Steamboat, by using the trail which comes down from the Lake Arrowhead back road, do you mean Hook Creek Rd and follow the PCT? I started down that way last fall. The gate was closed, so it was an extra long hike in. Plus I was not prepared properly, so decided to wait 'til spring of '05. I'm from Connecticut, by the way, and visit my wife's daughter in Lake Arrowhead a few times a year. Us New Englanders have a hard time adjusting to distances in CA (Hey, it's only THIS far on the map!). I was concerned about safety (wildlife, water, sun...etc.), but after reading all the controversial posts lately, I think I'll save us all a lot of trouble and just shoot myself! But, seriously, I do want to make the trek down the PCT. My plan was to get picked up where the PCT crosses 173, but with all the washouts lately I am not sure if the crossing can be reached from the Lake Arrowhead direction. Anyway, I would love to visit the indian encampments and the hot springs, and hope to see you all soon....
