Each year, my Filipino 4×4 enthusiast friends and I embark on a camping adventure to celebrate the holidays. This time around, our destination was the Grand Canyon, but not the conventional Grand Canyon National Park. Instead, we opted for dispersed camping, far from tourist crowds. Naturally, the prospect hitting dirt road journey filled me with excitement.
My trusty Land Cruiser, boasting an impressive 325,000 miles, might raise eyebrows for some due to its mileage. However, being a Land Cruiser, renowned for its reliability and ability to traverse challenging terrains, I harbored no reservations. Prior to the trip, I undertook some maintenance, including an oil change and addressing worn-out tie rods.
In a bid to elevate my camping experience, I invested in a hot water shower with a pump, a significant upgrade from my previous pressurized tank and spray nozzle setup. While the old system did the job, enduring cold showers wasn’t the epitome of comfort. Additionally, I decided to forgo my 0°F sleeping bag, opting instead for a 50°F sleeping bag and a blanket, complemented by a space heater. Saving space.
With my camping essentials packed and a ten-day food supply secured, I was geared up for the adventure. Our first stop was Cedar Point Campground, a six-hour drive from Houston. Navigating the vast expanse of Texas required a two-day journey. The campground, though occupied, provided a secluded spot, allowing me to appreciate the sounds of another camper’s joyous family creating lasting memories.
Typically my wife would look after the dogs, while I set up the tent and food. But unfortunately my wife couldn’t make it, so I was accompanied by my two dogs. The responsibilities of dog care and preparing my own dinner made me feel like a single dad. After ensuring the dogs were fed and had their evening walk, I finally sat down for a meal. Thanks to pre-made meals from HEB, camp cooking became a breeze, especially with my Snow Peak titanium cookware, a lightweight choice popular among hikers. Titanium heats up the food quickly, but also cools just as fast. No more burnt tongue when eating your meal.
Later, I tested my new shower setup, and it proved to be a game-changer. Regretfully, I wished I had this upgrade earlier. As the first to arrive, I retired early, enjoying a nightcap of Nikka Japanese whisky, and a few chapters of a book, accompanied by my two furry companions.
The following day, we set our sights on 6 Mile Canyon Road in New Mexico, a nine-hour drive that stretched to twelve due to several gas stops, and restroom breaks. Driving into New Mexico, the weather turned cold, accompanied by occasional rain, resulting in a muddy campground. Negotiating the dispersed campsite required 4×4 capability, as some areas became slippery.
Facing freezing temperatures, I put my space heater and blanket combo to the test. Packing light while ensuring comfort, the space heater, fueled by a 20lb propane tank, provided ample warmth. Venting the tent, with a carbon monoxide detector, my dogs and I remained comfortably snug in the chilly night.
The next day (day 3), we packed up early to make the drive to Torquerville Falls in Utah. Roughly about a 9 hour drive. During one of the gas station stops, we installed Allan’s skid pate. Since the upcoming trail could be rough, Allen want make sure he had some protection.
Despite encountering diverse weather conditions, including snow in Utah and a mix of seasons, our road trip continued. McDonald’s became our on-the-road culinary savior, complemented by snacks pulled from the refrigerator during fuel stops. As we pressed on to Torquerville Falls, Utah, the ever-changing weather showcased the beauty of nature in its various forms.
We arrived at the trail as the sun was setting in, and quickly became nighttime. Our journey faced a challenge when we encountered rain. Negotiating tricky terrain with slippery rocks, and the need to engage rear lockers tested our off-roading skills. Unfortunately, adverse weather conditions forced us to make camp earlier than planned, with strong winds making tent setup a challenging task. To the point I packed up the tent, and had to sleep inside the Land Cruiser.
Sleeping in the Land Cruiser, I grappled with finding a comfortable position due to the non-flat seats. Yet, with my two dogs at my side, I found solace in the sturdy vehicle amid the gusty winds. A minor setback occurred when my space heater died around 3 am, plunging me into an uncomfortably cold night. Improvising with hand warmers from the medical bag, I managed to endure until morning.
On Day 4, we awoke to a collective sense of weariness. Having spent the night inside our rigs, and the past 2 days of bad weather, the toll on our spirits was evident. Despite the adverse conditions, I remained surprisingly upbeat. For me, this journey is about embracing the full spectrum of experiences, both the highs and lows.
While the inclement weather may have dampened our immediate surroundings, I found solace in the belief that every challenge adds depth to the overall adventure. It’s during these tougher moments that we are reminded to be grateful for the good times. In the face of unexpected setbacks, I make a conscious effort to maintain a positive outlook, understanding that perfection is a rare commodity in the world of exploration. The beauty of the journey lies not only in meticulous planning but also in adapting to the unforeseen, fostering resilience, and finding joy in the midst of adversity.
Witnessing the sunrise in the clear skies, surrounded by my fellow adventurers, filled me with a profound sense of gratitude. The opportunity to experience such a moment on this journey was truly a blessing. As we descended from our campsite to the entrance of the trailhead, the drive was surprisingly uneventful, lacking the perilous challenges we had faced last night.
Our convoy pressed onward, setting our sights on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. The allure of this iconic natural wonder beckoned us, promising new vistas and adventures as we continued our expedition.
Reaching Whitmore Point in the North Rim of the Grand Canyon provided a refreshing change. 80 miles of dirt road, and no cell reception. The scenic drive showcased impressive views, making the short drive to the campsite a rewarding experience.
This time we arrived at camp with daylight. Enjoying the camaraderie of fellow campers and appreciating the respect shown for the land. My Starlink satellite internet, although a nod to technology, provided a means to connect with loved ones and share our experiences. Turning it off temporarily, we reveled in the joys of camping, fostering interactions and communal activities.
A peaceful night around the campfire, with a hot shower, marked the successful end of Day 4. Spirits lifted, we indulged in a drinking session, cherishing the moments and the shared stories by the fire.
The subsequent day brought a relaxed start, free from the constraints of a schedule. We where not driving to another campsite. I took pleasure in preparing breakfast and coffee, tending to my dogs. A spontaneous hike, guided by curiosity, led to breathtaking views and moments of serenity. Later, Starlink briefly reconnected the teenagers with the digital world before we embarked on a group hike, forging bonds amid nature’s wonders.
With Day 5 ending on a positive note, we relished the warmth of a campfire, enjoyed hearty meals, and engaged in meaningful conversations. As bottles emptied, the night concluded with a sense of fulfillment.
Day 6, the morning marked a shift to a new campsite, Diamond Creek Campground in the South Rim. Despite a 9-hour drive, the proximity across the canyon necessitated a circuitous route. En route, we passed through diverse landscapes, including Las Vegas and Hoover Dam. Temptations of a hotel stay and a bit of gambling crossed my mind, perhaps a prospect for a future camping trip.
Arriving at the campground posed a challenge as uncertainties about acquiring permits loomed. With strategic calls and a touch of luck, we secured permission to camp, avoiding a last-minute scramble for an alternative site. The soft sand and nearby creek at Diamond Creek Campground promised a tranquil setting for the next two days. As we set up camp, the day drew to a close, allowing us to savor a well-deserved night’s rest.
Day 7, Thanksgiving Day, our exploration of the area led us to an adventurous dip in the Colorado River. The water proved to be exceptionally cold, resembling the sensation of icy needles pinching the skin. Despite our initial resolve, we could only endure the frigid waters for a few minutes, feeling as if we had taken an unexpected plunge into an ice bath. Gratefully, my hot shower setup awaited, promising a refreshing and much-needed warm bath.
As evening approached, the spirit of Thanksgiving permeated our camp, with a food potluck among the group. For my contribution, I crafted a peach cobbler pie in my Dutch oven. The process was meticulous, involving the gathering of enough wood to create coals for the fire. Once the flames were roaring, I combined all the ingredients in the Dutch oven, embracing the simplicity of a one-pot, set-it-and-forget-it cooking approach. Using an infrared thermometer, I ensured the Dutch oven reached the ideal temperature of around 350°F. The cooking process, from fire to coals to finished dessert, took roughly three hours, culminating in a delectable treat just in time for the post-dinner indulgence.
Adding to the dessert lineup was refrigerator cake, creating a delightful pairing for the peach cobbler. Our Thanksgiving feast became an opportunity to share not only food but also camaraderie with new friends we had met at the campsite.
As the night unfolded, and the echoes of gratitude lingered around the flickering campfire, the group made a practical request to switch on Starlink. This was not just for connectivity but also to avail ourselves of Black Friday deals. To preserve power, we borrowed a friend’s inverter, mindful of the battery levels and the potential shutdown of the refrigerator. The Starlink, drawing a constant 45w with occasional spikes to 85w, provided a lifeline to the outside world amid our wilderness retreat.
With time passing and the warmth of the campfire diminishing, we gathered for the final moments of the night. As drowsiness settled in, we bid farewell to the crackling flames, signaling the end of a Thanksgiving celebration filled with shared meals, technology-assisted shopping, and the comforting embrace of a starlit campsite. The group retired to their respective resting places, concluding the day with a sense of contentment and the promise of more adventures on the horizon.
Day 8 marked the commencement of our journey back home. Although we lacked specific plans for camping or lodging, our intent was to drive as far as possible before fatigue set in. In moments like these, I couldn’t help but wish I lived conveniently close to these picturesque spots.
As we navigated our way back home, we encountered snow twice during the journey. The first encounter, in Kaibob National Forest, created a scene reminiscent of a Christmas movie. Driving into New Mexico, a winter storm warning had been issued, and as the sun set, snowfall commenced. The road conditions quickly became icy and slippery, leading to an accident that brought traffic to a standstill. Amidst the stillness, the intensifying snowfall provided a serene yet unsettling ambiance, akin to being inside a snow globe.
After nearly 11 hours of driving with the last hour in challenging snowstorm conditions, Allan radioed in about the need for accommodation. Options were limited, but we eventually located a gas station where we made the decision to stay. Camping in the snow was ruled out, and fortunately, a nearby Best Western was only five minutes away, became our refuge for the night.
Day 9, the inclusion of a complimentary breakfast at Best Western, where we spent a night, signaled the commencement of our final journey back home. Departing in after getting out tummies filled, we navigated varying road conditions.
Passing through scenic landscapes and familiar territory, we bid farewell, grateful for the shared experiences and camaraderie forged during the 4,000-mile journey. The memorable road trip, encompassing breathtaking views and challenging terrains, concluded with everyone arriving home safely, marking an adventure to be remembered.
Natsukashi Garage 