After researching the Hayman fire area we came to realize that any of the worthwhile trails in the area remain closed, so we decided to run on up the China Wall!  Beginning at our trusty C-470 & 285 locale we met for an 8:00 departure. We stopped at the now empty Tarryall Reservoir to air down and get our rigs ready for the run.  Finding the trail wasn’t hard at all.  After the town of Tarryall we took a left on the very next forest service road and we were under way.  There is a noteworthy camping spot just before the first hill leading into the trail.  Getting up the first hill really isn’t much of a job at all.  There are a few rock outcroppings along the way that make things a little more challenging.  The first major obstacle is a rock section that requires a little skill to negotiate. 

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After climbing the first set of rocks you have to be very careful with tire placement or the huge hole will swallow a 33” Mud Terrain with no questions asked!  Tracy and Justin got matching dents in their gas tank skid plates, that assures you it is deep!  We found a nice place on top to enjoy some lunch and early spring sunshine!  After proceeding downhill we reached a point with a very Moabesqe straight uphill rock.  Its not very long but it does go straight up hill! 

    

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About ¼ mile from there we noticed a little spot to cross the Tarryall River.  There was just enough ice on the bank to make it questionable to cross.  Everyone insisted that I be the Guinea pig for the crossing, I said what the hell…. and broke through the ice with the Crusher.  Yea that water was a tad deep.  Even with a lift and 33’s it was interesting!  Everyone else made it across with out too many problems.  After continuing on we realized that the trail was diminishing into an ATV road.  After some group photos, we saddled up and headed back across the river.  Justin went first then Art had to show him how it was done!  He kicked the Grand in the ass and brought water up the hood mid way.  Unfortunately it likes air better than water so it died in the middle of the river.  Art braved the frigid river to hook up Justins winch cable and yank it across.  After dismantling half of the engine we finally got it as dry as possible and got it running again.  Art lead us out and the rest is history!!!  I would definitely recommend this train for some early spring fun!!!  Dicky Dow!  Christopher! 

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