[pct-l] Extra water caches needed on section A

[AsABat]

Bob makes a good point. Consider that until maybe 7 or 8 years ago there were very few if any "reliable" water caches on the trail. In 1978 there were none, yet hikers made it. Consider water caches a gift, just like a birthday gift from a distant uncle, who might not remember you next year. Caches are NOT reliable. They can go dry, be vandalized, etc. This year Scissors Crossing went from 60 gallons to nothing in less than a week. I'd doubt hikers took it all. Plan ahead, cook near water, hike in the cooler hours and rest at mid-day. (I still miss those 3-hour daily naps!) Respect the caches, thank the cachers, but do not rely on them for survival.

AsABat

> At 8.33 pounds per gallon, I don't like carrying excess water either, but I will do it when it's necessary since I like the alternative even less. Roni and Monty are showing the correct attitude - it's the hiker's responsibility to carry the water and anything else they think they will require. 
> 
> I get the impression from reading some of the comments on this and other forums that a seemingly increasing percentage of new hikers are of the opinion that a PCT trek is - or should be - a simple "walk in the woods", albeit a long one. The trail is not an entitlement project. There is no inherent right to a well-marked, groomed trail with regular, maintained water sources or shelters. Neither is it reasonable to expect others along the trail to enable your hike by providing water caches at convenient distances along the way. Where they do, GREAT! Accept what is offered with thanks. Read your maps; locate alternate sources; get on the phone to local officials to ascertain the status and reliability of same. If your guess is wrong, go thirsty until the next source. Know where it is and be prepared to do whatever it takes to go there.....or get off the trail.