Pinyon Mountain Valley aka The Squeeze and Heartattack Hill

January 24th 2015

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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

Difficulty Level: 2+

	Graded road; Any 4x4 vehicle or higher clearance 2x4 vehicle with no other modifications
	Road rarely maintained; 4x4 with no low bumpers. Anti-sway bar disconnects recommended. Minimum 30" tires and some off-road experience is helpful
	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
	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
	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