A CDT hiker approached me yesterday at our camp in Gila Hot Springs area, asking if I could leave a water cache for him at his next campground which was 30 miles away. I was happy to try an help a hiker out, and he gave me $20 to cover purchasing 2 gallons from the nearby general store (the only option in the area) and to cover gas (I drive a ‘75 Ford van so it was gonna take a couple gallons for me at least).

The hiker then proceeded to unload half his water supply to make his pack lighter, which given his uncertain access to water over the next 30-50 miles (his words) — seemed like an unwise choice. He took off and I headed up the road to procure the water and gas for the trip.

Turned out the store would not be opening on Tuesday so I had no way to purchase gas or water. Thinking I could leave him water in some random containers I had (like empty wine bottles) - I gave it a shot anyway. Unfortunately road was more incline than I expected (going down from Gila Wilderness towards Silver City) and by the time I was even approaching his campground I had 10-15 miles to go before reaching gas and was already coasting on every downhill in neutral to save my dwindling (<1/8 tank) gas supply.

So I’m sorry Joseph, i really tried - hopefully you came across water anyway or another benevolent camper at your campground.

TL/DR: I agreed to resupply a CDT hiker before being unable to secure the supplies necessary to do so, the hiker left 1/2 his supply based on my promise. Lesson learned for all?

UPDATE: found the hiker again this morning at his campground! He had to cancel todays route anyway due to the prescribed burn in the area of the trail, so he was hitching a ride to Silver City (we were traveling the opposite direction again). But we all had a good laugh and I got to return his $20!