Oh thank heaven I was so worried it was affecting my sleep (Metlakatla: campground, cost)

[Metlakatla]

He was probably just trying to make a point out of the cost of the constant rescues. Not sure how much they run, but Alaska needs every dime it has for its own residents and not bus people.

[riceme]

I hope you're right. LOL @ "bus people"

[warptman]

Too much the magic bus....

[ysr_racer]

I hope the state sends them a bill, and publishes it.

[Dirt Grinder]

Originally Posted by Metlakatla

He was probably just trying to make a point out of the cost of the constant rescues. Not sure how much they run, but Alaska needs every dime it has for its own residents and not bus people.

Actually, "He" was commenting on the cost of accommodating those of us who know nothing about what it takes to survive in a harsh environment, but expecting someone to always be there to "take us home" on their "dime."

[Metlakatla]

Originally Posted by Dirt Grinder

Actually, "He" was commenting on the cost of accommodating those of us who know nothing about what it takes to survive in a harsh environment, but expecting someone to always be there to "take us home" on their "dime."

I think that's what I said.

[Haolejohn]

Originally Posted by Metlakatla

I think that's what I said.

Yep. That's the way I understood it

[Haolejohn]

After reading the article linked I am not going to blame the hikers. They made a plan. They left their plan with someone. They encountered some issues but when the were found they still had provisions and didn't seem to be in trouble. Just late. They seem to be smart hikers.

[TheKezarWoodsman]

They didnt bring any way to reach out be it a phone or location device, although i doubt tjere would be much reception at the bus, or anywhere near it (never been, nor do i have plans to do so). Extra food is good, i think they might have brought a map, and atleast they decided to not cross the river, as they realized it was bad (unlike others who "must" follow chris' route).

I for one can understand that they got delayed, it has happened to me before even on smaller hikes. I hope this ends up like in NH where as they were (mostly) prepared they get a smaller bill. (In nh they have a checklist, every item or piece missing adds a % to your bill for the rescue, so if you are experienced and had a geniune mishap or issue, you get a smaller bill, but if your a unprepared fool, you can be charged an arm, a leg, and your firstborn)

[RayinAK]

Originally Posted by Dirt Grinder

The state should build a paved walkway, complete with bridges, to that location, and operate a café out of the bus. It would be cheaper than the annual rescues.

Cut a trail, and build a relatively cheap cable bridge with a basket/trolly the occupant can use to make it across the creek, with a big sign explaining it is "use at your own risk."