I do like this debate. I can think of other sites where the thread would of broken down into personal attacks by now. All are to be commended.

I understand the governments unrelenting desire to protect us from ourselves. I don't agree with most of it but it is there for us to deal with.

As a free man should I not be allowed to take the decision of putting my own lifein jeopardy as long as I do not require the services of the government or hold them liable in any way?

Look at the resources currently being used on the three men lost on Mt. Hood.

If we are going to play in dangerous places should it be the governments responsibility to bail us out when we get in trouble?

Anyway, I am confident in my skills and preparedness in the field BUT when I go play in someone else's backyard I want to be with someone that knows the area very well.

I truly don't know what is right and what is wrong here. I am not sure it is a black and white issue.

If I go into a situation with my eyes open knowing full well what the risk are and choose to take the risk anyway and then get in trouble I am not going to be thinking "oh well I accept my plight for the decision I made"you can bet I'm thinking "I hope that search and rescue team is on their way."