PS - 4x4 Thomas Mountain and Rouse Hill

We are overdue for a 4x4 trip, and fall is here, so we'll head to the west side of the San Jacinto mountains in hopes of finding fall colors and some cool weather. The route has some rocky spots, but is mostly scenic mountains. Recent rains may have produced some flowers as well. New members are welcome, please write a trip leader and let us know what you're driving and your experience. Passengers are welcome, but you should probably arrange a ride with a friend beforehand, as seats are limited.

We'll catch CA 74 in south Palm Desert and head toward Lake Hemet. Just south of the lake, the north entrance to Thomas Mtn is our off-road starting point, about an hour from the meet-up (map here). We'll continue on route 6S13 until we meet Rouse Hill Rd which heads NW as 5S15. The total off-road mileage is about 22. We hit CA 74 again at Cranston Station (map here), and will head west into Hemet and then north to Beaumont, where we'll take the I-10 back to our meet-up spot, about an hour.

Meeting: 9:00 am at the Walmart parking lot near the gas station (map here). Be sure to arrive a few minutes early and with a full tank of gas.

Duration: 5+ hours. Expect a lunch stop along the route

Equipment Recommendations 

1. Reliable 4WD vehicle with 2 speed transfer case 

2. Trail rated tires, tire patch kit with plug

3. Radio communication (buy here).

4. Tow attachment points - front and rear

5. Recovery/Tow strap(s)

6. Fire extinguisher

7. Spare tire, changing tools, jack capable of lifting your 4X4. (Preferably not a high lift jack).  If your vehicle has been lifted, the OEM jack is no longer tall enough to change a tire, carry blocks, or consider a 2-stage bottle jack (18”)

8. First aid kit

9. Tire deflator

10. Air compressor 

11. Checklists - ArriveAlive

Trip Leaders:  Joey D: email here, Scott C: email here, Cliff C: email here

Health Problems/Allergies:  Discuss any medical concerns with the trip leader that may affect your ability to complete the trip.