How about if they left the bodies where they died on the trail as they do at Everest. Might have some impact. Throw a little lime to keep the maggots down.Nothing is going to stop the hell bent summit fever driven climber.Why do climbers continue to climb Mt. Hood in full on storms during winter? Especially when they know the forecast?
This is the best idea I've heard. As I take scouts up in July or August I could explain what happens if you push beyond your abilities. But, since we live in a PC world it won't happen.
And as for more signs - Steve, you're my bud and I value your input, but LESS signs are better. Make people learn to use a compass, map or even a GPS. Plenty of SIGNS on the PCT/JMT, why did the Meysan Lake duo go all the way over Glen Pass? Probably because they didn't have a map. The signs were useless to them. I've said it before and I'm saying it again - if you get lost coming DOWN from Whitney you - 1. Haven't done your homework and studied the maps, 2. Are light headed because you went up too fast, 3. Are exhausted because you pushed yourself too far, 4. Are an ID 10 T.
I often joke that the MT is "a punk hike" and it's usually my 2nd hike of the season. I still don't take it lightly. If you are prepared and show the mountain some respect while using common sense your odds of coming home safely are very good. Odds of making the summit are pretty decent as well.
A real hiker knows when to pull the plug and come home safely. Let's try to use SAR for actual emergancies and accidents - not summit fever.
Just my thoughts, your mileage may vary, to each his own, etc............................................DUG
