Thanks, Stephen. I would expect the water sources are even more scarce in October than in May. The trip planning section at the end of this story provides details of the itinerary, a suggested map, and other logistics and tips on planning this trip, including the locations of the specific water sources that we found and used. Reading this entire story requires a paid subscription to The Big Outside. A subscription gives you full access to all of my blog’s stories, including the trip planner section in each story about specific trips.

Have a great hike!

This is excellent. Thanks so much for your beautiful write up. I’m planning trip to Dark Canyon in October, following a very similar route. I’m wondering if you can tell me what maps I should pick up for the trip? Also, any idea how the water situation differs in October from a May trip?

Peace,
Stephen

Jeff,

It’s easy to criticize decisions made by politicians as “political,” because all of them are political, of course. You can also always point to people who are happy and people who are unhappy over political decisions, and major donors who are pleased. And yes, reducing the amount of land that is open to exploitation by extractive industries may increase the value of their products that come from elsewhere, but you can also say that’s good for those industries and for their workers, the classic argument made for exploiting lands everywhere.

But ultimately, preserving land means protecting it from extractive uses and setting it aside as more wild spaces for people to enjoy nature. I support that as do most Americans. Talking points like those you employ in your argument do not win the day in public opinion. Americans value natural resources that are retained in their natural state. It would be hypocritical to not advocate for the policies—or the political actions, if you prefer using that term—that protect the places I write about and enjoy visiting.

You’re welcome, Julie, and have a great trip.