[pct-l] water stashes and elk lake

[CMountainDave@aol.com]

I think I'll take the middle ground when it comes to water stashes. Trail 
angels are most definitely one of the highlights of the PCT. One gets a great 
emotional high knowing that complete strangers care about you. On the other 
hand, self reliance makes you feel good, too. Why not just be selective in 
the help you wish to recieve? Personally, I'd take all the help I could get 
in getting to and from way stations and from people like the Sauffelys at 
these way stations. I would be self reliant when it came to water, just in 
case water stashes weren't there, depleted, or vandalized. I certainly 
wouldn't count on them. If they were there ( bless their airy angel hearts), 
I'd  be a pragmatist and probably splurge a little by rehydrating and then 
topping off. Actually, this is exactly what I did last year.
     I stopped at Elk Lake resort last year. The new caretakers were good 
people, but not particularily hiker oriented. I heard tales of package 
delivery delays so make sure you mail parcels with plenty of time to spare. 
Also, supplies were absolutely minimal, but lots of microbrews! The caretaker 
is a chef, so expect some great customized meals.  Mountain Dave
       
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