Death Valley Flood Destroyed Our Road...Now What? 

Thank you all so much for all the continued support on this project! If you didn't catch last week's video when we brought up the tank, you can check that out here: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-G3Cuzm7-3Pc.html

Let not forget; after Brent works 12+ hours a day repairing the road he takes the time to edit and upload so we can come along on the journey. Thanks Brent!

Brent I’m a 50 year old farmer running a 3000 acre family farm in Australia. My experiences in life have taught me no matter how hard things get, when you work through them and fix the problems your self, the feeling of satisfaction and personal reward is far greater than being able to call the maintenance team to fix it. These things make you stronger, and you come out the other side a wiser and better person. You are doing a great job with Cero Gordo, I started following your channel about 2 days after you posted the first video when you got the 2WD Toyota stuck in the snow, in the dark that very first episode. I hope to come visit you some time in 2024, we are coming over to visit my wife’s sister in Oakdale CA. I look forward to every video that you post, both good and bad; hang in there buddy and stay strong!

Didn't realize that I was emotionally invested in your project until this event. Was talking with a neighbor up here in Vermont about you yesterday. We were nearly in tears over the flash flood, as if it were a personal loss. We have decided that Cerro Gordo is now on our bucket list. See you when the hotel gets done.

Never can we count out Brent with his perseverance. He is a trooper like no other. Everyone is behind you.

Just like the burnt ashes of American hotel, the road will be revived! Love the preservation of history you’ve been able to maintain Brent! Keep it going. Incredibly inspiring

There's something cruelly poetic about fiiiiiiiiinally getting water storage up to Cerro Gordo, then getting so much water it destroys everything.

I won’t be surprised that washing out of the road ends up becoming a blessing for him… like the road will end up being built better this time and him meeting a lot more people who will help just because …

Hey Brent, consider the positive things that happened just prior to the washout. The tank was delivered, a nice new excavator was there when you needed it, and that there is a back road into Cerro Gordo. I'm sure you will figure this out and it will be a delay and not a project stopper.

In a way you are living the life of a miner. One day you struck gold, the next day you are struggeling. You can do it, we all believe in you!

Love how strong you have grown over the years.

This really makes me realize just how hard it was for the people who lived at CG during its heyday. It’s must have been very isolating in the winter when snow was heavy and also during the rain. I’m sure you’ll have the road working again in no time. PS like the music you used in this video and where you used it.

I’ve been following the progress since the beginning. I can see your body is actually changing due to environment and your hard work. Please take care of yourself more . One day I’ll definitely visit you there.

Brent, your devotion to this town shines brighter than you realize. You've already proven yourself as capable and strong enough to make something like this happen. We all love you Brent, and the legacy that you've already carried on your shoulders. Your audience will never leave you in the rear-view, and all of us are right here with you. Cerro Gordo forever.

I'm really glad that the county approved your request to at least make the road usable for 4 wheel drive vehicles. So many places would never even let you touch the area and would force you to wait for them to do it in several months. Hopefully some other people who know how to fix that kind of stuff see this video and are able to help get the road completely redone with approval from the county.

My lord, setback after setback.. can’t catch a break! Brent, I respect you beyond words for your dedication to this town and all your hard work. The fact you still take time to make us content through all this is unbelievable and very appreciated.

Hey Brent, even though this may be a disappointing setback, this too is part of Cerro Gordo’s history and the great adventure you bring to us each week. Me and my 13 year old son, Gerard, enjoy wanting. Hoping to visit you sometime in the future. Keep the faith, as you are a master story teller and bring us much joy.

That the excavator was left there for you is incredible. Gives a person reason to hope. No matter where you are life is going to send curve balls. Expect it! This is what makes people stronger!

Remember : You can’t fully enjoy the highs… without experiencing the lows. You’re doing amazing work Brent & friends! 👍

You are my younger soulmate! You and I have so much in common. It’s weird. But I’m old enough now to be your mom. God bless Brent! Stay safe and healthy please 😊✊😘👋❤️🙏🏻

"The most practical move is to go somewhere nice, recount the year and pick it up again next year - but if you watch this channel for a while, you know...that's not going to happen." As upsetting as seeing the footage of the utterly destroyed and rerouted roads from the flood, I just know that even with this setback, it's not going to stop Brent & Co from getting this done. Nothing is stopping that hotel getting built.

If a bunch of people with wagons and mules can do it so can you Brent! You got this! Sending yall love and hoping everyone stays safe.

Since the start of pandemic, for the past 2.5 years, this channel have been my main source of entertainment, therapy, encouragement and inspiration. Thank you Brent and Cerro Gordo.

Somewhat I can relate. When I was working on my own land, little piece of a forest, I had a lot of hardships. But that hardship gave me skills, different point of views, hardened me a little, and gave me a will to go on. It was mentally healing and nurturing.

Until the toad gets rebuilt to the point that it won't wash away again, I recommend getting a rock climbing buggy with at least 44" tires. That way, it would be easy to back up at least pending that the buggy is at the bottom when the storm hits

Get the Homestead Rescue guys out there - that guy can build roads in his sleep and he gets a nice episode for his show on TLC.

One thing is for sure... Cerro Gordo has the right caretaker/protector.

I literally got chills when you were talking about living out in the wild, I was raised off grid with almost no modern comforts in the northern sierra nevada and I know exactly what you are talking about, the struggles wear on you and seem to never end but deep down in your soul you know it's worth all the hard work for the freedom and beauty that the mountains provide. Keep living you dream brother.

Man, I wish that more people, including myself, had the courage, enthusiasm and perseverance of you guys. My utmost respect for you guys!

Soon as I heard of these floods I thought I Brent and Cerro Gordo. I REALLY believe Brent has friends and willing supporters who are going to put that road back together.

Cerro Gordo has survived 150 + years. You are a survivor too.You got this. ✌❤🤗

"Just one more sunset" Wow Brent! I loved seeing the entries into the journal back then. That's some history. Great portion of the video. You and others there to help are truly bringing back history. I can't wait to come up and stay at the hotel when you have accomplished your vision🙏😊

Brent, keep on truckin' ! It's a huge setback, but you know you will persevere, like the old miners of Serro Gordo did! Good thing that digger was still up there and you know how to use it! It sounds like you have a good relationship with the guy at the County. That's important as well. The last couple of shots of the road look so much better already! You rock!!!!❤️

Can we all just say thank you to Mr Dave sparks and his crew for having such genuine pure hearts. Without Dave and Brent colliding, Brent would be so screwed.. don't get wrong, Brent's a badass but there's only so much a man can do. Shoutout to both of these guys. Sany putting in work thanks to Dave, Brent putting the sany to work with such a passion👊😎

Imagine if the flash flood happened the day or two before when you were bringing the tank up!! If it was gonna happen, it was definitely better after the tank was up and Heavy D and the rest of the helping crew had safely gone home. I'm sure there will be fun discoveries and blessings that come out of this (like all of the good that came out of the original hotel burning down). YOU GOT THIS BRENT!!

You’ve got this Brent and the Cerro Gordo Crew don’t ever give up! We’re backing you up even if we can’t donate or make it to the town we’re sending prays and good vibes to you stay awesome!

Even a 1000 Miles walk starts with one step. If there is anyone that can do it, it’s you Brent ❤️

In the 2+ years I’ve been watching you, you’ve never given up and I know you won’t this time either. God has you here for a reason Brent, trust He’ll get you through this. I have faith the hotel will get under roof before winter. Hang in there!!

Think of it this way, how difficult would it have been to bring up the tank AFTER the rain? At least you got it up there and now you are moving forward with a wonderful positive attitude and hard work! So impressed with you Brent! I'm just positive that you will have more help than you ever imagined!!!

This is the type of place where anything and everything is expected. It is the size of the man's heart and spirit that will get him through any difficulty. The ability use your spirit to keep going... no matter what the obstacle. The ability to pick up a tool and fix the problem, especially when there are tears from the heart. You are inspiring millions of people in how to just keep moving forward in the face of adversity. There is no better man for the job. Keep going Brent... we all support you.

Obstacles are some of the healthiest experiences in life. Whether you overcome them or fall and get back up from them. Some of the greatest adventures and most balanced perspectives come from those who have been through struggles and come out the other side. I've seen people lose all reason from a flat tire and here you are dealing with the skeleton of a road, impassible by no tire! I understand different people handle things... well, differently, but when you stare into opposition and start formulating rather than freezing, you're already a step ahead! Love the videos and love the determination!

The Sierras and surrounding mountains do seem to “ Get into your soul “ somehow. I’m 62 now and my first trip up was with friends when I was only 16 back in 1976. I’ve been up to Cerro Gordo a few times and last trip was back in 2009 and we got a chance to meet Robert as he was caretaker at that time and he was saying how much snow that the town had received earlier that year. My Buddy Dan & I were camped at Portagee Joe’s camp at base of Whitney portal road & we had ridden our Dual sport Motorcycles up from camp . Weather was cool , but spring seemed to be just around corner . Very next morning we took off for a ride up the opposite side of valley from your towns view and headed up Horseshoe Meadows road only to be blindsided by one Hell of a snowstorm once up at summit almost at campgrounds. Needless to say that was a memorable ride on fresh snow in freezing cold weather all the way back down to my Toy -hauler trailer at camp . Dan’s mom’s home made clam chowder sure tasted great that afternoon as we sat warm & drying out watching snow fall . I try to get up there at least once a year into the Owens Valley for just those types of adventures. From what I have seen this is just the beginnings of your life long love affair with that whole area👍 Wishing you well & may your ventures be memorable and safe 🤞👍👍

My brother, embrace the suck. These things happen for a reason. You’ve shown time and time again that any setback is just another bump in the long road ahead. You can let yourself get discouraged, but never give up. We’re rooting for you❤️

My heart goes out to you Brent, you just keep doing what you're doing you are amazing ! Bad time will pass stay strong and make sure to look after your health it will all pay off at the end. God is watching over you I know it.

To see your town coming alive , the ups and downs you have been through , most of all seeing your dream happening , the support you have , it’s amazing and your energy level. Can’t wait to visit and would love to help out in building your town in the future . Keep up the great work work

I think the town founders would admire your pioneer spirit; you are doing a great job of taking care of the town, and preserving it!

Brent, your determination and perseverance never fails to make me smile. You've got such a big heart, espeically towards this town. Hats off to you.

Your outlook is amazing! I smiled when you said that you weren't going to give up. You have the drive and passion that the town needs. I plan to come there someday to visit when it's open to the public. I look forward to being able to appreciate the time, hard work, and attention you've given the place in person.

Thank you for taking the time to share all of this even though you have so much on your plate right now. For those of us who cannot provide any assistance just know we have all the faith in the world that you, Cerro Gordo and so many volunteers will prevail💞

Roads can be fixed … don’t sweat it … take it as an opportunity to build back better

Brent, if life was a cakewalk for everyone, how would we reflect on our triumphs? There wouldn't be any. I know this is heartbreaking but you can and WILL get through it as you have all the other obstacles. Keep calm and keep going brother!!

I'm so sorry Brent. My heart aches for you and the guys working in town. The floods have been horrible out there this year. Your determination to keep rolling with Cerro Gordo and keep on schedule is a blessing, and a gift to us all. We all know you'd walk through the bowels of Hell to accomplish anything when it comes to that beautiful little town. Thank you for being you and keeping history and Cerro Gordo alive.

Amazing to see how far this has come over the past 2 years! Thank you for taking the time out of your already busy day to make these videos and upload them for us to be able to follow on the journey!

the amount of sheer perseverance this man possesses is incredibly inspiring

It’s all part of living on a mountain. After everything else this should be just another project.

Greetings from Liverpool, England! You need a steam-roller to flatten and compact the dirt road, to make it a bit more durable during a rain storm. Also, dig a massive square hole, line it, and use it as a water trap or even a swimming pool! Either way, the stored water could be filtered and used for personal use. Love the channel mate, keep it up!

Don't give up Brent, you are a great guy and we all know you will get through this. You are made from strong stuff, you show this over and over again. Keep going, I look forward to your videos every week!

One strategically installed culvert pipe under the road man, I'm telling you! (It's one trench you'll need to cut in, either underneath or alongside, or both, of the problem area, and you've clearly now pinpointed exactly where that problem area is!) It sucks, (obviously lol) but it shouldn't be an annual issue, especially for someone as problem solving oriented as you are! 👍 Can't wait for next week's video! ✌

i've been watching for a while when you were alone to adding animals, restoring buildings and building new friendships, just remember you're not alone anymore, you have so many people who are willing to help you, can't wait to see the fixed road

Aww Brent, you look like you need a hug. Don’t give up! Blessings will shine through, and after everything you’ve been through, those blessings will be even sweeter.

As a lover of California’s history I’ve fallen in love with Cerro Gordo and can not wait to visit. Just picked up two shirts from the site, wish I could help more. All the good vibes and prayers for Cerro Gordo, hoping to bring my littles to visit next spring.

Living in Las Vegas the flash flood that happened in Death Valley was pretty big news locally. Did not know it hit your ghost town too, but being in the higher elevation would bring the flood to you before anybody else. Flash floods have been the death of many mining towns in the past, but in the modern age that is easier to overcome than it was 150-Years ago.

Love how strong you have grown over the years. It's truly inspiring

I think that everyone that watches this channel is pulling for you. What you have done already is beyond amazing. I’m sure that many thousands of people out in RU-vid land are willing you on and will continue to send their good thoughts towards Cerro Gordo. Keep up the great work Brent!

Brent, I've been watching you from the start. You are the Spirit of the Wild West. You have been nothing but inspirational. You got this! You have given back so much already. I'm glad to see you aren't afraid to ask for help. I can't wait to see how your journey continues. I can't do much, but I'm here for the future. I'm here for the end. I'm supporting whatever decisions you make. My name is Theresa, and I'm here for you.

It would be a great if you could create a rain collection system. Once things get settled. Take care Brent.

Stay strong, Brent! You have our respect, all the way from South Africa. My family and I've been following you since the beginning of the channel! What doesn't kill you, makes you stronger!

Don’t give up Brent! You are inspiring and I love seeing your journey progress! I’d love to come volunteer someday!

Brent, we all knew you'd never give up. So proud of the dedication you have for this historic old town, most other old historic towns have fallen to ruin because no one cared. Cerro Gordo will live on for everyone because of you, HeavyD and your volunteers. Thank you for that.

Brent, I’ve been with you since the beginning. There is no one, I mean NO ONE, more deserving of triumphs than you, and undeserving of pitfalls than you. You are incredibly headstrong, as others have said, you are an inspiration to many. I can see the pain in your eyes, the frustration, the tiredness, but I also see the fire and immense love for the beauty that is Cerro Gordo! Never give up, my friend. Your online community is behind you, as well as all the friends who have equally fallen in love with Cerro Gordon.

This is what I love about this channel. Always working and adapting

Brent thank you for sharing the new chapter in Cero Gordo's history with the world. I think the task you have taken on is a great test for anyone to tackle but you are smashing it. The town was obviously built by many people who share the passion of the place you also have but you are one man keeping the dream and history alive. So much respect to you Brent you are doing what many people could never tackle. Peace out from the UK 🇬🇧

Your video reminded me of the Zen Buddhist proverb: "After Enlightenment; chop wood, carry water". As a Buddhist, I often take refuge in performing domestic tasks to the best of my ability. Every swipe of the back hoe, every hole you dig, every inch of the road you repair is as important as every sunset, every silent mountain view, every starlit sky.

Hang in there Brent!! You’ve got this!! There’s a lot of truth to the old saying “what don’t kill ya only makes ya stronger”!! Cero Gordo is making you a stronger person and in the long run you will be as tough as the men that originally made the town and mine!!!

Pino Tree Service Boys will start milling for that Hotel Board Walk!!! Much Love for the mountain!

Thank you Brent for taking the time to let us all know what’s happening. Never give up!!! Hope it all comes together for you and the town. If we lived closer, we would be there to lend a hand.

The true measure of a person's toughness, tenacity, perseverance is never tested on sunny days. Your choice of picking yourself up, dusting off and continuing on is an example of what most people won't do anymore. You have become as tough as the place that you love. See it through...... Inspiration by your actions. Thank you Brother.

On the bright side the tank got up before the wash out and flood. I'm sure with everyone's determination and will power you'll get it sorted. Day by day one step at a time. Your in our thoughts and prayers.

Brent I think what you're doing is amazing! Thank you for all you are doing and taking us all on the journey with you.

What fantastic luck that you got the tank up before the flood. Celebrate the wins too! You will look back on these struggles and know it was all worth it. But we all need a chance to mourn the losses too, give yourself time once you’re able. After having a child I also know the feeling of mourning your old, easier life. And that’s okay, it doesn’t belittle your current life to miss that.

Brent, you've got this! People everywhere have your back! 🙌

Best quote I've heard in a long time: "At the end of the day, between those two decisions, I think the one where I'm actually actively participating in my life and my dreams is going to be the one that leaves me feeling the best at night, no matter how tired I am." Amen, brother. Amen.

Keep pushing though! We are here for you every step of the way!

I love how you don't let these set backs stop you. It is amazing how instead of sitting around and saying "well, we have to wait 10 weeks" you just get it done! I'm on the other side of the world in NZ but it's my goal to make it over to Cerro Gordo one day!

A wise man once said, “hard times create strong men..” keep at it man. Your story is truly inspiring! The impact that you and your town are making now is far greater than the one you would have made in the Austin apartment! I wish you the best!

Hey Brent I hope you can keep your project going!! You're such an inspiration for me and your videos often allow me to get my motivation back up as I am also working on a long term dream project (off grid 4 seasons solar powered houseboat). Keep it up man, you're not alone!!

Your tenacity in the face of adversary is really admirable.

I'm glad you have asked for help Bret, help will come. You give so much to others by sharing your journey, many of us want what you have, but circumstances mean it will only ever be a dream for us. We are living the dream through your videos, thank you.

No way will this stop the American Hotel being built. Just a small set back.

I’ve been out there in the 70’s and early 80’s and while headed up to the mine, (or back down) the flash floods would literally almost cover the hood of our dump trucks if you were in the gully/wash at the wrong time! It’s a beautiful place. Great memories. Good luck!

I don't usually comment on your videos, even though I enjoy them so much, but I feel I just needed to say, Brent, you go this, this is just another stone in the road. You and your team will over come yet another set back. Your courage and enthusiasm is inspiring, keep up the back breaking yet amazing work you do! I can not wait to see the American Hotel once again stand proud. Much love from here in the UK!

These are good lessons on things to come (weather vise), there are ways to minimize the damage in the future. And there are ways to redirect water from the road to the drenches(just pits on the side of the road) it might not save all the road but the goal is to minimize the damage. You need a lot of water that you bring from the town bellow, then you could make rain catchers in strategic places and collect the water. The best saying is "work smart not hard" saying that sometimes you still have to work hard so later you could work easier.

thats nothing that dave sparks can t fix. the man with the Heart of gold.

One of the most emotional videos you've ever made. It's been incredible to follow your progress over the years and I wish you all the best in your efforts on the hotel and everything with the rest of the town. We're all rooting for you!

I am glad you are not giving up. If I weren't on the other side of the nation I would be up there trying to help. Hopefully, I can travel back out west and see Cerro Gordo. I read a lot about it in the past and it has fascinate me ever since. Good luck on all the repairs and future projects!!

Brent your perseverance I think you’ve past that test for sure! Bless you so much for preserving this area your very inspirational man , I love catching up what you’ve got up to, thank you for sharing , stay safe xxx

A very emotional video..you are alive there Brent ..challenging as it's been....you are meant to be there. Prayers are with you🙏🙏🙏💖💖💖

You can get through this setback, Brent! You've been through too much to give up. I've supported you through your store, it's not much but I hope it helps you.

I love your passion and dedication for this town! Definitely have never followed a channel as close as I have with this one, I look forward to every video, every instagram post anything, I love seeing the progress! Keep up the great work!!

Outstanding job Brent. Mother Nature doesn't always smile on us, but the upside is if you turn a frown upside down it becomes a smile. Good job. Best of luck to you.