Due to recent record-breaking weather events a new spring was flowing water from under the Buttermilk Road at the climbing boulders creating a significant mudhole.
Vehicles attempting to cross the mudhole encountered over 2 feet of what can only be described as quicksand from the saturated soils. Many vehicles became trapped and required recovery. This led to a user created vehicle bypass in a resource sensitive area.
Valley Outdoors was contacted by Todd Vogel, race director of the Bishop Ultras race, to see if we could help with the road issue along the racecourse for the upcoming race on May 20, 2023. The race support teams require access beyond the mudhole to facilitate an aid station for safety and runner services. The road is also a high use road for dispersed camping, backcountry trail head access and the bouldering community.
Valley Outdoors led a small group of 10 volunteers and with the approval of the Inyo National Forest, commenced moving and placing approximately 5 tons of rock by hand into the mudhole.
Upon completion of the temporary fix a vehicle was sent across the previous impasse with great success. Prior to work a person could only enter one or two steps before sinking past the knees.
Much more work is required for a more complete solution but it our hope the user
created bypass will be abandoned, the Ultras can be fully staffed, campers can reach dispersed camping spots and the backcountry community can reach trailheads.
Once again, thank you to all the hard-working volunteers and staff.
