Re: Actual road conditions-Ballarat to Goler
Posted by Mike Wood on June 17, 2003 at 02:42:37:
In Reply to: Actual road conditions-Ballarat to Goler posted by doc on June 15, 2003 at 12:22:17:
No offense to the original poster, but quite frankly if you had trouble with Goler than you should consider sticking with graded dirt roads. I run a stock 2002 Tacoma 4WD Double Cab. I did the trail memorial day weekend, and with three passengers and gear for 4 days of camping I had no trouble and did the trail in record time (35 minutes from wingate to butte valley) . I do not agree with your assesment of the trail as being trecherous and anyone that is attempting such a trail should be well prepared to take on such a trail. IT IS NOT A BEGINNERS TRAIL, but it is far from "difficult". This last trip traversing this trail will make my 8th time doing this trail.
Anyone wishing to do this trail should be well prepared for the worst and to be safe, travel with someone who is familiar with the area and with an additional vehicle. Always use your common sense and stay within the abilties of your vehicle.
Anyone with questions about this trail, feel free to email me and ask any questions you wish. But don't take my word for it, another place to read about this trail is to check out "Southern California - Backcountry Adventures" by Peter Massey and Jeanne Wilson. ( can be pciked up at Barnes and Nobles) This trail is listed on page 565 as Mengel Pass Trail. This book rates this trail a difficulty 4 out of 10.
Go decide for yourself.