[pct-l] Trail Markings

[jgus at sunbow.org (Gustafson)]

> In 2650 miles, I only *really* got lost twice... both in Oregon.  I was
> headed for Mazama Campgrounds at Crater Lake.  Lost in space (  as 
> ususal ) I only
> belatedly noticed the trail was looking rougher and  rougher.  I recall
> distinctly thinking "this trail needs some  maintenance."  Then I saw 
> the sign that
> said "Stuart Falls 1 Mile."  I  whispered a few choice obscenities
> "No Way Ray"  Echols

I was a half day ahead of you, Ray, and I did the exact same thing, and 
thought the same thoughts as well.  By the way, I was invited to camp 
at Mazama with your wife, who was a very excellent angel, and we met 
Dave Horton and his entourage while they picnicked at the campsite 
across from ours.

The only problem I had with the signage in Oregon was the beautiful 
silvered-wood signs that blended in so nicely with the tree they were 
attached to.  This was very aesthetically pleasing but made them a 
little hard to notice.  Also, they were up pretty high and my sun-hat 
blocked my view upward.  So I was having to crane my neck up at 
intervals to make sure I wasn't missing something important.  I thus 
made an unplanned and unnecessary trip to Stuart Falls just when I was 
so wearily straining onward to Mazama.  I enjoyed it, though, and still 
had plenty of time at Mazama for laundry, shower, package pickup, cold 
beer, and a fine evening with Mrs. No Way.  (Please give my regards to 
Alice.)

Days earlier, I had also missed the sign that would have prevented me 
from trudging up the steep side trail to Pilot Knob.  The extra 
distance was no problem, but the trail was unpleasantly steep to come 
back down, and my knees punished me for my inattention.  Although I 
vowed to be more vigilant, I doubt I saw more than half the signs that 
were out there.  Obviously it didn't matter because I really had little 
trouble staying on the trail.  I wouldn't change a thing.

Two Legs