[at-l] About White Lies

Ok, ok, so I fibbed about the new hut to be built on Katahdin, but I was tying to bring up a point.  It appears most of you would be upset with such a idea.  So why are the huts so accepted in the Whites?  Tradition, I suppose.  

It's ironic to me that an outdoor club is into the business of running hotels, while catering to peoples needs, if not luxuries, in the backcountry.

When I suggested the full sevice huts be turned into self service huts, such as Carter Notch, someone wrote that I was trying to exclude people. Exclude them from what?  Being catered to?  Well, I suppose I was. I guess when I go into the backcountry, it's for different reasons then those that go there for the huts.  I prefer the independance of "backpacking", having everything I need with me, especially food and shelter and being able to fend for myself under almost any condition.

It's unlikely that current hut and fee system will be changed anytime soon, but some years ago I posted that the present hut system "excludes" the independant backpackers who don't wish to be catered to, or can't afford the $55- a night the huts charge. 

In all fairness to the AMC, they do allow work stays to thru-hikers when available and it's a great alternative, to some, at times, if schedule permits and the caretakers or croos are cool and don't having you working til noon the next day.  

My answer then, was the building of shelters or campsites, similar to others up and down the trail, near or adjacent to the exsisting huts, such as Mitzpah and charging a nominal fee such as they do there now. 

Now, I'm not so sure that's the answer, assuming current regulations would most likely make them cost prohibitive, but if thoughtfully laid out, it would be more equitable to all.

Again, all said, with the present system, I'll most likely avoid the existing facilities and stealth camp through the Whites, next time around. 

I guess I'd rather pay a fine, under protest, than contribute to an organization that puts money over 
conviction.

As always, Sly  ;)


......Good news for those fond of full service huts, there's a plan to erect one near Thoreau Springs on Katahdin. Similar to those in the Whites, it will be a layover hotel, making it easy on the hikers, on the way over the mountain!  For all the details, see the link below.

www.mainehuts.com

As always, Sly 

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