Via the Crow Flies

***This is an intermediate/advanced rock scramble. No first-time rock scramblers, but experienced beginners OK. ***

If the group size gets large, I will close RSVPs at about 15, so please sign up early. Everyone signs onto the wait list.

According to the Yosemite Decimal System (YDS), this hike is considered a Class 3 rock scramble. It "requires moderate [rock] scrambling on steep, rocky terrain that requires handholds for upward movement and safety." Expect some exposure.

Not for those afraid of heights or tight spaces. There are a few places that require intermediate rock scrambling skills. You must be able to pull your body weight up and lower yourself down using your arms.

This is a physically demanding hike mixing cardio and Class III climbs. Bring water and a light snack, wear approach shoes and layers.

Requirements

• Water or other hydration liquid - Minimum 2 liters is recommended
• Full use of both hands & feet
• Appropriate footwear (hint: Not trail shoes)
• Rock Scrambling experience

For your safety and that of the group, if your VegasHikers profile does not reflect rock scrambling proficiency, please sent me a private note with your rock scrambling experience. This is needed before I can put you on the "going" list. To send me a note through Meetup click on my profile and then click "send a message".

You must indicate that you read the entire hike description by answering the question asked when signing up for the hike.

Critical Information
If you don't know what rock scrambling is, or you do not understand why there is an emphasis on rock scrambling experience --- This route is not appropriate for you.

• Helmets are always welcome. Be sure to use one that doesn't block your sight.
• No guests. Everyone attending must be part of VegasHikers. It takes only a few minutes to create a profile and it's FREE.
• Since there is no cell reception, canceling less than an hour before the posted start time will be considered a "no show.
• Always carry "in case of emergency" numbers with you in your pack (hard copy is preferable or digital format).
• Check the weather before you come out, and be prepared (sunscreen, hats, extra water, multiple clothing layers, etc).

We leave the trailhead at the posted hike time, so please arrive at least 10 minutes early for last minute preparations.

You must be able to keep up with the group. If you can't keep up on the first hill, you will have to turn back.

Start Location

We'll park at the Red Springs Picnic area. To get there go west on Charleston towards the park. The turn to Calico Basin is about 2 miles before the park entrance. Turn right and follow the road all the way down to the Red Springs parking lot.

The Route

Part of this hike is based on Rick W's "As the Crow Flies" route.
The initial ascent contains some areas that require you to push or pull your way up to the top. We begin ascending parallel to Guardian Angel; then loop around on the west side, up the ridge facing the park and down.

The initial descent will take us to the West side of Red Springs, with a full view of the Park and the 13-mile loop. We'll traverse below the ridge along a craggy track. There will also be a few climbs and some steep scrambles.

Towards Calico II, we'll loop back towards Guardian Angel pass, via an alternate "high" route. There are many opportunities to scramble up the sides of rocks and around boulders. Some places require intermediate scrambling skills and there is some exposure. You must be able to pull your body weight up and lower yourself down using your arms.

If we haven't hiked together or if I can't determine your scrambling experience from your VegasHikers profile, send me a note with a description of the climbing you've done and the people you did it with. This is needed before I can put you on the "going" list.

Bring the appropriate gear for the expected temperatures (sunscreen, hats, extra water, layers etc). When hitting the final descent we have many options.

Be prepared to use your arms and sticky-soled boots. Not for beginners or those afraid of heights. There are some places that require intermediate scrambling skills and there is some exposure. You must be able to pull your body weight up and lower yourself down using your arms.

Frequently asked questions. (https://www.meetup.com/VegasHikers/pages/Frequently_Asked_Questions/)

Distance: ~ 3.5 miles loop.

Elevation gain: ~ 1100 ft.

High point: ~4318

Low point: ~3580

Difficulty: moderate-difficult (elevation gain, distance, class 3 scrambling)

Pace: ~ 1 Miles Per Hour

Children: no.

Dogs: no.

Time: ~3.25 hours

Bring: At least two liters of water. Snacks.

Please note the following:

• Meetup organizers are not tour guides and are not park rangers. Expect the same risks and take the same precautions you would take if you were hiking alone. You are solely responsible for your own safety and well-being.

• By signing up for and/or attending this Meetup event, you acknowledge, understand, accept, and agree that hiking and other outdoor activities can be dangerous and can cause serious bodily injury and possibly death. You further agree that you assume the risk of negligence by the organizers of this group and current and former members cannot be held responsible or liable in any way for the actions of any participant - including you - at any event.

• All attendees participate at an event at their own risk and are solely responsible for any damage to their property, and/or any injury to themselves or their guests.

• By signing up for and/or attending this Meetup event, you affirm that you understand this disclaimer, and that you knowingly and voluntarily agree not to bring any type of claim arising out of or related to this Meetup event against the organizers of this Meetup group.