Things are getting Very Interesting on the Eastern Side
Discussion
16 replies
Posted by Derek Sedillo on September 30, 2009 at 2:53 PM
Ok,
So now we that we are past the high winds the forecast is calling for the possibility of snow over the weekend and into Monday. For me nothing beats this combination of fresh snow and Fall colors.
At the very least even if we don't get snow we are in for some kind of clouds and a colder system rolling through. I find this very cool.
The funny thing is the first time I met Lon we were shooting in the rain last Winter in Yosemite. We just may end up shooting in the snow/rain again.
And this is one of the things that I really love about the Fall - Winter knocking on Summer's door.
Derek, if it's the sierras, we got weather.
This time of year can be very different year to year. I've been in shorts this time of year up there, and the next year with every piece of clothing I own on. So, the key is be prepared for all types of change. In fact last year as I left up there I had to stop on 395 shortly out of Lee Vining to chip the ice off my headlight covers to see the roadway ahead. That same morning Preston said he awoke to 14 degree temps where he was camped along Lee Vining Creek.
Posted by Derek Sedillo on September 30, 2009 at 6:36 PM
Hmm... If its snows much I may need to bring chains and I guess they could close Tioga Pass even if it is just temporary. I do plan to go that way if the road is open.
With regards to Winter type camping in the Fall I much prefer to car camp. The thin lining of the tent over the snow + the wind just doesn't work too well for me, especially if it starts dropping into the teens.
I hear you Derek. Yep, done all types of camping over my life time, these days it's done in a motel. Typically ranging in style from fair to sleeze-bag
Posted by Derek Sedillo on September 30, 2009 at 6:48 PM
So are you staying in a motel near Lee Vining this time?
So Paul, did they finally build that McDonald's in Aberdeen yet?
Posted by Steve Sieren on October 1, 2009 at 1:10 AM
Paul, Gallup, NM and Holbrook, AZ have sleezbags with a roaring train just outside the window. High priced sleezebags are what really piss me off.
Derek, I'm praying for snow but not too much for the strength of tent poles.
Ever been so cold camping you wish you just slept with your shoes on?
Posted by Derek Sedillo on October 1, 2009 at 1:31 AM
Derek, I'm praying for snow but not too much for the strength of tent poles.
Ever been so cold camping you wish you just slept with your shoes on?
Yeah, thats actually why I like to sleep in my car now. After Fall and Winter camping in CO in sub freezing temps I now prefer not be in cold/in pain most of the night. Of course I never invested in a sub zero bag so I'm sure that would help. But still when it is 20 degrees and below that gets really cold. My camera actually froze one Winter morn when it was Zero out. The shutter button iced over. And my feet felt like ice blocks.
Ever been so cold camping you wish you just slept with your shoes on?
that's what down booties are for
$30 at REI.... 100% worth it
Posted by Richard Wong on October 1, 2009 at 2:44 AM
I'm too old to camp now also, I have found my first gray hair or two in the past week!
Posted by Paul Duval on October 1, 2009 at 8:26 AM
I'm all gray and bald, arthritic and cranky...No Mcdonald's at Aberdeen yet, just a snack bar that's never open when I'm there. Usually have a breakfast after shooting dawn, go all day with just snacks and drinks then a nice dinner somewhere like Whiskey Creek in Bishop. If it's summer go out after dinner to catch the sunset somewhere. Richard just wait some day it will be one hair and gray. As long as I can still work the camera and click the shutter I'll be ok....
Paul
Posted by Anish Desai on October 1, 2009 at 11:52 AM
Another vote for down booties. They're even great to wear around camp. Definitely one of the best investments you'll make!
I love camping, and have been on the ground or in my suv for many years. Finally I found the ideal (for me) solution with my Sportsmobile. I'm at the spot for the image, with all my gear, and very comfortable. I still use a down bag and booties.
Posted by Derek Sedillo on October 1, 2009 at 7:58 PM
Anyone know what the alternate route is back to the coast if they close Tioga Pass? I coming from Monterey in a minivan. I do have chains if need be.
Derek
Posted by Lon Overacker on October 1, 2009 at 8:42 PM
Derek,
Two choices. North or South. :-) Long way around the south for us in Northern California, so you'd be heading north: Sonora Pass 108, Ebbett's Pass 4, then Carson/Monitor passes on 89.
Yes, carry chains. In all my years of hitting the east side in October, only once did I have to find an alternate way back. In both of the last two years, Tioga was closed temporarily. And in both cases, it re-opened in the afternoon.
From what I can gather from this current weather system, Tioga might very well close Sat or Sun nights, but I'd bet anyone here a donut that the pass will be open during the day. And depending on which day you're returning, I would say Monday will be the best day.
I'm not too worried about it. Just make sure you have the chains. But honestly, if Tioga pass is closed - chains won't matter. If the pass is open, you won't need chains.
Discussion
16 repliesSo now we that we are past the high winds the forecast is calling for the possibility of snow over the weekend and into Monday. For me nothing beats this combination of fresh snow and Fall colors.
At the very least even if we don't get snow we are in for some kind of clouds and a colder system rolling through. I find this very cool.
The funny thing is the first time I met Lon we were shooting in the rain last Winter in Yosemite. We just may end up shooting in the snow/rain again.
And this is one of the things that I really love about the Fall - Winter knocking on Summer's door.
Derek
This time of year can be very different year to year. I've been in shorts this time of year up there, and the next year with every piece of clothing I own on. So, the key is be prepared for all types of change. In fact last year as I left up there I had to stop on 395 shortly out of Lee Vining to chip the ice off my headlight covers to see the roadway ahead. That same morning Preston said he awoke to 14 degree temps where he was camped along Lee Vining Creek.
With regards to Winter type camping in the Fall I much prefer to car camp. The thin lining of the tent over the snow + the wind just doesn't work too well for me, especially if it starts dropping into the teens.
Derek
Derek, I'm praying for snow but not too much for the strength of tent poles.
Ever been so cold camping you wish you just slept with your shoes on?
Yeah, thats actually why I like to sleep in my car now. After Fall and Winter camping in CO in sub freezing temps I now prefer not be in cold/in pain most of the night. Of course I never invested in a sub zero bag so I'm sure that would help. But still when it is 20 degrees and below that gets really cold. My camera actually froze one Winter morn when it was Zero out. The shutter button iced over. And my feet felt like ice blocks.
that's what down booties are for
$30 at REI.... 100% worth it
Paul
Derek
Two choices. North or South. :-) Long way around the south for us in Northern California, so you'd be heading north: Sonora Pass 108, Ebbett's Pass 4, then Carson/Monitor passes on 89.
Yes, carry chains. In all my years of hitting the east side in October, only once did I have to find an alternate way back. In both of the last two years, Tioga was closed temporarily. And in both cases, it re-opened in the afternoon.
From what I can gather from this current weather system, Tioga might very well close Sat or Sun nights, but I'd bet anyone here a donut that the pass will be open during the day. And depending on which day you're returning, I would say Monday will be the best day.
I'm not too worried about it. Just make sure you have the chains. But honestly, if Tioga pass is closed - chains won't matter. If the pass is open, you won't need chains.
Lon