[at-l] Re: Warning to winter Smoky hikers

[orangebug74@yahoo.com (Orange Bug)]

I certainly didn't need evacuation while I was in the shelter. In fact
I stayed quite warm and cozy, except for the occasional forays to
respond to Nature's calls. Boredom and fear were my biggest problems. I
was quite fatigued and concerned for my safety after leaving the
Tricorner Shelter - especially as I was walking alone.

Usually, the most frequently asked question is "Are you hiking the AT
alone?" My response has been, "Sure, it is a lot like driving on I-95
alone." Well on this trip, I was _alone_ and acutely aware of the risks
of being in an extreme condition and dependent only on my own skills
and wits. Yes, I was afraid and strongly embraced my fear. I suspect I
would have been very foolish to not feel fear.

I was pretty glad to have not been at the Mt Cammerer tower when that
helicopter showed up. I am certain the temptation to leave with them
would have ruled the day - if such was offered. I doubt that the park
service kidnapped anyone from the trail back in 1993 or in 2001,
although they will be very direct about safety when called to check on
hypothermia or other injuries. I suspect that evacuation/retreat was a
good idea for those who felt endangered by the 93 Blizzard. I recommend
the mantra "This is supposed to be fun, not a death march." I hope I
wouldn't call hikers who felt endangered "gutless" as the "Gutlesburg"
comment suggests.

Bill...

--- Jack <elexious48@home.com> wrote:
> I know that in most desert areas out west, hikers are encouraged to
> piss into the streams rather than on terra firma..
> 
> Bill, I know how you felt there at Cosby and Tri-Corner Knob.  I was
> in that
> area during the big storm of 93 and a chopper hovered over my camp,
> dropped
> down a plastic bag with colored pennants, (red for medical, yellow
> for
> food), and I waved the yellow one and was lowered 12 mre's.  Well the
> tabasco was good.  I did not want nor need evacuation, nor did many
> others
> who nonetheless took the chopper ride and went to Sugarlands and then
> to Gutlesberg......
> 


__________________________________________________
Do You Yahoo!?
Get email at your own domain with Yahoo! Mail. 
http://personal.mail.yahoo.com/