The Crowley Lake Columns: Preparation for this spectacular off-roading trail
The Crowley Lake Columns are magnificent stone columns that easily pass as a natural wonder of the world. The columns are majestic and a spectacular geological sight to behold. Rising up to 20 ft tall, the Crowley Lake columns are linked by high arches.
The scenic Crowley Lake columns can be found on the East side of Highway 395. If you have a luxury 4x4 or rough rider 4WD, the trail is easy-going. Some parts of the rock formations are part of the Moorish temple while some researchers believe the columns were formed after a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago.
From the north of Crowley Lake to the southeast part of the lake are spurs to appreciate. Named after Fr John J Crowley, the lake in California is 24 kilometres away from Mammoth Lake. Here is a guide to help you prepare for the trial.
How to Prepare For The Trail
It could take up to 4 hours to soak up the scenic adventure. This implies ensuring your backpack contains water and a camera, and you can take your pet along. The trail is easy to navigate without trekking using a 4-wheel drive.
Once you have taken the necessary things including water and enroute the trail, bear in mind that the Crowley Lake column is regarded as a wonder of the world and should be kept clean. Ensure your car is running on a good momentum and checked before hitting the road. This involves getting fuel off-road tire updates and tips about your tire and car.
Drive up Highway 395 and turn right on Benton Crossing Road, from this turn, you will move another 16 miles before you hit the trails (mountains). Another bend and head towards the east side and there you will find the dirt road called Layton Springs Road. The trail is 90% dirt while 10% consists of hills to ascend or descend depending on the route you are traveling.
Be prepared for a particular hill that is heavily rutted and steep. This requires careful tire placing and your 4-wheel drive will glide through. Also, the section by the shore requires technical momentum to be maintained.
Appropriate Tires for Off-roading Segment of the Trail
The Crowley Lake column trail requires an experienced off-roading driver. You must be conscious of your momentum and the steepness is trickier than they appear. The tires needed for this off-roading trail should be capable of going up or down the hill.
Don't forget that the hills aren't everything about the trail and your tires must be able to move along the column. The season you choose for your off-roading adventure is important for your choice of tire. It is best to go on a trail travel when the water level dips down.
Towards the end of the fall, your tires will have it easy along the trail. Also, this is when the majestic Crowley Lake columns emerge. You get to see the mysterious caves and the shoreline.
Descending the hill, you have to be watchful of vegetation and the tire placement alongside the steep. At this point, there are no official trails and your 4WD tires are going to get enough traction at this point due to the dirt.
Why is it Important to Prepare for Any Off-roading trail?
Preparing for off-roading trails is as important as traveling along the trail. Lovers of off-roading travel prefer to use four-wheel-drive cars for their adventures. Beyond this, here are two basic tips you should keep in mind for off-roading trail preparation.
The choice of transport: While some people like to hike in between journeys, some go all length with their 4WD car. Ensure the tires are appropriate for obstacles and bumps. Your car's suspension is also important for its resilience and the overhangs on the front and back of the car help to tackle steeps when climbing or descending hills.
Essential equipment: Apart from your backpack filled with water, hardcopy map, and extra wear, you also need to ensure your car is equipped with tools and extras (tires, plugs, water).
Conclusion
Crowley Lake Column is a wonderful place worthy of off-roading adventure. If you are looking to explore this majestic place, it's important your tires are up to the task. Bear in mind that preparing is as important as going along the trail and you are surely going to have good memories to savour for ages when you visit Crowley Lake Columns trails.
Pic: https://www.pexels.com/photo/stunning-hexagonal-columns-at-crowley-lake-28638901/