Pinyon Mountain Valley aka The Squeeze and Heartattack Hill

January 24th 2015

Description

This will be a one day trip to The Squeeze and Heartattack Hill in Ansa-Borrego.  We will continue through Fish Creek Wash, explore the Wind Caves and exit through Split Mountain.  The Squeeze is tight for larger vehicles(JKs). Side body damage is possible.  Heartattack Hill is a very steep descent.

We will leave from Carl's Jr at 0730

Gas up in Ramona about 0830.  We have left tow vehicles at what use to be the Sizzler in the past.  If you are thinking about leaving a vehicle there you might want to check with the restaurant.

I expect to be at the trailhead (33 03' 24.83"N 116 25' 17.35"W) about 0930

We will stop somewhere in Fish Creek wash for lunch.  Bring a chair and something to eat.

Hopefully there will be enough time to explore the Wind Caves.  This will include a 1.5 mile hike so bring some walking shoes.  It should be a pretty easy hike.  Those that are not interesred in the Wind Caves can continue through Split Mountain and exit via Split Mountain Road to Ocotillo Wells.

I will cancel this trip if there is rain forecasted

No need to experience a flash flood first hand

 

Run Checklist

Always Required

  • HAM Radio on 146.550 MHz
  • Full-Sized Spare Tire
  • Seat Belts
  • First Aid Kit
  • Fire Extinguisher
  • Battery Tiedown
  • Working Brakes
  • Tow Straps
  • Tow Points

Run Requirements

  • 2+ Suspension Lift
  • 4LO Transfer Case
  • Roll Cage

Additional Notes

JK's and larger vehicles may have a little trouble with The Squeeze. I have gotten JKs through without a scratch but like investing past performance can not be guarantied.

Trail Rating

Trail Rating 2+

Difficulty Level: 2+

Trail Rating 1 Graded road; Any 4x4 vehicle or higher clearance 2x4 vehicle with no other modifications
Trail Rating 2 Road rarely maintained; 4x4 with no low bumpers. Anti-sway bar disconnects recommended. Minimum 30" tires and some off-road experience is helpful
Trail Rating 3 Difficult terrain and road rarely maintained; 33" tires, Suspension lift, Off-road driving experience, body armor and Rear locker recommended. Stock vehicles will likely take damage
Trail Rating 4 Very difficult terrain, road never maintained; 33" tires, sway-bar disconnects, Rear locker, and Rock sliders required. 35" tires, front locker, Full cage, and 4:1 transfer-case recommended. Chance of mechanical failure and body damage
Trail Rating 5 Extremely difficult terrain with large obstacles and roll over potential; Full cage required, 37" tires strongly recommended. Good chance of mechanical failure and strong chance of body damage

Location

Rendezvous @ San Clemente Carl's Jr

from Carl's Jr

5S to 78E to Ramona (last gas)

Julian Rd (78E) to Banner Rd (78E) to right on Great Southern Overland Stage Route (S2) 4.3 miles to trailhead (33 03' 24.83"N 116 25' 17.35"W)

Participants

There are currently 4 slots filled.

  • TRAIL BOSS
  • HAM: KJ6ZTO

X Man

Meeting @ Rendevous

0 passengers, 0 extra seats

Not available to Guests...

  • HAM: N/A

MADGAS

Meeting @ Rendevous

0 passengers, 0 extra seats

Not available to Guests...

  • HAM: N/A

Rattlesnake

Meeting @ Rendevous

1 passengers, 0 extra seats

Not available to Guests...

  • HAM: N/A

Zep

Meeting @ Rendevous

0 passengers, 0 extra seats

Not available to Guests...