surfponto

all messages by user

11/6/2014
Topic:
Halloween weekend trip

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Great TR.
Very nice picture with your tent in the foreground and the clouds in the background smile
11/6/2014
Topic:
Indian Valley / In-Koh-Pah Mountains Backpack

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
I second the cool looking fox comment.
Great find on the pictos also.
Can't believe your back is still messed up, sorry.

Sucks you have to end the trip with a drive thru wind farm hell. upset
11/22/2014
Topic:
2014 OAUSA BorregoFest | Carrizo Mountain Run

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Looks like a fun trip with a great mix of vehicles.
Thanks for posting

Bob
11/22/2014
Topic:
Rockhouse Canyon in Carrizo Gorge Backpack

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Definitely one of my favorite areas of the Anza Borrego region. Never get tired of checking out the Rockhouse cabin.
Never did follow that water pipe. Crazy it goes all the way up the ridge.

Didn't we do that hike in the summer once Daren?
11/26/2014
Topic:
RockhouseValley (north) backpacking TRIP

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Great pictures and trip report David.
It is pretty funny that in the hundreds of thousands of acres of Anza Borrego you run into Daren and Tom. smile

I am finally heading out this coming Friday for our annual post Thanksgiving trip.

Bob
11/26/2014
Topic:
Mortero Palms to Goat Canyon Trestle & Indian Hill

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
One of my favorite hikes out there.
Looks like you guys got some great weather.


Thanks for posting.
Bob
11/27/2014
Topic:
Best Mylar Ballon Trip

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Awesome Daren !

dsefcik wrote:
We may have a new record here....26 ballons in one trip!! Will have more about the 4 day backpack trip in Rockhouse in the next couple days but thought I would share this first.

12/1/2014
Topic:
Rockhouse Canyon / Buck Ridge / Jackass Flat 4 Day

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Looks like an awesome backpacking trip Daren.

Glad your truck did well.
Guessing the straight axle setup of the older Toyota's works better than the IFS of the newer trucks in those rock crawling situations.

Saw you heading North up S2 this past Saturday as we were heading out after our Carrizo Palms hike
Waved but you looked like you were on a mission wink
12/1/2014
Topic:
Carrizo Palms via East Fork Carrizo Gorge

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
We originally hiked to the Carrizo Palms by way of the East Fork close to 5 years ago. Mary and I decided we would hike it again after spending the night camping in Carrizo Gorge.
We woke up in the AM, had a quick breakfast and said goodbye to our friends who were heading home.

Parked the Land Cruiser and prepped for the hike


Beautiful sunny morning as we began our hike up the East Fork


Most of the way to the palms is uphill, which fortunately meant we would have a downhill trek back the the Land Cruiser.



Found one Mylar balloon on the way up.



Not sure what kind of footprint this was.


It is good to be back in Anza Borrego. This one actually stuck in pretty deep. :O


After a two hour trek up the East Fork we arrived at the Carrizo Palms.


Plenty of water below the palms full of tiny tadpoles and water bugs.



The only sound we heard was the rustling of the palms as the warm desert breeze funneled thru the canyon.




Exploring the palm grove.



The brilliant blue desert sky made a nice contrast to the healthy green palm leaves.



Oasis in a remote corner of the Anza Borrego Desert.



Mary cooling off in the prep for the hike back



Hiking back we ran into a female Bighorn Sheep which unfortunately moved a bit too fast for me to get a picture. we also saw Daren driving in up S2 as we we were heading home.

This is a great day hike that I really recommend.


Larger Pictures Here
edited by surfponto on 12/1/2014
12/1/2014
Topic:
Carrizo Palms via East Fork Carrizo Gorge

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Yeah it is pretty funny.
David sees Daren in Rockhouse Canyon and then we see Daren driving outside of Ocotillo.
I only noticed him because he was driving his "new" truck which was my friend's old truck wink


Great area to visit.
Sand is pretty soft at the beginning of the Carrizo Creek/Gorge turnoff but once past there it is not too bad.


Jim (ziphius) wrote:
Bob, It looks like you had all the elements of a great desert trip: sheep sighting, mylar, cholla bomb, spring water, and a Daren sighting! I haven't been out that way, gotta hoof it overland or make friends with a 4x4 owner. smile Nice trip. - Jim
12/1/2014
Topic:
Carrizo Palms via East Fork Carrizo Gorge

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Thanks John
First time I saw the Carrizo Palms we were up on the tracks and scrambled down the incline to get to the grove.
Pretty cool area. From what I read it is the largest palm groves in Anza Borrego


BorregoWrangler wrote:
Cool trip! Every time I head back from the trestle, I look down at that palm grove and think to myself that I need to get down there one of these days.

edited by surfponto on 12/1/2014
edited by surfponto on 12/1/2014
12/1/2014
Topic:
Carrizo Palms via East Fork Carrizo Gorge

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Yeah Daren but your pictures are incredible Applause

Maybe we should start a thread called "Daren Sightings" ?

dsefcik wrote:
Jim (ziphius) wrote:
Bob, It looks like you had all the elements of a great desert trip: sheep sighting, mylar, cholla bomb, spring water, and a Daren sighting! I haven't been out that way, gotta hoof it overland or make friends with a 4x4 owner. smile Nice trip. - Jim
I love Bob's reports, he always writes them so they are interesting to read, not like mine where I just put a bunch of pictures.

That was a good one Jim, "and a Daren sighting!" Toast
12/1/2014
Topic:
Carrizo Palms via East Fork Carrizo Gorge

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Hopefully in the AM David.
On the coast anyway.

hikerdmb wrote:
Looks like a great day. Let's hope for some rain in the next few days.
12/1/2014
Topic:
Rockhouse Canyon / Buck Ridge / Jackass Flat 4 Day

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Great year for Toyota pickups.
We had an 1985 4Runner on Kauai years ago.
Thing was a tank. Same drive-train as your 83.

dsefcik wrote:
surfponto wrote:
Looks like an awesome backpacking trip Daren.

Glad your truck did well.
Guessing the straight axle setup of the older Toyota's works better than the IFS of the newer trucks in those rock crawling situations.

Saw you heading North up S2 this past Saturday as we were heading out after our Carrizo Palms hike
Waved but you looked like you were on a mission wink
That truck is awesome, I love that thing..!! I wondered if I would see you, I was heading out to Dos Cabezas, have another TR to post...Thumbs Up
12/2/2014
Topic:
Piedras Grandes / Indian Hill

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
The wind farm is hideous.
Has killed the peace and serenity of that area. I miss that camping spot but would have a hard time camping there again.
Your Sunrise pic is amazing
12/2/2014
Topic:
Piedras Grandes / Indian Hill

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
That one is near Piedras Grandes.
Piedras Grandes Pictographs
As far as their legitimacy I think Daren is the better one to ask smile

hikerdmb wrote:
Is the hand in the sun cave at Indian Hill? I have not seen it. Is it visible without your stretch program? I used to go to that southern area all the time but not anymore. I guess as long as you don't look to the east...

edited by surfponto on 12/2/2014
12/3/2014
Topic:
From the archives - Fighting Sunrise Powerlink

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Hey Daren,
Remember this picture? Guess it was run in the LA times at some point wink


I was just cleaning up some of the older posts on the site and it brought back memories smile
edited by surfponto on 12/3/2014
edited by surfponto on 12/3/2014
12/3/2014
Topic:
From the archives - Fighting Sunrise Powerlink

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
True...same with the Ocotillo wind farm which is much worse.


dsefcik wrote:
Totally remember it...didn't help much though....upset
12/4/2014
Topic:
Random photos from Borrego Springs and Culp Valley

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Nice TR. Really cool picture of the cottonwoods.

Have not spent much time there although now Daren's "homesite remains" has peaked my interest. wink
12/5/2014
Topic:
From the archives - Fighting Sunrise Powerlink

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Fount this : True about the water. Seems pretty ludicrous although I am not sure what 2 acre feet a year equates to.


Overview
NRG Energy, Inc., through its wholly-owned subsidiary NRG Renew, completed the
26-megawatt (MW) Borrego Solar Project in San Diego County. Cost-competitive,
renewable power generated by the facility will be sold to San Diego Gas & Electric
(SGD&E) through a 25-year power purchase agreement.

At full capacity, the system generates enough power to meet the energy demands
of approximately 20,800 homes. The system is situated on 308 acres of privately
owned land northeast of Borrego Springs, Calif. During construction, the Borrego
Solar Project used approximately 104 acre-feet of water (predominantly for dust
suppression). The system uses up to two acre-feet of water per year for module
washing during operation


http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2013/apr/26/solar-borrego-springs-electricity-nrg/



dsefcik wrote:
With my back issues this last year I have not been out to Borrego too much but this last few weeks when I have been out there I noticed the solar panel array, when did that go up? I remember hearing about a project that the town approved a few years back, is that it?

edited by surfponto on 12/5/2014
12/8/2014
Topic:
Borrego Palm Canyon Backpack

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Really nice area. Have not hiked around there.

By the way the plant you were asking about is called horsetail and it is a reed.
I have never seen it out in Borrego.
I believe it is considered somewhat invasive
We had some in our HOA complex and it pretty much took over
12/12/2014
Topic:
Pepperwood Canyon to Canebrake Valley

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Really enjoyed your trip write-up. Looks like a great hike.
Bob







BorregoWrangler wrote:



When the weather begins cooling down here in southern California, my wanderlust really starts kicking in. According to Merriam-Webster’s dictionary, wanderlust is a “strong longing for or impulse toward wandering.” And remember what J. J. R. Tolkien said: “Not all who wander are lost.” There are countless reasons why I hike, off road, and just enjoy the activities that get me into the back country. I believe that it's essential for everyone that we never stop exploring. Click the link below for my trip report:


Pepperwood Canyon to Canebrake Valley & Indian Gorge Hike: Dec. 7th, 2014
edited by BorregoWrangler on 12/9/2014
12/25/2014
Topic:
Another Adventure: Arroyo Seco Diablo

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Great pics Nolan
You guys packed a lot into one trip
1/14/2015
Topic:
Indian Valley Summer Solstice Cave & Torote Canyon

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Thanks.
Like you our only clue was Schad's discrete entry in "Afoot and Afield".

If I recall correctly Daren and I were looking in the wrong place when we heard my wife yell "I found it!"
Not really an easy place to find, but still I mixed up the pictures and tried not to show too many landmarks.
Anyway thanks for being discreet about it's location.

Here is my post from 2010.
The search for the hidden Solstice Cave in Indian Valley

Best,
Bob




BorregoWrangler wrote:
....

FYI: I tried to picked appropriate photos to post of this trip. I've seen other photos from this cave that show much better views of the surrounding landscapes in clear weather... something that I wanted to avoid. I was very careful in selecting the photos I posted and even double checked with others who wouldn't want too much info on the cave accessible to the public. The weather was very stormy and views out from the cave were limited.

Believe me, I would not want to disclose any information that would make it easy for others (who would not respect it) to find such a special place. So feel free to let me know if there are still any measures I could take in this regard. Thanks.
edited by BorregoWrangler on 1/13/2015
1/14/2015
Topic:
Fish Creek Wash Fossil Beds

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Great pictures Nolan.
Did you upgrade your camera? smile
1/31/2015
Topic:
Between the coast and ABDSP

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Very cool.
Guessing you are somewhere near inland Carlsbad?
2/9/2015
Topic:
Google Earth Pro is now free

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Time to come over to the dark side Daren Darth Lightsabers

dsefcik wrote:
Looks like this offer is for the Windows and Mac versions only...I use Linux so I am out on this one...bad razz

--
2/11/2015
Topic:
Presidents Day Weekend Carrizo Gorge Backpack

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Hey Daren,
Mary and I will be out Saturday and Sunday but most likely will have the dogs.
If we are camping in the area we will look for you

Bob
2/23/2015
Topic:
The Impossible Railroad

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Nice trip Daren,
It is amazing that there is still "new" stuff to discover in Carrizo Gorge.
So the CCC guys are below the trestle working now? Guessing it is easier to hike in from the North now.

Did a little wine research on Ellena Brothers

Ellena Brothers, Etiwanda
It was soon after the turn of the century that Claudio Ellena came to the United states from Australia, seeking the right location and climate to establish his vineyards. He chose the Cucamonga district c on the warm and sunny slopes of the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains. Here he felt that wine could be produced comparable to the finer ones of southern Europe, where the Ellenas originated and had been wanegrowers for many generations. He founded his winery at Etiwanda, a few miles northeast of the town of Cucamonga, where his sons John B. and Frank Ellena carry on the family tradition,, producing some of the finest wines of Southern California.
John B. Ellena, the president of the company, and Frank Ellena, the vice-president, own the family enterprise. Two other brothers are active in the winery, Arnold Ellena, the wine maker, chemist, and secretary of the concern, and Louis Ellena, the master distiller. The featured brand is Regina Cucamonga Wine with Ellena Brothers a secondary label. Table wines, sparkling wines, and aperitif and dessert wines of fine quality are produced, available mainly in the Western states. They are marketed in distinctive and original squat or long-necked bottles, trade-marks of the house.


Full article
edited by surfponto on 2/23/2015
2/23/2015
Topic:
The Impossible Railroad

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
I can imagine working out there all day, then at night wanting nothing more than to sit on a rock and drink a bottle of wine .Buddies
They probably would have preferred a nice cold beer but the obvious lack of refrigeration would have made that difficult.... smile

dsefcik wrote:
surfponto wrote:
Nice trip Daren,
It is amazing that there is still "new" stuff to discover in Carrizo Gorge.
So the CCC guys are below the trestle working now? Guessing it is easier to hike in from the North now.

Did a little wine research on Ellena Brothers

Ellena Brothers, Etiwanda
It was soon after the turn of the century that Claudio Ellena came to the United states from Australia, seeking the right location and climate to establish his vineyards. He chose the Cucamonga district c on the warm and sunny slopes of the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains. Here he felt that wine could be produced comparable to the finer ones of southern Europe, where the Ellenas originated and had been wanegrowers for many generations. He founded his winery at Etiwanda, a few miles northeast of the town of Cucamonga, where his sons John B. and Frank Ellena carry on the family tradition,, producing some of the finest wines of Southern California.
John B. Ellena, the president of the company, and Frank Ellena, the vice-president, own the family enterprise. Two other brothers are active in the winery, Arnold Ellena, the wine maker, chemist, and secretary of the concern, and Louis Ellena, the master distiller. The featured brand is Regina Cucamonga Wine with Ellena Brothers a secondary label. Table wines, sparkling wines, and aperitif and dessert wines of fine quality are produced, available mainly in the Western states. They are marketed in distinctive and original squat or long-necked bottles, trade-marks of the house.


Full article
edited by surfponto on 2/23/2015



Thanks for that Bob, I wonder if these were the bottles, they appear to be broken and unopened



--
2/25/2015
Topic:
Any wildflowers in southern Anza Borrego ?

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Hey Guys,
Finally have a free weekend day to head on out to check on the flowers. Had planned on last weekend after I swapped out my power steering pump in the LandCruiser but unfortunately I forgot one small o-ring and was greeted by a large puddle of ATF in the morning when I was ready to head out.

Long story short, took pump apart again, replaced o-ring and now the Cruiser is ready. to make the journey.
Was wondering how the flowers are around Egg Mountain, Carrizo Gorge etc. ?
Was thinking of doing a hike up Rockhouse canyon on Sunday on a flower scouting mission.
Thanks
Bob
edited by surfponto on 2/25/2015
2/26/2015
Topic:
Any wildflowers in southern Anza Borrego ?

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Sounds good.
Watching the weather. We were going to try to go out Saturday afternoon and camp in the Gorge somewhere then hike Sunday


dsefcik wrote:
http://www.abdnha.org/pages/03flora/reports/current.htm

I think they are almost there...some rain this weekend followed by some sunshine should do it...let me know if you go out Bob, I may try to go out also for the day to try and find some blooms.
3/9/2015
Topic:
Southern Anza Borrego Flower Report 2015

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
We did a quick day trip out to see how the wildflowers were coming along in the southern area.
It took some exploring but we found some great cactus blooms and various wildflowers around Carrizo Gorge. There are a lot of buds that look like they are ready to explode so I am guessing in 2 weeks it will be even better out there.
Going to head out in 2 weeks to check it and post an update.







Anza Borrego Desert Flower Report March 2015
3/9/2015
Topic:
Southern Anza Borrego Flower Report 2015

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Some Desert Dandelion, Monkey Flower and Brittlebush flowers.
Going to try again in two weeks.

hikerdmb wrote:
Anything other than cactus blooms?
3/9/2015
Topic:
Southern Anza Borrego Flower Report 2015

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Very nice.
Looks like there are some great flowers up north

dsefcik wrote:
After spending the weekend with Tom out at Fish Creek and accomplishing very little other than dodging jeeps everywhere I stopped off at Henderson Cyn and the flowers are really blooming, they will probably keep at it for another couple weeks or until the caterpillars kill them all off....either way if you have not gone to see the flowers now is a good time! Early morning or late afternoon is probably best to avoid the high noon sun glare.

Here are some photos from last weekend...enjoy....









































--
3/31/2015
Topic:
Carrizo Gorge wildflowers

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Looks great
Are the barrel cactus blooming?

Will try to get out for the day on Saturday
4/6/2015
Topic:
Spring Break 2015 Week 1

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Geesh your photos are good !!!
4/6/2015
Topic:
Bighorn Sheep in Inner Pasture

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
We did a hike into the Inner Pasture yesterday and surprised a small group of Bighorn Sheep.
Sorry for the crappy video , it was from my cell.



Will post some more pics later. Found some nice cactus blooms. smile
edited by surfponto on 4/6/2015
edited by surfponto on 4/6/2015
4/6/2015
Topic:
Bighorn Sheep in Inner Pasture

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Hey Jim,
Mile 41 marker. We parked in that small lot to the north

Jim (ziphius) wrote:
Cool, I haven't seen one with a radio collar yet. Was that the Moonlight Canyon or 'Mile 41' entrance?
4/6/2015
Topic:
Bighorn Sheep in Inner Pasture

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Yep. We did that great hike with you there many moons ago when we found that amazing cave


dsefcik wrote:
I'll guess marker 41...I have seen sheep in the wash several times before around this time of year, usually with lambs.
4/7/2015
Topic:
Bighorn Sheep in Inner Pasture

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Hey Tom,
Funny we were wondering who was parked there.
Noticed a lot of Desert pinstripes on your Tundra wink

We hiked about two hours in and then turned around. Was glad to see as many flowers as we did. Nice day out there.

Bob



tommy750 wrote:
You were out there Sunday? Was my blue Tundra still in the lot? Finished up an Sat/Sun overnight in IP yesterday about 2:30pm so we may have just missed each other. I should have looked at your "amazing cave" post beforehand so I could have identified all the flowers! I didn't see any sheep when I passed through but saw lots of tracks. Nice video.
4/9/2015
Topic:
AB 4/8-9-10

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Camped up on Egg Mountain once. smile
We always stop up there also when we are in the area. Love that spot.
Looks like you are getting great weather.


Florian wrote:
On top of Egg Mtn. Beautiful afternoon in the AB.

http://instagram.com/p/1Ojwrevai8/

-Florian

edited by surfponto on 4/9/2015
4/21/2015
Topic:
Escalante: the staircase: trip 2

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Amazing area Nolan,
I know its' been said before but you are creating amazing memories for your kids smile
4/29/2015
Topic:
West of Indian Hill

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Awesome job rescuing that red racer smile
Wow you are not kidding about the powder can house. last time we saw it it looked like this.



4/29/2015
Topic:
Pine Valley Wilderness

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Back in the 1990s we lived out in a small cabin in Pine Valley that was leased from the U.S. Forest Service.
It was owned (the cabin anyway) by Mary's dad, who graciously let us stay there when we were just getting reestablished in San Diego after 4 years on Kauai.
Well the long and short of it is her dad recently passed away so we decided to go out and pay sort of a tribute to him.

I really forgot how nice it was out there as I usually just drive past the Japatul exit on my way out to Anza Borrego.
Enjoy the pics.
Bob


Mary having lunch with Lori and Pam at the old Pine Valley Cabin





The cabin that was our home for 6 months back in the 90s





Blooming Yucca out in the Pine valley wilderness





Birds eye view of Pam and the BioCruiser





Down the trail





Mary heading down the jeep road





Not sure what this is but it was beautiful





Always funny to see cactus out here





Yucca Closeup





Flowers lined the trail





Indian Paintbrush





Miles and miles of nothing, just like we prefer.
edited by surfponto on 4/29/2015
edited by surfponto on 4/29/2015
edited by surfponto on 5/4/2015
4/29/2015
Topic:
West of Indian Hill

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
You are right.
That trip was from February 2010

dsefcik wrote:
Here it is 08/25/2011 so Bob, either your picture is older than that or it has been rebuilt.

4/29/2015
Topic:
Trail Less Traveled

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
I was laughing so hard when i read that just now bowrofl

Jim (ziphius) wrote:
Welcome to the forum. Inner Pasture is awful and dangerous, no water, too many cholla, no trails, and occasionally inhabited by bearded, surly misanthropes that camp without clothes because they can, seeing as no one else ever goes there. You won't enjoy it. smile
5/4/2015
Topic:
Pine Valley Wilderness

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
I agree Daren,
I think we are going to head out Saturday and Mountain BIke.
Noble Canyon is right there also which is a well known MTB spot.


dsefcik wrote:
Nice flora photos...looks like some nice property, I think you need to visit more often.
5/4/2015
Topic:
Pine Valley Wilderness

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Thanks. He loved living up there. I was always amazed how much snow they used to get in the Winter.
Here is a shot of us driving up Pine creek Road up towards Mount Laguna back in the 1990s


Pretty sure the Forest Service closes access now in the Winter


Nolan (anutami) wrote:
Spring is a good time to visitsmile nice that your FIL was so kind...we moved in with my FIL to save up $$$ to try and buy 10 acres off old Julian hwy,sorry he passed.

Nolan
5/4/2015
Topic:
Pine Valley Wilderness

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
We were wondering the same thing about camping down off PIne Creek Road.
There are some great spots.
The cabins themselves are on leased land but that only makes up a very small part of the area.


tommy750 wrote:
Is that private property, Bob?? Are there places to camp out there or only day hike?
5/4/2015
Topic:
Inner Pasture / Spring Break Week 2

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
You guys took some great pictures.... Toast
5/14/2015
Topic:
Brewing the foundation for Conservation (Anza Borrego Foundation)

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Hey thanks for posting that. I went to their brewery when they first opened up
The Chinook IPA was good. smile

wintyfresh wrote:
http://www.theabf.org/ABbrew

The Anza-Borrego Foundation and Nickel Beer Company are brewing a collaboration beer.
5/31/2015
Topic:
Carrizo Gorge Wilderness Backpack

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Looks like you guys had a great trip through the gorge. Nice pictures.

Mary and I were out in Jojoba Wash on Saturday for the night.
Super windy. How was it just sleeping in your bags on the ground with the wind?
We had the luxury of the rooftop tent wink
5/31/2015
Topic:
A few familiar places we enjoyed in May

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Your kids have a great life! It is awesome that they get to experience such cool stuff.....
.....and a Rhino ?, geesh how fun is that.
6/21/2015
Topic:
Borrego Springs 1965

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Those are some classic pictures.
Looks they belong in an old desert camping book
Thanks for sharing
6/21/2015
Topic:
Montezuma Grade during the heat wave

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Looks like a great trip plus you ended it with a Sculpin...nice.
Definitely has a different feel out there in the summer.
Looks like you saw your fair share of wildlife which is always nice smile
6/25/2015
Topic:
ANZA-BORREGO FOUNDATION / NICKEL BEER COMPANY

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Anyone planning on attending this on Saturday. Mary and I have our tickets.
Hard to pass up on the inaugural Anza-Borrego Brew. Toast

Anza-Borrego Foundation/Nickel Beer Co Collaboration VIP Tapping Party
Date:
Saturday, June 27, 2015 - 4:00pm to 6:00pm




Anza-Borrego Foundation is excited to announce a new collaboration with Nickel Beer Company.
Our two organizations will be working together right here in San Diego’s backcountry to create a beer inspired by the spirit of conservation and a love for the desert landscapes of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park.
For more info, see the announcement.

We'd love to have you join us for our debut!

This is an invitation to our VIP Tapping Party- the public reveal of our Anza-Borrego brew! Cost is just $35 per person and includes 2 pints of any Nickel Beer, a commemorative pint glass and a beer-and-appetizer party at Nickel Beer on Saturday, June 27 at Nickel Beer Co. This level is limited to 50 people.



Please call Ashley at 760-767-0446 ext 1003 for more information.




Share to: Digg Facebook Google Plus LinkedIn Reddit StumbleUpon Twitter
edited by surfponto on 6/25/2015
6/27/2015
Topic:
ANZA-BORREGO FOUNDATION / NICKEL BEER COMPANY

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Thanks
Hopefully there is a good turn out
Will post some pics smile
Toast

Jim (ziphius) wrote:
I'd read about the 'Dark Sky Stout' somewhere in town recently and was tempted to go, but other engagements.... have fun!
6/29/2015
Topic:
Brewing The Foundation For Conservation Event

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Mary and I met up with some fellow Anza Borrego and craft beer lovers at Nickel Beer Company in Julian for the ABF fundraiser.
Great event. The collaboration beer was an Oatmeal Stout that was finished with vanilla beans. Amazing.
Great to meet all of the ABF people also.
Cheers Toast


Outside of Nickel Beer Company that was once Julian's old jail house .





Mary checks to see what's on offer at Nickel Beer Company.





Enjoying the cooler weather with a couple Borrego Dark Sky Stouts.





The brewery itself has a historical feel.





The Borrego Dark Sky Oatmeal Stout that was brewed as a fund-raiser beer for the Anza Borrego Foundation.





Tom Nickel is the head brewer and has brewed for Pizza Port as well as Oggi's. Here he describes what went into creating the Borrego Stout.





Scenic sky and countryside as we headed back to the coast.
edited by surfponto on 6/29/2015
edited by surfponto on 6/29/2015
6/29/2015
Topic:
Rocky Basin Lakes 7 Day Backpack in the Sierras

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Wow when i saw the bear pictures I was freaking, looks closer than a 1/4 mile a way.
Very cool.

Great pics of your adventure.
6/30/2015
Topic:
Brewing The Foundation For Conservation Event

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
I am up for the challenge wink



dsefcik wrote:
Looks like a rough job.....glad somebody has to do it...Toast
7/7/2015
Topic:
Sheep Count 2015

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Was all set to do it next year until I heard about Daren's bee encounter Just Kidding

Thanks for posting the trip report Buford, along with the great pics.
Really gives you an insight to what it is like.

Bob
7/7/2015
Topic:
Sheep Count 2015

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
I am hoping so.
Mary has talked about doing it also.

Ashley at the ABF posted a nice TR about her first experience.
http://theabf.org/i-see-ewe-shortish-diary-anza-borrego-sheep-counter



dsefcik wrote:
surfponto wrote:
Was all set to do it next year until I heard about Daren's bee encounter Just Kidding
You seem to threaten doing it all the time but never go...will next year be for real?? smile
7/7/2015
Topic:
Sheep Count 2015

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Wow Daren,
Sheep shots are amazing and I was tripping on the closeup shots of the flies.
Will look at the rest of your photos tonight

Bob
edited by surfponto on 7/7/2015
8/3/2015
Topic:
Summer of 2015

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Wow what a great summer you are having Nolan !!
Tahoe looks awesome! Amazing water color.

I will want to talk to you about truck campers at some point smile

Bob
8/3/2015
Topic:
The Potrero

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Really cool shots of the tent toads.
I can honestly say I have never seen that.

They look like healthy little buggers smile

I second what Nolan said about you heading out in the warmer months..... smile
10/5/2015
Topic:
Looking for a mechanic to install lift on Tacoma

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Wouldn't mind seeing some pics of your Tacoma.
I plan on lifting our 2007 Tacoma at some point.

Thanks,
Bob

sddarkman619 wrote:
JBHogan wrote:
Hello forum members,

Longtime lurker, first time poster here, looking for a reputable mechanic or shop to do a mild lift on a late model Tacoma.

My plan is to purchase a Bilstein 5100 kit to get a basic 2" lift, but I don't have the resources available to perform the install work myself.

I'm posting here in hopes that someone here will have a recommendation for a decent shop in the San Diego County area.

Any advice is appreciated.

Thanks, ~J


I did my own lift for my 2015 taco. I have the tools if you have jacks and jack stands. and I don't mean the little jacks from the local parts store or walmart.
4" in front and 3" in back to lift and level.
10/22/2015
Topic:
The Year in Archaeology Oct 22nd 2015 at the ABDSP

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
I see why it is doing it.I need to fix.

dsefcik wrote:
rockhopper wrote:
btw Was the fourm page chronology acting a little wonkey or was it just my c'puter
Cheers
That was the result of some spammer posts, I don't think I can fix it, I am hoping Bob(surfponto) can look into it.

edited by surfponto on 10/22/2015
10/22/2015
Topic:
BORREGO DAYS DESERT FESTIVAL - OCT 23-25th

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
I went a couple years back. Pretty fun event.

dsefcik wrote:
Sorta late notice and I will not be going but for those that may be interested

http://borregospringschamber.com/BorregoDays/index.html

I will be out with Gary, Tom & crew backpacking in Rockhouse canyon for the weekend.
11/4/2015
Topic:
Diablo Dropoff graded

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Great video! I really need to get back out to the Desert. Land Cruiser has sat dormant so long I killed the battery upset

sddarkman619 wrote:
here's from our Diablo Drop off last sunday, the 1st is pretty mellow, deep sand.


edited by surfponto on 11/5/2015
11/5/2015
Topic:
Diablo Dropoff graded

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
mattherrington wrote:
Is there a sticky about how to post photos? I've got a cool shot of coming out of the narrows right as is really gets into Fish Creek below the drop off and I'm wondering what happened to this sign.... Wait. got it.

.....fixed it Cool
11/9/2015
Topic:
2015 previous topics not showing up

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Hey Nolan,
What do you mean?
I had some issues with spam a while ago so I wonder if my fix jacked the forum. upset
Bob

Nolan (anutami) wrote:
Is it just me/my computer or are none of the previous posts for 2015 showing up? Went back to look for some trip reports but can't seem to find them...


Nolan
11/18/2015
Topic:
Photo Contest winner :)

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Congrats Nolan
11/18/2015
Topic:
Lots of Renewable Energy Fun in the Deserts

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Scary stuff.... upset
11/18/2015
Topic:
Combs Peak Hike

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Nice TR. Funny everyone that does that hike talks.about the biting flies...

http://www.anzaborrego.net/Travel/AnzaBorrego/post/2009/05/26/Hiking-to-the-top-of-Combs-Peak
11/23/2015
Topic:
Carrizo Gorge Hike Nov. 2015

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Nice.
Your trip had a little bit of everything. Pictos, BHS skeletons, tarantulas .....
11/30/2015
Topic:
Martinez and Agua Alta Canyons Backpack

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
What a great trip report!! Looks like an amazing area.
Thanks for posting the pics Tom.

Bob
12/23/2015
Topic:
Tabletop/Trestle/Mortero Palms/Dos Cabezas Spring

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Yes please post some pictures. Sounds like an amazing encounter.
1/20/2016
Topic:
Moderation

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Thanks Florian
Funny Daren and I were just discussing this.smile
I am looking into options for the forum whether it is a software upgrade or port it to a different application.
I will keep you in mind.


Florian wrote:
Not sure which category to put this under so i'll just drop it here. There was a bunch of spam posts recently that didn't get cleaned up for a few days. I'd be happy to volunteer as an additional moderator for this forum if desired. Frankly i'm not sure who is in charge of the forums or i'd have asked directly and not with a public post. I've moderated various outdoor forums in the past. Currently i'm a moderator for the mtsanjacinto.info forum as well as some facebook groups. Just offering to help.

-Florian
1/20/2016
Topic:
Pinyon Wash Overnight

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Mary and I did a quick overnight trip out to Pinyon Wash with plans on revisiting the Native American village site in Harper Flat.
On our drive up Pinyon Wash we drove by Nolan's camper truck with no sign of Nolan so we continued on.


Happy to see our favorite camping site was available


Tried out a new grill Pie Iron we received for Christmas


Semi healthy camp version of an egg mcmuffin


Walking into Harper Flat


Large mortero filled with water from the recent rains


Mary checking out the morteros


Pottery shards


Mary checking the view in Harper Flat


Great overnight trip. Made us realize we need to get out to Anza Borrego more often.
edited by surfponto on 1/20/2016
1/21/2016
Topic:
Pinyon Wash Overnight

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Lot of damp ground out there from the recent rains.

Jim (ziphius) wrote:
Nice trip Bob. Water-filled morteros are one of my favorite things.
1/21/2016
Topic:
Pinyon Wash Overnight

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
I agree.

Have you ever hiked in from Harper Canyon?
Curious what that is like?

hikerdmb wrote:
Love Harper Flat. We've backpacked into there many times. Short easy walk and most times very peaceful and people free.
1/21/2016
Topic:
Pinyon Wash Overnight

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Hi Nolan,
I am not sure how we missed you. We camped at the end in your old spot. We were there Sunday and Monday then drove over to the Cactus Garden towards Fish Creek.
You are right cell signal is a little better down the wash and the sunlight lasts a little longer..

No I haven't seen that one site you asked about. I need to spend a couple days out there.
Yep Ranger D.L. came up to check on our metal fire ring. :-)
Great pics.

Bob




Nolan (anutami) wrote:
Hi Bob, yeah that was me out there. Surprised we did not see you as we were also exploring the ancient village sites. I was parked in that location because I needed cell phone reception and that is one of the only spots to get it. Did you see Ranger D.L out there? What days were you out?


not to hijack your thread, but.......

edited by surfponto on 1/21/2016
edited by surfponto on 1/21/2016
1/22/2016
Topic:
Pinyon Wash Overnight

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Thanks David,
I remember that post. That looks like a great route. Much harder as you said.
We have camped out in t he Cactus Garden before many tears ago. It is amazing during flower season.
Bob


hikerdmb wrote:
I have been up into Harper Flat by coming up Harper Canyon only once. Definitely worth doing. It was a great hike but much longer and much more elevation gain than coming up through Pinyon Wash. I also have come into Harper Flat from Fish Creek Wash near Split Rock and Dave McCain Spring. Here is a link to the TR from the Harper Canyon trip.
http://www.anzaborrego.net/anzaborrego/forum/topic180-harper-canyon-to-harper-flat.aspx

surfponto wrote:
I agree.

Have you ever hiked in from Harper Canyon?
Curious what that is like?
edited by hikerdmb on 1/21/2016
1/22/2016
Topic:
Anza Borrego Site Redo

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Trying to slowly upgrade the main site and move it over to WordPress. A lot more support than the Blog software I am using now.
Let me know what you think?
http://www.anzaborrego.net/
Thanks,
Bob
edited by surfponto on 1/28/2016
edited by surfponto on 1/28/2016
1/22/2016
Topic:
Anza Borrego Site Redo

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Thanks Jim
Unfortunately this past year or so I have spent less time on it so certain things really need to be updated.
I plan on spending more time in Borrego and working on this smile

Jim (ziphius) wrote:
Looks great Bob. Appreciate all you do in maintaining this site.
1/22/2016
Topic:
Anza Borrego Site Redo

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Hi Florian,

There is a comment section on the blog posts but not a built in forum feature.

I am looking to see if it will be best to just upgrade the current forum software or migrate it to something else.

Thanks

Bob


Florian wrote:
Does Wordpress have a "forum" type feature where it's easy to see new comments and follow various conversations?

-Florian
1/23/2016
Topic:
Anza Borrego Site Redo

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Hi Florian
The blog portion will continue to be separate from the forum. I agree the forum encourages conversation. Just need to get rid of the spam posts.Die die die!
Thanks,
Bob

Florian wrote:
I really like being able to follow multiple topics via a forum type site. Wordpress is good for blogging but not so sure it encourages conversations. But i'm adaptable.

-Florian
1/24/2016
Topic:
Moderation

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Yes.I need to clean up the database
Bob

Borregolinda wrote:
Is that all the "posts" I see by "guest"?
1/24/2016
Topic:
Anza Borrego Site Redo

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
I am in the process of upgrading the forum software
That is an option which we will set.
Thanks,
Bob


Florian wrote:
surfponto wrote:
The blog portion will continue to be separate from the forum. I agree the forum encourages conversation. Just need to get rid of the spam posts.

Are there any options in the forum software where first-time posters need to be approved by an admin? That's what we do on the San Jacinto forum and it works pretty well.

-Florian
1/25/2016
Topic:
Anza Borrego Site Redo

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
I am cleaning out the old database.
I am basically deleting accounts that have not posted anything since a majority are SPAM accounts

Thanks for your patience everyone. smile
1/25/2016
Topic:
Anza Borrego Site Redo

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
No problem
Unfortunately Monday's are busy so I am working on this during my break

Bob

ImpatientHiker wrote:
Bob Baran wrote:
I am cleaning out the old database.
I am basically deleting accounts that have not posted anything since a majority are SPAM accounts

Thanks for your patience everyone. smile

Thank you guys so much for giving your time and skill to maintain and improve this valuable site!
edited by ImpatientHiker on 1/25/2016
1/25/2016
Topic:
Anza Borrego Site Redo

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Ok everyone site is updated with some minor cleanup stuff left.
Let me know if you see any issues?

Thanks,
Bob
1/25/2016
Topic:
Anza Borrego Site Redo

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
dsefcik wrote:
1. "back to the website" link goes to old website
2. Sort order of messages now seems to be "newest first", how to change?


Do you want the forum threads sorted oldest to newest?
I have seen it done both ways.
I am fine either way.
1/25/2016
Topic:
Anza Borrego Site Redo

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
We can set it in the administrator options.
Don't think users can sort

I am just glad those "Guest" threads are gone
1/25/2016
Topic:
Anza Borrego Site Redo

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Thanks,
Surprisingly it was a free WordPress theme.
I like the layout and it is "responsive" css so it actually looks good on a smart phone.

I need to try to get the recent forum posts pulled in like the old blog site but unfortunately the forum is Microsoft .net based.

Bob




Clifford wrote:
Great job! I did my website with WP and a theme recently too. I like the Travelify theme you used- free or paid? I used Enfold and was paid but support is great.
cliffordnovey.com
Thanks again-
Clifford

Bob Baran wrote:
Trying to slowly upgrade the main site and move it over to WordPress. A lot more support than the Blog software I am using now.
Let me know what you think?
http://www.anzaborrego.net/wordpress/
Thanks,
Bob
1/25/2016
Topic:
Anza Borrego Site Redo

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Great thanks

herofix wrote:
Looks great, thanks for all your work on the site!
1/25/2016
Topic:
Anza Borrego Site Redo

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Thanks for the offer
Will check forum with Firefox

Really hope this upgrade helps with the spammers
1/26/2016
Topic:
New Free BLM Routes of Travel Map App

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Looks pretty cool Tom. Will check out the Android version
1/26/2016
Topic:
Anza Borrego Site Redo

surfponto
surfponto
Administrator
Yep the RSS feed is new with this version smile

Florian wrote:
Just noticed there is an RSS link too! That's new, right? That's really helpful.

-Florian




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