With Southern California deep in the grip of one of the worst droughts in years, thoughts of on-trail water supplies are heavy on the shoulders of the hikers leaving Lake Morena. Already this year, there have been hikers who have gotten into serious trouble due to dehydration. When one is hiking in 90 plus degree weather, and it is 30 trail miles between water sources, even the strong can tumble.

Thankfully, for the hikers of the Pacific Crest Trail, there is alot of 'trail magic' that happens out here in the desert. There are some amazing people who dutifully stock and restock gallons and gallons of water in caches in the driest parts of the desert. All of this to help the thru-hikers stay safe and healthy, thereby assisting them in their goal of hiking border to border in one season. There are people who keep and update regularly a water report that can be accessed via the internet to let the hikers know exactly what current water conditions can be expected. There are homeowners and business owners alike, that make a hose or spigot on the side of their buildings available for hikers to use.

There are alot of different reasons why people are willing to give of themselves in this way. I know that I have been able to help hikers just a tad over the last couple of years, and for me, it is merely an opportunity to "pay it forward". So many people lent me support in so very many ways during my hike in 2005. It is a joy to help another hiker in return. Other 'trail angels' (people who help hikers on the trail), don't have a debt to repay in any way. It is purely the goodness of their hearts and the joy that they receive from helping others that inspires them to contribute to the PCT hiking community.

On the one hand, I love the desert and the dry climate. It is such a contrast to the dreary and cloudy weather that plagues me in the Pacific Northwest. On the other hand, the effects of the drought on the ecological systems in Southern California cannot be overlooked; the wildflowers are not blooming, the wildlife is venturing closer to the city in search of water and food sources, not to mention the agonizing loads carried by thru-hikers, who need to carry as much as 8 liters of water at a time between water sources.

I don't dare say that I pray for rain, but I do pray for a relief from the drought.