The Oasis.

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Ranch State Park Camp Out in Cottonwood Arizona. John, Vice President of Outings and Scott, Core Group Member-At-Large, planned this trip. We had a wonderful experience camping, hiking and shopping.

1 The Oasis VOLUME 18 ISSUE 6 June, 2014 Palm Springs, California THANK YOU JOHN AND SCOTT Forty-nine members of Great Outdoors Palm Springs and other chapters joined in the fun at the Sedona/Dead Horse Ranch State Park Camp Out in Cottonwood Arizona. John, Vice President of Outings and Scott, Core Group Member-At-Large, planned this trip. We had a wonderful experience camping, hiking and shopping. Our 4X4 group explored the vast area of the Verde Valley, nestled below red rock formations and along the scenic Verde River just outside Sedona. The elevation is 3300 feet, which made for perfect weather. Everyone who rode the Verde Canyon Railroad Wilderness Train through Arizona s Other Grand Canyon had a memorable experience with an air-conditioned railcar and an open-air car for full viewing. Look for this overnight camp out next year. EARLY SUMMER POOL PARTY The pool party on June 14 th booked quickly for 80 members and their guests. There is another pool party planned for late summer and will be announced soon. If you would like to place your name on a wait list for the June 14 th pool party, please contact Ed. membershipps@greatoutdoors.org T-SHIRTS SALES Thank you to Thad, a member of our chapter for volunteering to help out with the T-Shirt program. We will be working on providing an easy order form of the colors and sizes available for purchase. The order form will be sent out for those who would like to purchase a T-Shirt. These will be sold to members at cost. THANKS TO A GOPS PAST PRESDIENT Bruce Maughan with the Desert Trails Coalition offered a brief and informative presentation at our May meeting. His organization works with the BLM and other associated groups to maintain and acquire trails throughout the state. RENEW YOUR MEMBERSHIP WITH US Please be sure to renew your membership so you won t miss future parties, camp outs, hikes and adventures. We are always in the planning stages for new day trips and overnight trips as well as the successful annual events. Hike In Camp Out Play On Gary G McGrath President, GOPS president-ps@greatoutdoors.org

2 June Outings Saturday, June 7: Silver Lariat Train ride is sold out. HOWEVER! there have been cancellations. Call George at to add your name to the waiting list. You might be able to go. Friday, June 13: Game Night/Pool Time, 5-9 PM. Hosts: Brian/Ed/Jim. Saturday, June 14, 4-8 PM: Summer Pool Party. Yes, this party is on a Saturday evening! Free dinner for GOPS members. 80 slots went fast. To get on a waitlist, contact Ed at webmaster-ps@greatoutdoors.org. Wednesday, June 18: GOPS, Core Group Meeting 6:30pm 7:30pm. General Membership, 8:00pm-9:00pm. NOTE: No Guest Speaker this month. Sunday-Sat, June 30-July 5: OCLA, Ansel Adams Wilderness Intermediate Backpack. Led by Frederick Brown. [If some links are not working read Notice at bottom of this page] Looking Ahead Plan Now Friday-Sunday, July 25-27, 2014: Hurkey Creek! Our GOPS summer heat get-away. Led by Pete Worline and Ed Emond. Trip notes are in process. Monday-Monday, August 25 to Sept. 1st: Burning Man. Sold Out. FYI: A few additional tickets may be obtained click here for information. Notice: For details of this month s club activities, you ll need to click on our online calendar page. If you have a free gmail or Google plus account and you are signed in the event description will display a more details link at the bottom which will enable direct URLs or hyperlinks for you to any listed Trip Notes, addresses and photo links. Many of our events meet at Hunter s in Palm Springs. Click Here for directions to Hunters.

Game night is popular. George needs a host for September only. Thank you members for hosting this year. Sadly, George has announced that he will be stepping down. We will need a new Coordinator.

3 Game night is popular. George needs a host for September only. Thank you members for hosting this year. Sadly, George has announced that he will be stepping down. We will need a new Coordinator. Thad Kellam will be helping with the T-Shirt sale. Thanks Thad! George, you will be missed! George s gamenightcoordinator-ps@greatoutdoors.org Please either George or Gary, our President, if interested in volunteering for George s position. Our Club Needs Coordinators for Publicity, Outreach & Game Night Great Outdoors relies on members to staff various volunteer positions (that means no salary) on our board which is known as the Core Group within Great Outdoors circles. The elected and appointed people on the Core Group manage the day-to-day activities of our Club. If you have any questions, please don t hesitate to contact the President at President-ps@greatoutdoors.org. For a list of duties for this position: Click Here. 241 GOPS Members Please Welcome Three New Members: Michael Storlie Donna Batt Don Barrett Notice to Current Members: be sure to pay your renewal fee after you get an from the Club to avoid being dropped from membership.

Trip Report: Joshua Tree National Park Full Moon Camp Out By Scott Connelly As the sun set on a warm desert night, the bright orange-red full moon rose above our campsites.

4 Trip Report: Joshua Tree National Park Full Moon Camp Out By Scott Connelly As the sun set on a warm desert night, the bright orange-red full moon rose above our campsites. We climbed on the jumbo rocks that surrounded our choice campsites and viewed the moon show from a high point overlooking the desertscape. There is nothing quite like the desert with a full moon illuminating the quite solitude of the Joshua tree forest and giant rocks. We arrived early and secured our prime camp sites adjacent to each other. Our first hike was out to Samuelson s Rocks. We navigated to the site of the old homestead, which is not marked or identified and few people know the location. There is a collapsed cabin with a stem wall and cellar, an old truck, and other historic junk at this location. We continued and found the rocks with the various writing left by this early homesteader. The next morning we headed out from camp on foot for a 6 mile loop hike. Our first destination was the old World War II Crown Prince observation post. There is a lot of interesting history in Joshua Tree National Park, like old gold mines and Native American sites. Crown Prince Lookout highlights another period of the park s history, when a warning station for World War II airplanes was located atop a granite formation. The highlight of the hike was an encounter with a large desert tortoise that was having a beaver tail cactus bloom for breakfast. We stayed back far enough not to disturb the tortoise while we took photographs. We found several ancient rock shelter archeological sites as we made our way through and around the lookout mountain. Heading cross country over the desert ridges and washes, we arrived at the Ivanpah tank and enjoyed a lunch break in the wash. This tank, or dam, was built by early ranchers to store water for livestock. Continuing up the wash, we arrived at the large live oak where there was a film crew photographing fashion models. We continued off trail to complete our loop, arriving back at the Jumbo Rocks campground for a potluck dinner and campfire. John Samuelson, a Swedish citizen, said his early life had been spent at sea. He appeared at area pioneer Bill Keys ranch in 1926 looking for work. Keys hired him to help with his Hidden Gold Mine, which was located below the overlook at Keys View. By 1927 Samuelson had decided to homestead and located a piece of property in the middle of the Lost Horse Valley to the south of Quail Springs. On the top of a small hill, he built a wood and canvas shack where he lived with his wife Margaret. When not working his gold claim, he carved political sayings on the rocks near his house. Scott s photos here: Ron s photos: Palm Springs Tram Ticket Information Summer season rate starts May 1. Adult - $23.95 Senior (62+) - $21.95 Summer Pass (May 1 - Aug 31)

5 Sedona Trip Report 2014 By Scott Connelly Riding into Sedona with windy conditions soon turned to great weather with cool nights and warm days. A total of 49 participants with 12 tents, 11 RV s, 10 dogs, and 13 staying in nearby cabins enjoyed a variety of events while staying in a secluded section of Dead Horse Ranch State Park campground. We had members from all 5 of our chapters. A special welcome to 6 new members: Michael Salas, Michael Kezsely, Stephen Cocker, Ricardo Ramirez, Tom Katayama and Mark Lewis. Thursday Byron led a hike to scenic Boynton Canyon, which is one of the most scenic box canyons in the red rock area. It is also known as a site of a New Age "vortex" - a sort of energy field emanating from the inner earth. Nine 4 wheel drive vehicles explored Schnebly Hill trail in the morning with lunch at the top of the ridge with a panoramic view 2000 feet above the Sedona area. The route follows the original Munds wagon trail (1902) through towering red rock buttes and the original tracks can still be seen on the hillside. Schnebly was Sedona s first postmaster and mayor. The town was named after Schnebly s wife, Sedona. In the afternoon we explored Sedona s signature Broken Arrow trail. The first stop along the trail was the slick rock feature, Submarine Rock. Hiking along this immense rock and climbing up on the stern looking back across at the bow was definitely a highlight. We continued out the short trail to Chicken Point for more breathtaking views as the sun began to set. The E ticket ride was on the way back as we turned on the one-way and headed over to the Devils Staircase. This is a very steep downhill slope of approximately 30 degrees down a series of rock ledges and ruts. Everyone did great as we concluded the runs for the day and headed back to camp. The optional dinner was at The Tavern Grill in old town Cottonwood. We had 28 diners and enjoyed the local hospitality from the welcoming staff seated both in the outdoor patio and inside the restaurant. Friday Bill B. led a 7 mile hike with 19 to the popular, scenic, and spectacular West Fort Oak Creek canyon, with many water crossings and interesting geological formations. This is one of the most popular trails with the flowing stream and towering cliffs and lush vegetation and wildflowers. The off road adventure included Diamondback, Greasy Spoon, and Outlaw Trails. The Greasy Spoon trail was rugged, with steep, rocky hills that took us up to the mountain cliffs of the Honanki Ruins where we toured the ancient cliff dwellings and rock art via a short hiking trail. After lunch at the picnic area, we continued the loop, stopping for some spectacular views and heading back to camp for appetizers and evening campfire. Saturday: Byron led a hike out from camp, exploring the trails along the creek and the lagoons. The off-roaders headed to Dry Creek Trail for one of the best hiking adventures to be found anywhere. Devils Bridge is a large sandstone arch located.8 mile from the parking area. There is a steep natural staircase that goes up about 400 feet to the top of the arch. All made it to the top, including the doggies. We enjoyed the time here with lots of photos of brave hikers venturing out onto and crossing the arch. The return trail included a hike to underneath the arch for more scenic views. We continued up the trail toward Vultee Arch and stopped at a scenic overview of Thunder Mountain while we waited for a group of 8 Red Jeep tours to exit the spur road to the Van Deren Cabin. Earl Van Deren was a homesteader in the 1920 s who caught water runoff from his roof or hauled in water from a mile away. The final approach ascent to the cabin is a climb up a rocky, rutted, bench involving some challenge to navigate. Continued on the next five pages.

6 The final run of the day was completed by 5 vehicles while the others headed back to camp or other destinations. The Oak Creek Homestead trail was well worth the time and effort with rewarding views and points of interest. The trail led to the flowing Oak Creek where the remains of the old stone cabin are located. We forded the river over to the other side and back to the river's edge where there are great day uses or camping spots. Climbing back up the steep trail included following a narrow shelf road with rocky steps and ruts. All drivers exhibited excellent off road skills returning to the top. Back in camp for a potluck dinner and a group campfire where everyone was gathered for the raffle. Gary, Bob and John executed the raffle with precision as many gifts were won by the lucky ones. The $50 and two $25 gift certificates were won by Michael Salas and Jeff Lewis. The final drawing for $115 cash went to Peter Worline. Special recognition was made to fairly new off road drivers Sherwood Covill, Ricardo Perez, Michael Salas, Jeff Lewis, and Michael Richardson for mastering the obstacles and challenges of the trails with great driving skills. Sunday Sunday was a perfect day to ride the historic Verde Canyon Railroad. Thirty nine of us boarded the Pullman coach after having lunch at the depot outdoor picnic area. The docent on the open air car provided information on many points of interest along the way. We traveled into this remote wilderness area where there is no access, other than the train. We spotted bald eagles soaring above as we passed ancient cliff dwellings and spectacular geological formations. A large group spent the last night dining at Nic s restaurant in old town, Great food and service from the welcoming staff. A special thanks to Byron and Bill for leading hikes and John N. and Ric P. for all the preparation, set up and support. Thanks to the park staff that welcomed us and facilitated our stay, providing maps, advice, and site assignment gate passes. We appreciate the participation of our members and thank you for joining this outing and we hope to see you at many future events. Take a look at the fabulous pictures in the next four pages! Still more pictures are found here: Scott s Photos click here and Ron s Photos click here

8 Sedona Continued

Tram Round Valley Loop By David Stewart Woody, Stan (green shirt), and Bill (with the

We took it easy and enjoyed the spectacular, scenic surroundings that San Jacinto

Tram to Wellman s Divide by David Stewart A perfect day for David, Scott and Bob to

A classic, 6-mile hike--tram to Wellman's Divide Loop.

11 Tram Round Valley Loop By David Stewart Woody, Stan (green shirt), and Bill (with the beard). A lovely day for the Round Valley Loop hike. We took it easy and enjoyed the spectacular, scenic surroundings that San Jacinto Wilderness State Park has to offer. Amazing that it is so close to the desert! Tram to Wellman s Divide by David Stewart A perfect day for David, Scott and Bob to hike out of the heat, as Palm Springs temps got up to 106! A classic, 6-mile hike--tram to Wellman's Divide Loop. Very busy with tons of hikers which allowed for interesting conversations. Overall, very scenic and the special views at Wellman's Divide mountainous ranges never fail to impress and delight the senses!

I was thrilled and pleased to help him fulfill this long-time hiking dream of going up this tough trail. I'm glad to know that he has scratched this all-day hike off his 'bucket list.

12 We started at 6am and went up over 8,400 feet of total elevation gain before reaching the Mountain Tram Station! Congratulations David and Thad! by David Stewart David and Thad climbed the Infamous Skyline Trail! On the 20th of May (great weather--cooler than normal), Thaddeus Kellam wanted me to take him up the infamous Skyline Trail. I was thrilled and pleased to help him fulfill this long-time hiking dream of going up this tough trail. I'm glad to know that he has scratched this all-day hike off his 'bucket list.' He said that he'd never do it again! Thad said: Six years ago, while a member of the San Francisco Hiking Club, I joined a group of guys that planned to go to Palm Springs and hike the Cactus-To- Clouds trail. We did training hikes on Mount Diablo in the East Bay that were as steep as we could find. When the time came to drive down here I was sick and had to drop out. Then last year after having retired and moved here, I climbed San Jacinto solo, then waited for an opportunity to climb the Skyline Trail, the really tough part. That opportunity came May 20 and I have to say the trail lived up to its reputation as one of the ten hardest day hikes in America! 6:00 AM! We made it!!!! Yeah!!!!

Warren Peak Hike Report By Scott Connelly Beginning at the Black Rock campground near Yucca Valley, 5 members hiked 5.

The trail follows the Panorama Loop up the wash past Black Rock Spring where the canyon narrows with some of the most interesting geological rock formations which are

4 mile spur to the peak is very steep and rugged to the pointed rock pile summit with dramatic 360 views that include Eureka Peak (5,518') Mt San Jacinto (10,834'), Mt.

13 Warren Peak Hike Report By Scott Connelly Beginning at the Black Rock campground near Yucca Valley, 5 members hiked 5.7 miles with a total elevation gain of 1200 feet up to the summit of Warren Peak at an elevation of 5,103 feet. Warren Peak is Joshua Tree's 10th highest peak. The trail follows the Panorama Loop up the wash past Black Rock Spring where the canyon narrows with some of the most interesting geological rock formations which are twisted, folded and patterned with designs. The.4 mile spur to the peak is very steep and rugged to the pointed rock pile summit with dramatic 360 views that include Eureka Peak (5,518') Mt San Jacinto (10,834'), Mt. San Gorgonio (11,499'), the Coachella Valley and towns of Palm Springs and Yucca Valley. The trail follows an ecological transition zone from the Joshua Trees forest amid dense scrub to the emergence of pinyon, juniper and oak trees. We saw two horned lizards and many quail. There were many wildflowers in bloom and well as blooming cacti. Additional Photos Click Here

14 Members Only! If you want to place an Ad, newsletter editor: It s free, until further notice.

15 Club's Phone: GOPS Palm Springs Core Group President Gary McGrath Non-Members Free Introductory Newsletter Free Newsletter for Three Months! Click here for a Video Presentation of our Club! Want to know more about us before joining? We will add you to our newsletter mailing list free for 3 months! Send your address to: webmaster-ps@greatoutdoors.org. Join: Renew: When it s time join or renew, do it ONLINE! Proposed Schedule of Events The yearly schedule of activities is subject to change, so please check the newsletter or web site for the most up-to-date information about the chapter s activities. In addition there is always room to add new activities, so if you are interested in leading a hike, a camping trip, 4x4 or another outing, please contact: Any member of the Core Group. Newsletter Articles and Ads Articles for this newsletter should be submitted as Microsoft Word attachments via by the 25th of the month to: Steve Schullo, Newsletter-ps@greatoutdoors.org. If you wish to insert an ad in advertising space in The Oasis please submit your inquiries to Steve. Ads should be submitted in jpg format. It s free for now. V.P. Outings John Niedzwiedz vpo-ps@greatoutdoors.org Treasurer Bob Jaworski treasurer-ps@greatoutdoors.org Game Night Coordinator George Frank gamenightcoordinator-ps@greatoutdoors.org Secretary Cliff Brown secretary-ps@greatoutdoors.org Board Representative Cliff Clue boardrep-ps@greatoutdoors.org Publicity/Outreach OPEN outreach-ps@greatoutdoors.org Membership Chair Ed Emond membership-ps@greatoutdoors.org Member At Large Scott Connelly memberatlarge-ps@greatoutdoors.org Newsletter Publisher/Editor Steve Schullo newsletter-ps@greatoutdoors.org Web Site Administrator Ed Emond webmaster-ps@greatoutdoors.org Group Lists

The Oasis. Monday, March 3-5:003 Your host: Evan Van Antwerp 3111 E. Loma Vista Circle, Palm Springs CA 92264

The Oasis. Monday, March 3-5:003 Your host: Evan Van Antwerp 3111 E. Loma Vista Circle, Palm Springs CA 92264 The Oasis www.greatoutdoors.org/ps VOLUME 11 ISSUE 3 March, 2010 Palm Springs, California Monday, March 29 @ 3-5:003 pm Your host: Evan Van Antwerp 3111 E. Loma Vista Circle, Palm Springs CA 92264 From