Southern Yosemite Climbing Discussions

Southern Yosemite Categories => General Discussion => Topic started by: John on January 12, 2015, 07:43:26 am

Title: Current Conditions
Post by: John on January 12, 2015, 07:43:26 am

Looks like typical spring conditions out there. Very disturbing for January.

The Eagles
(http://www.southernyosemiteclimbing.com/SMF/photo_album_resized/P1120313_resized.jpg)

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: jeff on January 12, 2015, 08:43:11 am

Disturbing is right, kinda freaking me out. The Monster and I were hiking(that is mostly what I do these days) here in June Lake in shorts and t-shirts.

Glad to see you guys taking advantage of it and getting out there. Tell more.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on January 12, 2015, 01:25:04 pm

We had a great time this weekend, and it was mostly dead quiet. Can't recall seeing anyone else out in our neck of the woods the whole time, save for a couple of cars passing by. 

Weather wasn't bad at all. A little concerning since the forecast called for snow and/or rain showers, but only sprinkled a little a couple times at night.

I was wondering about you guys, Jeff, when I was looking towards Mammoth Mt. Didn't look like nearly enough snow out there. Got any photos of your hikes?

When home later maybe I can pick out some photos to put up.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on January 12, 2015, 02:10:09 pm

I have the camera! I'll post in FA thread.



 

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: jeff on January 13, 2015, 10:26:59 am

Ya Sue, very grim as far as snow over here. The second time I have bought a season pass for June Mountain and there isn't enough snow to really use it, or at least not without ski damage or bodily injury. 1 day out this year and both Mony and I got injured. Mony has been going to  PT for several weeks now.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on January 13, 2015, 10:52:18 am

Rough. That is too bad. I wonder what happened, Jeff.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on January 21, 2015, 09:25:29 am

Some late closures of the roads were added.

http://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/sierra/home/?cid=stelprdb5399344 (http://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/sierra/home/?cid=stelprdb5399344)

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on January 21, 2015, 01:09:41 pm

Watch out for logging trucks through rest of season.
Operation to log the burn is happening now.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: Gerard(Jerry)Jessurun on January 23, 2015, 11:27:38 am

Wazzup Peeps?

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on January 23, 2015, 05:37:54 pm

Quote from: Gerard(Jerry)Jessurun on January 23, 2015, 11:27:38 am

Wazzup Peeps?

Whazzup Bro? Ready for some crushing?

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on January 23, 2015, 05:38:59 pm

We are still planning our attack...

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on January 25, 2015, 06:02:18 pm

(http://www.southernyosemiteclimbing.com/SMF/photo_album_resized/20150125_162644-1_resized.jpg)
Here is a shot for a few interested members. We didn't climb at this cliff this visit  but thought I'd snap a shot with my cellphone for ya as we left today.

Tx for the call Jeff! Too bad we missed it.

Beautiful this weekend!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: dj on January 25, 2015, 09:33:58 pm

Thought I'd introduce myself after eavesdropping threads here for a while.  HI!   I did drive up to Mile High on Saturday.  Gotta echo the "disturbing" sentiments regarding complete lack of snow.   No snow whatsoever on the road. View from mile high area:   

(https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8652/16347101226_6a7b877fa4_b.jpg)

I was thinking I'd make it to the Squaw Dome trailhead but the road was closed just past the Mammoth Pools turnoff.   Did see some boaters coming out!

Then headed up Beasore just to see how far I could make it (w/ a pathfinder-like vehicle).   Slushy, icy and a little dicey going down and past Jone's Store.   Stopped a couple miles past Jones store, took in this sunset of Madera Peak and The Balls from a snowless hill and nice camp spot at 7000'.   

(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7352/16371347851_0b0e8b7c79_c.jpg)

Drive out the next morning required chains (or at least I felt safer having them on) as the roads had gotten super slick in the morning.    Would've been interesting to drive all the way to Jackass Meadows area, though having a chain saw would seem important just in case a tree falls and blocks the way out.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on January 25, 2015, 09:47:08 pm

Thx DJ. I echo the conditions having gone about that far myself recently in the middle of the day.. The ice would be sketch once it refroze into smooth flat sections.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on January 25, 2015, 09:48:16 pm

Btw, pics aren't working for me on my mobile.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on January 25, 2015, 10:30:48 pm

Hi DJ!
Thanks for posting up! I was curious to hear about conditions on both inroads and areas you went to. It's a problem I have whenever going there.... want to see it all, all at once.

Very good advice on the chains and chainsaw front.

I too wish I could see the photos you posted.  In case it helps tho maybe you've tried it? http://southernyosemiteclimbing.com/SMF/index.php?topic=26.0 (http://southernyosemiteclimbing.com/SMF/index.php?topic=26.0)

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: Dave on January 26, 2015, 04:28:06 am

Susu -

10-20 on the pic above? Infrequent flyers wanna know.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: dj on January 26, 2015, 07:27:54 am

Thanks munge, Susan, Dave!    Ok, the pix should be ok now as I edited the above post.  Switched to flickr from dropbox, and if that doesn't work I'll read the instructions Dave posted.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on January 26, 2015, 07:29:59 am

Thanks for the update DJ. Wow, it looks like summer.

Why the heck did they lock the Minarets gate this late in the year? Kinda cruel.

Did Grizzly Rd look sketchy too?

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: dj on January 26, 2015, 07:37:45 am

Yeah, I was bummed about that gate being locked (on Minarets Rd).    Grizzly is probably reasonable if you're able to make it down the hill to Jones store to start with.    At the point where Beasore and Grizzly split, both roads had plenty of tracks and even some exposed asphalt.   Anyways, 4WD and high clearance would be a must, for now at least.   In two weeks at this rate of melt who knows.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on January 26, 2015, 07:57:43 am

When the gate on Minarets was still unlocked about two weeks ago we went as far as we could. The heavier snow and ice on the road started a little past Arch Rock and we turned around. It was maybe 3-6" deep and passable but it tends to get deeper the farther down you go from there and it was icy too.

At that point our willingness to break through was at a low level due to being poorly equipped for snow. We also got really stuck around there last spring which sucked.

I imagine the snow would be a little lower by now but the gate is the new problem.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on January 26, 2015, 08:00:09 am

Oh yeah, where did you end up climbing after your recon?

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: dj on January 26, 2015, 08:29:22 am

Hi John,

Sounds like your trip last spring was quite an adventure.     Did you write up a trip report for it somewhere?   Sounds like one of those trips which is best to look back upon.

My climbing is relegated to gyms these days.   I was aiming to do a short scenic backpack trip to the San Joaquin gorge between Balloon and Piyau domes, but a late start and gate closure threw off the schedule.     I visited once and it's just a beautiful canyon!  If conditions persist then I'll try again in a few weeks, though I'd much prefer 10 feet of snow blanketing the area.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on January 26, 2015, 10:29:35 am

Nice shots DJ.

Dave, the photo I posted is from just outside Yosemite Valley - Parkline.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on January 26, 2015, 10:05:42 pm

DJ-
Sounds like you were planning on going down the South Fork Trail?

No trip report so far about our getting stuck in the snow, we get stuck embarrassingly often. Usually right after my wife calls me a wuss for not wanting to push on down the road "a little bit farther".

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on January 27, 2015, 07:57:03 am

Buahaha

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: dj on January 27, 2015, 08:24:54 am

Ok, that's too funny your wife calls you a wuss ;)     

Maybe I should've used the South Fork trail (I'll have to look that up).   I was planning to go down the French trail (using "trail" term very loosely here) from the Squaw Dome trail head.  There's a sandy/gravelly spur just to the north of the trail that heads halfway down, at which point the real trail can be picked up and makes for an easy route to an area just above what I think you would call Cat Wall.   

But now the Badger Pass web cam is showing some annoying white stuff covering the ground so looks like access to the area will have to wait.    Sigh.

(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7304/16355332316_d5e052b664_b.jpg)

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on January 27, 2015, 08:49:39 am

Normally I get bummed out when I see snow but this year I gotta say I'm a little bit relieved.

The South Fork trail actually crosses the French trail and is a little bit further south than Piyau Dome. Really purdy.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on January 27, 2015, 08:54:50 am

how much of that snow was existing?  How much fresh new?

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: YETI on January 27, 2015, 08:55:00 am

Man that looks grim.

Wonder how bad this year will be in the tinder box?

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: dj on January 27, 2015, 09:03:32 am

Mungeclbimer, yesterday afternoon that same cam showed mostly dirt at the bottom w/ streaks of brown on some of the runs.     There's really not that much new snow yet, but it's a start.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on January 27, 2015, 09:07:32 am

Interesting. That's 7200' at the badger base.  thx for the insight.

soyo has more of a microclimate than badger conditions, I think, but it indicates some precip. Good to keep the ground wet and fires at bay, but bad for trying to get to higher ground early in the season.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: dj on January 27, 2015, 09:34:03 am

Yeah, that cam makes a decent gauge.    The slopes of Badger are north facing so it gives an idea of what to expect in the worst places.  If the base is mostly dirt I usually get the crazy idea that I can drive Beasore loop, which usually doesn't work out.   Ditto on the "microclimate".  It was almost warm at night in an area just south of Madera Peak.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on January 27, 2015, 11:37:37 am

Yay snow - but what we really need is what New England's got.

Sooooo, by the way, I never call John a wuss. It's just his translation. All I have to say is we can go a little farther, but whoaaa... he was right.

We bivy'ed stuck in the snow one night on our wedding anniversary out there. Made it out next day on our own ok. Could have been much worse.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: dj on January 27, 2015, 12:33:09 pm

 Mother nature gave you a white wedding anniversary.   Sounds like a great time  ;D   

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on January 27, 2015, 12:47:17 pm

It was - certainly memorable!

Chains.... hmmm, we should get some of those!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on February 04, 2015, 09:58:24 am

Taken last Friday.

(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7380/16407397006_383d646fe6_c.jpg)

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on February 06, 2015, 08:22:42 am

Nice shot there.

This weekend weather forecast reminds me of a Master's of Stone video of Dan Osman clad in part snorkeling gear and trying to climb up a waterfall.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on February 06, 2015, 04:51:19 pm

I picture it as making eggs and bacon Saturday morning drinking coffee. it WilL b3 teh eP1c!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on February 22, 2015, 10:06:50 am

Sierra Nevada Yos to Kings

Quote

Today
 Mostly cloudy in the morning. Chance of snow showers in the morning...then snow showers likely in the afternoon. Near the crest...chance of snow showers in the morning...then snow showers in the afternoon. Colder. Snow accumulation up to 3 inches. Snow level 5500 feet. Highs 40 to 46 at 5000 feet...29 to 34 at 8000 feet.

Tonight
 Snow showers likely and chance of showers in the evening...then snow showers likely after midnight. Near the crest...snow showers. Breezy...colder. Snow accumulation up to 3 inches. Snow level 5000 feet. Lows 29 to 35 at 5000 feet... 18 to 24 at 8000 feet. Northeast winds around 25 mph with gusts to around 45 mph in the evening.

Monday
 Chance of snow showers in the morning...then chance of snow showers likely in the afternoon. Near the crest...snow showers likely in the morning...then chance of snow showers in the afternoon. Chance of precipitation 70 percent. Snow accumulation up to 1 inch. Total snow accumulation up to 7 inches. Highs 37 to 42 at 5000 feet...26 to 31 at 8000 feet.

Monday Night
 Partly cloudy. Chance of snow showers in the evening...then slight chance of snow showers after midnight. Chance of snow 50 percent. Lows 26 to 36 at 5000 feet...17 to 25 at 8000 feet.

Actual precipitation! 

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on February 22, 2015, 01:38:40 pm

It's really dumping out there right now. Could really add up over two days for sure. It's like winter or something.

Somewhere on Minarets this AM. It got way worse around Mile High Overlook and was really beginning to stick.
(http://www.southernyosemiteclimbing.com/SMF/photo_album_resized/P1120803_resized.jpg)

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: dj on February 22, 2015, 07:56:54 pm

That was bold!    Hope you had chains ;)    The forecast of snow kept me away.    Or maybe it was the thread on mountain lions.   Thanks for sharing the pic!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on February 23, 2015, 07:03:43 am

Saturday was perfect and the weather didn't come in until Sunday AM so it was totally worth it. The forecast turned for the worse after we had already headed out. It had 20% chance originally and jumped up to sure thing on friday.

We were overly alert about mountain lions though...

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on February 23, 2015, 07:49:42 am

 8) Yah, not me about the lions. J/k. I was especially jumpy at times. Lol

And doesn't Minarets look unrecognizable right now? Some parts look like dirt road even kinda a war zone.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: dj on February 23, 2015, 08:41:14 am

Yeah, that's one messy road!     Definitely would not have pegged it for the nicely paved Minarets.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on February 23, 2015, 10:44:39 pm

Next weekend is looking similarly wet.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on February 28, 2015, 11:00:06 am

Snow in Tahoe today. Hoping it is snowing up in the SoYo. Really need the precip, and a good justification for me not climbing up there this weekend.


jess sayin  8)

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on February 28, 2015, 11:01:54 am

Its really nice outside here....I feel like we screwed up by staying home.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on February 28, 2015, 11:50:17 am

tell me about it. Got blue skies.

Going to Pinnacles tomorrow if you guys want to come down for a day.

7:45 East Side lot. Playing on some choss.

Hood of the Cobra awaits!

(https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8584/16674768965_b960ede8c1_z.jpg)

Pic by JC.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on February 28, 2015, 12:05:31 pm

Looks like you're in a big catchers mitt.

Is there dry weather at Pinns?

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on February 28, 2015, 12:24:04 pm

If you check the Soledad, CA forecast, says partly sunny. No precip identified.

If you point click to the East Side of Park, it says

Sunday
 A 20 percent chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 54. Light and variable wind. New precipitation amounts of less than a tenth of an inch possible.


That's not even enough to think about.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on February 28, 2015, 05:50:42 pm

Quote

Sunday Night
 A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 10pm. Some of the storms could produce small hail. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 38. Northwest wind 6 to 9 mph. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

thinking about it now. :(

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: dj on March 02, 2015, 12:34:51 pm

Some "before and after" shots from the Badger Pass web cam in the national park just north of SoYo.
Friday's image on top, Monday's on bottom.

Good news: some snow!   Bad news: Probably not enough to ski on and just enough to make access to parts of SoYo questionable.

(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8618/16075167984_3cfefa4425_z.jpg)

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on March 02, 2015, 02:45:40 pm

I have to say, I am surprised that the "before" had even that much snow, you know?

I am really interested in a Soyo road conditions report if anyone has been out there. Anyone? I am not mentally prepared to go back and start acting like it is winter again after the last month of dry conditions out there. Not fair!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: NateD on March 02, 2015, 10:10:56 pm

Quote from: John on March 02, 2015, 02:45:40 pm

I am not mentally prepared to go back and start acting like it is winter again after the last month of dry conditions out there. Not fair!

Wow, really? Nothing could have been more fair to climbers than this non-existant winter, no? :)

Thankfully it was snowing at my inlaws at Bass Lake this morning, so presumably dumping pretty good up thousands of ft. higher.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on March 02, 2015, 10:24:52 pm

Good point Nate. I shouldn't complain.

Yeah snow in Bass Lake is a sign that this weekend would be overly optimistic.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: larsj on March 05, 2015, 09:32:16 pm

Munge- Is that Chimney Sweep at the Pinns
lars

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on March 05, 2015, 10:21:25 pm

Nope, new line on East Side of Pinns. Kind of near Yaks.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: donutnational on April 01, 2015, 02:24:11 pm

Not sure if it is general knowledge but the Jeep trail to the shuteye peak lookout is open and dry as a bone.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on April 02, 2015, 09:02:39 am

Good news! Any other year past I might of thought this an April Fool's joke.

 

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on April 02, 2015, 06:03:51 pm

Sunday looks like a wash though. Snow even at higher elevations.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on April 11, 2015, 10:51:22 pm

A little rough getting over Cold Springs Summit on Beasore last night due to snow but doable. Ran into too much snow and ice a few miles into Grizzly though. We might have made it with our 4wd truck but was too slick for our friends AWD car. Nice along Minarets.

Great weather today with only a few moments of blustery winds and threatening clouds.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: dj on April 12, 2015, 07:23:51 am

Thanks for the update Susan.   I can fill in a little more.    We did the Beasore->Grizzly->Little Chiquito->Minarets->Beasore loop w/ a 4wd yesterday.   The snow was soft/slushy.   Probably cleaned the tires.     We saw some runners along Beasore near Cold Springs Junction.    We snowshoed at Chilkoot Lk.     The entire loop was really easy w/ a 4WD.   The extra clearance was necessary.    Got a little muddy coming back on Beasore (from Minarets).    No downed trees.   Only saw 2 other vehicles (parked) once we got past CSJ.   Probably in a day or two there will be far less snow.   Hazy weather, but nice to see snow on the Sierra Crest.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on April 12, 2015, 10:06:34 am

Thanks dj for your report. A successful full loop is great news. We were happy to find the Minarets gate open.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: YETI on April 12, 2015, 11:21:56 am

Wonder if next weekend is gonna pan out....

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on April 12, 2015, 09:20:42 pm

That's great news DJ! Nice shot, hah cow enhancements not very noticeable on my cell phone anyway.

 

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on April 13, 2015, 06:31:30 am

So dj, do you think 2wd regular-clearance cars would be ok getting to the Balls next weekend?

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on April 13, 2015, 07:32:33 am

Fri night getting unstuck on Grizzly Rd-almost slid off the edge.
There is about 6+ inches of snow on the left side of the road here.

(http://www.southernyosemiteclimbing.com/SMF/photo_album_resized/IMG_1813_resized.jpg)

Free at last!!

(http://www.southernyosemiteclimbing.com/SMF/photo_album_resized/IMG_1820_resized.jpg)

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: YETI on April 13, 2015, 07:49:34 am

Holy cowpie snowcones.

looks epic.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: dj on April 13, 2015, 08:42:39 am

Some new funky yoga pose there John....  "Stranded Warrior"?   That nice pic explains a dicy part of Grizzly we drove by with a drop-off on the north side and a few concerning wayward tire-tracks.  I geared down when I saw those ruts!   Thanks for making an initial slice through :)   The road got easier after that. 

As far as 2WD to The Balls, I can't be certain but.....   maybe the Minarets approach is easier (from N. Fork).  We didn't drive the downhill portion of Minarets from the gate so it's unknown to me.   Probably depends on tire tread, just exactly how much clearance the car has and how much snow melts.   The whole southern exposure portion of Beasore (from Minarets to well past Portuguese overlook) had almost no snow, just wet dirt.    Minarets from Lower Chiquoto CG turnoff to Beasore was really easy.  If you go from Bass Lake, the crux would be on the downhill from Cold Spring Junction to past Jones Store.   

[EDIT]  BRING CHAINS, just in case!  And maybe a shovel.  Z-type cable chains with rubber tensioners are easy to put on.

The reward will be great though!    Really nice up there!   Dogwoods look set to bloom in a week or two.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on April 13, 2015, 09:11:42 am

good beta, thx dj!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on April 13, 2015, 11:49:11 am

Stranded Warrior pose, I love it! I also like "Downward Dumbass" pose.

We were discussing how we thought we had avoided our annual Springtime getting stuck in the snow due to the lack of winter this year.....but couldn't resist after all! Our truck actually got stuck getting set up to drag our friends car away from the edge of the road. That teensy tilt of the road downhill really kicked our ass. We had to dig down to clean pavement and then smash the layer of ice with....the ever-so-versatile Dammer©, thanks Dan!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: dj on April 13, 2015, 03:24:00 pm

YIKES!    That's way nastier than I first thought.    Good job getting out of that mess.   The snow was much more forgiving at 2pm the next day.    You guys are hard core travelling icy roads at night.   

I edited the 2WD beta above and suggest carrying chains.    We had chains last weekend, but didn't need to use them.   

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: daniel banquo merrick on April 14, 2015, 02:27:10 pm

Use those DAMMERRs, they can be replaced when they wear out.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on April 20, 2015, 08:06:40 am

Beasore and Grizzly are bone dry. No signs of snow from the last storm.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on April 25, 2015, 10:41:17 am

http://www.sierranewsonline.com/index.php?option=com_k2&view=item&id=5122%3Achain-control-at-5-000-feet&Itemid=216

Chain control down to 5k. Wow, that's seems weird compared to the last two winters.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: dj on April 25, 2015, 10:59:38 am

Thanks for the info Munge!    Good to see, despite the momentary access challenge it presents.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on April 25, 2015, 11:14:34 am

Reticent acceptance. Nicely overlaps with some downtime I'd been planning on anyways. :)

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on April 25, 2015, 12:44:21 pm

Very disappointed. This weather was not in the brochure.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: dj on April 27, 2015, 01:23:27 pm

A shot from Sunday near Cold Springs Junction.   I'm hesitant to even post this in "current conditions" given the rate of melt these days.
(http://southernyosemiteclimbing.com/SMF/photo_album_resized/cold_springs_jct-1_resized.jpg)

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on April 27, 2015, 01:27:41 pm

Yesterday "sunday", right?

quite a bit of snow, really.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: dj on April 27, 2015, 01:40:19 pm

Yeah, it was quite a bit at the time (Sunday confirmed)!  I think my muffler may not be happy, but nothing too bad has happened yet.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: dj on April 27, 2015, 01:44:43 pm

I was able to get a quick hike down partway into the gorge.  Not as far as I wished… too much thrashing and snow gear (mostly unneeded).  Not any snow on top of BD that I could see.   
(https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8811/17088104787_df887cb654_c.jpg)
(lighting from 1/2 moon, with some post processing)

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on April 27, 2015, 04:53:54 pm

That is an awesome shot dj.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: dj on April 27, 2015, 05:31:03 pm

Thanks John.   I wanted snow!  The brochure said so.   LOL.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: daniel banquo merrick on April 27, 2015, 05:51:20 pm

Holy Scheiße! I love that photo of BD and the snow at Cold Springs too. I am pretty sure I will be headed up there soon - perhaps solo since my climbing partners are either over - employed, old and feeble, moved away or home having babies.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: dj on April 27, 2015, 08:06:34 pm

Thanks Daniel.   

Quote

my climbing partners are either over - employed, old and feeble, moved away or home having babies.

I probably qualify for one or two of those categories.    Was nice getting back there for a bit, even got some roads with virgin snow. I was meaning to do it for a long time and just one thing or another came up.   Wish I had the energy to make it farther down into the gorge on that run down, and it didn't help that my memory of the "trail" was vague.  John once suggested I try the South Fork trail.  Maybe next time. 

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on April 27, 2015, 11:27:06 pm

Yes very nice shots. The evening shot of BD is really great. Glad to see proof of snow and that you got out there anyway.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on April 28, 2015, 01:47:51 pm

(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7496/15462116288_4f762540cb_z.jpg)

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: larsj on April 28, 2015, 06:55:45 pm

Great night shot of Balloon Dome dj,thanks
-lars

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: dj on April 28, 2015, 09:52:17 pm

Thanks Susan, Lars.

Saw these from a fellow traveller on the way downhill.    I'm assumed it was a nice bear.   
(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7673/17307925835_d2eb1fd81e_c.jpg)

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: NateD on April 29, 2015, 10:01:33 am

Sweet Balloon pic, dj!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on April 29, 2015, 11:40:07 am

By the paw prints, doesn't look to be a very big bear. But in this case, mom may be near too.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: dj on April 29, 2015, 02:48:29 pm

Thanks Nate!

From Susan:

Quote

... doesn't look to be a very big bear.  But in this case, mom may be near too.

Ignorance is bliss :)   
I was happy not to have seen any cat tracks considering recent threads here.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on April 29, 2015, 03:18:22 pm

Yes no kidding! Especially if you were alone.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: dj on April 29, 2015, 03:49:12 pm

I did wear a climbing helmet, as if it might actually help a little.  Oh, and trekking poles make good weapons I hear.
[Edit]: "Nice puddy cat, nice puddy cat...."

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on April 30, 2015, 01:12:13 pm

O no, now that's done it. I'm distracted from work and thinking of when all to wear helmets... just around. Way too many to post. 

(http://www.southernyosemiteclimbing.com/SMF/photo_album_resized/helmet-corinthian-style-5856lm_red_resized.jpg)
Corinthian

My Favorite
(http://www.southernyosemiteclimbing.com/SMF/photo_album_resized/airbag-helmet-1-537x399_resized.jpg)
The Airbag Helmut



 

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: YETI on April 30, 2015, 07:49:45 pm

Great balloon domesky shot!


Someday...

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: dj on April 30, 2015, 08:53:36 pm

Thanks Yeti!  Yeah, go for it, looks like a blast!   I wanna get a shot of a party bivouac'd at night.   Some lights midway up would make for a good focal point.

Susan, I gotta say I'm voting for that air helmut too.   Increases one's size profile and the kitty kat's gonna go "WTF?". 

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on April 30, 2015, 08:57:05 pm

Not only that, but it will prevent Professor Xavier from reading your mind.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on April 30, 2015, 10:40:20 pm

That helmet is actually an airbag!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: dj on May 01, 2015, 08:48:03 am

Splendid!  Can double as a flotation device and suffice as a pillow.  Multi-function! :)

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: daniel banquo merrick on May 01, 2015, 09:15:17 am

Looks like somebody has their head in the clouds.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: larsj on May 01, 2015, 12:13:05 pm

Reminds me of the time I forgot my helmet going mountain boarding.  We actually used a belt to strap a car pillow to my head!
lars

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on May 01, 2015, 01:02:11 pm

oh, I hope there are pics of that Lars!  LOL

cheers,
M

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: larsj on May 01, 2015, 07:49:38 pm

Sorry Munge, no pics that day.  However, it was the one day I didn't crater mountain boarding. Must have been " Fear Of Flying"-lars

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on May 01, 2015, 11:29:13 pm

Ahhh catching up on these replies just now is giving me a good laugh!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on May 02, 2015, 10:52:55 am

By the way, I was meaning to post another photo of Dammer as ice pick which was instrumental in saving us the other week...

(http://i956.photobucket.com/albums/ae47/setageus/john%20ice%20pik.png)

Add: Errrrr.. Dammerr!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: daniel banquo merrick on May 02, 2015, 11:12:00 am

Not often I get to see a photo of a DAMMERR at work but I love to.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: daniel banquo merrick on May 05, 2015, 11:13:48 am

I was thinking of going up for a reconnaissance trip late this week but the weather is looking bad again.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on May 05, 2015, 11:37:36 am

Thanks for the heads up! I should have been looking since technically this is still springtime. Dare I jinx us and say the forecast looks like it could improve?

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on May 05, 2015, 12:12:20 pm

I think I may have Sunday to play now, and I'm almost thinking about a day trip to SoYo.

rollin dice!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: daniel banquo merrick on May 05, 2015, 12:25:19 pm

Sunday is Mother's Day and although my mom has been dead for many years, I have a wife and kids which apparently means there are expectations to live up to. I have pointed out that she isn't my mom but that fact seems irrelevant.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on May 05, 2015, 01:02:14 pm

Yes, what can one do? We have John's mom and my mom to celebrate, so who gets the special day when we both want to celebrate each of them, and they both seem genuinely happy to celebrate on nearby days rather than on the specific Sunday. Still, I can feel a little amiss about it even with their blessing if we are not there on that Sunday. 

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: Gerard(Jerry)Jessurun on May 07, 2015, 08:07:46 am

Big clouds over Little Shuteye .

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: dj on May 07, 2015, 10:31:47 am

Thanks for the update Gerard.   From the nearby Badger Pass webcam there's a light dusting of snow so far.  I think there was prior accumulation on the north facing slope (blurred in the photo here) that didn't completely melt in the past week.

(http://southernyosemiteclimbing.com/SMF/photo_album/original_badger2015_05_07.jpg)

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on May 07, 2015, 11:21:43 am

At least could we still have a campfire in these conditions? Bringing the campfire wood and tinder from the store and all of course....

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: daniel banquo merrick on May 07, 2015, 12:48:59 pm

Sprinkling off and on here in Morgan Hill.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on May 07, 2015, 04:15:40 pm

Sprinkled here too - East Bay. Very lightly. Nothing to stop climbers except maybe of sandstone.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on May 11, 2015, 01:05:20 am

Best bluff call on a forecast in ages. Good ole SoYo delivered prime weather all weekend.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on May 11, 2015, 09:24:48 am

Invalid without pics

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on May 11, 2015, 10:09:02 am

Of course. My bad. Soon. 

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on May 11, 2015, 10:13:27 am

:)

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on May 12, 2015, 01:59:25 pm

(http://www.southernyosemiteclimbing.com/SMF/photo_album_resized/P1130333_resized.jpg)

Current condition - scraped up on the knees, elbows, shoulders. Ribcage a little achy from this squeeze.

The sky was blue though last weekend when 30% rain was in the forecast. See.

Not gonna get so lucky the next few days it appears... lotta rain and some snow again. I know, it's good for us.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: dj on May 13, 2015, 12:56:41 pm

Very nice perspective in that pic.   I like your version of current conditions!  ;D

Quote

scraped up

.   

At least you found a nice shady spot in crack/chimney thing.   Those rather oversized cams look like a pain to carry in such a tight spot.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: YETI on May 13, 2015, 08:32:51 pm

JEsus christ are you guys in crack city?

That thing just goes on and on and on???

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on May 14, 2015, 12:49:24 pm

Tx DJ. And Yeah it was a cluster... carrying all that gear. Next time I'll know not to bring more than 3 big pieces for the chimney. Shade was nice!

Yeah Yeti.... good crack for most the way!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: daniel banquo merrick on May 14, 2015, 04:23:34 pm

Big cams are fun - take a couple and just keep pushing them up.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on May 14, 2015, 09:43:20 pm

And that's what I did do anyway. That plus drag along the rest of the unused gear. So it goes. Didn't know what I'd need tho past there.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: daniel banquo merrick on May 15, 2015, 11:21:07 am

Tomorrow morning I'm planning to go through Shaver Lake and explore the southern approach to BD. If anybody is interested in coming along I'd enjoy the company.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on May 15, 2015, 01:03:02 pm

Dan, come slabbing with me! So approach to BD in bad forecast is a mess for sure!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on May 15, 2015, 01:30:23 pm

That sounds really fun Dan. We have plans but would love to check it out another time. Good luck.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: daniel banquo merrick on May 15, 2015, 02:25:21 pm

Munge -

That might work. I'm just trying to get out. I had planned on a 3-day on the east side but snowy passes and rain washed the trip. I'll email you for details.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on May 15, 2015, 02:35:03 pm

O yay!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on May 15, 2015, 03:29:46 pm

(http://www.southernyosemiteclimbing.com/SMF/photo_album_resized/20150515_152220_resized.jpg)
Photo is a perspective on current conditions coming in hot off 145.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: daniel banquo merrick on May 15, 2015, 03:59:00 pm

Satellite image loop shows overcast all day over the central Sierra with continuous clouds moving north to south. Doppler loop shows light rain over the whole area all day. Minarets reported a high of 50 today. NWS says 50% chance of rain or snow tonight.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on May 15, 2015, 06:38:27 pm

Soyo must be charmed. Here now and looks a-ok

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on May 16, 2015, 12:19:29 pm

Sun and clouds.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on May 18, 2015, 07:24:57 am

Forecast is wet wet wet. We scored this weekend, never felt a drop on Shuteye, just cold. Others got stormed out to the far east of soyo I hear.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: willmskinner on May 18, 2015, 11:26:09 am

Hey everybody,

How high has the snow line been in the recent storms?  Think the roads and approaches to the crags at shuteye will be clear by Saturday?

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on May 18, 2015, 11:30:16 am

No appreciable snow below 8k feet. Roads should be clear to most crags, IMHO.

Whether the weather coops, another story...

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on May 18, 2015, 01:45:23 pm

Hi willmskinner, Pretty sure it's a good bet roads will be clear of snow even with the next storm system coming through this week. Some dirt roads could be pretty muddy from the rain though.


 

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on July 21, 2015, 06:19:56 pm

I bet the fire zones to the south of SE get hammered. Wouldn't be surprised if the Minarets road sees some debris.

Quote

A Flash Flood Warning for northern Mariposa County and the Yosemite area -

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN HANFORD CA HAS ISSUED A

* FLASH FLOOD WARNING FOR... SOUTHWESTERN TUOLUMNE COUNTY IN CENTRAL CALIFORNIA... NORTHEASTERN MARIPOSA COUNTY IN CENTRAL CALIFORNIA...


* UNTIL 1045 PM PDT

* AT 543 PM PDT...YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK REPORTED A THUNDERSTORM PRODUCING HEAVY RAIN ACROSS THE WARNED AREA. FLASH FLOODING IS OCCURRING ON HIGHWAY 140 NEAR EL PORTAL. EXCESSIVE RAINFALL OVER THE RIM FIRE BURN SCAR WILL RESULT IN MUD AND DEBRIS FLOWS. THE DEBRIS FLOW CAN CONSIST OF ROCK...MUD...VEGETATION AND OTHER LOOSE MATERIALS.

* SOME LOCATIONS THAT WILL EXPERIENCE FLOODING INCLUDE...YOSEMITE VALLEY...YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK...WAWONA...HETCH HETCHY...THE RIM FIRE BURN SCAR...YOSEMITE GLACIER POINT...EL PORTAL...CRANE FLAT...SNOW FLAT...JERSEYDALE...GIN FLAT AND TENAYA LAKE.

* AFFECTED AREAS: MARIPOSA ... TUOLUMNE

Instructions:
 MOVE TO HIGHER GROUND NOW. ACT QUICKLY TO PROTECT YOUR LIFE. TURN AROUND...DONT DROWN WHEN ENCOUNTERING FLOODED ROADS. MOST FLOOD DEATHS OCCUR IN VEHICLES.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on September 08, 2015, 09:03:12 am

It was smokey on the ridge last weekend, presumably from the Rough fire. Mainly in the mornings, but Sunday the smoke lingered at least to mid afternoon. Ugh. Our first morning there this weekend we thought O No not another fire on the ridge, as it seemed close by. Can't imagine Hoffman right now.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: GreyGhost on September 15, 2015, 08:59:36 am

For now...Monday I pulled the plug on my 10 day trip to Shuteye.  My partner has lung problems/asthma and I was concerned to put her in compromised air.

Anyone have recent information on smoke conditions around North Fork or on along the Minarets road?  Being a Shuteye newbie first place I was going to was Big Sleep area.  Vehicle is a stock 2007 manual 4WD Toyota Tacoma Xtracab with 17" all terrain tires..no lift

What happens when the area gets a third of an inch of rain in 24 hours?  that's what weather underground is reporting today for Bass Lake.  Do any of the dirt roads have clay and turn to slicks?

Thanks, Tom

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on September 15, 2015, 10:27:11 am

The smoke has been pretty steady on the ridge for many weeks now but not overwhelming in my experience. The more north you go the smoke gets a little bit thinner and it is worst in the AM. Two weekends ago it cleared up really nice towards the end of the day but last weekend was constant haze. The moisture should help a lot this week.

I wouldn't worry about the rain too much. Most of the dirt roads are rocky/sandy and don't get saturated very quickly to the point that you can't get through.

Your truck can get you everywhere on the ridge including the Fire Lookout road past High Eagle (arguably the gnarliest road on the ridge) along the top of the ridge. I have a stock 4WD 4Runner with super saggy springs and dead shocks that got us up there so I don't see why you couldn't. Many roads are overgrown so paint may be compromised if you care about that kind of thing. You still could bang up your vehicle pretty good on that trail. Road wise, Big Sleep, Chiquito and Chilkoot are probably the most accessible areas on the ridge.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on September 15, 2015, 11:33:50 am

Greyghost, in my experience, allergic lung responses to fire smoke can be difficult even when it is just 'hazy' - e.g. I find it difficult to hike very far when a smoke haze is present. You probably made the right call. John's got lungs of steel. :)

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on September 15, 2015, 12:42:25 pm

rained yesterday, and early this morning, made a world of differents nice and clear today :-)

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: GreyGhost on September 15, 2015, 04:09:35 pm

Thanks everyone.  I was all packed  and now I'm pushing the pile over to the corner of the living room.

I got the Tacoma a year ago with 43K on it and no blemishes.  I managed some pin stripping first time I took it offload.     :'(

I saw on Supertopo, smoke in the valley is bad at the moment for some;  doesn't bother me till it gets really bad - except for mesquite smoke.  Julie is another matter.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on September 15, 2015, 04:27:33 pm

Dang, you found an '07 Tacoma with only 43K miles?!? Score! They move super fast in the used market and really keep their value. We sold one a few years ago of about the same vintage and people were offering their first born, kidneys, etc. within minutes of posting the ad! I think we sold it that day and made a tidy profit.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on September 17, 2015, 12:01:16 am

That's too bad Grey Ghost - if not this year then next, hey? Tempted to say it isn't that bad for smoke, but sometimes it really has been.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on November 27, 2015, 08:32:07 am

I dug up the links for the snow sensors out in Soyo. Looks bad. I am seeing 26" of snow at Chilkoot Meadow.

http://cdec.water.ca.gov/jspplot/jspPlotServlet.jsp?sensor_no=13586&end=11/27/2015+08:23&geom=small&interval=2&cookies=cdec01 (http://cdec.water.ca.gov/jspplot/jspPlotServlet.jsp?sensor_no=13586&end=11/27/2015+08:23&geom=small&interval=2&cookies=cdec01)

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: daniel banquo merrick on November 27, 2015, 04:32:04 pm

NWS predicts high 40 and low 20 through the weekend. I say you should go. I can't make it but would look forward to hearing about your adventure.  ;)

http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lon=-119.42743703126733&lat=37.380293544030906#.Vlj047-Dpuo (http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lon=-119.42743703126733&lat=37.380293544030906#.Vlj047-Dpuo)

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on November 30, 2015, 06:14:58 am

We turned around early on Minarets due to too much snow. There was snow a little past the Redinger Lookout so we were sure it would be sketchy farther in and there would be soggy approaches if we made it. Bass Lake even had a lot of snow on road 274 which is at like 3500'. I still wouldn't say we're shut-down yet but the next one might do the job.

We ended up going to the Valley. I missed Soyo so much more after having to go there. The camping situation in and around the Valley really sucks donkey balls. It turns out I need to re-learn how to climb cracks too!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on December 01, 2015, 10:51:25 pm

There's always this glory...

(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4032/4323239241_9ec1a6760e_b.jpg)

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on December 02, 2015, 12:02:00 pm

Winter's rough.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: daniel banquo merrick on December 03, 2015, 12:49:43 pm

I'm in New Zealand right now. It's summer here, come on down.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on December 03, 2015, 12:56:08 pm

O man that sounds wonderful!  Please post some photos if you like!  That's a place I'd love to visit!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: daniel banquo merrick on December 03, 2015, 04:26:34 pm

We have a little RV or camper van rented for 2 1/2 weeks. Mrs. M doesn't climb so just touring.

Spent the night here at Mt Ruapehu

(http://danielmerrick.com/SOYO_photos/207.jpg)

Lot of sheep

(http://danielmerrick.com/SOYO_photos/215.jpg)

Driving an RV on the left, roundabouts, etc. have been an adventure but all is going well.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on December 03, 2015, 04:39:10 pm

Awesome, Dan. Have a great time!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on December 03, 2015, 10:22:43 pm

Cool!

Hope you find some good meals that make lamb chops. Britain has sheep everywhere, and  they really know how to do a chop.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on December 09, 2015, 09:48:53 am

Nice shots Dan. Sounds like the trip of a lifetime! Have fun!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on February 26, 2016, 01:17:25 pm

Rumor has it on ST that Minarets is viable.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on February 26, 2016, 03:03:21 pm

Woohoo! Mount your mopeds, let's ride!!!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: daniel banquo merrick on March 15, 2016, 09:31:52 am

Chilkoot Meadow weather station reports 156" of snow. If so, pretty impressive.

http://raws.wrh.noaa.gov/cgi-bin/roman/meso_base.cgi?stn=CHMC1 (http://raws.wrh.noaa.gov/cgi-bin/roman/meso_base.cgi?stn=CHMC1)

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on March 15, 2016, 09:48:09 am

Iced gatoritas in July!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: daniel banquo merrick on March 15, 2016, 09:50:32 am

Cool snow depth map:

http://www.nohrsc.noaa.gov/nsa/?region=Sierras (http://www.nohrsc.noaa.gov/nsa/?region=Sierras)

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on March 16, 2016, 07:14:00 pm

That's pretty cool, I haven't seen that before. Super different for last year same time. Thanks for the share!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on April 05, 2016, 04:48:23 pm

Spring conditions were ripe for these guys last weekend. Found this little one at the base of a climb.

(http://www.southernyosemiteclimbing.com/SMF/photo_album_resized/DSCN3798_resized.jpg)

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: DaveyTree on April 06, 2016, 07:51:30 am

Love those snakes. Where were you climbing?

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on April 06, 2016, 08:29:10 pm

Hey! We climbed at a couple places. Chiquito and Fuller. Stellar weather! Did you get out again recently?

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: Dave on April 08, 2016, 08:26:43 am

Quote from: mungeclimber on March 15, 2016, 09:48:09 am

Iced gatoritas in July!

https://youtu.be/sp67wuM7On0

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on April 08, 2016, 09:18:17 am

Swingline! ha ha, that's what we call him.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on April 14, 2016, 11:06:21 am

Wow Fifteen... Fivvvv-teen onlookers/lurkers, or bots... but not posts.

Yes looks like great conditions this weekend! Shuteye is waking.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on April 15, 2016, 12:05:04 am

Those are bots, and 3 of my abandoned mobile sessions just hanging on. ;)


If they were real, then they should post up a pic!!!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: wingnut on April 15, 2016, 07:49:01 am

Anyone know where the snow line currently is? I was thinking of trying to go into Losr Eagle, at 6800'

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: daniel banquo merrick on April 15, 2016, 08:23:51 am

I don't think I've been to Loser Eagle

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: wingnut on April 15, 2016, 08:35:23 am

Thanks for your very useful comment on my obvious typo. Lost Eagle.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on April 15, 2016, 10:54:37 am

The ridge still had a ton of snow as of two weekends ago yet Grizzly road is open on the Minarets side. I would guess you have a 50/50 chance of getting to Loser Eagle...Lost Eagle too. Hope that helps.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: daniel banquo merrick on April 15, 2016, 11:10:49 am

I was just thinking it was the type of place I should go.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on April 15, 2016, 11:35:47 am

Ha ha, a post! Not only one but a few, and some that gave a chuckle. Yay!

Yes Beasore would likely be a way to Loser Eagle instead of Lost (sorry, but it's a great name), imagining it's too snowy yet on the shady downslope over the Cold Springs summit. But we haven't been there yet this year so don't really know. Now you've gone and made me very curious! Maybe see you then. Maybe help haul each other out of a pit.

Going Minarets to Grizzly, I bet it is dry all the way to the dirt road turn off, then socked in with snow in the shade of the forest, and/or full of mucky puddles. We've felt bad about making a rut deeper on one road and try to refrain from doing that more. Done our time getting stuck in the snow, muck, behind fallen trees. Still learning to be prepared.

Have fun! Maybe see you. 

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on April 16, 2016, 08:32:26 pm

Current conditions are excellent though a little blustery. Should calm down Sunday. So nice to be out here again.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on April 16, 2016, 08:34:30 pm

Who are you 8 other visitors right now? Or three could be Munge, so 5 others? :)

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on April 17, 2016, 09:48:30 pm

Wingnut, Did you try to make it out to Lost Eagle?

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: NateD on April 18, 2016, 06:09:57 pm

Quote from: susan on April 16, 2016, 08:34:30 pm

Who are you 8 other visitors right now? Or three could be Munge, so 5 others? :)

Count me in as a lurker... or lunker lurker waking from a long winter's nap.
Trying to peel off the couch and eventually make my way to Loser Eagle...

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on April 18, 2016, 07:14:53 pm

What are YOU doing lurk'n?! You know none of us bite, hard anyways.

Sounds almost inspired there, Nate. Sure would be good and fun to see ya soon.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: wingnut on April 18, 2016, 07:41:14 pm

No, didn't make it, ended up going to Chiquito Dome instead.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on April 18, 2016, 08:57:52 pm

At least you all are doing it.

I confess, I climbed on subpar rock Saturday. I apologize.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on April 20, 2016, 10:57:35 am

Sign of the cross and 20 Hail Mary's, and you can do it all over again.

Chiquito can be a nice consolation prize/backup plan.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on April 20, 2016, 01:58:13 pm

few, that's good news.  at least I won't go blind from it.  lol

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on May 02, 2016, 05:50:35 am

Minarets is open at Mammoth Pools turnoff and so is 7S02 to Big Sleep.

Snow still on Minarets a little ways past South Fork Trailhead turnoff. Grizzly still snowy South of Lost Eagle turnoff.

Mammoth Pools is closed for deer migration until June 15.

Still lots of snow on the East side of Shuteye Ridge.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: daniel banquo merrick on May 02, 2016, 09:45:03 am

Good to know. I haven't climbed anything since last summer at Tahoe.

I had to revoke my climbing merit badge for the time being.

I need to find some old fat people who want to go climb some easy poseur routes.

Big Sleep sounds perfect.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on May 03, 2016, 03:41:33 pm

Have fun Dan, but looks like this weekend may be out - mom's day but also the weather has gone awry

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: jeff on May 04, 2016, 05:50:01 pm

Got within about 200yrds of 7502M to Big Sleep. We were able to camp across the way. Only added 10 min to the walk.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on May 04, 2016, 05:58:12 pm

That last stretch of snow before the turnoff just stays there forever. Glad you made it!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: jeff on May 04, 2016, 07:29:11 pm

Thanks John, was great seeing you and Sue.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on May 04, 2016, 11:15:49 pm

Most definitely Jeff so good to see you and hope there will be some more of that this year.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: daniel banquo merrick on May 19, 2016, 09:47:09 am

I was thinking of driving up this weekend to see what roads were open but the weather doesn't look good.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on May 19, 2016, 10:55:15 am

Fri and sat 60% chance of showers sun looks great😊

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: daniel banquo merrick on May 19, 2016, 11:09:10 am

It is true that weather forecasts are usually pessimistic. I was looking at NWS:
http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lon=-119.41522717285167&lat=37.3501371525992#.Vz3_ZOQ2FjU

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on May 19, 2016, 01:15:21 pm

Yeah, the weather doesn't look too appealing for just Saturday. Too far for a day trip for us unless we are seriously jonesing.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: wingnut on May 22, 2016, 07:34:31 pm

Anybody been up to High Eagle? or Grey Eagle? Snow?

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: Gerard(Jerry)Jessurun on May 23, 2016, 08:15:55 am

As of yesterday afternoon, Beasore Road is still blocked by snow a little past the Central Camp Rd.
I went thru a few however they got deeper and I was flying solo.
I am sure there is at least a 4ft drift in the road at the Cold Springs Summit.
The gate to High Eagle was open and I heard a few gym folks were headed up to Dreamscape....don't know how far they got.
My Plan A was to go cast a line in some secret fishing holes but Plan B had me scoping out the WatchTower and Doggy Dome.
Weather threatened and was cold.....nice enough hike though.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on May 23, 2016, 09:38:43 am

Glad you got out Ger!

Wingnut- It has been a few weeks since out on that side of the ridge but there was a pretty big snow bank along the right side of Gray and in the gullies still and the gate is unlocked. Might be better now and I think you could still climb most areas if you don't mind a little snow at the base. It didn't look drippy since there was no visible snow on the summit.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: wingnut on May 23, 2016, 06:51:40 pm

Road to High Eagle was clear. Climbed Amphitheater and Talon this afternoon.

Gerard, must have been you that I ran into on Sat. when I failed to find Doggy dome, hopefully you had better luck than me!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on May 23, 2016, 08:03:36 pm

Wow, that's great you made it up there. Were there any areas nearby that you still can't get to?

Thanks for the update!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: Gerard(Jerry)Jessurun on May 23, 2016, 08:26:40 pm

Wingnut! That was me in the Jeep. I did find the way ;)

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: wingnut on May 23, 2016, 08:30:15 pm

^ terrific! I'll have to get the approach beta off you if I see you in the gym. I probably got lazy and gave up too early

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on May 27, 2016, 09:20:25 am

Anyone braving the crappy forecast this weekend. I sure as hell aint staying home!!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on May 27, 2016, 03:22:30 pm

Fight the good fight!  Stay strong!  Don't let the weather forecast get you down. I sense you hesitating. We're here for you. We'll get you through this crisis!






Oh, I'm going crush the hell out of some choss if possible...

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on May 27, 2016, 03:42:24 pm

Have fun Munge! Cool photo of choss.

Skies o'er soyo look good eventhough faroff clouds are chaotic. Could be perfect - maybe a little threat of thunder and lightning evenings only with any luck.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on June 01, 2016, 03:12:37 pm

Got a little muddy over Memorial Day weekend but was totally worth getting out there in spite of the rain. The thunder storms weren't too bad for the better part of all the days.

Took advantage of the time one of the days by going to the Wagner Store at Mammoth Pools to get more ice, and it turns out they sell ice cream. Scoop type not just prepackaged. That was a treat. They also have a counter for breakfast or lunch....

Just learned there are also coin-op showers offered around the corner from the Wagner store FYI. Takes quarters.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: daniel banquo merrick on June 06, 2016, 08:11:41 am

Surely the roads must be open after the hot weekend. Shirley?

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on June 06, 2016, 08:40:46 am

Shirley,
Are you serious?  ;)

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on June 06, 2016, 11:16:52 am

I'm not Shirley but am sure too. Forecast looks heavenly next week.

Mosquitoes and those tiny black bugs that always want to get into the eyes were some troublesome in the gray hood 2 weekends ago tho. 

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: wingnut on June 08, 2016, 05:17:56 pm

Anybody know if Beasore rd is clear of snow now? Has anyone been into Chilkoot lake?

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on June 08, 2016, 05:34:31 pm

Quote from: wingnut on June 08, 2016, 05:17:56 pm

Anybody know if Beasore rd is clear of snow now? Has anyone been into Chilkoot lake?

http://www.supertopo.com/climbers-forum/2820646/Shuteye-Ridge-Conditions-Report

Mike says he was there last weekend.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: daniel banquo merrick on June 08, 2016, 06:48:42 pm

The main roads seem to be open.

http://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/sierra/home/?cid=stelprdb5399344 (http://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/sierra/home/?cid=stelprdb5399344)

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on August 28, 2016, 09:32:08 pm

Holy crap, the meat bees are going bonkers this year.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on August 29, 2016, 10:22:17 am

No doubt about the wasps! You know what's a little helpful is Sue puts a bowl of dishwater out by our truck and it was filled with dead yellowjackets by the end of the weekend, they drown themselves for some reason. Generally didn't do squat considering the quantity.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on August 29, 2016, 12:34:01 pm

They were unusually annoying - like black flies that look like bees or wasps. I was orbited all weekend with many landing and even needling in, but they left no mark. Mainly I was especially freaked due to a friend with us who is deathly allergic. She was emotionally at ease, comparatively, convincing me I have got to get into yoga and/or meditation...

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on September 06, 2016, 02:39:28 pm

Yes the meatbees are super bad up there was at Fresno dome yesterday sting 4 times had to take a helicopter ride off Fresno dome, was a scary thing do for the rest of the season make sure to bring benidril with you that may of saved my life!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on September 06, 2016, 07:36:11 pm

Wait, Mike, you were helicoptered off Fresno dome or you saw someone helicoptered?

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: DaveyTree on September 06, 2016, 08:40:56 pm

He got lifted out. Someone had benedryl he took right after but had to get lifted by CHP , per Facebook. Will have take precautions for lunesta and make sure groups have benedryl.

FYI if anyone gets bites and is allergic , make sure you chew the benedryl to get it into your system faster. Glad Mikey is ok.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on September 06, 2016, 10:19:53 pm

dang, yeah. Mike glad you made it out mang. 

An epi pen or two might be a worthwhile addition, but for the price...

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on September 06, 2016, 11:29:58 pm

Scarey, Mike,so sorry to hear it and glad you are ok! I wonder more about what happened!

I once asked a doctor if I could get an Epi pen to keep on hand as part of a first aid kit, as I was thinking of how off the grid we get in Soyo, and this was not long after a couple of friends upset a hive while climbing and suffered multiple stings. Thankfully neither of them were overly allergic and had Benadryl. Anyway doc told me a flat out No saying that unless you are allergic, Epi pens are incredibly dangerous. So is dying, right? And Epi is only to be used as a last resort. I generally keep Benadryl with me while climbing but sometimes have slacked off on that. Good reminder.. and good tip to chew vs swallow to assimilate it fast.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on September 07, 2016, 07:34:56 am

Wow, glad you are OK Mike! Please tell me you took photos from the chopper. Just kidding...

You need to climb with something like Linda's numchucks!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: splitclimber on September 07, 2016, 11:18:18 am

Holy Crap Mike.  Hope you are goin' OK. 

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on September 07, 2016, 04:26:18 pm

Hi all, I am good as new, but scary how fast things can turn from fun to am I going to die today?, got a epie pin now and will always bring benidril with me, I was stung all together last weekend six times in two days, I think the one to the face was the one that my body was not happy with, old Mike A, is running out of nine lives lol 😊

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on September 07, 2016, 04:41:01 pm

I remember talking with you at the pools Mike and every few minutes...wasp, toe!...wasp, ankle!...wasp, toe!..wasp, left face!...I think they really love you.

Sheesh, you would guess you weren't allergic if your body hadn't freaked out after five stings so far! I would wager there were other sting emergencies in the last few weeks, it is really out of hand for some reason.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on September 07, 2016, 05:36:32 pm

How much was the epi pen? Hopefully they gave you the old style injector for the cheaper price.

Mrs. Munge has like 4. 1 for the car, 1 for the house, 1 for the truck, and 1 in the climbing pack. But she bought them a long while ago.

Good reminder to reload Benadryl to the pack. thx

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on September 07, 2016, 05:44:15 pm

You know they have a 6 month shelf life? That's $600 a year at the generic $300 per pen prices. Expensive staying alive these days.

Edit: That's $300 per 2 pack.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on September 07, 2016, 05:55:50 pm

don't believe the hype. We talked to the doctor about the ones she has. Her's don't expire.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on September 07, 2016, 07:40:22 pm

My pin cost $15 😊

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on September 07, 2016, 07:49:11 pm

nice!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: DG on September 07, 2016, 10:31:32 pm

Dang, you guys got me worried about the bees now! Anybody know if there are particular areas around Fresno/Hawk Dome that are worse with them?

Glad you survived it, Mike!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on September 08, 2016, 03:00:53 am

Hi all the bees seemed to be real bad at the Fresno dome area last weekend, the bees did not seem has bad at gray eagle and chiquito dome last weekend did not get stung there, but the at Fresno dome area is where I got stung every day I was there last week so look out if you go there!!!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on September 08, 2016, 08:12:28 am

About how many wasps were surrounding people at any one time at Fresno Dome as opposed to Gray or Chiquito? 

At the Balls at the end of August, I noticed from a few to roughly half a dozen wasps buzzing my personal space at any given time while at camp in the mornings and up at the climbs, but the following weekend, last weekend, there were sometimes double and even triple that count. That first weekend I noticed swatting the air angrily only stirred them to more aggression. John relayed the bee anger fart phenomenon to me. Ha ha... And trying to relax seemed to help. Cooling cloud cover and maybe the stronger breezes helped lessen the swarms. At night they would disappear completely. But any food or drink containers left out by morning drew them back.

I read that the green traps are more helpful to put out in the spring and that introducing them only by now is really too late to dent the populations.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on September 08, 2016, 09:57:14 am

Actually at their worst, I stopped counting at about 30 wasps last Saturday - no fun. Long sleeves and pants and hood all light weight material helped a lot.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: DaveyTree on September 08, 2016, 11:36:39 am

This European strain might be gaining ground. http://www.kevinroderick.com/meatbees.html

Lunesta Fiesta should be interesting. Long sleeves and pants will be a good bet. Maybe I will pick up some yellow jacket traps for camp and some bowls for the soapy water as well.

Mike, What areas at Fresno DOme were the worst for the yellow jackets?

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: daniel banquo merrick on September 08, 2016, 12:54:46 pm

Yellow jackets are thick this year. Bummer about Mike but glad he is ok. As a kid in Idaho, I learned they were always worse after a dry winter or one without much snow. The little buggers nest underground and wet winters drown them out. Main thing around wasps is do not move fast, swap or waive them away since these types of things incite them. If they land on you just hold still. Keep shirts tucked in and cuffs tight - I've been stung many times when they have walked up under my clothes and then got trapped when I moved.

Wasps have been introduced to New Zealand where they are a big problem. This video will give you the creeps. He is not killing them but studying them. Jump ahead to about 2:30 for the real fun:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4NxOYkw2z54 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4NxOYkw2z54)

As far as current conditions, I have nothing planned for this weekend so send me a message or email if you have something going on. I've climbed perhaps 3 days in two years so not much can be expected of my climbing.

Whenever anybody wants to visit Balloon Dome, count me in.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on September 08, 2016, 03:12:38 pm

Wow what a job digging out that mansion of a hive - the buzzing sounds alone set off my flight/fright response! Awk!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on September 09, 2016, 08:20:29 am

Hi all, I climbed at Fresno dome yesterday, and it seems the bees are bad every where but at the trailhead super bad, and sure they will be bad at the camp grounds because of the dumpster and people with food have been there and the creek they need water, there is no getting around it they are bad and makes it hard to climb they were on my as I climbed yesterday 😞🐝🐝🐝 but that will not stop me from climbing 😊❤️🐝

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on September 09, 2016, 08:23:52 am

We should call you Mike Bee instead of Mike A!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on September 09, 2016, 09:48:38 am

Yes - Mike B!  ;D

Mike, that was brave, and your news has me thinking I'll only want to night climb at Fresno Dome until the swarms buzz off.

Here is a Googled Forecast for Fresno Dome showing next Tuesday night's low might be all the chill we need with any luck:
https://www.google.com/search?q=fresno+dome+temperature&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on September 23, 2016, 01:57:15 pm

Wow - forecast looks pretty darn perfect! High 70s.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on October 10, 2016, 12:53:24 pm

Damn wasps got me again yesterday - one at the base of a climb when I placed my hand over it not knowing it was there, one up high on a climb on the side of the calf when it got trapped up the pant leg. The swelling in the leg has grown so much it is felt above the knee. Can't wait to get back at them with traps in the spring.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on October 25, 2017, 03:47:13 pm

Ricky D saying that Minarets might get shut down soon?

Anyone heard anything else?

http://www.supertopo.com/climbing/thread.php?topic_id=2974051&tn=80

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on October 25, 2017, 07:08:45 pm

I'm a little surprised some of those washed-out sections were approved to be driven on this year, they look kinda hollow underneath and sketchy. Haven't heard anything about this, thanks for the heads up.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on October 26, 2017, 11:00:47 am

Yeah, Sneville just mentioned it in a text yesterday about the road closure coming up Monday. It's about time if they really get to fixing it. That pretty much leaves all of November for them to do so before the weather could be expected to get too bad. 

I heard somewhere this winter might be a light one, so they'll probably have longer.

Even a light winter usually makes Beasore unavailable, so access for most will probably be nil once snow/ice sticks on Beasore. Aww, we'll see what happens...

What a too quick climbing season that was - knew it would fly!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on October 26, 2017, 11:29:35 am

seriously too short a season this year!

"winter might be a light one"  I'm torn by this. I'm ready for snow, but I have so many lines I want to explore!!!  :o :o

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on October 27, 2017, 10:56:38 am

Finally posted... Not till November 26th!

https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/sierra/news-events/?cid=FSEPRD562769

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on October 27, 2017, 01:55:11 pm

That's great news! Thanks Munge!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on December 17, 2017, 10:01:45 pm

Quote

Construction begins for road 4S81 Minarets Rd, Bass Lake Ranger District.
Minarets road will be closed beginning Monday December 18, 2017, while repair work begins. The construction effort will take place seven days per week until the project is complete.
During the road closure, warning signs/barricades will be posted, at the Redinger Overlook above North Fork, and Clearwater Station until project completion. 4S81 will be open to LOCAL TRAFFIC ONLY from 7:00-7:30 A.M. and again from 4:30-5:00 P.M.
Visitors to the forest will still have access to their favorite areas within the Bass Lake Ranger District using Beasore Rd. (5S07) from Bass Lake (see map attached below).
For questions in regard to this project please contact Pablo Gonzalez at 559- 297-0706 ext. 4961 or at pablogonzalez@fs.fed.us

Guess it was delayed. Seems official coming from the SNF FB page.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on December 18, 2017, 07:48:23 am

What an odd time to start a construction project in the mountains.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on December 19, 2017, 10:44:19 am

Nice find there Munge. You thinking of checking it out soon?  Here's another forecast from Mt. Proj:

(https://cdn.apstatic.com/photos/weather/httpforecastweathergovnewimagesmediumsctpng.png)                                                                        53° - 36°

Wed                             (https://cdn.apstatic.com/photos/weather/httpforecastweathergovnewimagesmediumra_sn40png.png)                                                                        39° - 25°

Thu                             (https://cdn.apstatic.com/photos/weather/httpforecastweathergovnewimagesmediumfewpng.png)                                                                        43° - 31°

Fri                             (https://cdn.apstatic.com/photos/weather/httpforecastweathergovnewimagesmediumfewpng.png)                                                                        46° - 35°

Sat                             (https://cdn.apstatic.com/photos/weather/httpforecastweathergovnewimagesmediumsctpng.png)                                                                        46° - 34°

Sun                             (https://cdn.apstatic.com/photos/weather/httpforecastweathergovnewimagesmediumsctpng.png)                                                                        47° - 34°

 
Seems that this was generated for a near peak elevation.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on December 19, 2017, 10:48:13 am

"What an odd time to start a construction project..." I guess they have data that shows it must be typically pretty dry there this time of year, that this year late fall/early winter is expected to be dry, too, and stands to figure there would be a lot less traffic. It doesn't really feel like the mountains at that point, more foothilly.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on December 25, 2017, 01:21:28 pm

Merry Christmas to all!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on December 26, 2017, 09:15:16 am

Thanks Sue dido, hope to run in to you and John up there, still climbing up there, Beasore Rd still open was up there climbing around Yesterday T-shirt weather, 70's in Oakhurst Friday, but looks like snow is coming in next week, happy New Year, and happy climbing Mike A., Ps looks like John made it easier to share pix here :-)

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on January 07, 2018, 07:53:59 pm

We went to Soyo after Christmas but did not want to continue much past the Jones store for all the snow and ice that was on Beasore.  Figured it would be worse at the Balls even though it sounds like it was better.

(http://www.southernyosemiteclimbing.com/SMF/photo_album_resized/beasore_resized.jpg)

Fresno Dome was still all clear and nice.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: daniel banquo merrick on January 08, 2018, 12:30:50 pm

I'm thinking it's time for a trip to Saline Valley

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on January 08, 2018, 09:35:15 pm

You been talking to Batrock? Looks cool out there.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: daniel banquo merrick on January 09, 2018, 08:09:38 am

I've seen batrock's trip report. Saline Valley stricks me as like Death Valley but less people. I'm headed there this weekend with a buddy. No plan to climb as he has a bad wrist. Probably explore some canyons.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on January 11, 2018, 09:27:45 am

Good to hear it Dan about your trip to Saline Valley. Have fun!

Weather looks good this weekend in our latitudes so long as Monday night's 20% doesn't move in sooner.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on January 16, 2018, 04:57:22 pm

was at the sphinx yesterday, super amazing weather, at hawk dome today, still great weather, but may change tomorrow??? but to date all roads still open up here!!!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on January 19, 2018, 11:58:25 am

Quote

Last post by mike a (http://southernyosemiteclimbing.com/SMF/index.php?action=profile;u=150) on January 16, 2018, 04:57:22 PM » was at the sphinx yesterday, super amazing weather, at hawk dome today, still great weather, but may change tomorrow??? but to date all roads still open up here!!!

Thanks for your post Mike A. I want to see photos to believe it! :)

Do you know how much snow and temps fell the last couple of days out there? Are you getting out there again today or hear how the road is getting over Cold Springs Summit and going down Beasore? 

With the Gub shutdown looming, some of us might be keen to learn about a good ole Soyo backup potential.

The USFS website still shows Minarets closed. 

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on January 20, 2018, 12:57:18 pm

Hi, yes been going up there from beasore, css as of the other day no snow, couple icey spots by Jones Store, hardly got any rain and snow here on Friday but the tamps dropped a bunch Thursday temps in Oakhurst mid-70's yesterday and today low 40's, too cold for grandpa to climb, last week talk to a person who lives on minarets rd and they said they are still working on the road but its not closed?, happy climbing Mike A.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on January 21, 2018, 10:27:55 am

I understand Minarets is only open to those who live there?  Thanks for the update.  Not sure what CSS refers to though. Well hopefully it snows like crazy so the whole place has less of a chance of catching fire next summer, but doesn't look like we'll be getting much weather at this rate. So enjoy while you can.

And wish you would post a photo or two sometime. You can just post from your computer directly now by clicking the browse button below, selecting your shot, clicking upload, then selecting the link by highlighting it, clicking on the Mona Lisa icon above and pasting the copied link into the dialogue box that opens when you click Mona Lisa. Wallah! But I should talk. Browsing for a photo now:

(http://www.southernyosemiteclimbing.com/SMF/photo_album_resized/IMG_1687_resized.jpg)

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on January 21, 2018, 01:47:01 pm

Hi, css=Cold Springs Summit, I would love to post a ton of pix here, but it seems like every time I post stuff about Southern Yosemite I get people all mad at me!!! At this point Matt and Grahm will not even talk to me, the last couple times I have seen them at the Sphinx they seem like they hate me,Grahm called me on my phone to say he heard I was telling people he is a drug dealer??? Wow really bro, what a joke😞 and Matt thinks I have been talking S about him on the Internet??? Can not figure those guys out??? Did not do anything to them but they are all mad at me!!! I am not putting up routes nor touching any of their stuff, at this point I do not care what they think of me, I am just there to climb and have fun!!! What I have not done is not quilt bolted everywhere I go climbing and bolt over other people's routes and clue nor chip to send a route!!! but I think to post pix on southern Yosemite at this point and time is not a good idea for me, I want to make friends with all and just go climbing!!! Happy climbing Mike A.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on January 21, 2018, 03:11:21 pm

O of course, css. Tx.

Awww Mike, that sounds rough. I know it hasn't always been so w/you and that crew, so hopefully things go better soon. You seem to me to have no mal intent whatsoever, but I understand pressures to be discrete.

Y'know you could post photos that don't give away anything much like the rest of us for the most part tend to. But no pressure by all means!

Here's another from last year. Sorry may have been posted before.

(http://www.southernyosemiteclimbing.com/SMF/photo_album_resized/top_resized.jpg)

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on January 23, 2018, 12:59:31 pm

Here is the NOAA forecast for Fresno Dome, calling for new snow accumulation of 3-5 inches by Thursday sometime. I wonder what it will actually be like there.

 

• This
  Afternoon
  (http://f1.weather.gov/newimages/medium/few.png)
  Sunny
  High: 46 °F
•   Tonight
  
  
  (http://f1.weather.gov/newimages/medium/nfew.png)
  Mostly Clear
  Low: 32 °F
•   Wednesday
  
  
  (http://f1.weather.gov/DualImage.php?i=few&j=sn&jp=30)
  Sunny then
  Chance Snow
  High: 44 °F
•   Wednesday
  Night
  (http://f1.weather.gov/newimages/medium/nsn100.png)
  Heavy Snow
  Low: 25 °F
•   Thursday
  
  
  (http://f1.weather.gov/newimages/medium/sn80.png)
  Snow
  High: 34 °F
•   Thursday
  Night
  (http://f1.weather.gov/newimages/medium/nsn50.png)
  Chance Snow
  Showers
  Low: 24 °F
•   Friday
  
  
  (http://f1.weather.gov/newimages/medium/bkn.png)
  Partly Sunny
  High: 40 °F
•   Friday
  Night
  (http://f1.weather.gov/newimages/medium/nsct.png)
  Partly Cloudy
  Low: 30 °F
•   Saturday
  
  
  (http://f1.weather.gov/newimages/medium/sct.png)
  Mostly Sunny
  High: 49 °F

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on January 24, 2018, 09:36:24 am

Morning all,Weather here in Oakhurst this morning is warm and beautiful, in the 50's, but may snow tonight???, was thinking of the Balls today, was thinking maybe this spring putting up a cafe at the corner of Beasore Rd and Road 5s01 and Call it The Balls Cafe, even have a whitty little slogan (Let your balls hang out at The Balls Cafe)!!! Sell coffee, beer, hotdogs, and guide books to the Sphinx!!! Lol :-) The weather here is starting to feel like the endless summer!!! We really need rain and snow!!! Happy climbing Mike A.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on January 26, 2018, 04:38:49 pm

The Balls Café huh? Well, don't plan on making a killing. But I'd visit!

Did you get out there again today Mike? Anyone? I imagine it's not possible to get over CSS?

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on January 26, 2018, 04:46:49 pm

Lol, wild idea! Just don’t sell soup. “Can I get a cup of Ball soup?”

:) heh

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on January 26, 2018, 10:31:38 pm

Hi all, no climbing today had to work and way to cold up there for grandpa to climb today. it snowed almost a feet yesterday at css, and I am sure super icey as well, but starting tomorrow temps here for the next 10 days in the mid-60's, but hoping for more rain and snow. happy climbing Mike A.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on January 29, 2018, 11:21:06 am

Well it was beautiful this last weekend and looks even better next. Would be nice to hear if anyone makes it out during the week. Mike A. Heh. You are about the only one I know of getting out there these days.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on January 29, 2018, 01:55:24 pm

The weather here is amazing again, going to Fresno Dome tomorrow and maybe Shuteye or the Balls this weekend, forecast next 10 days here 70's like spring here, happy climbing Mike A.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on February 02, 2018, 06:49:43 am

What is accessible right now, Mike? Did you make it to Fresno Dome??

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on February 02, 2018, 07:45:51 am

Morning, was at Fresno dome Wednesday climbing around, going to hawk dome tomorrow. Mike A.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on February 02, 2018, 07:51:10 am

Hi Mike, how do you think road conditions are over Beasore. Nice that you are getting out to FD!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on February 02, 2018, 09:21:17 am

Hi all, went to the Sphinx a couple weeks ago Beasore rd was good, but with a little snow last week maybe a little icey in the morning, I think if you two are thinking of going to beasore or minarets rd it should be ok!!! It's been in the 70's all week here in Oakyhurst so I am sure all roads are passable, hope to run in to you two up there, happy climbing Mike A.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on February 02, 2018, 02:03:15 pm

Hi all, was up at beasore rd today it's wide open css clear!!! Should come up and climb, I am pretty sure will not have any crowds 😊

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on February 03, 2018, 11:03:21 am

thx for the conditions updates Mike. It is appreciated.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on February 05, 2018, 07:02:31 am

Ditto that - thank you Mike!


Right now Forecast looks crazy good for the next week too like spring has sprung.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on February 05, 2018, 08:59:22 am

Hi all, yep climbed the last couple days up there in a T-shirt and shorts, temps the
 next 10 days here in the 70's, no rain or snow in sight 😞 happy climbing Mike A.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on February 16, 2018, 09:07:22 am

Hi all, happy Friday, good news, Minarets Rd opens today :-), happy climbing Mike A.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: DaveyTree on February 19, 2018, 01:02:53 pm

It is currently snowing below Shaver Lake and in Coarsegold as I write this. The hills should get a good coating. Shows some weather for Thurs and Friday this week as well.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on February 20, 2018, 09:09:29 am

Hi all, saturday at fresno dome climbing in a t-shirt and shorts, was at the balls sunday climbing and bouldering around, it was a super cold day but still could climb, finished the day driving the whole loop to check out the road work and drink a beer at mile high lookout, this week super cold here and chance of rain and snow.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on February 20, 2018, 10:29:43 am

Nice to hear it's snowing.

We just took a tour of Soyo and found it alarmingly dry with roads mostly clear of snow and ice. Thought we would get stopped by at least one too large icy patch, but the 4WD made it through just fine. Even made it out to the Balls and Lost Eagle. Many downed trees on the main roads were cleared and the gates were wide open on them at the time. We assumed the dirt road to Big Sleep was locked as was Gray Eagle's.

Unfortunately our sunny memories of Soyo were no where else to materialize that day. It was cold everywhere even though for a little while it looked like summer out there. LE was not quite its usual beautiful self with all the ground cover and trees so dry and without much green, not a flower in sight, plus it was overcast when we arrived there.

Still warmed the cockles of the heart to visit. After all, we again were driven away from Yosemite 2-hour traffic delays etc. Kind of expected that due to the combination of Valentines Day, a 3-day weekend and Horse Tail Falls even though I think those falls are bone dry.

Thank you Mike A. for keeping us posted on the accessible conditions...! :)

(http://www.southernyosemiteclimbing.com/SMF/photo_album_resized/IMG_3828(2)_resized.jpg)

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on February 20, 2018, 10:37:49 am

Hey Mike, I see you just posted before me. Glad you had fun! I saw a great photo on the photo area of the site that you took. Just needs a copy and paste of the link that was generated below the upload button you used. Glad to hear you had a great day Saturday!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: DaveyTree on February 28, 2018, 01:50:29 pm

Supposed to get 4' of snow in the Sierra over the weekend. Sierra Summit by Huntington Lake is opening for skiing over the weekend.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on March 02, 2018, 02:45:56 pm

Finally! Maybe we’ll get lucky and get more snow this month.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: donutnational on March 20, 2018, 06:26:54 am

(http://www.southernyosemiteclimbing.com/SMF/photo_album_resized/IMG_0517_resized.jpg)
Shuteye yesterday afternoon

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: DaveyTree on March 20, 2018, 08:24:01 am

I just heard this morning at the gym that Sierra Summit is open with all runs. The mountains from Fresno/Clovis yesterday were beautiful with all the snow.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on March 21, 2018, 04:29:09 pm

Aww, very nice to see that skyline.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on April 09, 2018, 08:28:30 am

https://www.facebook.com/basslake.summer/videos/1907139535995178/

Not sure if you have to be logged into FB to see it, but basically the spillway at MMP is running good. Water level is way up. Good time for a canoe approach?

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on April 10, 2018, 07:38:44 pm

Hi all was on the by way loop today, went all the way to Jackass Rock climbed some short fun crack there, no snow, gate open  past Mammoth pools Rd turn off, gates closed at 7s02 to big sleep and 6s66x to gray eagle dome both have down trees at the gate looks like some one did that to keep the road closed! also went down to Mammoth pools look around spill way raging, saw those little slab routes at the dam climbed them. Not much snow on shuteye, no snow at the balls snow on fresno dome, unless we have a big storm, looks like things will open in a week or two. happy climbing Mike A.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on April 10, 2018, 07:42:54 pm

Thx Mike!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on April 11, 2018, 07:56:47 pm

 Yeah, thanks Mike!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on April 23, 2018, 08:07:05 am

The weather in souther yosemite this week looks awesome, going climbing tomorrow! it was great to see John&Sue yesterday at Fresno Dome area, they are up here more then most locals, wonder when they just give in and move up here and live here??? lol :-) Happy climbing Mike A.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on April 26, 2018, 09:55:50 pm

Tx Mike A.! Good seeing you & Polly too.

Did you get out there this week? Saw weather moved in and stayed a night or two?

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on April 27, 2018, 08:16:22 am

Morning, yes I went climbing the other day it was hot up there, way cooler today, temps up there Sat/Sun in the 40's and a chance of snow Mon/Tues.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on April 27, 2018, 11:52:58 am

Ugg sounds cold. Thanks for the report. Zany forecast lately of rapidly changing spring conditions. Watch out for mucky dirt roads. We've noticed a few roads with deep ruts.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on April 30, 2018, 08:12:51 am

Specifically I should have said that I was thinking of the main dirt toad that goes from Fresno Dome to Beasore Road. We stopped short of going that way due to deep muddy ruts developing there. That and a thicker layer of snow that others appeared to have made it through, making the ruts...

What a cool day it was yesterday at Fresno Dome ensconced in fog with sometimes light hail and snow flurries and the sun trying to come though at times still. Almost whiteout conditions with my climbing partner obscured by fog... Saturday was sunny tho.

p.s. haha dirt toad

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: DaveyTree on April 30, 2018, 02:37:49 pm

There definitely seemed to be some weather brewing. I love getting into weird weather. What did you climb?

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on April 30, 2018, 03:19:35 pm

We climbed Whiskey Bill Saturday and Watership Down. On Whiskey Bill this time we strung together p1&2 and p3&4 which worked out great. Sunday we did Fresno Flats while our friends climbed Guides in a Snowbank, and then the unnamed 5.8 on the west face of FD and then Old School. On FF we also strung together p2&3 w/our 70 meter and it worked fine making it just barely a full 70.

Last time we did Poking Papa Bear and I liked especially the 2nd pitch! That was a long pitch with some neat positioning and just mellow. The other pitches are short but good except P3 which is mainly a ledge hike over some loose rock to be very careful to keep from knocking off and w/ a short bit of 5.6y scramble. I do recommend it.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: DaveyTree on April 30, 2018, 04:31:44 pm

Nice. You guys were busy. What's John's rule; Any day with 3p or more is a good one?

The last time I did Watership Down we did it in 2p. P1 to the cave and the second I moved out on the face because the book was wet. Never found a dry spot until the big block before the anchor ledge. For whatever reason I didn't think to traverse over to the bolts but instead ran it out to the anchor. Def. gave me I mind game running out the entire 2p.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on April 30, 2018, 11:03:28 pm

Definitely would feel sketchy if it was just too slick to get near where it could protect! Good work holding it together so well you didn’t need the bolt tho what were you thinking? 😀

I led P1 and then John led the next. Then I got the Rowsby Wolf slanting crack pitch which was very cool. My issues from the getgo were we brought with us for the day only a rack of singles to 3” not thinking of what for sure we would end up climbing...

Starting WD I didn’t want to use up the biggest pieces of gear until absolutely necessary tho at the start I would’ve liked bigger pieces. John told me I could’ve taken a crack on the face on the left a little ways but I kept to the corner. Enjoyed where it thins down to real jams for a bit! Somehow managed to get to the belay with Camelot’s #1red, 2 gold and 3 blue left on my harness funny enough.

That slamming crack pitch on RW is very recommendable by the way...

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: DaveyTree on May 01, 2018, 09:23:45 am

Hahaha. The first P is definitely interesting to protecting. I remember at one point I had to turn facing away from the rock to reach far enough in to sling a hole I found that I could feel but not see. We had backpacks on so I had to take my pack off to fit.

I haven't done the slanting crack of RW. Are you talking about the OW or the one that goes up and then left left under the roof type feature?

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on May 01, 2018, 02:26:45 pm

Great job guy's I climbed at Fresno Dome Sunday and it was like 30 degrees colder then last Wednesday Brrrrrrr, snowing up there today, but nice and warm this weekend :-).

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on May 02, 2018, 04:38:18 pm

I do mean that crack under the roof, Dave, for Rowsby. Way to find that placement on WD p1!


Mike A I wonder where you were climbing Sunday - seems we should’ve seen you at FD.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on May 02, 2018, 04:55:16 pm

Hi I was at lost in the forest area Sunday with a couple friend brrrr and they were at Hawk Dome Saturday, I am super psyched the weather will be awesome this week! after John told me about the route next to Lava Lamp at No Name would like to check that out this weekend, and John told me about a route at Fresno Dome a couple routes to the left of Whiskey Bill, I have never done it sounds fun, maybe see you two up there this weekend! ps heard the gate is open at 6s42/central camp Rd at Beasore Rd!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on June 14, 2018, 02:40:04 pm

https://sierranewsonline.com/dui-driver-license-checkpoint-in-oakhurst-area-this-weekend/
 
This weekend. Best to avoid the traffic jam these cause in any event.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on June 15, 2018, 07:46:39 am

Funny that’s posted under current conditions, is this up there with foul weather, roads & skeeters?

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on June 15, 2018, 04:04:05 pm

hi all, was up at the balls yesterday, awesome weather, but tree work and road work up there, and some one bolting new 5.easy routes on the left side of no name ridge can still see the bolt dust on them?, so thinking of getting a look see sunday, and stopped at the jones store for pie and burgs yummmmm :-) hope to see you guys up there this season!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: daniel banquo merrick on June 16, 2018, 02:11:54 pm

I made my first trip to SoYo in two years last weekend. Saturday afternoon we drove to the Chiquito Pass trailhead and camped. Sunday morning we hiked down to the river and followed it downstream a couple miles. Then we hiked back up to Sky Ranch Road and back to the car. 7 miles and +/- 1300 feet elevation. (Not a really hard hike but too much for me and I am still paying for it a week later) Drove down to Jones Store and then took Grizzly Road and camped. Monday we stopped along the way wherever we wanted and eventually had lunch in the North Fork coffee shop.

As far as conditions go, the weather was perfect with days in the 60's and cool nights. The mosquitos weren't bad and the wildflowers were out in force - Shooting Stars, Phlox, Dogwood, Thimbleberry, Azealia, Snow Plant, Paintbrush, Penstamen, Lupine, Pretty Face, Mariposa Lily, Leopard Lily, ............

I took a near-infrared camera which is worthless for taking flower pictures but does produce weird images. The spectrum the camera sees does not coincide with the spectrum the human eye sees. What the camera sees is literally invisible to us.

(http://danielmerrick.com/SOYO_photos/0027.jpg)


(http://danielmerrick.com/SOYO_photos/0041.jpg)

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on June 16, 2018, 11:10:43 pm

Very nice, Dan! Ive really enjoyed hikes following a stream. Can be so lush. That is a big hike! Glad to hear you got back out there recently. Two years! The tree mortality situation shocks me after every winter, so it would really throw me if I hadn’t seen the area in two years.

The photos are curious. Are those trees mostly healthy or not? Am looking at this on my small cellphone while camping right now so will check this out again later on a big screen.

Been meaning to post some cellphone shots of flowers as we’ve stumbled past so many varieties this year. I mean they have just been ridiculous. Of course me and my skimpy photos don’t do justice but I’ll post some soon anyhow.

Here’s one at least
(http://www.southernyosemiteclimbing.com/SMF/photo_album_resized/36551CD8-B4B7-4E31-881B-60050464869D_resized.jpg)
Fawn Lily

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: daniel banquo merrick on June 17, 2018, 09:42:51 am

The wildflowers are fantastic this year.

The camera sees near-infrared light. Which is a range of light between visible and what thermal cameras record. Things that reflect heat show as white which is what living green plants do. The white trees are healthy and green to the eye. The water is cold and absorbs heat so it tends to look dark even though it is crystal clear.

(http://danielmerrick.com/SOYO_photos/0086.jpg)

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on June 20, 2018, 06:32:58 pm

(http://www.southernyosemiteclimbing.com/SMF/photo_album_resized/CB72F3C4-9E2C-4869-98C0-F2C16AAB7D02_resized.jpg)
Indian Paintbrush

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on June 21, 2018, 07:31:34 am

I was at the swimming holes at Lost Eagle yesterday project temps for swimming! looks like not many people have been there this season, it is hot here now and going to be hot this week, I am going to hang out at the Balls the next few days to escape the heat in Oakhurst!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on July 17, 2018, 07:47:22 am

Smokey in Oakhurst, but in the high country not smokey, was at the Balls Sunday it was not smokey and at Shuteye yesterday with no smoke, so far the wind is blowing the smoke south west. It is super hot here tho!!!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: DaveyTree on July 17, 2018, 10:47:09 am

Thanks for the update Mike. Any idea for the Fresno Dome area? Lunesta Fiesta is less than two weeks away. If the smoke is bad I may have to move it to Courtright. I would hate to change the location but wouldn't want to hang out in the smoke all weekend.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: wr_mizzard on July 17, 2018, 12:40:31 pm

Hi everyone, I was up at Fresno Dome this past weekend, Friday PM to Sunday AM. Conditions were great Saturday until the evening when ash started to fall and smoke filled the air. Sunday morning was smokey so we beat it.

We had a nice time climbing Saturday though... finally got over to "Dr. No", nice little easy trad climb. Then did the first pitch of "Whiskey Bill" and setup a TR for a friend who had never climbed before. She got up it without falling and had a great time. Then I made the move to the first bolt on "Welcome to Fresno Dome" before heading out and chilling at the swimming hole with a nice cold beer.

-James
http://www.southernyosemiteclimbing.com/SMF/photo_album_resized/Sunday AM_resized.jpg

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: DaveyTree on July 17, 2018, 02:41:49 pm

Raining ash will def be a no go. Hopefully something changes soon. The fire is growing and only 5% contained so it seems at the time that it will only get worse. Dang!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on July 18, 2018, 12:18:25 am

Well, sounded like a lot of fun until it wasn’t. curious how smoked out the rest of Soyo is.


Link to a map of the Ferguson fire:
https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/photos/CASNF/2018-07-14-1535-FERGUSON-FIRE/picts/2018_07_17-07.42.12.529-CDT.jpeg (https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/photos/CASNF/2018-07-14-1535-FERGUSON-FIRE/picts/2018_07_17-07.42.12.529-CDT.jpeg)

Wow this is a scary one. So close to El Portal! Etc ...

(http://www.southernyosemiteclimbing.com/SMF/photo_album_resized/C21EF4E2-A897-403E-908A-49F6284B786A_resized.jpg)
“San Franciscan Ashely Watkins captured this image of a giant smoke cloud rising up from the 12,500 acre #FergusonFire near Yosemite on her flight to Vegas.
The clouds can develop their own weather - they might even produce thunderstorms.

I wonder if the Balls were also  getting hit with smoke-and-ash too.


Too bad if Lunesta Fiesta.needs postponing! Or what of a different venue?

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: daniel banquo merrick on July 18, 2018, 06:55:03 am

We were at Balls (for some reason the name on the USGS map is Balls, not The Balls) Friday, Saturday and Sunday. It was hazy but didn't smell smokey. We did watch the flammagenitus cloud which developed and dissipated several times with surprising rapidity. Sunday was hotter than it usually gets up there.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: DaveyTree on July 18, 2018, 07:14:54 am

Tks Banquo for the update.

Sue, It won't be postponed. The beer is ready....hahaha.

Looking at different venues. Leaning toward Courtright. I would love to do it at the Balls but it feels like a slight wind change would envelope that as well. Anyone have any other suggestions?

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on July 18, 2018, 07:27:41 am

Balls or Big Sleep - how is getting to Big Sleep this year? Only issue with Courtright is a forecast like this weekend’s:

•   Friday
  (https://forecast.weather.gov/newimages/medium/scttsra40.png)
  Chance
  T-storms High: 74 °F
  
•   Friday
  Night
  (https://forecast.weather.gov/newimages/medium/nscttsra40.png)
  Chance
  T-storms
  Low: 52 °F
  
  
•   Saturday
  
  
  (https://forecast.weather.gov/newimages/medium/scttsra30.png)
  Chance
  T-storms
  
  High: 72 °F
  
  
•   Saturday
  Night
  (https://forecast.weather.gov/newimages/medium/nscttsra30.png)
  Chance
  T-storms
  
  Low: 53 °F
  
  
•   Sunday
  
  
  (https://forecast.weather.gov/newimages/medium/scttsra30.png)
  Chance
  T-storms
  
  High: 73 °F

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on July 18, 2018, 07:49:30 am

Scratch that. Forecast calls for haze though significantly less of a chance of t-storms all around Soyo/Shuteye this weekend at any rate.


Just bring tarps and canopies to Courtright and hope that 30% chance of t-storms will behave!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: DaveyTree on July 18, 2018, 09:19:21 am

Pop ups may be a good idea tho just in case.

Made the decision. Courtright it is. Need to give everyone a chance to see thee change.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: wr_mizzard on July 19, 2018, 11:19:11 am

Update: Closures west of Hwy 41

https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/photos/CASNF/2018-07-14-1535-FERGUSON-FIRE/related_files/pict20180618-222800-0.pdf

-James

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on July 24, 2018, 04:52:13 pm

Wow Yosemite National Park and areas of Wawona are closing and expected to stay closed through the weekend! About time really. 

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on July 24, 2018, 08:50:23 pm

They closed 41 and the Valley so the traffic does not get in the way and the fire fighters who are going to make the stand at Yosemite West!!! at this time the fire is still not as bad as the Detwiler as last year! the smoke is still not at once you pass the Jones store, and until today the sky's were blue in Oakhusrt, it is all about where the wind blows. It is still super hot here is Oakhurst, thanks god for the swimming holes and shady climbs :-)

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: wingnut on July 25, 2018, 08:39:07 am

Hey Mike;

How bad is the smoke at the Fresno Dome area?

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on July 25, 2018, 12:00:53 pm

Day 13 of the fire today is the worst smoke day of all!!! it's bad, but in a week from now the fire and smoke will be gone!!!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: DaveyTree on July 25, 2018, 11:02:46 pm

Friends at Calvin Crest off Sky Ranch were sent home today because of smoke and ash.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: wingnut on July 26, 2018, 04:52:43 pm

Yikes! I guess I'll head up to Courtright to escape the smoke!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on July 26, 2018, 06:45:37 pm

up at the Balls today no smoke blue sky's!!! but things can change, but going back tomorrow :-)

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on August 12, 2018, 08:23:53 am

Morning, Blue sky's here in Oakhurst today for the first time in a long time. Yosemite Valley reopens this Tuesday 120/140 gates reopen but 41 will remain closed. Been climbing at the Balls and with no smoke but the loggers are busy by the Night Watch area. Still hot here but if you are thinking to come up here to climb, things are way better here!!! Hope to run in to you guys this season, happy climbing Mike A.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on August 14, 2018, 05:07:03 pm

Glad to hear it Mike! Did those blue skies remain? Has there really been no smoke regularly at the Balls? I would like to see photos. Gee, if only there were a way.... hint hint.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on August 16, 2018, 03:23:50 pm

Well, in a quick hunt to answer my own question, here's what I found just now: looking out from Mammoth Mountain  (http://mammothweather.com/live-current-conditions/live-mammoth-webcam/)— Top of Mammoth Mountain — 11,053 feet elevation.

(http://media-mammothmountain-com.s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/images/static_cam/Top_Of_Sierra_1_1280x720.jpg)
Pretty smokey looking - ugh.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on August 16, 2018, 03:30:24 pm

Here too is a link to a jackpot of webcam links.http://sierrafoothillgarden.com/really-cool-links/sierra-nevada-webcams/

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on August 16, 2018, 08:36:47 pm

Quote from: susan on August 16, 2018, 03:23:50 pm

Pretty smokey looking - ugh.

That smoke for that camera is mostly from original fire in the San Joaquin drainage. The Donnell and Mendocino fires were blowing east mostly, but the inversion does bring some of that locally and settled in the valley and rises during the day. Hot and dry forecast this weekend.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on August 17, 2018, 07:32:03 am

Morning, heads up on Skyranch Rd at and a mile past Paradise Spring road work, they are paving the road.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: daniel banquo merrick on August 17, 2018, 07:33:17 am

The summit Mammoth Mountain cam is fun, if nobody else is using it, you can control which direction it looks and zoom.

https://www.mammothmountain.com/cams/summit-cam (https://www.mammothmountain.com/cams/summit-cam)

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on August 17, 2018, 08:33:21 am

fun to zoom in on the construction workers not working very hard.

.....oh....maybe theres a speaker you can talk through too..."get back to work bitches!!!"

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on August 17, 2018, 08:36:00 am

Oomgawa! Tx Dan how cool!


Tx Mike on the heads up!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on August 17, 2018, 07:33:16 pm

That cam is super cool, thanks for sharing :-)

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on August 28, 2018, 10:48:04 am

https://sierranewsonline.com/crews-making-good-progress-on-fires-above-redinger-lake/

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on August 28, 2018, 01:12:47 pm

O No! Thanks for the info! Will be watching for news on this now.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on August 29, 2018, 11:01:20 am

Keep the good news coming:
https://sierranewsonline.com/crews-hold-the-line-on-redinger-fire-now-50-percent-contained/ (https://sierranewsonline.com/crews-hold-the-line-on-redinger-fire-now-50-percent-contained/)
Wonder if this has affected access via Minarets... Hopefully be okay by the coming long weekend.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on October 09, 2018, 12:09:56 am

Anyone else enjoy the unpredictable weather last weekend? There were some gusts that helped bring down a lot of dead trees. Aside from a little storminess on Saturday, the birds were chirping and it was beautiful.

Hope we all stay clear of the falling trees. Seriously heard of some 10 or more trees that fell around some friends camping in Soyo Saturday night after the storm. No one hurt at all just made them double check and revamp camp to be clear of any more that could topple.

Ourselves, we had just finished having coffee in the morning when a tree gave way next to where we had it. Later on we had to cut our way back out of the dirt road we had driven down for the weekend  to get back... and drive home. So glad the chainsaw held up.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: bcprince on October 09, 2018, 04:36:35 pm

Hi, I just posted some pics to the balloon dome page, and though I might add here that, yes, we got hailed on like I've never seen. Looked like christmas when it was all said and done out there. chainsaw would have helped us. the way it was we had to go up and around on a gnarly bank that had become nasty mud/ice from all the weather. got lucky

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on October 09, 2018, 06:18:25 pm

That's funny, we were at Fuller Buttes just across the way from you guys when the hail hit and it looked like it was only hailing where we were. The next hillside from where we were was white and the next over was not. Our demon cloud of hail must have hit you next!

I was following Sues lead on a face climb when the hail started and it would shoot along the face and pound my knuckles super hard, to the point I couldn't take it anymore and had to take and stuff my hands in my armpits and ride it out! Grape sized hail mixed with pea-sized! Ouch. There was like 6 inches of hail at the base when it let up.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on October 10, 2018, 07:43:41 am

Hi all, yap couple trees down on Beasore Rd on Sunday I had to move to get by coming home from bouldering up there. I think the roads will be a mess after the winter this coming spring with lots of down trees! Climbing Places where the there were fires like the Volcanics are starting to get a little scary going to because of all the dead trees, the forest up here is in pretty bad shape and campers need to thing about not staying under dead trees when camping and where they park their car! The temps were perfect on Sunday and this week perfect temps up there the next 10 days as well. This weekend is the last weekend the Jones Store will be open and they close for the season. Hope to run in to you 2 up there before the snow blocks the roads, happy climbing Mike A.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on October 11, 2018, 09:57:28 am

Morning, Just a heads up on Beasore Rd and road 6s10x and CSS a ton of very slow trucks and road work and tree work on the those roads, I want to the Balls yesterday and it took me 45 mins to get from the Lake to CSS, so heads up, happy climbing Mike A.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on October 23, 2018, 08:03:35 pm

Thanks Mike, yeah what a mess of fallen trees - crazy dangerous. No warning really. Some noise of the sudden collapse and better not be in the way.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: donutnational on May 20, 2019, 07:05:58 pm

Shuteye this morning

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: donutnational on May 20, 2019, 07:08:10 pm

Sorry I tried and failed to post a photo.  I will try again later

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on May 21, 2019, 07:09:12 am

Don't give up, we look forward to your technicalogical success.......

May the force be with you

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on May 23, 2019, 07:30:35 pm

http://southernyosemiteclimbing.com/SMF/site_album.php (http://southernyosemiteclimbing.com/SMF/site_album.php)


Donutnational, is it at this link?


Looks nice wish it could stay sunny like that this coming weekend. Heard flowers are going off out there and missing it hard. Sigh. Soon.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on June 10, 2019, 03:07:06 pm

Beasore is reachable from Minarets Rd now. We made it to within walking distance of Bowler CG but a big tree we cut out broke our tow strap as well as our spirits so we retreated. Don't know about further down but by the looks of things up to there, probably needs some more chainsaw work but the snow was pretty light.

The road to Gray/Red Eagle is clear. We went there to cut it out but Matt Schutz had gotten through first. If you're out there, thanks for the hard work, Matt!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on June 11, 2019, 06:53:57 am

morning, I saw matt's posting about going to gray eagle last night, thanks for the report, cheers Mike.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on June 11, 2019, 11:35:40 pm

The rare yellow lily found only around here is back.


(http://www.southernyosemiteclimbing.com/SMF/photo_album_resized/yellowlilylarge_resized.jpg)

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on June 15, 2019, 02:56:20 pm

Hi all, see John and Sue’s truck at the Ball’s today but not them I knew they would be out there👍

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on June 16, 2019, 02:24:03 pm

Yes, ample parking at the Balls this weekend.

We cut out the last stretch of trees on Beasore so it is officially open all the way to Minarets rd.

There is enough snow still on the road over Cold Springs Summit to keep it from being passable by car but a high clearance truck is fine. There still are stretches with the ruts not going down to pavement.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on June 20, 2019, 06:17:46 pm

Hi All, heads up on Beasore Rd at the Chiquito creek bridge by Upper Chiquito camp grounds, md- July road work on new bridge, that’s going to had time., Mike A.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on June 21, 2019, 07:36:29 am

Hi All, went up to check out Lost Eagle area, I forgot my chainsaw so did not get there, down trees on road 6s23.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on June 21, 2019, 07:40:32 am

Thx for the updates Mike. Just saw the Sierra NF post about Chiquito bridge. It will detour thru Grizz. Oye. Looks needed.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on June 25, 2019, 10:29:08 pm

Skeets are out at Jackass Meadow.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on June 25, 2019, 11:25:22 pm

Yeah, I did get a couple stings after all... not too bad last weekend but should get wicked for skeets soon.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on October 09, 2019, 10:45:40 pm

Not that I can get there, but how is the smoke from the Briceburg fire?

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on October 10, 2019, 08:49:31 am

was up there yesterday and the day before, smokey at shuteye, and the smoke did not move in at the balls until late afternoon, no where has bad as last year tho!!! going beck up today, saw and past John and Sue last Friday on the way up Beasore Rd :-) the new routes at the creek wall below the sphinx are real fun, happy climbing Mike A.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on October 10, 2019, 09:19:13 am

that's good to hear it isn't too bad. thx mike!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: DaveyTree on October 10, 2019, 12:20:09 pm

Glad to hear that Mike. We are calling it Copperhead Wall for that copper colored band of rock that moves up it from the right side. From across the creek it looks like a snake, Charming a Copperhead with one or two moves of 5.7. It's a one star only because you get to climb the unique band of rock.

The others I thought were really fun 5.8-10b/c. The far left 3 were not done by us (Paul, Andrew, Fred and I) and I am not sure what they go at.

Our favorites were the one that starts out mid wall with the double flake into a really balanced move left on a ramp, No Fred No 10b/c and the all trad crack to the right, Gemma, Kiss that Frog 10a/b.

R to L

Charming a Copperhead 5.7 3x mixed, 28m (follow the copper band)
Snake Skin 5.8 (Climb OW onto nose. Finish on CaC Trad) 28m
Gemma, Kiss that Frog 10a/b Trad 29m
No Fred No 10b/c 8x 29m
Go Fred Go 10a 5x 16m
Left Leg In 5.8 6x 16m
Unknown on the left 3

The creek was running up to the Lunesta weekend and allowed us to keep our refreshments cold.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on October 11, 2019, 07:45:25 am

Morning, we did the new ones Grahm put up, he put 3 to the right and 3 to the left of your routes, they are pretty fun, happy climbing Mike A.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: DaveyTree on October 13, 2019, 08:02:06 am

Cool. ‘‘Tis for the info.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on October 25, 2019, 09:33:29 am

Hi all, the fall weather has been great this year!!! Looks like the next 12 days is more awesome fall climbing weather!!! been climbing mostly as the Balls at the Sphinx, I know some of you thing the area is grid bolted but I must admit with some many routes and the quality of rock and the fun factor of the climbing there the Sphinx is a super fun place!!!The 5.11a on the steep wall is super fun and pumpy!!! Hope you all get a chance to go out climbing and enjoy the awesome fall weather, happy climbing Mike A.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: DaveyTree on October 27, 2019, 03:14:18 pm

Weather was perfect yesterday at Night Watch. Paul and I ran up The Way: aka Walk the Line with a new guy to get him his first multi pitch climb and his first trad lead. Fun romp only to return to my house for more beers and treated them with fish tacos and whiskey.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on October 29, 2019, 02:10:04 pm

We enjoyed Saturday's beautiful weather too at the Balls. We saw Paul's truck in the morning and looked for you guys at the end of the day.

Sunday the weather turned cold as expected. The wind did not seem that bad in the Gray Eagle area when we were there til almost 4. By about 4:30 when we were driving home, the wind was whipping like we have never seen. John had to chainsaw a fallen tree on the dirt road from Gray Eagle. There were so many downed trees on Minarets that had already been sawed. Our friends in another truck only minutes behind us were blocked by a tree that had fallen. Debris was flying about, and sand and dirt swirled high into the air even as we came through North Fork. Something loud and yet we don't know what had thwacked our windshield but didn't leave a mark. North Fork was dark, thankfully, everything closed and no electricity.

Did anyone hear the sad news about a couple in a jeep who were killed by a falling tree when they were driving on Beasore Sunday night? This link is to an article about it and reports that Sunday night, 50 to 70 mph winds ran through the Beasore corridor and caused a number of large trees to fall across the roads:  https://sierranewsonline.com/accident-involving-falling-tree-claims-lives-of-ylp-couple/ (https://sierranewsonline.com/accident-involving-falling-tree-claims-lives-of-ylp-couple/)

Stay safe everyone...

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on October 29, 2019, 03:28:19 pm

yeah, no joke on the winds and dead trees out there.

Thought about it too as we were driving out a 12 mile road back to the hwy Sat and another road on Sunday.

Hadn't seen that article. Sad.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on October 31, 2019, 07:35:42 am

Did you bring a chainsaw? Or friend with one? Or have a buddy system or reception of sorts to make sure all’s well?

I wonder where on Beasore that accident occurred. That’s a very long tree corridor.

As we were driving out Sunday, we were wondering what are the chances of getting struck by a falling tree. Saw a yellow traffic sign warning of rock fall and wondered if those will need to be made for falling trees.

Anyway, on the bright side, forecast is looking good though much cooler. Great for climbing in the many areas in Soyo with southern exposure.

Have chainsaw, will travel. Actually I’ve not used a chainsaw yet and am timid of the thing but have done some hauling to move downed logs with the truck and toe straps.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on October 31, 2019, 07:42:53 am

I didn’t have my chainsaw with since I had likited storage space, but had both plb and cell and know a faster way to hwy by hiking a closed road.

There are some good youtube videos on chainsaw use. Also some bad ones that are hilarious!

After this weekend, if it doesn’t snow, I’m thinking of soyo trip. Need to hit Bela up to finish some projs.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on October 31, 2019, 07:44:22 am

Hi Mike-I couldn’t fully say about the Sphinx, but everyone seems to suggest it appears excessively bolted now. I want to check it out one of these days as I haven’t actually seen it up close in several years.

One thing that was nice about how another sport area around nightwatch was done: the bolts were painted to be well disguised. We must have walked off that dome countless times before noticing much development over the years.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on October 31, 2019, 07:48:39 am

Yeah Munge let us know-would be nice to see you two!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on November 08, 2019, 07:34:26 am

What is too many bolted routes in a space?

To me, to name a few situations, if you see a lot of hardware in rock where a climb could be led especially easily on good traditional gear, or if you can no longer tell just looking at climbs which bolts were placed for one climb over another being so nearby, and if an original line is no longer obvious with bolts distracting climbers to take another path off it. Or if you just walk up to a place and see anchor after anchor catching the sunlight..., if they could actually have been shared anchors. There are many caveats to all this probably, so just saying in general. Seen bolts for what looked like sit starts lol...

I find it exhausting to talk about every single bolt in terms of where it would be better placed and how it upsets an ethic except in obvious cases which happen. Then you hopefully climb the route(s) to really be sure to better understand the situation if possible and see if you get the rationale, or not.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on April 27, 2020, 07:55:14 am

Minarets is passable with high clearance to McCreary Trailhead, almost to Beasore Rd! Looks like a week or two to get through the next stretch of snow we saw but there is probably more down the road and trees of course to cut out.

Little Jackass Rd is still blocked by big trees at Minarets Rd.

That's all I got!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: wingnut on May 05, 2020, 04:36:33 pm

Does anyone know if Beasore Rd is clear of snow at the summit?

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on May 05, 2020, 05:46:06 pm

As of Sunday you can reach Beasore from Minarets and continue up to about Tempest, maybe up to Nightwatch by this weekend.

I don't know how clear cold springs summit is.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: wingnut on May 06, 2020, 04:29:11 pm

cold springs summit was still heavily snowed in. I am guessing at least 1 more week

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on May 06, 2020, 06:49:31 pm

Hi all, awesome thanks a ton for the info, hey John did you get my e-mail? place let me know I want to give you all my stuff for up there, happy climbing Mike A.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on May 06, 2020, 07:12:42 pm

Didn't get your emails Mike. Use jhgodar at yahoo address?

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on May 08, 2020, 10:08:02 am

Morning John, used the contact e-mail here. I will try again, if you get it please let me know, happy climbing Mike A.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on May 08, 2020, 08:11:52 pm

Got it this time Mike, thanks

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: splitclimber on May 13, 2020, 10:48:12 am

Hi ya'll.  any road/access updates for fresno dome, shuteye and balls?

Mike - I sent you an email yesterday too.  :)

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: DaveyTree on May 13, 2020, 01:45:14 pm

Haven’t been to Fresno Dome yet this year. You will definitely be able to get to the trail parking for Hawk Dome. It is on the outside (right) of a Uturn just past FD camp ground. There is usually a large drift blocking the road higher up as it leaves the creeks edge. With the low snow it might be passable. If not, fall back and just hike from the Uturn.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: splitclimber on May 13, 2020, 03:41:18 pm

SNF website says road is open to Fresno Dome.  I'm guessing it is maybe still snowed in beyond. 

It also said 6S10X (willow creek wall road) is closed because of downed trees.

I think this makes it problematic to get from Fresno Dome to Beasore Road from both 6S10X and 6S10.  Hmmm,  Guess I'll have to pick one area or be willing to drive down to bass lake.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: wingnut on May 14, 2020, 08:51:09 am

I've been climbing at Fresno Dome. I tend to use the lower approach, the road is all clear to there at least. I think it's clear to the top as well. There was zero snow up there

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on May 14, 2020, 09:34:03 am

Morning all, Sunday got to the Jones Store the long way from Minarets Rd, today going to check out CSS to see if the snow is gone, was on Beasore Rd a week ago and got a 1/4 mile from CSS in my Suby, checked out Chiquito Dome parking area and the Hawk Dome parking area last weekend and both places were a zoo of cars there, so been hanging out at the Balls, happy climbing Mike A.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: wingnut on May 14, 2020, 10:19:50 am

Lots of people up at Big Sleep area as well over the past week
SoYo and Shuteye are going to be seeing a lot of action so long as Yosemite and the the eastside remain closed!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on May 15, 2020, 07:38:29 am

Morning all, was up at CSS yesterday still a little snow blocking the road down the hill on the east side of CSS. Bearsore Rd looks good they cleaned up all the trees off the road. The snow should be gone in a week and CSS will be free of snow, happy climbing Mike A.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on May 15, 2020, 09:23:24 am

The trees on Minarets are almost all cleared by who I assume is the forest service. They even started down Little Jackass.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: looks easy from here on May 15, 2020, 04:49:50 pm

Sonora Pass opened this morning. Maybe some of the crowds will head to the other side of the mountains.

Have the mosquitoes started to wake up at any of the higher elevations yet?

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: Gerard(Jerry)Jessurun on May 16, 2020, 09:28:31 pm

Is Cold Springs Summit open yet?

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on May 16, 2020, 10:19:19 pm

Hi.

Skeet report:We’ve only been to 8k a couple weeks ago and skeets not bad at all. Lately at 6k and so far fine.

I heard CSS is open but haven’t been thru that way to be sure.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on May 17, 2020, 07:12:23 am

Morning all, was at CSS Friday and still a couple snow banks blocking the road should be gone by next weekend.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on May 17, 2020, 08:35:03 pm

Hi all, CSS open today, the whole byway loop open!!! fun times with John and Sue at the Jones Store today, happy climbing Mike A.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on May 18, 2020, 06:11:47 pm

Good to see you too Mike, we look forward to seeing your project get completed!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: splitclimber on May 19, 2020, 10:48:45 am

it was a surprisingly quiet and beautiful long weekend at chiquito, piyau and the balls.  We only encountered one other climbing team each day.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: looks easy from here on May 19, 2020, 11:32:18 am

Thanks Susan.

Re:crowds, I've found that's often true for places the weekend before Memorial Weekend. Everyone seems to save it up for the holiday. I usually try to get out then, before the hordes. Unfortunately this year my plans have been forced to Memorial Weekend. Fortunately no one I go with is worried about a little extra walking for seclusion.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on May 21, 2020, 07:59:33 pm

Probably will be a number of folks about this weekend, but hopefully we are all just looking at a great much needed and chill getaway. Enjoy!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on May 23, 2020, 07:24:32 am

Morning all, was at Lost Eagle Dome and the Upper swimming hole yesterday profect climbing temps the water is super cold and saw Big Sean’s truck at the Pools wall parking area, sure a beautiful day there fun climbing at the Melting Wall 😊👍happy climbing Mike A.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: looks easy from here on May 27, 2020, 06:06:47 pm

I know this is a bit south of the majority of the action here, but I was around the Dinkey Lakes Wilderness for the last 4 days and it was glorious. Sunny, temps were perfect, wind was absent to low, slept without a tent, only saw 1 mosquito the whole time (and it's taken care of). The only difficulty was snow was still pretty solidly entrenched in shady areas on north facing aspects above 8500', and with warm nights it stayed pretty soft.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: NathanKelly on May 27, 2020, 06:28:07 pm

Was wondering if the gate to courtright is open yet? I remember past two years it opens mid june

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: looks easy from here on May 27, 2020, 08:14:12 pm

Courtright is open. We saw a hiker at Dogtooth that started there, and there were boats on the water.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: DaveyTree on May 29, 2020, 12:30:40 am

Did you start from the east side of Dinkey Lakes or the trailhead by Courtright?

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: looks easy from here on May 29, 2020, 11:13:48 am

We hiked in from the south via Swamp Lake OHV to Chinquapin (sp?) Lakes and over the ridge there.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: DaveyTree on June 01, 2020, 07:14:52 pm

Oh wow. I have hiked up to that ridge. Definitely a good training hike up that long road. Sportsman and the other one beside it are beautiful. Well done.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on June 03, 2020, 02:18:46 pm

Quote

Road Construction project to begin on the 4S81 Minarets Road

The 4S81 road repair project contract has been awarded and a pre-construction meeting will be held this week. During construction the road will not be closed to traffic but, drivers to the area can expect delays, especially when the chip-seal work begins. Road work will take place from Mile post 11- Mile Post 23.

We are estimating a start date in three weeks. We will post an update to about this construction project once the actual start date has been established.

Due to the construction we ask drivers to be prepared to stop, and for the safety of construction workers be mindful of their speed through the construction zone. Signs will be posted before and along the route.

Posted on FB today

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on June 05, 2020, 08:57:51 am

SNF FB page...

Quote

FYI -

Construction on Beasore Road will begin on Wednesday June 10th, 2020 paving work will take place on the road one (1) mile passed the Chiquito Bridge. Visitors can expect up to two (2) hour traffic delays during the project, and a lot of construction equipment traffic along Beasore Road.

There will be no parking allowed on the shoulders and various pullouts during the construction period. This project work is expected to last for approximately 2 weeks.

On Monday June 29th, 2020 work will then begin on the replacement of the Upper Chiquito Bridge. During this phase of construction Beasore Road starting at the Upper Chiquito Bridge will not be passable for approximately 120 days the use of alternate routes during this period will be necessary.

All drivers are reminded to obey all traffic laws in the designated construction zones, and speed limits.

For more information on this project and alternate routes through the forest please contact the Bass Lake Ranger District at 559-877-2218.

Photos: USFS/Sierra National Forest(file)

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on June 05, 2020, 01:06:05 pm

Oh man, no driving down Beasore for 120 days? That will be really inconvenient to get to the Balls.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on June 08, 2020, 08:56:01 am

Holy crap, I just re-read the FS warning about paving work and if I read it right they are paving all the way to about Bowler Camp!!!!

Edit: Doy, I mixed the details of the Beasore and Minarets roadwork.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: daniel banquo merrick on June 09, 2020, 08:58:44 am

This is the map from Sierra News Online.

(https://sierranewsonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Mammoth-Pool-road-closure-map-Dec.-2017-e1512081972754.jpg)

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on June 09, 2020, 09:25:35 am

Then I did read it wrong, I confused the Beasore and Minarets roadwork..duh. I thought both warnings were for Beasore. I would be a little bummed if they paved Beasore for some reason.

They sure maintain Minarets well, don't they? Beasore had pavement at one time, there's remnants here and there still. Mainly forming the worst potholes.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: daniel banquo merrick on June 09, 2020, 05:43:20 pm

Going up tomorrow and thinking a campfire might be nice. The website says Bowler is closed - has anybody checked? Any suggestions? Send me an email if you don't want to post.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: John on June 09, 2020, 06:46:24 pm

Bowler has had plenty of people staying there this season. Maybe tree work?

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on June 18, 2020, 09:13:15 am

No campfires, but...

Quote

Sierra National Forest Recreation Update: June 18, 2020

Recreation Sites & Campgrounds:
The following recreation sites are now open as of June 18, 2020:

Bass Lake Ranger District:
• Wishon Boating Site
• The Falls Picnic Site
• Lakeside Picnic Site
• Denver Church Picnic Site
• Little Denver Church Picnic Site
• Rocky Point Picnic Site
• Willow Cove Picnic Area
• Recreation Point Picnic Site
• Pine Point Picnic Site
• Cranberry Flat Picnic Site
• Indian Flat Picnic Site
• McClendon Beach Picnic Site
• Redbud Picnic Site
• Forks Campground
• Lupine Campground
• Cedar Campground
• Spring Cove Campground
• Wishon Campground
• Summerdale Campground
• Dirt Flat Campground
• Dry Gulch Campground
• Chilkoot Campground
• Fish Creek Campground
• Soda Springs Campground
• Sweetwater Campground
• Greys Mountain Campground
• Soquel Campground
• Fresno Dome Campground
• Kelty Meadow Campground

High Sierra Ranger District:
• Huntington Boat Launch
• Billy Creek Picnic Site
• Dowville Day Use
• Dinkey Creek Campground
• Buck Meadow Campground
• Mono Hot Springs Campground
• Mono Creek Campground
• Vermillion Campground
• Portal Forebay Campground
• Ward Lake Campground

For more information please follow link provided - https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/sierra/news-events/…

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on June 26, 2020, 12:13:19 pm

Quote

FYI -The construction efforts to replace the Upper Chiquito Bridge have been postponed until after the 4th of July weekend. The contractor plans to mobilize Phase 2 work and begin replacement Monday July 6th, 2020.

During this phase of construction, Beasore Road will not be passable starting at the Upper Chiquito Bridge for approximately 120 days and the use of alternate routes during this period will be necessary.

One of the alternate routes, FS Road 6S01-Grizzly Road thru to FS Road 4S81 (Minarets Road) will also have road construction taking place during the same time period but, will not be closed to traffic. Drivers in the Grizzly/Minarets Road area can expect some minimal delays. These minimal delays are expected mostly during the chip-sealing portion of the construction on FS Road 4S81 (Minarets Road). The road work on FS Road 4S81 (Minarets Road) will take place between Mile Post 11 - Mile Post 23.

All drivers are reminded to obey all traffic laws in the designated construction zones, and speed limits. Please plan accordingly before your visit to the SNF.
For more information on this project and alternate routes through the forest please contact the Bass Lake Ranger District at 559-877-2218.

Photos: USFS/Sierra National Forest(file)

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on July 06, 2020, 11:30:26 pm

I wonder if they are still on schedule for road work that’ll block access to the balls via Beasore beginning today or not or if there’s another Work delay. Anyone know? Gonna miss that way in for quite a while!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mike a on July 07, 2020, 07:46:43 am

Morning, talk to a ranger Sunday about the Chiquito creek bridge and her said this week work starts!

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: splitclimber on July 07, 2020, 11:19:22 am

I was up that way this weekend.  Just keep wanting to come back.  ;D  the little bit of new pavement on Beasore is awesome. 

We did a 2 night fastpack of a portion of the Fernandez Traverse from Sing Peak to "Slagg" Peak.  We quickly realized we were not gonna make it to Triple Divide Peak.  It is a long traverse.

http://peaksforfreaks.blogspot.com/2014/10/fernandez-traverse.html (http://peaksforfreaks.blogspot.com/2014/10/fernandez-traverse.html)

Beautiful lakes in small basins in Ansel Adams Wilderness and in Yosemite.  You have constant views of the Minarets and Ritter/Banner and Piyau and Balloon Domes and views of Starr King and Half Dome.

(https://photos.smugmug.com/Vacations/SUMMERFUN/General-Climbing/i-ZTbwNvv/0/264a0e22/XL/20200703_135734-XL.jpg)

(https://photos.smugmug.com/Vacations/SUMMERFUN/General-Climbing/i-pwn4X7w/0/8a2f57bf/XL/20200703_145929-XL.jpg)

(https://photos.smugmug.com/Vacations/SUMMERFUN/General-Climbing/i-5Hnnt23/0/066ad0a6/XL/20200703_163043-XL.jpg)

A cool looking crag with potential at Rutherford Lake.

(https://photos.smugmug.com/Vacations/SUMMERFUN/General-Climbing/i-rVdBWSH/0/ff453dc7/XL/20200704_133114-XL.jpg)

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on July 08, 2020, 12:15:40 am

Wow quite some amazingly long treks you two take! Love the pictures and would love the views.

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: larsj on July 10, 2020, 08:54:02 am

Nice views!!  Took a trip up there with my son in about '94. Stayed at Ruth Lake.  Great area with little traffic. lars

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: mungeclimber on July 11, 2020, 07:47:04 pm

Fire season started...

https://sierranewsonline.com/breaking-wildland-fire-burning-outside-of-north-fork/?fbclid=IwAR2xJF6mVDkwSy7yjWdVNzj0kKUx1nA66FYBzz-hrDj0vG_jIz5P09Cl5Rk

Title: Re: Current Conditions
Post by: susan on July 13, 2020, 12:50:31 pm

Good to get that message out there yesterday morning Rob, thanks for posting that! We saw smoke rolling up the sky above the San Joaquin river basin in the morning, but it dissipated pretty quickly and never bothered us the rest of the day. Couldn't even see much if any smoke down from Redinger on our way out later. Just a helicopter hovering over what must have been the area of the fire. Bam, got that put out quick thankfully!