Bus Line is a pretty simple trail and really didn't net many good photographs. The trail gets it's name from the bus at the top of the hill. Seems some kids many years ago stole an Army bus and took it on a joyride up the logging roads, pulled it off onto the hill and left it. It's since become a popular party spot, judging by the items we found inside.

This Scrambler hugs the side which was a good stategy. My TJ broke loose and got sideways on the hill, nearly barrell-rolling to the cliff. Luckily, I had someone tie a winch line on to me so I could get straightened out.

The trails go through an area that is managed by the Forest Rangers. In the applications for the trail ride and on the sign-up sheets it was stated that a pass was needed for this area. Passes are $25/yr if you live out of state, so many people were reluctant to buy them. Sure enough, though, the Rangers were out to check them.

The one very tricky spot of Survey was an extremely steep section of muddy slickrock. At the bottom was a 90 degree turn overlooking a steep cliff. You really just had to aim your 4x4 in gear and hope as gravity broke you into a freefall with no traction.

The longer wheelbased vehicles tended to have an easier time keeping straight during the freefall.

The Rangers did find a couple customers in another group that was in front of us and two in our group. One in our group snuck in after sign-up and one Oklahoma resident lied to the trail boss and said he had one. Well, the fine was $100 on the spot, so they learned their lesson this time. The money for the passes goes to keeping the trails open and maintained, so it's really a good idea to just pay the fee for a pass in the first place.

Back to Main Page