Canyon De Chelley trip...anyone?

[BillR]

If anyone's up for a trip to Canyon De Chelly this summer after the creeks go down a bit, let me know. Let's get it planned, I'm in!

[pitch]

I'd be interested! Mid-late Sept is no good for me, but open to other dates.

[Miles2go1979]

When are you thinking? I was just looking at Number 7's pics and I wanna go!

[BillR]

When are you thinking? I was just looking at Number 7's pics and I wanna go!
I'm open anytime except the last week in July. What's good for everyone else?

[AZ Outlaws]

I just went up there this past April. There was a lot of water, but not deep at all and not anything to be concerned about....

[rockfinder]

what part of he state is it in?

[BillR]

what part of he state is it in?

Northeast, up on the Navajo reservation...

[rgenest]

Depending upon the date I would be interested. Did it last year with Jeep JamoreeUSA, would rather do it with a small group and possibly camp in the canyon

[amber.hodge]

Would love to go, however, am constricted on dates....I have my Warrior Leadership Course in Utah from November 3 through 14, have drill weekend November 2/3?, Have son's birthday October 30...other than that am free.

What kind of permitting/fees, how many days, etc?

[AZ Outlaws]

What kind of permitting/fees, how many days, etc?
Tere are no fees, but you are required to have a Navajo guide. They are currently charging $15.00 an hour for a single vehicle, or $20.00 for up to five vehicles....

[desertrubi]

I went up with the Yahoo Groups Jeep Expeditions group a couple months ago. If you get a chance to go, its a must. Words can't even begin to describe it. And pictures do it no justice. By far some of the most beautiful country I have ever seen.

[amber.hodge]

I've heard it was great there, my mom and dad go to Canyon De Chelley every year...only they go in their sebring convertable, so I'm sure they miss out on quite a bit of the area.

[terron gregg]

so when are you guys going decided yet

[Stomper]

I am in!! It is indeed beautiful country up there.

[Thrash]

I might be interested, also depending on dates. I went with Jeep Jamboree in June, and agree with rgenest about the size of the group. Camping back in there would be incredibly cool.

[Jeef]

I may be interested. I have a couple buddies I could wrangle up as well. Keep me posted. Thanks

[Hivemind]

This trip is on my list as well, my main issue is time off of work is scarce. I would be interested in the timing: dates and length of stay

[06TJWRANGLER]

Id like to get a big group of people to do this trail!!

[Thrash]

Keep in mind each guide is limited to 5 vehicles in the canyon, so the size of the group is effectively limited by the number of guides everyone is willing to pay for.

[Miles2go1979]

How many days? I'm free from Oct 3 to Oct 8

[Fire Ball]

We are interested depending on dates

[GRUNT]

Very interested... As long as no stinky girls like AMBER.HODGE or ShannonMac go.... :) :) :) (J/K!!!!!!!!!!)
Yes, would like to go....

[06TJWRANGLER]

Yeah let me know what dates, so I know what girl I can bring with me! lol

[shannonmac]

Very interested... As long as no stinky girls like AMBER.HODGE or ShannonMac go.... :) :) :) (J/K!!!!!!!!!!)
Yes, would like to go....

oh great...so now i'm dirty and stinky! :p

[JB Jeep]

I would definately be up for this trip. From the pictures it looks absolutely amazing up there. Plus we all know the pictures never do the scenery justice. Anyways I have some friends that would definately go also bringing up my group to 4 people. Let me know....

[Dave@desertfab.com]

I'm interested..

[ORIGoodyear]

I would love to go but it depends on when and how long.
it looks amazing

[Markos]

Bill:

I feel like I've said this before, but I'm definitely interested. Shoot me a PM if this is still in the works. I had planned on a weekend trip up to the Grand Canyon later in the month, but this looks amazing! I've driven by the area many times, but never knew this canyon existed. Please keep me in the loop.

It looks like my XJ would make it through this trip with 30's, open-diffs and a 2" lift. Do you agree?

[BillR]

I'd be in if someone more familiar with the process (and better at planning! :) ) wants to make the arrangements. I'll be gone the last weekend of this month to Colorado though.

[Curly]

Bill:

It looks like my XJ would make it through this trip with 30's, open-diffs and a 2" lift. Do you agree?
My TJ is set up the same, with 31's.. We made it, no problem at all.

curly

[Wind_Danzer]

I'd be in if someone more familiar with the process (and better at planning! :) ) wants to make the arrangements. I'll be gone the last weekend of this month to Colorado though.

I vote MadCarlise for that. He's talked about it a lot and has been there before.

BTW, it'll be 35 bucks for 5 vehicles:

To drive on the canyon bottom, a 4-wheel drive vehicle, a Park Service permit and an authorized Navajo guide are required. The fee is $15 an hour for 1 vehicle, $5 an hour for each additional vehicle with a 5-vehicle limit per guide.

I'd be game for this, might be getting cool though here in the near future for some camping depending on when it is decided to go.

[Markos]

I don't think we could scrounge up 30 jeeps, but this price seems very reasonable to me. I was thinking about giving them a call this week. I'll hold off for a bit in case anyone else chimes in. I just got back from a week long vacation, and I'm already looking into the next. :)

On a related note. I see a lot of weekday wheelin trips on the board. I don't know about most people, but I work a standard M-F desk job. A long weekend would work best for me...


Originally posted by SteelPonyCowboy:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Quote:
Originally Posted by WalterD
WOW Nice. What's it cost to stay there? How much do the guides charge? I would love to take the wife there.

The link to our guides web site is as follows: www.canyondechelly.net

The prices on individuals is something like $50 an hour, $50 to camp.

We got a group price of $170 per Jeep for 3 days and 2 nights due to the size of our group (30 Jeeps) and we got the $150 campfire program for each night thrown in. Now my 10mpg beast cost me well over $300 in gas at $3.15 a gallon average so you have to count that in and the cost of food.

We will be planning another trip next year for sure. The link to the Expeditions Group where the trip will be announced 1st is:

http://autos.groups.yahoo.com/group/Jeep_Expeditions/

Join there if you want to be the 1st to know about all of the cool trips we have planned for the next 12 months.

[radlinjr]

Hey everyone,
I am new to this group. Just bought my first TJ yesterday! I went up to Canyon De Chelly last weekend with out of towners. It was dope but did not get to do much other than overlooks. Would love to join with if we could whenever ya'll head out.

Just one note: if your planning on drinking afterward, buy beer in Holbrook, flag or winslow (pretty much anywhere other than the reservation)

[Markos]

I'm still serious about this trip. If nobody wants to look into it, I'll make a few calls this week to get info on pricing. My weekends are pretty open at this point, I'd probably be up for a Friday or Monday off as well, depending on my wife's work schedule...

[BillR]

I'm still serious about this trip. If nobody wants to look into it, I'll make a few calls this week to get info on pricing. My weekends are pretty open at this point, I'd probably be up for a Friday or Monday off as well, depending on my wife's work schedule...

Let me know what you find out...
I'm thinking about trying to do a day trip in mid-late October. It's only a 3+ hour drive for me, so a day trip would work fine. Most of the people I've talked to that have been here several times say that late fall is the best time to see the Canyon. It's cooler and the fall colors are supposed to be amazing. You also don't usually have to contend w/swollen rivers and lots of mud.

[Miles2go1979]

I got the first week of October off for fall break, I'd be willing to go then.

[jeeperapril]

Can a stock Jeep GC w/low 4 available and good off road tires be ok to take? I would love to go, but if my jeep is not built enough I guess not. Is it a weekend trip, camping? Thanks :)

[BillR]

I decided I may let someone else do the driving for my first trip there. :)
We're looking at a full-day trip for the 20th of October out of Thunderbird Lodge. $67 including lunch is a screaming deal, and they go everywhere the multi-day trips get to.
Let me know if you're interested and we can meet up and go as a group.

[Markos]

Bill:

I'm still interested, although I was really hoping to do my own driving. I called the number for this service: http://www.canyondechelly.net, as listed earlier. Mr. Teller won't be back until Sunday evening, so I'll try back then. I was basically quoted the rates shown on the website, but she said that Adam could give additional details on a group rate. I'll keep you posted.

So that $67 is for a full day? Are you stuck in the third seat of a suburban?

[BillR]

Bill:

I'm still interested, although I was really hoping to do my own driving. I called the number for this service: http://www.canyondechelly.net, as listed earlier. Mr. Teller won't be back until Sunday evening, so I'll try back then. I was basically quoted the rates shown on the website, but she said that Adam could give additional details on a group rate. I'll keep you posted.

So that $67 is for a full day? Are you stuck in the third seat of a suburban?
Yep, $67 is for a full-day and includes lunch. The vehicles LOOK like open-top stretched Jeeps.
I'd be open to hear what you find out also...

[Hivemind]

no way I'm goin and sit in the back, nope, not happenin'

[Miles2go1979]

no way I'm goin and sit in the back, nope, not happenin'

x2 :eek:

[BillR]

I only "suggested" the tour Jeep because it's ALOT cheaper and I could take pictures instead of having to watch the road.:D I'm sure the pace is a little quick for some, though.
Like I said, I'm open to whatever the group finds out or decides. I'm not real picky about timeframe, as I hear the canyon is just as spectacular well into November even.
Keep me posted...

[Hivemind]

I only "suggested" the tour Jeep because it's ALOT cheaper and I could take pictures instead of having to watch the road.:D I'm sure the pace is a little quick for some, though.
Like I said, I'm open to whatever the group finds out or decides. I'm not real picky about timeframe, as I hear the canyon is just as spectacular well into November even.
Keep me posted...

Ride on Bill, I meant no disrespect, it's your party...enjoy

[Markos]

Well I keep playing phone tag with Adam Teller from Antelope Tours . The woman who answered stated that an email would work as well. I will post (or PM) back with any information that I find. Thanks!


----- Original Message ----
From: <Markos>
To: antelopetours@citlink.net
Sent: Wednesday, September 19, 2007 5:37:48 PM
Subject: AZ Virtual Jeep Club - Canyon De Chelly


Mr. Teller:

I've attempted to get a hold of you a few times now, but I manage to keep missing you. I'm a member of Arizona Virtual Jeep Club, and we've been planning a group run through Canyon De Chelly. We'd like to bring our own vehicles, and stay the weekend. This would most likely be a Friday arrival, with a full day tour on Saturday, and a half day on Sunday. We are open to options depending on pricing, scheduling, etc. An initial group size estimate would be around 10 vehicles, once again depending on the price point. Ideally, we would like to make the trip during the month of October. Would you have a moment to discuss any potential group rates, and options? It is my understanding that you focus primarily on tours, would you have a recommendation for lodging and or camping? Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for your time!


Respectfully,

<Markos>

[cross_007]

I am interested in a trip to Canyon De Chelly in Oct. or Nov as long as I can drive my own Jeep. Keep me posted. Thanks, Chris

[GRUNT]

Can a stock Jeep GC w/low 4 available and good off road tires be ok to take? I would love to go, but if my jeep is not built enough I guess not. Is it a weekend trip, camping? Thanks :)

I am not sure April, depends if the line tracks through water, soft sand, etc... Of the pics I have seen I think you could make it. If we go and it gets muggy, can I sit in your A/C for like 5min every hours?! :D

[Markos]

Update:

I heard back from Adam Teller at antelopetours. I'll be giving him a call on his cell tomorrow. Thanks!


----- Original Message ----
From: "antelopetours@citlink.net" <antelopetours@citlink.net>
To: <Markos>
Sent: Monday, September 24, 2007 3:06:23 PM
Subject: Re: AZ Virtual Jeep Club - Canyon De Chelly

---------------------------------------

Yah ah tee hay! I'm pleased to hear from you. I'm sorry you wern't able to reach me easily. I was very busy and I appologize. My son took part of your Phone number and I couldn't call back as soon as I wanted, so I would like you to e-mail a number I can call to arrange your group jeep tour. And "Yes" we specialize in overnight camping for private jeep 4x4 groups such as yours and we are the best from Canyon De Chelly as far as authenticity is concerned. Don't get fooled by the posers who aren't Canyon De Chelly residents farmers and landowners. You can call me at night when I'm in most of the time and can be reached, my son said you we're going to call back again. My cell phone # is (928) xxx - xxxx where I can be reached anywhere within cell tower signals are strong, so sometimes inside the canyon doesn't work. I grew up inside the canyon and our family has land and the best campground inside the canyon. I'm also a professional Navajo Storyteller and entertainer. Let me know what you'd like to do. "Thanks"

Your Friend,

Adam Teller

[Fire Ball]

Getting stoked, sounds like fun

[BillR]

I'm ready!!

[Markos]

All:

I reached Adam Teller, tour guide from Antelope Tours. He seems like a real laid back guy. Prices seam more than fair. Adam owns a 4dr JK and has participated in Jeep Jamborees in the past. I will be sending Adam a link to this post. He may chime in if you have additional questions or concerns.

Here are my notes from Today's conversation:

Criteria Provided:

Arrive Friday Evening
All day tour – Saturday
Half day tour – Sunday
10 jeeps – Bring your own Vehicle

October Availability:

October – 12th, 13th, 14th
October - 19th, 20th, 21st

Camping Info:

Temperature – down to 30’s 40’s at night
Tent trailers should make it in this time of year, since the sand is hard

Pricing:

Requires 2 Guides – Adam and Father
Guide fee - $200 a night for each guide
$50 camping fee for group

Total Per Vehicle Cost: $45

Free:

Firewood
Water
Restrooms
Campsite Privileges

Additional:

Adam is a Navajo entertainer/storyteller. He travels to different events to participate in these activities, but also performs them on site for $150 per hour ($15 per Jeep).
Snack stand
Catering – Navajo cuisine by Adam’s Sister. Daily basis or order ahead of time. Cost is $10 per meal – Navajo tacos, burritos, fry bread, etc.
Ride along with tour guide. $80 per person – includes camping

Vehicle Capabilities:

Good ground clearance
4wd required – ‘National Forest doesn’t want AWD vehicles traveling through canyon’
Stock Jeeps should be fine

Additional Challenges/Obstacles:[/b]
More challenging up past mummy cave, private areas past the end of the commercial tour area. Includes rocks, fallen trees, deep mud/mud bogging, etc

Additional Challenge Requirements:

2” lift w/ 30” tires should be okay
At least one winch recommended

[BillR]

Either weekend is fine w/me.
Let me know...

[Markos]

Can we get a list of interested parties? Please reply if you are in. Thanks!

Edit: The later weekend would work better for me...

[Fire Ball]

The 13th is the I'm not really gonna try to sell you a jeep but are you interested in a jeep jamboree at Airpark :D . We were gonna try to get up there for that, sounds like it might be fun. I have to work the 19th :(

Too short of notice, bummer.

[BillR]

I'm in...either weekend is fine.
If the notice is too short for some people, ask about a possible early-mid November trip. I would think that would be nearly perfect camping weather. The elevation is only 5500 ft at the visitor center, and about 7000 ft at the highest overlook. That's not any higher than Flagstaff, and definately tolerable for camping through the month of November even for "city-folks". :D
December gets a little cool overnight in the high country, but it's still not too bad...

[Markos]

Honestly, a november trip would work better for me also. I'm having idle issues with my Jeep, and I don't know when I'll be able to diagnose the problem.

My only concern is the temperature. I'd probably just get a hotel room. I've spent to many 20 degree nights camping in Colorado. I don't know how cold it gets in November, but sleeping on cold ground is losing its appeal these days...

I just remembered that I forgot to send the thread link to Adam Teller. I'll fire that off now.

[BillR]

Honestly, a november trip would work better for me also. I'm having idle issues with my Jeep, and I don't know when I'll be able to diagnose the problem.

My only concern is the temperature. I'd probably just get a hotel room. I've spent to many 20 degree nights camping in Colorado. I don't know how cold it gets in November, but sleeping on cold ground is losing its appeal these days...

I just remembered that I forgot to send the thread link to Adam Teller. I'll fire that off now.

A hotel room may be tough if we're back in the canyon a ways at the end of the day, but that'd be a question for Adam also.
I've also camped many nights in my home state of Colorado in all temps and seasons. Good times!:cool: We've already hit the upper 20s overnight here in Flagstaff a few times this year. A good air matress and a Thermarest, and I'll sleep like a baby!:D
The only weekend I'm NOT available is the last weekend of October. (27-28th)

[Miles2go1979]

Wish I could go. I'm off the next 2 weeks but we're heading to WA the weekend of the 13th.

[Markos]

Miles:

Would you be up for a weekend in November?

[Miles2go1979]

Veterens day weekend would be cool, its a 3 day weekend.

[cross_007]

Im open for the weekend of the 19th, or also veteran's day weekend in November.

[Markos]

I think we should shoot for Veterans weekend. That would be cool (Pun intended I guess). :)

[Miles2go1979]

So leave early on Sat 11/10 and return Mon 11/12?

[Sc00by]

I was at CDC in May had a wonderful time!!!
Cant do Oct. but Nov is a possibility...

[Markos]

I think I'll give Adam another call and see what the schedule looks like for November. If we can't get confirmation for more than 5 people, I don't think we'll want to foot the bill up front for a second guide.

I personally think that it would be best to get the full day trip going on Saturday morning. If that means, waking up uber early and driving up there, so be it. Otherwise we could do the half day on Saturday, and full day on Sunday. Any suggestions from other interested parties?

[Sc00by]

On the trip in May I left on Friday stayed the night in Holbrook then drove thru the Petrifyed Forest & Painted Desert, then into Chinle, now the drive from CDC to Phx took me about 7hrs, but that was pulling my M101 & my other issue is 33" tires with 3.55 gearing :(

Now there is a camp ground near the visitor center, may ask Adam how much that cost & if possible just camp out there late Fri night.

[BillR]

I just got the dates for my trip. I'm headed up there on the 18th-20th of October 2008 with the Jeep Expeditions group.
It's going to be awesome!! October is the PERFECT time to see Canyon De Chelly, according to nearly everyone I've talked to.
Can't wait!:)

[GRUNT]

October 2008?! :eek: November would be too soon for me, got new baby bills to get under control! :D

[BillR]

October 2008?! :eek: November would be too soon for me, got new baby bills to get under control! :D

October '08 should be about right for you then!:D

[joedokes28]

I am interested in a trip up to this area as well.

[Hardline]

I just got the dates for my trip. I'm headed up there on the 18th-20th of October 2008 with the Jeep Expeditions group.


Yeah, Wayco and I just put our deposit down for that trip. I can't take Grosser since this trip only allows jeeps (and I don't think I could fit all the margarita lights into HYJAK), so I thought about buying that '81 Waggy Woody the Desert Fab posted up. I think I scared Wayne with the idea of seeing if I could get TC to spot me through the Cracks with it...

[joedokes28]

Is it necessary to put money down this far in advance for a trip up there?

[Markos]

If you book a trip, you need to put money down. They aren't booked a year out though, they just picked that weekend. I wanted to go this weekend, but I couldn't drum up any interest. :(

[AZCPP]

Here is a report I posted on another forum from a trip we did to Canyon De Chelly.

OK, I get the idiot award for this week! I forgot about the Navajo Nation observing day light savings time and was 45min. late on Sunday morning. Alex, Maria, and Taz went ahead with the Navajo guide for the first half of the day and went into Canyon De Chelly. They said they were the first vehicles that had been into the upper part of the canyon due to high water in the past week. They did find some mud as the Jeeps were quite dirty when they came out. Teresa and myself took advantage of my brain fart and did the rim tour of the North Rim on our own while we waited for Alex, Maria, and Taz to complete the canyon. After meeting up with Alex, Maria, and Taz we went back to their campsite and had lunch in the shade. We then went and picked up our guide (Kathy) and proceeded into Canyon Del Muerto. For the most part it was dry and sandy but, there were some dark clouds in the sky. About half way up the canyon we could see a water fall dropping off the cliff into one of the side canyons (mmm.. chocolate milk). This offered us our first water crossing but, not our last! Kathy showed us several ruins along the way and was quite knowledgeable about the canyon. We stopped to see a ruin and there was a dwelling across the canyon from were we stopped, this was were her grand mother had lived and where Kathy had spent a lot of time as a child. It is still in her family now but, she said she didn't stay there anymore. As we traveled up the canyon we encountered a couple natives attempting to catch some wild Mustangs. I can ride and I can rope but, I don't see how those guys can stay on the horse without a saddle as they gallop through the trees and try to rope something without having the rope tied off to the pommel. Mummy Cave Ruins was our last stop and we headed back down the canyon after taking several pictures here. Mummy Cave Ruin is very well preserved and intact. That water crossing we encountered earlier was down to a trickle and the water fall was nearly gone. We did drive past a dwelling where the family was making Tamales outside on the fire and they smelled quite yummy!! As we got a little past half way back down the canyon we found water coming from one of the side canyons, (I think it was Black Rock Canyon) this gave us several water crossings to play in and the guide was encouraging Taz to go faster and to hit the deeper spots. (she was riding with him) After crossing the flow many times we found we were traveling faster than the flow and was back to dry sand. Despite my mistake, it was still a great day!

I didn't notice the shadow in this picture until I uploaded it.
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b217/Buds387/PB030124.jpg

Here are a few more.
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b217/Buds387/PB030121.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b217/Buds387/PB040177.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b217/Buds387/CanyonDeMuerto.jpg

[ktulu]

any more pics? It looks like a fun trip!

[STEVE FREEMAN]

are there any interest in doing a mid summer run up there,
i ask because gl moore and i were talking about doing this,
if no interest might go up with jeep jamboree but i would
rather go with club members.

[Sc00by]

If given enough notice I & some others would like to go sooner.

[grateful]

This is beautiful country, and I would love to go....What difficulty is this ride? And how many days are you planning on being out? Weekend or more?

[STEVE FREEMAN]

never been there, but i've read that it is a pretty easy ride,
more senic then hard.

[Sc00by]

Also depends on your guide too, when AZVJC went in May of 07 it was ALL Jeeps and the last day the guides were "let get you guys stuck"

some people had to be pulled & tugged & I had to use my HiLift for the 1st time too.
But I would say 2.5 - 3.5 depending on the water crossings, but for the most part we were on dirt roads - river bottom.

For me the hardest part of the trip was the drive from Peoria to CDC & back due to my gearing.

For those of you intrested here is a link to the pictures I took on the trip in May.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/pzelez/sets/72157600263808208/
And Pictures that my friend took. (yes hes a profeshional)
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ncscheer/sets/72157600279146373/

[Markos]

I'm still very interested in making this trip. Let's keep this tread alive and plan something this spring.

[grateful]

How about Memorial Day weekend? We could plan on leaving on Thurs morn, return Tues...then many of us of the poor working class would only have to miss 3 days of work...Just a thought...Do you camp in the campground there? For those without much gear, they could share or help the tribe by staying in the Thunderbird Lodge, beside the campground.

[Sc00by]

I would perfer to just camp out in the canyon, yes there is more of a cost as the you also have to pay for the guides too but think its well worth it

[gotpower]

Watching.......would like to go.....

[AZScooby]

I would do it if it's a weekend trip.

[Markos]

I'm not shooting for a trip in April with some out-of-town family. Hope to have my popup camper fixed by then also. I'll be checking on reservations soon.

[grateful]

I'm not shooting for a trip in April with some out-of-town family. Hope to have my popup camper fixed by then also. I'll be checking on reservations soon.

Do you know what month you are heading for, if not April? April's kinda cold up there, but will love to go at any time, 'cept January or February! :)

[Si1ver03Rubicon]

Is anyone up for going there this month or next? I've got a 4day weekend coming up that I was planning on heading up there. Or possibly over our aniv on the 15th of april.

http://www.nps.gov/cach/photosmultimedia/images/DSCN0149.JPG

Huge pic I found of a part of it.

[Markos]

Do you know what month you are heading for, if not April? April's kinda cold up there, but will love to go at any time, 'cept January or February! :)

I figured I'd start my research in March. I'm going to start to make some calls. I'll have to check on the weather during that time as well. Hopefully it will be above 30 degrees. It's still pretty dang cold up near Show Low and Pine Top. It was 24 degrees at night last weekend. Thanks for the weather reminder.

I may shoot for May as well...

[Clay]

Yes, Memorial day weekend would be a good time to go for us working stiffs. I checked and I have the week off.

[slickrrr]

went last spring, not to hard trail wise depending on water flow, I would say you rarely need four wheel drive, if it starts raining, water crossings can become a little gnarly, had water roll over top of my hood after a down pour with pretty heavy flow hitting from the side, other than that, water crossings were maybe up to the hubs, we camped in the canyon at antelope house, nothing like opening your tent to a cliff dwelling, really cool, take plenty of film and or memory cards, you will take a lot of pics, got a card from our guide, Perry and James Yazzie Jr, 928 674 5647, they were cool, took us alot further in the canyon the other guides in our group, I think we logged 70 miles in the canyon, mostly scenic ride but well worth it if you have never been, take your girl, she will love you for it, might want to bring extra gas, our camp was pretty far in, no quick runs to the store,

[Twister_ems]

I would totaly be up for a trip this summer. Ive never been that up that way but I use to live in tuba city. Kinda up in that area. I live not to far from there now. Sometime after mid june would be perfect for me. Maybe 4th of july weekend? What are the guides rates to take you back in and Im assuming standard rez campin passes?

[Sc00by]

Yeah I took a Pro. Photographer friend and we both enjoyed it, but if / when I go again the wifey will be with me :)

As for gas, I topped off before I got to the visitor center and also had a 5gal can along for the ride too. if I remember right I had 1/4 tank + the 5gal left

[slickrrr]

I forget the rates but you need one guide for up to 5 jeeps, stayed two nights in the canyon, primitive camps but it did have a vaulted toilet which always beats squatting, especially if you bring females, I am pretty sure we stayed at the antelope house, went with jeep expeditions, I think the total count was 28 jeeps, want to say it cost 175 per jeep with 5 jeeps so it will be alot cheaper to go in groups of 5 cause I believe the guide is the same price whether you have 1 or 5 jeeps, but I could be wrong, I would say start long before you want to go cause it seems like they had a bit of hard time getting ahold of people up there , dont know for sure but you are probably talking to the guides at their home phone, would love to go again if we could get a group together. oh yeah, they observe daylight savings time so make sure you adjust for time when you go to meet your guide, its a reservation so no guns, dogs or alcohol, but I would be lying if I said I didnt share a beer with my guide after a day on the trail, discreet is the word and I have no idea what the penalty would be

[grateful]

Yes, Memorial day weekend would be a good time to go for us working stiffs. I checked and I have the week off.

I think this weekend would be a great time to go too! - Should be a bit warmer by then! And 3 days off for us 7 to 5ers. Let me know! :)

[Sc00by]

I forget the rates but you need one guide for up to 5 jeeps, stayed two nights in the canyon, primitive camps but it did have a vaulted toilet which always beats squatting, especially if you bring females, I am pretty sure we stayed at the antelope house, went with jeep expeditions, I think the total count was 28 jeeps, want to say it cost 175 per jeep with 5 jeeps so it will be alot cheaper to go in groups of 5 cause I believe the guide is the same price whether you have 1 or 5 jeeps, but I could be wrong, I would say start long before you want to go cause it seems like they had a bit of hard time getting ahold of people up there , dont know for sure but you are probably talking to the guides at their home phone, would love to go again if we could get a group together. oh yeah, they observe daylight savings time so make sure you adjust for time when you go to meet your guide, its a reservation so no guns, dogs or alcohol, but I would be lying if I said I didnt share a beer with my guide after a day on the trail, discreet is the word and I have no idea what the penalty would be


Were you there on the May 2007 trip?
I didnt bring my dog... I didnt bring any beer (but one of my how brew stouts would of hit the spot) and no comment on the 3rd :leaving:

[RokkCrawler]

I forget the rates but you need one guide for up to 5 jeeps, stayed two nights in the canyon, primitive camps but it did have a vaulted toilet which always beats squatting, especially if you bring females, I am pretty sure we stayed at the antelope house, went with jeep expeditions, I think the total count was 28 jeeps, want to say it cost 175 per jeep with 5 jeeps so it will be alot cheaper to go in groups of 5 cause I believe the guide is the same price whether you have 1 or 5 jeeps, but I could be wrong, I would say start long before you want to go cause it seems like they had a bit of hard time getting ahold of people up there , dont know for sure but you are probably talking to the guides at their home phone, would love to go again if we could get a group together. oh yeah, they observe daylight savings time so make sure you adjust for time when you go to meet your guide, its a reservation so no guns, dogs or alcohol, but I would be lying if I said I didnt share a beer with my guide after a day on the trail, discreet is the word and I have no idea what the penalty would be

Actually for small groups the rate is $50 an hour per 5 vehicles and camping is not included. The more vehicles over 10 the cheaper it can be.

This year the charge for 30 Jeeps is $200 per Jeep for 3 days and 2 nights which was negotiated last year by Jeep Expeditions. I am guessing next year it will be more but with gas at $4 a gallon next year................But compare that to the Canyon De Chelly Jeep Jamboree which is 2 days and 1 night of camping for I think $250 per person. Someones making some cash and it ain't the Indians !

The 30 Jeeps will be taken out in different directions by groups of 5 separated by 15 to 30 minutes. The groups that are the 1st to leave usually get a few more miles of trails depending on the guides. You really need 3 days to see most of everything. A one day tour barely gets you to the middle of one of the forks and back.

You might want to consider joining Jeep Expeditions for their October 2008 trip to the Canyon. Even with the price of dues, you can't do that type of 3 day 2 night trip there for anywhere near the price of dues and the negotiated fee to the Navajos.

You are right, communications with the Navajo about doing anything there or in Monument Valley is difficult at best and a challenge to your patience.

[grateful]

Waking this thread back up! Anyone find out if Memorial weekend is an option? It would be fun to go sooner than later, and I think May would be a great time to go...winter chill should be out of the air. :)

[Ply_N_AZ]

I am very interested. Quick question, does the guide stay at the camp with us also or just on the trail ride? Just curious. Please let me know if this takes shape.

Dave

[grateful]

Markos, can't make out if you were talking to Adam about a November run or something sooner....I don't mind helping you with this if you want or need...just holler back and let me know..thanks!

[SweetFire]

We've got 2 weeks off in May. If the trip is during that time, and there is still room, we'd love to go.

[RokkCrawler]

Seen a number of questions and comments I will try to address.

Guides, yes some if not all of the guides will be at the camping area all night if you pay for camping and the guide service that you use has a designated camping area.

You need to make reservations well in advance and pay a deposit which might be 25% of the total to reserve your date. Due to the limited number of guides and the popularity of the canyon, you cannot just take a group up there for a day or a weekend and expect to be able to get guides to take you in or to camp and if you do, you will pay top dollar.

This trip is not a weekend run that you plan today for two weeks from now and because of normal tourist activity and traffic, not one you would want to plan for a holiday weekend unless you book it months in advance.

Summer time is not a good time because it will be hot. June July and Aug are months to avoid. Jeep Expeditions club books their trips in April/May and Sept/Oct due to better weather. You might consider the same, that 8 hour drive in 100 degree heat in summer unless you have A/C will tire some out quick.

Hope that answers some questions.

[grateful]

It does help, THANK YOU! As time presses on, it does seem like its too much to try to figure out in a short period of time, and with good chance that there's no availability then either....Just thought to see if it could be done. I don't mind making a phone call, but much more than that, and I'll have to see if I can jump onto another group,....which is ok too...
Thanks for all the good information, throughout the thread! :)

[Twister_ems]

I would possibly be up for a trip in may. I know a couple of tribal members from up that way. Ill talk to them and see what they know about guides and what not if yall would like.

[RokkCrawler]

It does help, THANK YOU! As time presses on, it does seem like its too much to try to figure out in a short period of time, and with good chance that there's no availability then either....Just thought to see if it could be done. I don't mind making a phone call, but much more than that, and I'll have to see if I can jump onto another group,....which is ok too...
Thanks for all the good information, throughout the thread! :)

My best suggestion is find out how many people want to go, then get your prices based on that BUT before you commit to the date and number of people with the Navajo Guides collect the money upfront ! JEs 1st Canyon De Chelly trip several people backed out last minute but since we collected all the money 60 days in advance, anyone that backed out 30 days or less forfeited their money as our contract with the Navajo committed us at 30 days out. Whatever you do, get a contract in writing in case there is a disagreement, it might not help you legally but you will be able to point out what the contract they gave you said. The Navajo want payment in full 30 days before the event with large groups. The guides we used were the number one rated guides from our research and they did not disappoint us in anyway.

We did the same at Monument Valley however the guides there did disappoint us somewhat with their guiding as they were in a hurry and didn't have a CB in the lead guide vehicle, a ratty YJ that they owned and insisted lead the group. They did not disappoint when it came to entertainment at our campfire.

In any case you do get what you pay for and always ask others who have been there for their suggestions.

Good Luck with your trip !

[Ply_N_AZ]

I would be happy to help with this project if we can get enough people interested. Maybe we should set up a poll for a date and length of trip???

[slvrjp00]

some amazing pics cant wait till i get out there

[grateful]

I would be happy to help with this project if we can get enough people interested. Maybe we should set up a poll for a date and length of trip???

I sense quite a bit of interest, but it really prob does need someone to step up and take charge. (Or everyone just recognize that you can join another group that seems to be headed out in Oct or November)....A poll is an excellent idea, and if you are more techie than me, I'd say go for it....lets see how many def, for sures, there actually can be. The info on the thread is very helpful...seems like there needs to be quite an advance notice and deposit....But if people are committed to go, then this shouldn't be a problem. Are you able, willing, to do a poll?

[Ply_N_AZ]

I sense quite a bit of interest, but it really prob does need someone to step up and take charge. (Or everyone just recognize that you can join another group that seems to be headed out in Oct or November)....A poll is an excellent idea, and if you are more techie than me, I'd say go for it....lets see how many def, for sures, there actually can be. The info on the thread is very helpful...seems like there needs to be quite an advance notice and deposit....But if people are committed to go, then this shouldn't be a problem. Are you able, willing, to do a poll?

A poll is a great idea. I'm in! Also willing to help organize if needed.

[SweetFire]

It looks like we have the last couple days in April and the first 2 weeks in May off. If you're wanting to go in that time period we would like to tag along. I'm also willing to help organize or do leg work to make it happen.

[Markos]

Sorry for losing track of this thread. I've been pretty busy as of late. I'm trying to finish the repairs on my popup camper, which has been out of commission for over a year. I hope to have it back together this weekend.

I'd be interested in a may trip. I have family in for almost a month, but they want to go camping also. I can handle 100 degrees. I'll pitch in my share for the deposit. I just can't do the legwork for the trip right now. I have too much going on at work and home. Feel free to shoot me a PM if you are serious about getting this scheduled. I wasn't really considering the november trip...

[Sc00by]

I think the October trip would be best.
This give EVERYONE enough time to clear their schedule and get things ready...
AND at the pace my re-gearing is going it may take me that long befor Im on the road again :(

[Ply_N_AZ]

I didn't know how to add a pole to this thread so I started a new one. When you get a chance, check it out. I am happy to lead the trip, just need an idea of how many people are interested.

http://www.virtualjeepclub.com/showthread.php?t=33382
Dave