M i c r o s o f t
®
TOPOGEAR NEWS
V o l u m e 2 0 1 1 , I s s u e 1 0 - 11
O c t o b e r / N o v e m b e r 2 0 1 1
www.topogear.com
Green River , Utah
We were all paddling single kayaks. There
would be no way to double up.
We had pitched our tents, had a nice fire
to cook dinner over, and we were all sitting
back enjoying a hot beverage. The warmth
of the day was slipping away, just as the sun
was sinking behind a ridge off to the west of
us. The rocks sticking up in distance east
were just a blaze of color, still lit up by the
last rays of the evening sun.
Just down the river from us, a herd of
deer stepped off the western bank into the
river. The river was wide and slow and they
continued across, fording the river with
ease. They paused briefly in the middle and
looked our way. Then they continued on
as if they knew we were no threat.
We Need Your Article Material
For our next issue we would like readers,
outfitters, etc to send us printable material
on other river trips. We are looking for
destinations in Utah, California, Oregon,
Nevada, Wyoming, Colorado, Idaho or
Arizona. (Approximately a 12 hour
maximum drive from Las Vegas, NV)
Something a small group (10 or under)
can do in 3 to 4 days, without guides.
Most readers would require an outfit-
ter to supply permits, canoes or rafts, and
shuttle service. Possibly camping gear as
well.
Also it would be nice to include in the
article an alternative, using experienced
guide services and various packages avail-
able there as well.
We would like destinations that can be
paddled via canoe, sea kayak, and raft.
Something under whitewater class. If we
receive enough info on whitewater, we
may include that in the article as well.
So Outfitters and those businesses that
cater to paddlers needing a place to stay
overnight before and after trips, eating
places, etc. Please send us your info. We
will also run FREE 1/4 page ads (aprx
4X5 inches) for those related to this sub-
ject...if sent in JPG format. Email to:
info@topogear.com
It was a pleasant late summer day. Four
of us were finishing our first day of pad-
dling. We were now searching for our first
nights campsite.
Our launch had been early in the morn-
ing some 10 miles, or so, upstream at Crys-
tal Geyser. It had been a lazy day. Mostly
floating with a very slow current. We had
spent much of the day on the river which to
this point had been passing through mostly
open desert.
The river falls about a foot and a half per
mile, through this stretch. The water a
murky coffee latte looking ribbon wander-
ing through the sparse terrain. As we
cruised along we noticed a small green area
along both sides of the river. Vegetation
survives in this green corridor. In some
places it is even difficult to get off the water
it is so thick. But it barely makes it up the
bank before the green fades into the sur-
rounding brown of desert life.
We find an island in the middle of the
river that has easy access to beach our kay-
aks. After walking around a bit to stretch,
we decide this will be camp. We did discuss
the fact this might be a dangerous location
in the event of a flash flood. We had
checked the extending weather forecast be-
fore setting off on the trip. There was noth-
ing in the long range forecast to concern us.
The banks in the last half mile did not really
provide easy access anyway.
Boats were beached and tied off to tree’s
just to be safe and not sorry. It would be an
awfully long hike out, should a boat be lost.
Continued on Page 2
See full page ad in this issue
To reserve your vendor booth or receive
more info contact Carrie at 702-346-7091
or email cduclos@blackgaming.com
Material, articles and images contained within this Newsletter publication including subsequent pages may not be copied, reproduced, or otherwise used
for other purposes without written consent of TOPOGEAR. All images are considered Copyright by TOPOGEAR or the images owner.
www.topogear.com and logo are ® Registered Trademarks with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
1
 
Green River (Utah) From Crystal Geyser to Mineral Bottom
Distance from Crystal Geyser to Mineral Bottom=63 miles
Distance from Ruby Ranch to Mineral Bottom=45 miles
Interstate 70
X Crystal Geyser
38°56’16.64�N 110°08’11.19�W
Elev 4038 ft
ARCHES NATIONAL PARK
Chaffin Ranch Geyser
38°45’50.28�N 110°07’38.23�W
Elev 4019
To MOAB, UTAH
X
X
Ruby Ranch
38°46’38.57�N 110°06’10.24W
CANYONLANDS NATIONAL PARK
Ten Mile Canyon
38°39’35.14�N 110°03’48.83�W
Elev 3986 ft
X
Three Canyon
38°42’24.14�N 110°07’17.84�W
Elev 3999 ft
River Registry (Postal Rock/Inscription Rock
38°39’36.97�N 110°02’32.98�W
X
X
Neighbor Arch (Hike to )
38°36’33.86�N 110°03’11.24�W
Elev 4517 ft
Aprx 550 Vertical Elev off the river
X
X
Bowknot Bend
38°36’11.41�N 109°59’44.60�W
Elev 3961 ft
X
Julian’s Inscription (Hells Roaring Canyon
38°33’58.78�N 109°58’53.98�
East Bank of Canyon (Short hike)
X
Mineral Bottom
39°31’48.19� N 109°59’41.86�W
Elev 3957ft
2
 
.
Our first nights camp. We were just
north Of Ruby Ranch. A perfect spot
on a large island in the middle of the
river. We figured it offered the best
isolation from any critters found along
the shores. It was mostly sand covered
and offered a wide view of the river in
all directions. It would also catch the
early morning sun to warm us. We
didn’t notice any bugs as the coolness
of the evening started to settle in. It
was soon time to pull out the sweat
shirts for added warmth. It was going
to be a cold desert night. One of our
party had somehow left his sleeping
bag back in the vehicles. Two of us
donated our fleece bag liners. Luckily
we had brought the extra liners along.
Deer crossing the river in the early evening.
The views as the sun went down were spec-
tacular. Sitting in our folding chairs and en-
joying a hot beverage, we enjoyed the sounds
of nature, the water, the birds, etc.
It was soon time to climb into the sleeping
bag for warmth and rest. It had been a long
day. We were up early to meet at the outfit-
ter. Then loading our gear and boats on to
their vehicles and trailers.
We were briefed on the River Rules. All
human waste has to be carried out. We were
issued a “Latrine Box� we further referred to
as the “Big Tex�. That item is carried on your
boat. A small issue with kayaks. We thought
perhaps a canoe next time?
In the morning, start of day two, we would be entering Labyrinth Canyon. Some history makes the trip more interesting. It also
conjures up thoughts of how things may have been. Little has changed from the way it has always been. Native American history
dates back to over 800 years. The Freemont Indians occupied large portions of Utah and spent time in this canyon.
The Spanish came through in the 1700’s. John Wesley Powell traveled through during the 1800’s. During the 1900’s ranchers be-
gan moving in along the river. It was hard making a go of it in such harsh conditions. There is also evidence to be found along the
way of old mines and mining equipment. There are many markers you can pre-check if your use Google Earth.
As the river passes the San Rafael River the terrain will change. The river leaves the relatively open terrain of the desert, as it starts
cutting its way through the rising plateaus surrounding the area.
The area is full of wildlife. If you are quiet while drifting along you may see deer, coyotes, beaver, herons, egrets, and variety of
birds ranging from larger Ravens and Hawks, to smaller swallows and wrens.
Depending on the time of year and weather patterns, you may encounter days of wind. Canoeists and Rafters will have the most
problems. Kayakers have an easier time, especially those in sea kayaks with foot controlled rudders. Factor this into your schedule.
Should you hit wind every day it could add an extra day or two on to your trip. Normally these are thermal winds. As the day heats
up the wind increases. To beat it and make time, be on the water as soon as there is enough light to see. As the winds increase at mid-
day, you should have enough miles behind you to stop for the day. Sleep in and you will pay dearly for it.
We hit one such day. It was hard to keep the tents on the ground. We suggest having some light rope to tie off corners to rocks.
These windy afternoons can be spend exploring the banks, or hiking up slot canyons in search of anything that might interest you.
3
Passing around Bowknot Bend is interesting. You travel several miles via the river. Eventually coming around and passing within just a
short distance of where you just were a few miles ago. There is a vertical ridge of rock thrusting skyward that keeps you from seeing
where you came from. At one point we had a weird sensation of the water lifting us slightly up. We wondered if there isn’t an underwa-
ter channel under that ridge that part of the river is taking a short-cut? Maybe in time it will reveal it’s self and alter the course of the
river? We would be interested in others knowledge concerning this point in the river?
The Green River is extremely silt laden. We
were pre warned and carried 1.5 gal of water,
each, per day. The recommendation is at least a
gal a day per person. We carried water purifying
pumps as a backup but never used them. We ex-
perimented and found you would need a container
of some sort to take water the evening before.
(Kayak Pumps work great for filling) Let it settle
overnight before running it through your filter. It
is still murky even after settling overnight.
Those with canoes or rafts can capitalize on the
cooler method for some of their water. Have one
cooler with ice and food for use the first couple of
days. A second cooler filled with block ice and
taped shut. On day three transfer the remaining
food from the first cooler to the one that started
out with the block ice. Use any water that is left
behind as the ice melts. You will have cold stor-
age for up to 5 or 6 days.
We also carried 5 gal shower bags and used the dirty river water for showering. After a day paddling in the heat, you wil l not believe
how good that shower will feel. If you have ever tried filling one of these bags by submerging it below water (Seems logical)...it doesn’t
work! Grab that kayak pump again. Fill it up and throw the bag on the deck to heat up in the sun during the day. We suggest a piece of
panty hose taped over the intake of the pump. We ended up with tiny minnows in our bag...on our first fill.
We enjoyed our few days on the river. It was fast paced. We covered approximately 60 miles in 4 days, 3 nights on the riv er. This
was nearly 10 years ago and I long for another trip through this beautiful canyon. A person could easily make this a 2 week visit. It
would be easy to spend a week on the river and another exploring nearby Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, and other
points of interest in the near vicinity.
Looking back at the Green
River and Mineral Bottom from
the gravel road cut into the can-
yon wall. It is a most exciting
ride on the mostly one lane
road. You leave the river below
to end up on the plateau above,
and on your way back to Moab.
While we paddled the section from Crystal Geyser to Mineral Bottom, commonly referred to as the Upper Section. Our Friend Helen
Howard of Desert River Outfitters has her personal favorite section of the Green River. Though her company serves the Colorado River
for people in the area of Las Vegas, Laughlin, Bullhead City and others, she sometimes vacations on the Green River. Drifting and pad-
dling along with the slow current. Her favorite section is downriver of Mineral Bottom.
We contacted several Outfitters for info to pass on to our readers. Helen kindly responded with info and pictures. I had to laugh
when she started out by saying “There are only a couple outfitters who have permits from the Canyonlands National Park to do trips in
this area. I am not one of them, but this is where I go for vacation� So the following is her further insight, for those planning a trip on
the Green River.
All photos in the following article are the property of Desert River Outfitters. Please do not reproduce without permission.
4
There are only a couple of outfitters who have the permit from Canyonlands NP to do trips in this area. There are 2 outfitters you can
use to get you to the river, and then got you off the river. The one we have always used is Tex's Riverways . Tag Along is the sec-
ond. Early in January you will want to contact your outfitter of choice and make arrangements for your preferred date to enter the river
and more importantly, to get off the river. These 2 are the only ones allowed to operate jet boat services to come down to the confluence
of the Colorado and the Green Rivers, to haul you and your boat back up the Colorado River into Moab. This is the only way for kayak-
ers and canoeists to get out of the Lower section area. The Colorado River, just below the confluence, turns into a deep narrow canyon
called Cataract Canyon. You would soon meet a series of 20 or 30 class 4 and 5 rapids ( depending on the level of Lake Powell). The
lower the lake, the more rapids you would encounter) This is a section where you really! Really! Really! don't want to be. If you camp
at Spanish Bottom, this is your last night before the day you catch the jet boat back up the Colorado. One of the nicest hikes is down to
the top of Cataract Canyon where you can see rafts going through and being buried in the holes of the rapids. From this vantage point
you might think you are looking at a class 3 rapid until an 18 foot raft comes along and goes totally underwater, before it pops out of
some of these holes and waves.
Green River
About 7 miles upstream from
The confluence of the
Green River & Colorado River
Planning for the trip. There are 2 sections of the canyon that are accessible. The upper section called Labyrinth Canyon can be ac-
cessed at the town of Green River, Utah or at Ruby Ranch near the Crystal Geyser. It is approximately 65 to 72 miles depending on
which launch site you choose. The lower section, called Stillwater Canyon starts at the bottom of the Mineral Bottom Road. You may
leave vehicles at the Park in Green River. You can not leave them at Ruby Ranch or at Mineral Bottom. Most people take their vehi-
cles to Moab to their outfitter and are transported with their gear to the put in.
Most people plan on doing the trip they choose in what ever days it takes to go the distance you are comfortable with. A leisurely trip
with lots of opportunity for hiking can be done in 10-12 miles a day and a more aggressive trip can be done at 15-20 miles a day. The
outfitters recommend not planning for any more than 15 miles a day unless you are very experienced and fit due to slow current and
pretty common upstream winds. One of the best things about this section of the river is that it is very silty. High waters in the spring
mean that a lot of sand bars and sandy beaches are laid down in the spring. This makes for great camping opportunities. There are
fewer of these in the Labyrinth Canyon section and more of them in the Stillwater Canyon section. There are many fewer campsites in
the spring because of the high water from runoff covers them. That high water is also faster and colder, leading to possibility of missing
campsites or flipping your boat. This trip can certainly be done by first timers on the Green, but I would recommend a late summer or
early fall trip for those.
Green River
About 4 miles upstream from
The confluence of the
Green River & Colorado River
5
If you are just doing the Labyrinth Canyon trip your take out is Mineral Bottom and your outfitter will be waiting for you to drive you
back up the Mineral Bottom Road and back into Moab. If your take out is the confluence with the Green and the Colorado River, your
take out is at the confluence... or just a little bit further into the Colorado River up to Spanish Bottom. From Spanish Bottom you can
hike up into the Dollhouse area of Canyonlands National Park or down along a trail a couple of hundred feet above the river to the over-
looks at the top of Cataract Canyon which is fun.
October 2011 Group
At the Confluence of the Green
River and the Colorado River
The Green River is entering from
the left. The Colorado River is
entering from the right.
Boats and Gear all cleaned
up and stacked on
clean tarps. Ready for pickup
by jet boat
For your pickup you will need to be on a beach that is accessible to one of the jet boats. You will need to have your boats cleaned and
all your gear cleaned too before the jet boat gets there because your boats ride back up the Colorado on the top of the jet boat. Any mud
will be falling on your head or into the eyes of your jet boat driver. The trip up the Colorado River is spectacular. Tex' has just retrofit-
ted their jet boat with new engines so the trip is shorter. Their boat usually arrives for the pick up about 11 A.M. and you are usually
back in their yard by 3 P.M.
Jet Boat Pick up
Then on your way back to Moab
Once you have made your reservation ( expect to place a deposit of about 25% at that time) you can apply for your Canyonlands
National Park Permit and they will ask you who your outfitter is. Without an outfitter you don't get a permit. This application is on
line and needs to be done 3 weeks in advance of your trip at least. Cost is $20 for the permit fee and $20 a person.
The number of people in this area is limited to just what the Jet boats can pick up per day. If you want a large trip you need to book
early. If you plan on taking canoes your outfitter may work with you - If you rent canoes from him he may be able to take more of you
because he can leave his canoes in the canyon at the take-out point, then retrieve them the next lighter day he has. Your canoes and
kayaks must leave on the top of the jet boat so they can go home with you. If you take canoes you can take more gear such as ice
chests. Just remember that everything you take, you will have to paddle down the river ( heavier boats takes more work to get down
the river). Many of the really good camp sites are several feet off the river and your gear has to be lugged to and from your camp site.
6
You will need to take only certain types of human waste removal systems and metal toilet systems ( preferred by the park service) These
are available from your outfitter for a nominal rate.
Price- This is one of the all time cheap trips for the effort it takes to get you to and from the river. On our recent trip with 8 people
the cost per person for those of us renting canoes from Tex was $215 for a 6 day trip and $23 for the permit. The cost for the 2 in our
party who brought their own boat was $173.00 plus the $23 for the permit share. Payment needs to be by check up to 2 weeks prior to
your trip or cash on the day of your trip
TOPOGEAR would like to pass along a sincere Thank You to Helen at Desert River Outfitters for sharing her photos, and her
time and energy putting together the info we are sharing with you, our readers. We hope we can get in on one of her “Vacation�
trips to the Green River. If any of you are visiting the Las Vegas area, Laughlin-Bullhead City area, be sure to investigate some
of the trips Helen offers. We prefer the day trip, or overnighter trip through Black Canyon on the Colorado River! It start s just
below Hoover Dam.
Tell them you read about it in the
TOPOGEAR Newsletter!
Tex’s site which will have the current price information is www.texsriverways.com
Tag-a-long site and their information is http://www.tagalong.com
Desert River Outfitters is located in Bull-
head City Arizona in Northwestern Arizona
on the lower Colorado River. We provide
kayak and canoe sales, rentals and guided
river trips around the tri-state area of Ari-
zona, Nevada and California.
Desert River Outfitters
7
RECIPE OF THE MONTH
TOPOGEAR’s
Recipe of the Month
Submitted by:
Larry Hensley
Dutch Oven Rolls
Ingredients:
• 6 Eggs (Beaten)
• 2 ½ cups warm water
• 1 Cup melted shortening
• 1 T Salt
• 1 Cup Sugar
• 4 T Yeast
• 8-9 cups Flour
Preparation:
1. Put 6 Beaten eggs and 2 cups warms water in large mixing bowl.
(holding 1/2 a cup warm water in reserve) Add 1 cup melted short-
ening, 1 T Salt, 1 Cup Sugar into bowl. Mix well.
2. Mix 4 T Yeast in the remaining ½ cup of warm water, then add
to mixture in bowl. Mix together.
3. Begin to add flour 8-9 Cups mixing together. Mix with hands to
get Flour off of edges of the bowl. Knead well.
4. Let Rise about an hour in a warm damp place
5. Roll Out then cut into lengths. (approx. 3 or 4 inches wide and
about 6-9 inches long
6. Roll up and place together around bottom of Dutch Oven
7. Bake at Hot Heat (Apx 400 °)
The TOPOGEAR Outdoor Recipe Page
Outdoor Cooking Recipes
Cooking Tips & Tricks
(Send them to us!)
Rotate the Lid a 1/4 turn clockwise, and the pots a 1/4 turn the
opposite direction at 5 minutes. Check at 10 minutes. Again at 15 if
not done in 10. Tops should be golden brown when done.
Send us your recipe and photo of your prepared item to
appear on this page. See rules off our Home page at
http://www.topogear.com
Email to sales@topogear.com
Dutch Oven Heat “Three Up-Three Down Rule
TOPOGEAR is always looking for reader interest stories. Please submit
your story, trip log, photos, recipes and humor. Subjects on Climbing,
Paddling, Cycling, Backpacking, Horses, Search and Rescue, travel desti-
nations and more! Send material to: sales@topogear.com
It is better to place more coals or briquettes on the lid of
the Dutch oven. Many Dutch oven cooks follow a simple
three up, three down rule . Measure the diameter of your
Dutch oven and add 3 to estimate how many briquettes to
place on the lid. Take 3 away from the diameter measure-
ment and this is the number you need to place under the
Dutch oven.
If you have a 12 inch Dutch oven. 12 + 3 = 15. Place 15
briquettes on the lid of your oven.
12 - 3 = 9. Place 9 briquettes underneath your oven.
This should give you an approximate oven temperature of 350°
F. Each two additional coals will give you about 20° F more heat
8
One of our recipe contributors ….and great one we might add.. has sent us a product review. We would like to
share this with our readers. And thank you David Grover for sharing this with us.
Greetings, I wanted to share this great product with the readers of your Newsletter. Its the Strongback Chair,
the Cadillac of chairs if you will. We compete in Dutch oven cook-offs and Completion BBQ, and it is our
best friend before, during, and after our cook-offs. The chairs feature great back support as well as cushioned
arm rests, cup holder, and a great carry bag. I like the fact they don't make you feel like you are sitting in a
hole, so low to the ground…. like your run of the mill chairs do. Check them out, They are GREAT!!!!!
http://www.strongbackchair.com/
We understand there will a camo version coming out in 2012 !
9
Visit Hackberry General Store, just outside Kingman, AZ. A collection of roadside
memorabilia relating to historic Route 66. Metal signs, Model T flatbed truck, and
many vintage cars. Featured in TV Commercials for Harley-Davidson, United Air-
lines, and television shows in Holland & Germany. They even ship to US Addresses!
TOPOGEAR is carrying a new line of Fine
Jewelry.
We are specializing in new 925 Sterling
Silver and Semi precious gemstone Jewelry.
The photo above is some current examples.
We wish to offer something affordable to
all. We hope to find and offer items under
the $200 retail range, with many under the
$100 mark.
Hackbery General Store.
11255 E HWY 66 Hackberry AZ 86411
Phone: 928-769-2605
Email: RT66SW@gmail.com
Owners John & Kerry Pritchard
Manager: Thurston Pritchard
http://www.hackberrygeneralstore.com/
We offer a selection that will be ever chang-
ing. We are able to buy direct from our
distributor and many of our items are indi-
vidually hand selected when being pur-
chased.
These items will soon start showing up on
the TOPO site so check back often. We also
have large selections of used and vintage
Jewelry. This stock is also changing con-
stantly. Currently we have a large stock of
vintage Rhinestone jewelry.
If you are looking for a specific item that
we do not show, please email us for a list of
the latest inventory.
PREPARE
Then
SHARE
Prepare Then Share provides delicious,
high-quality food storage, preparedness
products and information that helps pre-
pare individuals, families and communities
for the unexpected. We then provide op-
portunities and avenues for them to share
with others. Our nationwide network of
humanitarian entrepreneurs educate cus-
tomers on emergency preparedness, while
helping them identify their food supply
needs – whether that’s 72-hours, 3 months
or even a year’s worth of food products .
RECIPE CONTEST
We have a winner for our Monthly News-
letter RECIPE Contest. The Monthly winner
is sent a FREE Gift. Contest is extended to
future issues. Have your entry submitted by
the 15th of a month, for judging/publishing/
winning consideration in the following months
newsletter.
A FREE “gift� is going out to our winner.
See the TOPOGEAR rules and submission
form at the TOPOGEAR Home Page Find it
in the left menu Contest Win Free Stuff . Also
join our FACEBOOK Dutch Oven g roup if
you aren’t already a member.
We are changing some of the contest rules
starting with subsequent issues. The Contest is
now open to recipes for both Dutch Ovens and
BBQ/Outdoor Cooking.
There are now a choice of 2 prizes. A Mey-
erco G10 Tactical Folding knife, or a 9 inch
Dutch Oven Lid lifter. Winner gets to select
their choice of one of these two prizes.
USA “Ship To� addresses only.
Meyerco Tactical Folder
G10 Tactical Folder (MATCMDH)
*440 Bead Blasted Blade
*Easy One-Hand Opening
“MAIR� Dutch Oven Lid Lifter
Prize size is 9 inch only
www.preparethenshare.com/eaglelanding
Your Distributor
Jimmy Dart
(435)313-5471
jdart747@msn.com
10
See Marilyn at the TOPOGEAR Booth
Returning for our 2nd year, November 26th, 2011 at the Holiday Bazaar in Mesquite, Nevada
In the Event Tent located outside the CasaBlanca
Come see, and buy. We have a large collection of “one of a kind� hand selected Jewelry ranging from Art Deco,
Vintage, Rhinestones, to newer pieces . Some very beautiful pieces for the private collectors, or wonderful gifts for
the holiday season. Come buy for that special someone . Stunning gifts for yourself, your mother, girlfriend,
daughter, co-worker or friends....... The jewelry has been artistically matted to frame the pieces beautifully for gift
giving.. There will also be some other great gift items ranging from Art Fairy ornaments, vintage items and per-
fumes.
TOPOGEAR also brings a collection, sold under the name of Luna Gecko. This collection is of Natural Stone
beaded jewelry, as well as Turquoise, and .925 Silver pieces. Both new and previously worn, with a Southwestern
flair..
We buy .925 Sterling Silver jewelry that is in good condition. Don’t let a good piece go at scrap prices. We pay
higher. We also buy costume jewelry. Email truffles4marilyn@yahoo.com
11
UPCOMING EVENTS
November 2011
Oasis Resorts 4th Annual Holiday Bazaar
Location: Mesquite, Nevada
Date: November 26th, 2011
Time: 10am-4pm
Contact: To reserve your vendor booth or receive more info con-
tact Carrie at 702-346-7091 or email cduclos@blackgaming.com
WEATHERED WONDERS
Creations by Artist Dave Bruce. Utilizing materials recycled from
abandoned buildings and alleyways. One-of-a-kind birdhouses and
furniture. These creations can be found through various stores and
specialty shops. Each piece is handcrafted with pride and signed
with love, from Dave’s heart to your home.
Email weatheredwonders@hotmail.com
Cell: 602 576-7376
Shade USA is a national distributor of comfort and conven-
ience related outdoor products that are perfect for the beach,
camp grounds, soccer field, baseball diamond, parks, and
lakes or any vacation destination (including your own back
yard). We specialize in unique and innovative products
which feature portability, comfort and value.
There will also be a chili cook-off and a Tim McGraw im-
personator, as well as a Carrie Underwood impersonator.
http://www.shadeusa.com/
12
 
UPCOMING EVENTS
December 2011
Event: Crossroads of the West Gun Shows
Visit their website for details and directions
www.crossroadsgunshows.com
Trail Sherpa was created to
chronicle the hiking and back-
packing adventures that I have
with my friends. Follow us as
we tackle some of the country's
epic trails.
Event: ARIZONA NATIONAL LIVESTOCK SHOW
Location: Arizona State Fairgrounds
1826 West McDowell Rd
Phoenix, Arizona
Date: December 29, 30, 31 2011
Time: See Full Page Article for Details
Map: Directions/Map
Website http://anls.org/ChuckWagon/index.html
Visit our Website
www.Trailsherpa.com
Click Here to Join on Facebook
AMIGO Metal and Iron Work
1233 Calle Cherokee
Rio Rico, AZ 85648
Cell (520) 440-2469
Fax (520) 761-1776
www.amigometal.com
Email: amigo_metal@hotmail.com
Email us your event info, meet-ups, Dutch Oven Cooking
meets, Expo’s, Community events, art fairs, craft fairs, gun
shows, knife shows, etc. We will post your info for FREE
in this section!!
Email to: sales@topogear.com
13
 
UPCOMING EVENTS
JANUARY 2012
Event: Crossroads of the West Gun Shows
Paddling Festival
Hosted by SOUTHWIND
KAYAK CENTER
Newport Dunes, California Visit
site for latest info
1-800-SOUTHWIND or
1-800-768-8494
www.southwindkayaks.com
Visit their website for details and directions
www.crossroadsgunshows.com
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ern Arizona on the lower Colorado
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FUTURE UPCOMING EVENTS
FUTURE UPCOMING EVENTS
Event: Crossroads of the West Gun Shows
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ARIZONA NATIONAL LIVESTOCK SHOW
13th Annual
Chuck Wagon Cook Off and
1st Annual Dutch Oven Cook Off
| Livestock Show | | Schedule | | Directions | | Accomodations |
| Chuck Wagon Entry Packet | | Dutch Oven Cook Off Entry Packet |
Arizona State Fairgrounds
1826 West McDowell Road
Phoenix, Arizona
Thursday, December 29
8:00 a.m. - Chuck Wagon Breakfast (wagons have option to offer breakfast to public)
1:00 p.m. - Chuck Wagon and Camp Judging
5:00 p.m. - Chuck Wagon Cook Off Camp Meeting (contestants only)
Friday, December 30
Noon - Chuck Wagon Cook Off
4:00 p.m. - Chuck Wagon Awards
DUTCH OVEN SCHEDULE:
Saturday, December 31
9:30 a.m. - Cooks Meeting (contestants only)
10:00 a.m. - Contestants may begin cooking
10:00 a.m. - Huevos Rancheros & Mountain Man Quiche Demonstration
Noon - Southwest Chili Con Carne & Stuffed Bell Peper Casserole Demonstration
1:00 p.m. - Desert dishes are due & public tasting begins
2:00 p.m. - Bread Dishes are due & public tasting begins
2:00 p.m. - Triple Chocolate Cake & Mountain Dew Apple Delights Demonstration
3:00 p.m. - Main Dishes are due & public tasting begins
3:30 p.m. - Awards (as soon as results are available)
Don't miss your chance to taste some wonderful Dutch Oven Cooking and Chuck Wagon Cooking. Tasting Plates $5 for Dutch Oven
and then $10 ticket for Chuck Wagon Cook Off. Tickets will go on sale December 1 for the Chuck Wagon Cook Off. Tickets go fast so
don’t delay!
The Chuck Wagon Cook Off has been a part of the Arizona National Livestock Show for 13 years and this year we are excited to incor-
porate a Dutch Oven Cook Off into the event. This style of cooking dates back to 1866 and the Arizona National Livestock Show is
pleased to be able to share this western heritage with the generations of today.
Chuck Wagon competitors will create authentic cowboy cuisine and the Dutch Oven competitors will create amazing dishes that you
never thought could be done in a Dutch Oven. Competitors will travel from all over to compete in these cook offs.
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CHUCK WAGON SCHEDULE:
ARIZONA NATIONAL LIVESTOCK SHOW
13th Annual
Chuck Wagon Cook Off and
| Livestock Show | | Schedule | | Directions | | Accomodations |
| Chuck Wagon Entry Packet | | Dutch Oven Cook Off Entry Packet |
CHUCK WAGON COOK OFF Entry Packet
Chuck Wagon camps travel from all over the southwest to fire up some good cowboy grub. The "camps" consist of an authentic old style
wagon and a crew that will be doin' the cookin' with wood. All entrees are homemade on an open fire. There will be $3,200 awarded in
prize money for the categories of Best Trail Wagon, Best Ranch Wagon as well as the best meat, beans, potatoes bread, and cobbler.
Come on over awhile and chat by our fires. Chuck Wagon meal tickets are $10 per person which includes a beverage. Make sure you get
your tickets early and beat the stampede, as tickets are limited!
DUTCH OVEN COOK OFF Entry Packet
The Dutch Oven Cook Off is a different type of event than the Chuck Wagon Cook Off, consisting of 3 dishes. Each team will submit
their recipe prior to the cook off for the dessert, bread, and main dish they will be preparing. They will be working with charcoal, while
the Chuck Wagon teams who would like to also compete able to use hardwood coals. This style of cooking leads to the heat manage-
ment of the coals which you might think is something easy to do but there is an art to this technique to make sure your dish comes out
just perfect!
The cook off is being sanctioned by the International Dutch Oven Society (IDOS). The winner from this cook off will be eligible to enter
into the World Championship Cook Off, which is held in March 2012 in Utah as part of the Internationals Sportsman’s Expo (ISE).
These types of contests are done across the country with several throughout the year in Arizona. Contestants from the Chuck Wagon
Cook Off are also able to participate in the Dutch Oven Cook Off.
TASTING PLATES : Anyone interested will have an opportunity to purchase a tasting plate after the judging of the Dutch Oven Cook
Off to sample all the scrumptious dishes. In addition to the cook
DEMONSTRATIONS : The general public will have an opportunity to walk around and watch the teams preparing their dishes for the
competition as well as attending demonstrations to learn more about the cooking process which might intrigue you to start cooking in a
Dutch oven at home. Mark Wilkins will be providing the following demonstrations on December 31:
ï‚· 10:00am Huevos Rancheros & Mountain Man Quiche
ï‚· 12:00pm Southwest Chili Con Carne & Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole
ï‚· 2:00pm Triple Chocolate Cake & Mountain Dew Apple Delights
Arizona National Livestock Show, Inc. is a non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation
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Enter your Dutch Oven/BBQ or Outdoor Recipe for a chance to win
a “MAIR� 9 inch Dutch Oven Lid Lifter, or a Meyerco Folding Knife. We have had nu-
merous winners. We have extended this for subsequent issues too! Enter before the 15th of
the month, to be considered for the following months Next Newsletter. Details are found on
the TOPOGEAR Home Page . Look for “CONTEST Win FREE Stuff� on the left menu.
Rules release and entry form are there. To keep it simple just email a statement that you
read and agree to the rules, attach your recipe and finished dish photo. Email to
sales@topogear.com No purchase required. (Free Prize is Available to USA Ship to addresses
only) Recipes from other addresses will not receive a prize but may be submitted to appear in our up-
coming recipe book.) Be sure to “subscribe� to our Monthly Newsletter by creating a Free account .
22
TOPOGEAR NEWSLETTER
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