As the saying goes, everyone should "hike their own hike." As yet another personal example to share for consideration, there's one spot on the heavily used Whitney main trail where I personally feel comfortable dipping and sipping - the spring that is often flowing (but unlikely late this year) at the start of the switchbacks, a few turns up. This spring is above the crowds at Trail Camp and appears to be protected from hiker contamination.
Its a shame to miss out on the enjoyment of a quick fresh cold drink of untreated water because of the myth that every drop of water is poison. I wonder, would this folklore still be considered an "urban myth" in the wilderness?
