Our pilot episode is a stunning adventure exploring a wondrous area of the High Sierra Mountains at elevations up to 10,000 feet above sea level. We head up towards Monache Meadows on one of the most famous trails in all of California – the Sherman Jeep Trail. At the trailhead, after airing down the tires of our Jeep® vehicles to get better traction, we start our first real challenge of the trip heading up the steep and winding path. We travel following cattle trails of the old west to the location of our base camp at Monache Meadows, discovering a bit of the history of the area, and enjoying the beautiful scenery before setting up our tents. That night we relax around the fire, getting up the next morning to enjoy the sunrise over the mountain tops and the pristine meadows.
All during the journey the weather was perfect and the views breathtaking. In addition to the Guest Adventurers, we had six production vehicles (mostly Jeeps) carrying everything we need for the production. Planning for the meals and travel of such a large crew in such remote areas was an intimidating task but we managed very well. Everyone pitched in and working in some of the most beautiful landscape in the country didn’t hurt either!
It is important to learn how to leave these vital places the way we find them to ensure they will be open to future explorers for generations to come. By practicing the tenets of TreadLightly! and by having respect for the challenges presented by the backcountry, we hope to help our viewers understand that it is possible to fully enjoy the outdoor adventure experience while minimizing its impact.
Each exploration of the world around us broadens the participant’s horizons and opens up their awareness. Our goal is to bring the beauty of the natural world and the spirit of adventure into the homes of our viewers like you. Join us as we go on astonishing adventures, exploring America’s most remote and beautiful landscapes.
* Special thanks to Ben Benedetti for his contribution of photos and text for this article.
* Published by JPFreek Adventure Magazine – The leader in Jeep and adventure enthusiast publications.