Dang, I just drove through helper on Saturday, too bad I hadn't seen his ad for firewood. Thanks for posting those.
It's a fun trail at night. It's really pretty up there, especially at night. You'll see tons of stars, and the lake is so remote that it shouldn't be crowded.
I didn't want to spend more than 45 min- 1 hr at the top. I wouldn't expect any carnage, so it should go pretty quick. it's the first day of hunting season, so we may see a few quads coming down the trail, but it's wide enough that it shouldn't slow us down too much. Most of the people going with us will be new to the trail as well, so you'll be in good company.
It usually takes about 1.5-2 hours to get to the lake from Chevron. So I'd expect to be back at the chevron in Highland around 11-12PM. I haven't done it at night for a while, so my estimate may be off (please chime in and correct me if i'm off).
It's $6 to enter the park, unless you have an annual national parks pass. I'm guessing the ranger station will be closed by then, so if it is, you'll just put your money in the envelope.
I'm glad so many people are coming, this is shaping up to be a fun night. Invite any friends you may have, the more the merrier. If anyone's thinking of bringing a stock vehicle, check with us first to see if we think it's a good idea. I think we'll have a stock FJ Cruiser, and my stock tacoma with sliders. The FJ will need a really good spotter in a couple spots to get through without scraping.
