CLOSED FROM 2 MI EAST OF HESPERIA /AT LAKE ARROWHEAD RD/ TO 8.6 MI WEST
OF THE JCT OF SR 189 /AT RIFLE RANGE RD/ (SAN BERNARDINO CO) 24 HRS A DAY
7 DAYS A WEEK - DUE TO SAFETY CONCERNS -

Los Padres Seeks Public Comment On OHV Grant Application

Rick — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 11:13:26 -0800

Los Padres Seeks Public Comment On OHV Grant Application
Release Date: Feb 14, 2012
Contact(s): Andrew Madsen (805) 961-5759, Jeff Bensen (805) 961-5744

GOLETA, Calif…Los Padres National Forest officials announced that recreation managers will be seeking public comments on proposals for the 2011/2012 State of California Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) grant program. According to state requirements, public comments can be submitted from March 6 through April 2, 2012.

A two-step application process is used by the State to allow public comment and feedback before final submittal. The preliminary application is due March 5, 2012. This will open a public review and comment period and will follow with final applications due May 7, 2012. The State is using an Internet-based “On-Line Grant Application” process as the means to apply for State funding.

Los Padres National Forest is soliciting public input specific to the Forest’s 2011/2012 grant application proposals for Cooperative Agreements with the Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Division. The Forest will be submitting two grant applications. The first grant includes projects for ground operations along with a planning grant. The second grant is for law enforcement activities. The preliminary application will be available online by visiting the California State OHV Grants and Cooperative Agreements program at http://www.ohv.parks.ca.gov. Hard copies may be requested by contacting Jeff Bensen at (805) 961-5744.

Los Padres National Forest officials are providing an opportunity for interested parties to discuss the grant applications and submit public comments. An open house will be held February 16, 2012, from 4:00 to 6:00 pm at the Santa Lucia Ranger Station located at 1616 N. Carlotti Drive in Santa Maria.

State regulations require annual public participation in this fund allocation process. The agreements support OHV management activities on the national forest, including operations and maintenance, restoration, law enforcement, education and safety. The “operations and maintenance” category is divided into four project types: acquisition, development, ground operations, and planning, with the emphasis on projects that sustain existing OHV recreation.

The State of California Department of Parks and Recreation and the Los Padres National Forest have maintained a successful partnership for more than 26 years, with funding assistance for well-managed OHV recreation on National Forest lands. In 2011, the Forest was successful in obtaining $435,447 in grant funds to provide the public with world-class OHV recreation opportunities.

Arizona/Ringbolt Hot springs trip report 2-10-12

jobe — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 06:18:03 -0800

I was camping in the new paved parking lot for this spring/White rock canyon contemplating going to the springs. When a pretty young woman came to my bus/RV and asked which way to the hot springs ? She was a recent Divorcee from the Check Republic with her mother and a 13 year old friend. Obviously, she had a bad sense of direction. She said she was here 4 years ago but could not tell where she had gone to get to the springs.
So I put my good will ambassador smile on and escorted her to the springs. It was a perfect weather day in the mid 70's with only a small breeze at about 10:00 am. There were about 7-8 cars and trucks in the parking lot which had been there all night. I had arrived at sun set the evening before and these cars and trucks were there when I arrived. I supposed they had been camping and later found they were. About 10 persons had been camping above the springs, mostly working professionals.
The Canyon and springs were mostly trash free. When we first got to the springs we had them to ourselves but soon the campers came back from their hike. Then we were joined by some Rugby players from Chicago. They were in town for a game at Sam Boyd stadium.
There were only two pools at the springs. An upper pool which was 110.4 degrees my thermometer said and it was almost 3 feet deep. The Lower pool was 103.3 degrees and less than 2 feet deep. As it became more crowded we left. The 13 year old boy spoke English fairly well and said they teach it in school in the Check Republic. He was very interested in the rocks and wanted to find some Fossils. So I helped educate him. Most rocks in this area are Rhyolite. But at the beginning of the canyon there is a lot of sandstone. Along with granite there is a big segment of green granite. Which he became extremely interested in. So as we left I took them out by way of the petroglyph canyon and showed him some of them. Which he took pictures of. I explained too him that rhyolite rock was pushed to the surface by volcanic actions. And that the sandstone was above that at one time, probably forming the bottom of an ancient ocean. He was all ears and fasinated by my explanations.
The Colorado River was unusually high but beautiful and a real pleasure to be at. Many boats and people were here, unusual for a Friday.
All together a wonderful trip. It is always a pleasure to educate the next generation. I am certain he will have a lot to show and tell in his class.
The springs here are always changing , not always for the better. The sand bags there get moved about constantly. I only wish some one would make the pool back where it was years ago at the turn in the canyon which was not there on this trip.
So , many hot springs ,,, so little time !

Re: DCHS 2-10-12

Wizard — Sun, 12 Feb 2012 16:12:31 -0800

It was great to meet you too Tim :-) After you left Phil and I chatted for a while then he had to leave. I spent another hour and a half soaking in the Womb and no one else was soaking in it, or the Serenity Pool. It was an opportunity to just enjoy the magnificent scenery. There was a pair of Ravens across the creek on the beach area doing various funny things. I had my swim googles and put them on to look around in the Womb. There is alot of algae growing on the rocks since at this time of year there are not that many visitors in it to rub the algae off of the rocks. When I was getting ready to cross the creek to leave Donny was coming by me to get in the hotpools. I waved to him goodbye from across the creek as I headed back up the trail. Alot of late day golden sunshine on the landscape which along with the various shadows always look so wonderful. Hopefully we get some more decent rainfall before the warmer weather comes, otherwise the spring growth in the area will be quite sparse compared to average rainfall years.

Re: DCHS 2-10-12

lbcalrr — Sun, 12 Feb 2012 07:11:00 -0800

Hello Wizard, it was an honor to finally meet you and Phil. I really appreciate both your's and Phil's updates and advice on this website and it was nice to meet both of you in person. Like you posted, it was a beautiful day for a hike and soak on Friday. I was able to free hike both in and out, the weather was perfect. I only passed one person on my hike down and did not meet anyone on my hike out. After the helicopter rescue it was a very quiet trip back up the trail. I filled up about half of a 33 gallon trash bag with junk I picked up around the springs and on the trail out. There actually was not a lot of trash at the springs, what I found was mostly discarded clothing and some food wrappers. Thank you to everyone that helps taking out more trash than what they bring in.

I parked at the Bowen ranch with my very low riding front wheel drive sedan. The Bowen Ranch road has lots of washboard sections and is getting pretty rough so lower speeds are a must with my car. The hill down to the Bowen parking area is also getting to be a challenge, it is doable but you need to pick your route carefully to prevent scraping the bottom of any low riding car.

After leaving the springs I headed out to the Ridgecrest area of the desert to go off roading with some friends. The wind really picked up and we had strong gusts and blowing sand all night Friday and all day on Saturday. I am glad I made it to the springs before the bad weather moved in. I looking forward to getting back to the springs. I plan on coming back in early April and weather permitting I hope to camp a night or two at the ranch.

DCHS 2-10-12

Wizard — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 20:55:00 -0800

It was a beautiful day at the springs yesterday with warm temps, blue skies and light breezes. On the way hiking down I passed a young woman who was trying to get a call out for her friend that was having an asthma attack while climbing the trail. I showed her where to get a cell signal not far from where she was. Phil who went to Burning Man for the first time last year was there, and we soaked and chatted for some time in the Womb. Another guy Tim up from the Long Beach area joined us for a while. Other regulars like Don and Jason were there but other than that it was a pretty quiet day. A police helicoptor showed up and worked on rescueing the asthma vicitim. It took the law enforcement quite a while to get the resuce done and it was pretty noisy at times. The Womb temp was 101, and the Serenity pool was 107. The creek was 54 degrees. The tree that fell over by the grassy are has been all chopped up, probably for fire wood and there is only a big stump and some roots left. There are some signs of spring, even this early. At our home our Joshua Tree is beginning to show the bulbs for the blooms. On the way driving up to the springs I saw some type of fruit tree in full bloom ( pink petals ). Also other various desert plants are showing some spring like growth. January was the warmest month ever on record for the US so I'm sure this is inducing the early spring growth. Well today the weather is quite a bit differant with windy and cold conditions and scattered clouds. Glad I went to DCHS yesterday for a good soak :-)

Thank you all

onemoreguy — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 14:33:51 -0800

I went last Sunday and had a great time. I got the coordinates from the internet, entered them to the GPS and got straight to the ranch. The woman at the ranch was actually very nice, although the map she gave me was useless.
At the spring I met great people, especially 3 couples from Culver city. Everyone were very friendly and good people.
On the way back I took a wrong turn somewhere but luckily I had enough time to turn around to find the right path still in day light.
There were there about 20 men, 10 women and 2 dogs. Mostly bare naked. also the dogs.
A great place.

Re: Weather Satellite Images - DCHS

Rick — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 13:57:21 -0800

It's also a good idea to read the forecast discussion: http://www.wrh.noaa.gov/total_forecast/getprod.php?wfo=lox&sid=lox&pil=afd

Re: Weather Satellite Images - DCHS

Rick — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 13:54:49 -0800

I often use images from here: http://weather.unisys.com/satellite/

Re: Weather Satellite Images - DCHS

Paul P. — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 12:17:26 -0800

I also like the 1 km visible satellite pic here

http://www.wrh.noaa.gov/satellite/?wfo=sgx

Re: Little Caliente Trip

TeaRav — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 11:09:43 -0800

devine peak gate closed on sunday, due to the storm. Not sure if its going to open back up soon

Re: First Winter Visit - What do I need to know?

Keith — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 11:03:06 -0800

Thanks all. We were going to go yesterday on our way back from Vegas but a pinchec cyatic and a bad traffic back-up on the 10 fwy nixed that. I hope to get back down there soon!

Re: Weather Satellite Images - DCHS

Wizard — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 22:20:31 -0800

Here is another one I use alot for a colored water vapor image. Click play at the top right of image for a six loop animation:

http://www.accuweather.com/en/us/national/satellite-wv

Weather Satellite Images - DCHS

Wizard — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 22:16:22 -0800

In the cooler months with unsettled weather I find it very useful to refer to good satellite images before my trips to DCHS. Here is the link to one site I use regularly:

http://wwwghcc.msfc.nasa.gov/GOES/

I mostly use the one titled " Pacific Ocean " and there are visible ( daylight hours ), infrared and water vapor versions. At this site you can animate ( choosing variable loop numbers ) and customize the images to your own preferences. Just click on an image and when the enlarged version comes up, make any desired changes then click animate. Its available 24/7 so no need to wait for weather reports from TV sources.

Re: First Winter Visit - What do I need to know?

Wizard — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 19:02:37 -0800

Looks like some rainy weather coming for tomorrow and on into the morning of Wednsday.

Re: First Winter Visit - What do I need to know?

Johnny — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 12:19:03 -0800

I was down last Saturday. The roads are clear, a bit more washboarded but still quite passable. The hike in was a bit breezy, the winds were cold out of the north at about 10mph. In the sun it is still quite nice though and it's was not as windy at the pools. The pools are warm and inviting. As for clothes, if you get chilled easily, than some jeans and a hoodie works great. The creek crossing was just above my knees and still chilly. Enjoy!!

Re: First Winter Visit - What do I need to know?

Paul P. — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 09:13:19 -0800

Keith, as Norcalguy7 said, it's highly recommended to go to the springs as early as possible during weekdays to avoid crowds. Best days are Tuesday and Wednesday mornings. And yes, you can hike nude all the way down from the Bowen Ranch. Of course it tends to be cold early in the morning this time of year.

Re: First Winter Visit - What do I need to know?

NorCalGuy7 — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 08:23:08 -0800

I freehiked down mid-week a couple of weeks ago from Bowen Ranch. The weather was cool and somewhat windy but perfect for hiking... It was rather quiet with only two very mellow guys at the creek soaking, and later as I was heading back to the ranch, I met a young couple on their way down. I personally prefer Deep Creek mid-week as you can appreciate the stillness of the area, actually hear the sounds of the creek, birds, etc. without the endless banter of conversation that you'll encounter on the weekends - just my take...

Re: Burning Man 2012 / Ticketing Boondoggle

mdskibum — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 08:14:45 -0800

I'm expecting the STEP ticket return/reissue program to be dead before its even announced.

So few tickets are available that anyone who has an extra will sell it to friends, campmates . . or.
be forced to be a scalper. Scalping on craigslist,stubhub,etc
( inflated prices or face value their choice) since burningman has locked out the normal low risk
procedure to resell on eplaya. I've sold my tickets twice in previous years on eplaya but
never for more than what I paid -face value + shipping fees.

I'm sitting this year out. Will do other trips -maybe even make it to DCHS from the east.

First Winter Visit - What do I need to know?

Keith — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 01:28:11 -0800

Has anyone been down recently? I'm a veteran soaker looking at heading down this week with a first timer. I've been following the weather forecasts but I've never been down this time of year before. Anything I need to know? Any new developments? What clothing is sufficient for the hike up and down?

Thanks.

Re: Burning Man 2012 / Ticketing Boondoggle

Wizard — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 22:06:20 -0800

Thanks for the sentiments Hiker but you deserve to go just as much as I do. I'm leaning towards not even pursueing a ticket at this point after reading all of the BM Blog comments for the last couple of days. Another DCHS longtime friend of mine Greg has been to BM six times. He had missed a year and was planning on going this year but he and some other friends who's BM Digs are at the Alternative Energy Zone Camp also did not get picked in the lottery. He just e-mailed me and said he will most likely be bailing on the 2012 event to go camping in Utah with his friends instead. At least Hiker you were able to enjoy a fantastic year at Burning Man in 2011. Where BM goes from here is hard to say. Below is a recent comment in the BM Blog:

Will Whitacre Says:

February 5th, 2012 at 10:24 pm
Eight years … not nine.
I loved the burn; hate to see it die.
The core is gone, the soul has spirited away.
A burn-for-the-highest-bidder is a different city; GoldRock is not BlackRock.
This year please don’t burn the man, bury him.
Goodbye friends, Weedseed Willie won’t be back. I wouldn’t be able to find the place if i tried.

Re: Burning Man 2012 / Ticketing Boondoggle

hiker — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 20:37:52 -0800

The lucky lottery granted me a single ticket at $390.00. I think I'm happy to get a ticket, however, I'm not so sure. I'll have to see how BM 2012 actually works out. BM 2011 was my first and I loved it. But its obvious that the ticket problems of this year will change the event, even if they can figure out a way to get the theme camps back on track.

Wizard, It seems really unfair that a newbie like me can get a ticket while a 10 year vet like you misses out. I sure hope you get a ticket!

Re: Burning Man 2012 / Ticketing Boondoggle

Wizard — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 18:51:30 -0800

Sparkicus Says:

February 4th, 2012 at 12:43 pm
Yeah, BMORG, just checked Stubhub: there’s a “VIP” BM ticket selling for “$6,666.66″ .......

Another commenter said on Craiglist, or maybe it was E-bay there were 79 tickets ranging from $700 to $7,300 already up for sale. And BMorg really thinks people with extra BM tickets are going to put their extra tickets back into the secondary STEP ticket sale program to be sold at face value? Yeah, good luck with that!

Re: Burning Man 2012 / Ticketing Boondoggle

Rick — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 17:07:36 -0800

Quote
Wizard
If BM goes down this route the event is going to turn into just a rich mans, RV extravaganza with no soul.

As it becomes more popular it'll end up that way. <sigh>

Re: Partner for a day ride from LA?

Rick — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 17:06:11 -0800

Bowen Ranch Road:

http://yosemitephotos.net/main.php/v/hotsprings/pb220046.jpg.html

Re: Burning Man 2012 / Ticketing Boondoggle

david m — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 13:19:28 -0800

The video is great. The problem is in a few short weeks 1.3 million people watched it. People just don't know how to keep a good thing quiet. The springs are a great example of this.

I hope everything works out.

Re: Burning Man 2012 / Ticketing Boondoggle

Wizard — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 11:56:13 -0800

David M, I'd seen that video and really enjoyed it :-) It really captures the magic of Burning Man! I also agree with your point that BMorg can't be faulted for the great increases in interest for this event over the years. With all of the great videos and endless photos available online for BM the limits of attendance in accordance with the BLM contract were eventually going to be reached. Actually last years BM population at over 54,000 exceeded for the first time the BLM permited amount of 50,000, which got BMorg in trouble for that. So this year they are being monitered more closely to keep to the contracted numbers. BMorg is trying to get the population numbers allowed to be up to 70,000 by 2016 but I haven't heard or read about where that is going.

Mdskibum, I also agree with your observations too. I don't have much faith at all that the upcoming Step program proposed by BM will solve much of the problems this lottery has created. If many of the theme camps bail because they can't get their people to the event its really going to alter the atmosphere and essence of what BM has been about. The artist and creative core people and camps plan and work for a great deal of time to get their ambitions realized in time for each years event. With no tickets for them, and doubtful prospects to get some, many of these central people are talking about canceling even going. I'm still looking for a ticket through differant channels but if the community gets drastically altered by this ticket fiasco I'm not really sure I want to even go myself.

Re: Deep Creek Hot Springs Topo Map

dadinpain — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 11:14:27 -0800

I have a few questions, Joseph, but your e mail on your site doesn't work? Please contact me at dadinpain@yahoo.com Thanks

Re: Burning Man 2012 / Ticketing Boondoggle

mdskibum — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 10:05:37 -0800

I've been following this closely. What a clusterf*ck.
Theme camps, which are the heart of BurningMan, mostly only got 20% to 30% of the tickets their volunteers
needs. Many aren't at critical mass and are canceling out or about to cancel. The organizers say they want to
"make it right with these camps". I'm doubtful.

In my case I'm glad I chose to skip this year and did not even enter the lottery. I hope Wizard & friends were able
to get tickets, doubtful- as also only 20% to 30% of non-theme camp people got their tickets. I'm guessing that many
who got tickets gamed the lottery by having spouses/friends/relatives apply for extra tickets.

Whoever has extra tickets (attendees or scalpers?) is staying quiet and people can't figure out where in the world
all the tickets have gone. I'm guessing scalpers. Some people are suggesting professional ticket sellers like
Ticketmaster be hired to avoid these problems. Ticketmaster just screwed up royally to resale of London 2012 Olympic
Games tickets (big server crash). People in London can't even get tickets.

The STEP program (not even available till Feb 22) to redistribute surplus tickets is looking to me like a joke. They
want to only give you back the face value of the ticket (LESS fees you paid for shipping/tax/processing which
can add up to $25 a ticket) and may even charge you a restocking fee. This is penalizing you for their mistakes.

Re: Burning Man 2012 / Ticketing Boondoggle

david m — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 08:42:00 -0800

I blame this video which came out just prior to the begin of the ticketing process

The burning man org cant be blamed for the high demand for tickets. We have to blame ourselves for that.

Re: Burning Man 2012 / Ticketing Boondoggle

Wizard — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 00:48:13 -0800

Terri Says:

February 3rd, 2012 at 11:09 pm

Burning Man is nothing more than a “for profit” corporation now. A business whose only concern is making money. You sold your 40,000 tickets, made millions so why the concern now? You think any of us are buying that? Really, maybe because it’s dawning on you now what a colossal mistake you made? Right, as you are laughing all the way to the bank. You’ve completely destroyed the spirit of BM in one act – the lottery. What makes you think anyone is going to want to redistribute tickets through the STEP program when they are so hard to come by? And how much money will you make through your “restocking fee”? You are waiting to see what happens after the dust settles? Is there some miracle waiting in the wings…your permit will suddenly allow thousands more on the playa than originally thought and you can sell even more tickets? BM will never be the same! Congratulations, you’ve managed to make a lot of people rich and happy – the scalpers. Nice job.

Re: Burning Man 2012 / Ticketing Boondoggle

Wizard — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 00:26:52 -0800

Brian Erzen Says:

February 3rd, 2012 at 5:26 pm

.....It’s really depressing to see what this is doing to theme camps, and the amount of people I know who didn’t get tickets is staggering.....

Burning Man 2012 / Ticketing Boondoggle

Wizard — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 00:12:54 -0800

Off topic? Well alot of Burning Man enthusiast go to Deep Creek Hot Springs too :-) A newly created organization is running Burning Man this year and they have royally screwed up the ticketing process! Its always been first come first serve ticket price tiers but this year they went with a lottery system and it, as it stands right now is threatening to completely disrupt the evolved burning man community, theme camps, the core structural features that makes BM what it is.

Check this info out: http://blog.burningman.com/2012/02/news/burning-man-addresses-2012-ticket-situation/

Burning Man Addresses 2012 Ticket Situation

The guy with this comment put it quite right and succinctly: T. Harris Says:

February 3rd, 2012 at 4:52 pm , What a nightmare!!

Everyone I know who was planning on attending BM 2012, including myself failed in the lottery to get a ticket. Check out all the fired up comments at the above mentioned link. I knew that was going to happen.

If BM goes down this route the event is going to turn into just a rich mans, RV extravaganza with no soul.

Anyone out there got a extra ticket from the lottery at $300 or less? The first 40,000 tickets have been devoured by this lottery system, and alot of long time burners suspect multiple entries and scalpers are the main culprits. The last 10,000 tickets will be sold first come first serve at $390. I love Burning Man, but at roughly $400 bucks I think I'll pass if it comes to that.

Well I have 10 straight years of BM memories :-) Last years theme was about " transitions " but this lottery ticket process is definitely not the kind change the BM community needs.

You can check out my photos from Burning Man 2011 at the Wizards pictures link below, or go to:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/35054303@N00/?saved=1

Re: Partner for a day ride from LA?

Wizard — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 23:13:07 -0800

Some years ago after it snow for two days in the high desert I tried to make it up the Bowen Ranch Rd to DCHS in my four wheel drive F150 that has BF All Terrain Goodrich tires, and it sits maybe 15-18 inches off the ground. Just past the Cattle Gaurd at the next steep hill I kept slidding off the road and could go no further. Then I tried the power line Rd just north of the cattle gaurd and was stopped by deep snow at another steep hill. Lastly I tried the route that goes off of Oak Springs Rd around Round Mountain on the east side and the snow became so deep my undercariage was bottoming out, stopping me again.

Some years later it snowed very heavy but this time I decided to not chance the deep snow in the hills around the Bowen Ranch Rd. Instead I opted to drive over to the Mojave Forks Dam and I hiked all the way up the canyon to DCHS on the PCT. The photos from that hike are at the Wizard's pictures link below, or go to:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/35054303@N00/?saved=1

Photos from that hike and snow storm period are on pages 43-46.

Nobody was at DCHS all day and the soaking with all of the snow around was very memorable :-)

Re: Partner for a day ride from LA?

celtfire — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 22:08:33 -0800

I will be with you in 2047, but in spirit, of course. By that time I hope to be the chief avenging angel kicking the corporal and spiritual asses of litterbugs and taggers at the hot springs.

Re: Partner for a day ride from LA?

neogeo — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 21:32:05 -0800

Ha! In 2047, I will have been visiting the creek for 42 years (I'm not yet 42, so maybe it will happen god bless). Then I will write you a really long post, I'm just getting started. Very appreciative to our Grand Balneologists and Wizards and Biblical Characters...

Put on Your Eagle Eyes to Help Spot Eagles!

Rick — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 18:55:10 -0800

Release Date: Feb 3, 2012

San Bernardino, Calif., January, 2012– On Saturday February 11th, the third bald eagle count of the winter will be conducted around lakes in southern California and your help is needed!

This year marks the 34nd season that the San Bernardino National Forest has organized monthly winter bald eagle counts. Concurrent Bald Eagle counts are held at Big Bear Lake, Lake Arrowhead, Lake Silverwood State Recreation Area, Lake Hemet, and Lake Perris State Recreation Area. Volunteers are stationed at vantage points around the lakes and they map and record any eagle observations during a 1-hour period. “We need all the eyes we can get helping look for eagles during these counts. These censuses wouldn’t be possible without our great volunteers. Plus, it’s a good excuse to get outside on a Saturday morning” said wildlife biologist Robin Eliason. “We will explain everything you need to do when you arrive for the orientation. Just dress warmly, bring binoculars and a watch. There’s no experience needed.”

During the January bald eagle count, grand total of 11 to 13 eagles (7-8 adults and 4-5 juveniles) were observed at the lake areas during the 1- hour period. The number of bald eagles in southern California typically starts of low in December, peaking in January and February, and tapers off in March. Please join us for the bald eagle counts this winter in order to learn about eagles, help with the long-term study effort, and possibly get a glimpse of our beautiful national.
Please consider joining us for a free 45-minute bald eagle presentation at the Big Bear Discovery Center at 11:00 after the February 11th bald eagle count. Discovery Center website: http://nationalforestassociation.org/bigbeardiscoverycenter.php

There are two remaining Eagle counts for this winter, scheduled for the following Saturday mornings: February 11 and March 10. Mark your calendars now. No experience needed. Volunteers should dress warmly and bring binoculars and a watch.

Big Bear Lakearea volunteers will meet at 8:00 a.m. at the Big Bear Discovery Center on North Shore Drive. Contact Robin Eliason at 909-382-2832 for more information.
Lake Arrowhead/Lake Gregoryvolunteers will meet at 8:00 a.m. at the Sky Forest Ranger Station. Contact Robin Eliason, Wildlife Biologist, at 909-382-2832 for more information.
Silverwood Lake State Parkvolunteers should contact the park office for information during business hours of 8:00 am to 4:00 pm at 760-389-2281,and plan to meet at the Visitor Center at 8:00 a.m.
LakeHemetvolunteers should plan on meeting at the Lake Hemet Grocery Store at 8:30 a.m. for instructions. Contact Ann Poopatanapong at 909-382-2935 for more information.
Lake Perris State Park volunteers should contact the park office for information at 951-940-5600, and plan to meet at the Lake Perris Regional Indian Museum.

For additional information about the San Bernardino National Forest, please visit: http://www.fs.usda.gov/sbnf.

Volunteers Needed for Bighorn Sheep Survey March 3 and 4

Rick — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 15:53:23 -0800

Volunteers Needed for Bighorn Sheep Survey March 3 and 4
Release Date: Feb 3, 2012

SAN BERNARDINO, Calif., February 3, 2012— Volunteers are needed on March 3 and 4 (Saturday evening and all day Sunday) to assist in an annual bighorn sheep survey in the San Gabriel Mountains, conducted by the California Department of Fish and Game, US Forest Service, and the Society for Conservation of Bighorn Sheep.

No survey experience is necessary to participate but volunteers must attend a mandatory orientation on Saturday, March 3, at 6:00p.m. at Verdemont Community Center and Library in San Bernardino. Volunteers will then reconvene early Sunday morning, March 4, to hike with expert representatives to designated observation sites in the San Gabriel Mountains to count and record bighorn sheep.

Participants must be at least 16 years old and capable of hiking one mile in rugged terrain, although some survey routes are longer. In general, hikes will not be along trails and accessing survey points will involve scrambling over boulders, climbing up steep slopes, and/or bush-whacking through chaparral.

We highly recommended volunteers bring binoculars or spotting scopes in addition to hiking gear. Mountain weather can be unpredictable and participants should be prepared to spend several hours hiking and additional time making observations in cold and windy weather.

For those who wish to camp, complimentary campsites will be available to volunteers on a first come, first served basis at the Applewhite Campground in Lytle Creek on the night of March 3.

To sign up online, visit http://www.sangabrielbighorn.org or call (626) 574-5287 or (909) 382-2870 to receive a volunteer packet.

The Society for the Conservation of Bighorn Sheep, California Department of Fish and Game, and the Forest Service have conducted surveys for bighorn sheep in the San Gabriel range annually since 1979. The mountain range once held an estimated 740 sheep, which made the San Gabriel population the largest population of desert bighorn sheep in California. The bighorn population declined over 80% through the 1980s but appears to be on the increase with recent estimates yielding approximately 400 animals.

Re: Partner for a day ride from LA?

Rick — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 12:55:36 -0800

Quote
celtfire
I've never been stopped by the road conditions.

I remember a good snow that was melting stopped me once. Melting snow makes a lot of deep mud.

Re: Deep Creek Hot Springs Topo Map

Jelf — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 11:05:06 -0800

1. Google maps API supports:
IE 7.0+ (Windows)
Firefox 3.0+ (Windows|Mac|Linux)
Safari 4+ (Mac|iPhone)
Chrome (Windows|Mac|Linux)
Android
Older or different systems may or may not work

2. You can download hi-res scans of topo maps from USGS. These are normal PDF files. They are not the new GeoPDF files.
Matt produced the hi-res topo tiles that Gmap4 displays by processing these PDF files.
A. Go here: http://nationalmap.gov/historical/
B. Then click on "USGS Store: Map Locator and Downloader" (might be down - check back later)
C. After you find the quad you want, click on file size to download

Re: Deep Creek Hot Springs Topo Map

Paul P. — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 10:53:36 -0800

Joseph, thanks so much for posting that information and devoting your time to developing GMap4. Quick question- will it work on an older G4 Mac desktop using the Safari browser?

Also, do you know of any good websites where USGS Topo maps can be downloaded for free?

Thanks Paul

Re: Deep Creek Hot Springs Topo Map

Jelf — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 04:58:57 -0800

Thanks for the kind words about Gmap4. I'm the developer. And since the Wizard has already smiled upon on my humble effort, I'm going to boldly stick my toe in your pond and present a brief overview of some Gmap4 features.

Note that the map presented by the link Rick posted (1) is very high resolution - the paper map was scanned by the USGS at 660 pixels per inch, (2) does not have any watermarks on the map ‘tiles’ and (3) does not have any ads. At the present time, there is only one other site on the planet that is displaying these hi-res topo maps in a seamless interface. These hi-res topo maps cover the USA except for a few states that are not quite ready yet.

Did I mention that you can vary the hill shading on these hi-res maps? Menu ==> Hill shading

Gmap4 also displays the medium resolution MyTopo maps and the low resolution Terraserver maps (now called Microsoft Research Maps). You can do your own quality comparison.

Gmap4 is online software that runs in your browser. There is nothing to buy, nothing to download, nothing to install. Gmap4 will run on most browsers in your phone, iPad, iPod, notebook, laptop, desktop, etc. Note that the browser does have to be online to the internet. Gmap4 is not a ‘native’ app. Instead, it is a browser app.

Q: What can you do with Gmap4 besides look at drop dead gorgeous topo maps?
A: A bunch!

I just added a trip planning feature (Menu ==> Make a map) so you can click the map to make a GPX file that you can load into many (not all) handheld GPS units. Then, when you get back from your trip you can use Gmap4 to display your GPS track.

One of the main features of Gmap4 is its ability to display data files that are hosted online almost anywhere. If you want to put your own data files online but lack your own website to host those files, then just use Google Sites. It is free, easy and it works. The Gmap4 ‘Help’ file has step-by-step instructions for uploading your files to Google Sites. Gmap4 can display GPX, KML, KMZ, TPO and Google MyPlaces files. It can also display a delimited text file format that I designed. Note that you cannot (yet) display files straight from your harddrive. You first have to put your files online.

Another key feature is the ability to share your map with others. If you click Menu ==> Show map URL, then a URL will appear in the message window. You can copy that URL and use it in a forum post, email, blog, website, etc. Whoever clicks that URL link will see the exact same map on their screen.

You can also:
* Automatically center the map on your current location (works best in mobile browsers)
* Display a UTM grid
* Get the current magnetic declination
* Search
* Get directions (the route is draggable)
* Print
* And more

There is no cost for using Gmap4 for non-commercial use. It is simply my way of ‘paying it forward’. But with that said, if you like the new high resolution topographic maps please consider making a donation (Menu ==> Donate) to help offset the hosting cost of that data. You can read more about these new topo maps in the CalTopo section of the Gmap4 ‘Help’ file.

The Gmap4 homepage has a new user FAQ, examples, a detailed pdf Help file, a links page with more examples and a bit about me.

Homepage: http://www.mappingsupport.com/p/gmap4.html

Enjoy!

Joseph, the Gmap4 guy
Redmond, WA

Re: Partner for a day ride from LA?

onemoreguy — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 22:40:49 -0800

Thank you !
The answers were encouraging and I'm going to make it although I'm still unsure if on Sat or Sun. When do more people come? or is it unpredictable?
I look forward to experience the pools in my birthday suit, and hope to meet nice people,
Cheers
-

Re: Partner for a day ride from LA?

Paul P. — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 22:25:40 -0800

..and neogeo, you surely have the record for both the shortest post (indeed;-) and the longest post.:roll2:

Re: Partner for a day ride from LA?

neogeo — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 21:16:45 -0800

indeed!

Re: Partner for a day ride from LA?

Paul P. — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 19:30:03 -0800

Well said Bill! I think we need to start calling you the Grand Balneologist Bill. All hotpotters should know what balneology is ;-)

Re: Partner for a day ride from LA?

celtfire — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:57:15 -0800

Dear One...,

I've been driving to the Bowen Ranch and hiking to the hot springs for almost 42 years. I don't believe anyone still alive has been making the trip longer than that. I've never had a 4 wheel drive vehicle and I've never been stopped by the road conditions. Since this is your first time I suggest that you spend the $5 per person and park at the ranch. I've never had my car broken in to parked there. Once you become an oldtimer you can park in weird, secret places, but quite frankly, I don't believe it's worth the worry.

The hike in is about 2 miles and it's a breeze getting there and sometimes a bitch getting out, because it's a 900 ft elevation drop getting there and a 900 ft elevation climb hiking out. If you're in even moderate shape, you'll do fine. Carry a good lunch (not a banquet!) with you and get by with a couple bottles of water. (The creator provides pure, microbe-free hot spring water squirting right out of the ground at the crab cooker pool.)

You'll have to walk/wade across the creek, which will be cold, but will not kill you. The creek should be low, due to the lack of rain/snow, so the cold agua should not reach your "nuggets." Deep Creek Hot Springs is a clothing optional site so you can wear clothes, a dress or whatever, or you can enjoy being buck naked. Many of the regular visitors do not wear "textile," but newbies sometimes wet their pants because there are naked folks in the hot pools. I always hope that they'll mellow out, but it takes time and maturity to dig the place without threads. Jump in, and have a great time. Like I wrote, I found the divine place in 1970 and it really changed my life..... for the better!

Re: Partner for a day ride from LA?

skywindskin — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:15:57 -0800

Welcome to the group. I drive to Bowan Ranch from the San Gabriel valley and it takes about 2 1/2 hours to get to the trail head so it will be full day but well worth the effort. The hot springs are a magical place. Be sure to take water and food. I sometimes stop at Subway for a sandwich to carry down and always take 2-3 snacks. You can send me a private message if you'd like to know more or to talk about making a trip together.

Re: Partner for a day ride from LA?

onemoreguy — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 10:26:01 -0800

One more thing - how w'd you suggest me to arrive? I'm in a good shape, but I'm concerned from snacks. I don't have 4x4, and I want to be sure no one breaks in to my car while I'm at the springs. Does it make sense at all to go to the springs for a day from LA?

Partner for a day ride from LA?

onemoreguy — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 00:59:22 -0800

Hi, It's going to be my first time at the creek. I'm going alone from LA and hoping to have a company.
Best, with someone who is familiar with the way.
Cheers-
ps - I'm a guy, 35

Re: Megaquake Warning issued for US-Mexican Pacific Coast

Wizard — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 22:32:07 -0800

Here is the link to the details of that quake near Big Bend that I mentioned about:

http://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/recenteqsus/Quakes/nc71718530.html

Re: Megaquake Warning issued for US-Mexican Pacific Coast

Wizard — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 22:29:57 -0800

Also Jobe on the California-Nevada fault map of the USGS you can click on any quakes in the larger map to get close up versions of where they occurred, and then you can click on the individual quakes in the close up version to get detailed info on the specific quakes. I see there was a 3.2 quake this last week 5 miles from the community of Big Bend up in northern California not to far from property we own up there. 1 mile north of Big Bend is Kosk Hot Spring which I visited a couple of years ago. It was very scenic, right next to a creek like the hot pools are at DCHS :-)

Re: Megaquake Warning issued for US-Mexican Pacific Coast

Wizard — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 21:11:31 -0800

Jobe, regarding what you wrote " intentionally vague ", a fortnight is 2 weeks/14days.

Re: Megaquake Warning issued for US-Mexican Pacific Coast

jobe — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 21:06:24 -0800

SilverAvion,
very funny !
Rick,
I aint trying to impress knowbody.
I am referring to the 4.0 quake that rattled San Bernagetto on Oct. 31at about 9 am. I wuz sitting in a Mining safety class at my union. The whole building shook rattled and rolled northward. USGS said nothing until hours later. My Earthquake Alert APP on my Android phone showed the epicenter and magnitude 4 minuets later when I looked at it. Before this we had watched a film about the hazards of enclosed spaces.
I learned about the USGS from you and like Wizard have that listed it in my favorites and go there daily. Thanks for learning me.
It seems to me that fortnight mentioned in the article has already come and gone... intentionally vague ?
Can you tell ? I love my android.

Re: Megaquake Warning issued for US-Mexican Pacific Coast

SilverAvion — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 19:53:23 -0800

was your phone on vibrate?

Re: Deep Creek Hot Springs Topo Map

Johnny — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 19:35:20 -0800

Thank you Rick, this is great, especially since it is of the whole of at least So.Cal! Thanks ever so much, now before I hike other areas, I can check out the older existing trails.

Re: Little Caliente Trip

TeaRav — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 13:02:03 -0800

Thanks everyone for the help. I called the Ranger station this morning and Divide Peak Gate opened last Friday! So Caliente's are a go! as for ojai hot springs there are a few in the Matilija Canyon, they are on private land but as long as you pick up your trash and NO FIRES you should be fine.. and upper Ojai has 2 that I know of but that's a 10 mile+ another 9 to the next one... The 10 mile is Willet which is one of my favorites!

Re: Deep Creek Hot Springs Topo Map

Wizard — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 22:11:01 -0800

I put that one in my favorites for future use :-)

Deep Creek Hot Springs Topo Map

Rick — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 21:45:51 -0800

This is quite nice:

http://www.mappingsupport.com/p/gmap4.php?ll=34.349389,-117.174302&t=t4&z=15&hillshade=18&coord=latlng&directions=off&findme=off&label=off

Re: Megaquake Warning issued for US-Mexican Pacific Coast

Rick — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 21:43:43 -0800

Quote
jobe
Also, I have the App for my Android phone called eathquake alert.

Why would you need an app for that? It's been here forever: http://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/recenteqscanv/

Quote

Once I felt a small quake it was on this app 4 minuets later. Very tuned in cool !

It'd have to be 4 minutes before if you want to actually impress me. (And, yes, there are situations where that could be done.)

Re: Megaquake Warning issued for US-Mexican Pacific Coast

jobe — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 21:04:44 -0800

Stories like this remind me of the tale about the boy who cried WOLF. People stopped listening. Then a wolf came into town and no one listened when he cried.
The bottom line is life is precious and we have to tune into our surroundings. Even IF we have heard it before. The Boy Scouts got it right - be prepared.
Also, I have the App for my Android phone called eathquake alert. Once I felt a small quake it was on this app 4 minuets later. Very tuned in cool !

Re: Little Caliente Trip

Rick — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 06:00:50 -0800

Quote
Paul P.
Is there another hot spring in the Ojai area?

There's Matilija, but it's not open to the public.

Re: Little Caliente Trip

Paul P. — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 21:50:16 -0800

Like Rick said, if the Divide Peak gate is closed, there is no vehicle access to Big Caliente or Little Caliente. You would have to hike in on the trail from Cold Springs Flat on the top of El Camino Cielo. See Joel Dahl;s previous post for a description.

You mentioned " a couple of Ojai ones" I only know of one- Vickers. Is there another hot spring in the Ojai area? Thanks!

Re: Little Caliente Trip

Rick — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 16:18:42 -0800

Found this on the FS website: "Divide Peak Gate is closed due to storm."

Re: Little Caliente Trip

TeaRav — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 12:02:44 -0800

Hello Everyone,

I visited little Caliente last winter by backpack due to the gate locked some where on the dirt road near the top... I called the forest ranger early in the summer and the road had still been closed. I am planning on meeting some friends and camping back there. I am curious if anyone knows if the road is clear to get to either the big or little? If not we will go south to a couple of ojai ones...

Thanks,
Travis

Re: Megaquake Warning issued for US-Mexican Pacific Coast

Rick — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 04:30:29 -0800

Quote
Wizard
Speaking of quakes, check out the cluster going on in the last week just south of Clear Lake. There are 145 quakes listed on the page, with the vast majority of them in the cluster.

http://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/recenteqscanv/FaultMaps/123-39.html

Those are due to geothermal water extraction at The Geysers power plant.

Re: Megaquake Warning issued for US-Mexican Pacific Coast

Wizard — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 22:22:34 -0800

Speaking of quakes, check out the cluster going on in the last week just south of Clear Lake. There are 145 quakes listed on the page, with the vast majority of them in the cluster.

http://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/recenteqscanv/FaultMaps/123-39.html

Re: Megaquake Warning issued for US-Mexican Pacific Coast

Paul P. — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 14:28:34 -0800

Seismologists have said time and time again that they can't predict the exact day or time of an earthquake. Yes, it could happen anytime along any of the multitude of fault lines in California. You're better off watching your dog's or farm animals' behavior. They are literally sensitive to advance waves of a quake!

You can download the USGS earthquake .kmz file which allows you to see all earthquake locations in Google Earth. It's very cool!

Re: Megaquake Warning issued for US-Mexican Pacific Coast

SilverAvion — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 13:12:03 -0800

Seems that any seismic activity has the potential to readjust the hot water flow to our wonderful springs, for the better or the worse. It is just another reason to hike down and enjoy DCHS as often as possible!

Re: Megaquake Warning issued for US-Mexican Pacific Coast

mdskibum — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 08:11:42 -0800

I can't get Jobe's link to work.

OTOH this link (identical?) works.
http://www.ivpressonline.com/news/ivp-some-predict-megaquake-though-opinions-vary-20120126,0,2281126.story