[pct-l] water caches

[CLanda at aol.com (CLanda@aol.com)]

All
 
In the early 90's a group of us section hiked the Southern California  
section of the PCT.  Our leaders got permission to access the PCT through  the 
Grapevine Ranch and we stashed water at the gate in the San Felipe  Hills.
 
During this period we observed many Thru-hikers and what Section A did to  
them.  Very few were really in the proper condition to do the PCT when they  
started.  We discussed ways we could help them.  We felt that if we  gave them 
just a little help, they might just turn the corner in both physical  and mental 
ways to allow them to tackle the whole trail.  It seemed a shame  to see 
people's dreams get destroyed in just the first 100 miles.
 
We discussed different things we could do to help.  One was the water  drop 
in the San Felipe Hills.  We discussed and discussed and did  nothing.
 
Then along came Charlie Jones.  He independently came up with this  idea and 
ran with it.
 
I think the real question is how much to help.  I agree with some that  the 
help may have become excessive.  Maybe between the Border and San  Jacinto 
there should be just a couple water drops.  Then in dry-hot years a  few more 
added.
 
Just my thoughts,
 
Chris Landa
Section Hiker
750+ Miles