[pct-l] Problems on the PCT

[Boris Trgovcich]

Jeffrey,

I agree with you and, as I have noted originally, I have nothing against the recreational horse riders/packers and their horses' caca on the trail.  My primary concern is the "overload" on JMT and the impact on water bodies, which is mostly the result of commercial packer use.

I agree that horse people should be allowed to use the trail and that they are important partners.  They also contribute to trail maintenance.

Cows, and ranchers who let them loose in the designated wilderness areas, are totally different story.




________________________________
 From: Jeffrey Olson <jolson at olc.edu>
To: pct-l at backcountry.net 
Sent: Sunday, September 30, 2012 2:37 PM
Subject: Re: [pct-l] Problems on the PCT
 
The issue of horses and packers and horse caca comes up every year or 
two.  I don't like the dust from horse poop or the acrid smell from 
their urine.  I don't like it when packers are disrespectful and let 
their animals trample fragile meadows.

However, the trail exists because organized horse-people partnered with 
hiking organizations.  They do lots of maintenance.

The PCT is the product of political compromise, and wouldn't exist 
without it.

If you want a pristine experience, try the Theodore Solomon Trail - 
2000' lower and west of the PCT along the JMT.  The trail barely exists 
any more.  I don't know how to avoid the horse poop north of White Pass 
- the worst in my opinion.  I kick it off the trail if it fits my stride...

Jeffrey Olson
Rapid City, SD
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