CHINA WALL PATROL 2 June 7, 2009
In attendance were:
Glenn Gibson & Konnie Willingham in their C.J.; George (Golden Retriever) and Charlie (Pug) chaperoned Chris & Josh Gork in their T.J. Rubicon; Keith & Sharon Gundy in their JK Rubicon; Pat Underwood in his T.J.; Galen Burkhardt in his Cherokee; and Dazey dog supervising Jim & Karen Chambers, in their T.J. Rubicon.
We met at O’Brien’s in Sedalia for breakfast. Departure time was 9:30am with six vehicles seeking 4x4 adventure, led by Jim & Karen Chambers. It was a long drive, although incredibly beautiful via Goose Creek to County Rd. 77, then north to Forest Rd. 212 and China Wall.
We arrived at the China Wall turnoff early in the afternoon. The whole area has a very remote feel, especially considering the route we took which included about 60 miles of dirt road after departing Sedalia. Sorry Galen, he was bringing up the rear in a cloud of dust.
The day was windy with the cloudy morning opening to beautiful blue skies in the afternoon. We found a sheltered spot in the sun to have lunch then departed searching for a little challenge.
We found numerous challenges with great fun at each. There is a rock slab near the turn around of the trail that almost everyone made it up without concern. Jim and I, running what looks like IROK racing slicks on our T.J., broke traction and were looking at the sky. We didn’t even come close to Tom Hester’s infamous tail stand but it was enough to cause a gasp or two amongst the on-lookers and even within our Jeep.
We then drove down to Tarryall Creek then headed back towards the start of the trailhead with Glenn & Konnie in the lead. Glenn had been on this road before and led us back through Forest Rd. 204, a really fun and rocky decline. On the trail, we met up with 11 Jeeps which were led by Chad from Four2Go. They were enjoying the day and the trail as well.
It was a wonderful trail in spite of the very long drive. We returned to Denver via U.S. 285 with a stop for Cajun food in Bailey and lots of laughter. A great group and a great day with Patrol 2.
Karen & Jim Chambers Patrol 2