South Bass/Gems car return

[Dave1]

I'm considering an east to west Gems dayhike anytime from now until late spring. I'll start from Hermit's Rest and end at South Bass Trailhead. If you are doing a Gems multi-day trip in the opposite direction, starting from South Bass Trailhead, I could drive your vehicle to Hermit's Rest from SBTH (if this is going to be after February, I'll need the Hermit Road gate code which you can request when you get your permit. Also, it may be printed on your permit). I can only do this on a Sunday or Monday so your trip would have to fall around those days. You could hand me your key when we cross somewhere along the trail or give me a spare key ahead of time in case we miss each other (preferred).

BTW, I'm an excellent driver and only had my license revoked once but that was in another state and I've never been convicted of a felony.

[chumley]

I've never been convicted of a felony

Me neither! ;)

[azbackpackr]

I'm considering an east to west Gems dayhike anytime from now until late spring. I'll start from Hermit's Rest and end at South Bass Trailhead. If you are doing a Gems multi-day trip in the opposite direction, starting from South Bass Trailhead, I could drive your vehicle to Hermit's Rest from SBTH (if this is going to be after February, I'll need the Hermit Road gate code which you can request when you get your permit. Also, it may be printed on your permit). I can only do this on a Sunday or Monday so your trip would have to fall around those days. You could hand me your key when we cross somewhere along the trail or give me a spare key ahead of time in case we miss each other (preferred).

BTW, I'm an excellent driver and only had my license revoked once but that was in another state and I've never been convicted of a felony.

Gate code has never been changed in years, as far as I know.

[whereveriroam]

I scored a permit for S.Bass to Hermits Rest ("The Gems"/ "The Jewels") for early March, road conditions permitting. Some years ago I called Xanterra and they arranged for an off duty employee to shuttle us out to the New Hance TH. Apparently they do that so their people can make some extra $$. I called Xanterra today and they still arrange those rides. However, with S. Bass you pick up the driver with your HC preferably 4WD vehicle and that person drives it back to the Back Country Office for you. I'm wondering if anyone has done this before? There's not a set charge for the driver, payment is a tip. They'll be 3 of us getting dropped off, any suggestions on what each of us should tip? Its about a 2 hour-"ish" ride each way. Thanks!

[chumley]

@whereveriroam
I don't think it takes quite that long to drive out that road but I would try to make it so the driver ends up with $20-$25 an hour for their time (if driving my vehicle). I'm sure others would disagree with me on that. But it's

In this case $60-$100 seems reasonable and split between three of you it's not a huge amount.