2024-01-12, 08:03 PM
Taco, the problem is that if we simply rely on what the park service says, sometimes we are not getting realistic information. What do they say are 4WD / HC roads? Keane Wonder. Salt Creek. Aguereberry Point, Titus Canyon lower approach, Hole in the Wall (the whole thing, not just the part beyond the Hole). At the same time, there are other roads that are similarly marked that really do deserve it - Butte Valley, Trail Canyon, Lemoigne. What to believe? Do we just stick to the pavement? I think maybe the park service would prefer that. I long ago gave up trying to get real info from the visitor centers and ranger stations; even if you take the time to chat and show that you're not just a noob tourist, you don't get reliable info. This is especially a problem after major storm damage. Maybe the roads that are open have been recently graded and are in great shape? Sounds like HITW is as good as it gets right now. Or maybe they are way worse than any time I have driven them, with lasting storm damage or a nasty washout.
So where to turn? A forum like this perhaps? I would not say things on FB. I'm sure there are lurkers here but good luck to them, I know nothing about them. Bluegreen has been around the block a few times, should be able to take info and make an informed decision. Personally, I like honest info - I might take a recently graded road which I might not take otherwise, get it while you can.
Of course we are all responsible for our own safety, and I hope we travel appropriately. Last time I was out to Cottonwood was 10 months ago, but that is irrelevant after the floods. And the woman (sorry, as DAW pointed out, it was the mother, not the kid, who died) on the Owlhole Spring road made several mistakes which, together, were fatal. The first was going on a questionable road with no info at all. The second was not turning back after getting the first flat.
When I am out there, and someone asks me about a road, I usually take the time to try to figure out how skilled they are and how equipped. How much water are you carrying? If I get a blank stare, "That road is way to gnarly for your vehicle". If they say "gallons" I will say what I know.
So to all you lurkers out there... you probably don't want to drive Cottonwood without 4WD and lifted is helpful, maybe want lockers.
So where to turn? A forum like this perhaps? I would not say things on FB. I'm sure there are lurkers here but good luck to them, I know nothing about them. Bluegreen has been around the block a few times, should be able to take info and make an informed decision. Personally, I like honest info - I might take a recently graded road which I might not take otherwise, get it while you can.
Of course we are all responsible for our own safety, and I hope we travel appropriately. Last time I was out to Cottonwood was 10 months ago, but that is irrelevant after the floods. And the woman (sorry, as DAW pointed out, it was the mother, not the kid, who died) on the Owlhole Spring road made several mistakes which, together, were fatal. The first was going on a questionable road with no info at all. The second was not turning back after getting the first flat.
When I am out there, and someone asks me about a road, I usually take the time to try to figure out how skilled they are and how equipped. How much water are you carrying? If I get a blank stare, "That road is way to gnarly for your vehicle". If they say "gallons" I will say what I know.
So to all you lurkers out there... you probably don't want to drive Cottonwood without 4WD and lifted is helpful, maybe want lockers.