[pct-l] Clinton C. Clarke Route

[Hiker97]

AsABat the Prankster wrote: There can be several reasons the PCT is not where it was originally envisioned. Sometimes it's to avoid highly popular areas - such as Mt. San Gorgonio. Others it was an inability (or lack of will?) to acquire the necessary easements. A classic example of this is why the PCT goes over the San Felipe Hills 23 miles without water when it should have gone over forested Volcan Mountain to the west. The irony is that much of Volcan has transferred from private ranches to conserved open space since. On a smaller scale, the trail sometimes makes small detours to avoid sensitive areas, such as rare plants or archeological sites. 
-------------------------------------------
Switchback replies: Also, the current PCT route goes past the Clinton C. Clarke tree.  This was discovered by Switchback several years ago near Warner Springs Resort --- on the PCT Warner Springs Loop.  It is one of the largest Cottonwood trees in the world and along the PCT.  It is in a campground at site #22.  Warner Springs Monty is the Guardian of this part of the PCT, including this biological wonder.  It is speculated that ancient early man rituals were performed at its base.  Also, there seems to be scratches of Mutant Saber Tooth Mountain Lions on its trunk.