This obstacle, V Rock, which is midway on the climb up Cadillac Hill, can create its fair share of damage.
After the break, the group wheeled over the dam and climbed up the rocks to the beginning of a formidable obstacle: Big Sluice. The turn on Sluice involves a steep drop down a big rocky boulder-strewn hill. This led into Rubithon's main camp at Rubicon Springs and was made more difficult than usual due to the heavy snow run-off this year. A few more minutes and the group arrived safely in the main camp and set up for the weekend.
Dropping down the tight turn at the top of Big Sluice looks like a bigger drop from the driver seat than it really is.
Friday and Saturday were spent in camp enjoying the amenities Rubicon Springs has to offer. On Friday morning after everyone had had their first cup of coffee, it was time to try some trout fishing in the Rubicon River. While a few lines were pulled taut and trout could be seen in the crystal-clear, high-mountain water, no one had much luck at catching the elusive fish.
The Toyota FJ Cruisers were a big hit at the event this year.
After playing around all day in and around camp, it was time for some Friday-night fun. The NorCal Marauders ran the bar, and the refreshments at Rubithon were a hit as usual. Friday night's setting gave everyone the opportunity to relax and sit around the fire with good friends and new acquaintances alike to talk about the current trail run and past events.
Saturday night featured the big TLCA dinner. The food at this dinner is one of the highlights of the event. Everyone was treated to a gourmet steak or chicken dinner with all the fixings. After dinner, participants enjoyed a night of music and dancing centered around the main camp's campfire.
On the final day of the event, it was time to wheel up and over Cadillac Hill and into Lake Tahoe. Besides being a wonderful family outing, Rubithon is an excellent chance for both experienced and less experienced four-wheelers to test their skills on the Rubicon with the gracious support of others, including Rubithon's trail committee members who are there to assist and spot with wheeling through the difficult sections.
Without a doubt, Rubithon is one of the best ways for wheelers of all skill levels to experience the excitement of the Rubicon Trail. Don't miss out on next year's event!
 | 
The staging area for the 18th Annual Rubithon was at Loon Lake. |  |
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
Jim Beck wheeling his classic 'Cruiser on the Rubicon for the first time. |  | |