Here is a
map of my route, moving in a clockwise fashion from Hawkins Ridge. I've tweaked the path from Heaton to Shoemaker, but it's not worth recreating the entire map.
WATER: My plan is to use the following water sources: Lamel Spring (north side of Baden-Powell), Flume Canyon Spring (near Guffy), and the East Fork at Heaton Flat. I believe I can manage with these three sources. I'll carry very minimal water between Hawkins and Baden-Powell. Then a couple liters from Lamel Spring to Guffy. I'll fill the belly at Flume Canyon and probably carry 4-5 liters between Flume and the East Fork, maybe more if it doesn't look like I'll be able to grab any snow. I'll go to town on the water at the East Fork and grab another 3-4 liters for the trip back to Hawkins Ridge.
If Lamel or Flume are dry in April or May, then I'll have to cancel or stash water. They seem pretty reliable though. I'm not counting on Lily Spring near Hawkins, but if it is running, I'll use it while I'm acclimating.
BAIL-OUT POINTS: I have a pretty detailed schedule, and there are certain conditions that will cause me to end the attempt. I need to reach Baldy on time and with sufficient water for the Iron traverse, otherwise I bail at Baldy. Then I need to reach the East Fork with sufficient food and energy for the Rattlesnake-Hawkins traverse. Also, I should have enough daylight to drop down from Rattlesnake onto the ridge to South Hawkins. Otherwise, I will bail at East Fork.
START/FINISH: I decided against starting at Wright Mtn because it is too close to one of my water sources at Guffy. I want to spread out my water sources so that I take full advantage of them. I also wanted the East Fork as my midway point since it is the most hospitable location where I might find help in case of serious problems. Hawkins Ridge is a good place to acclimate for a day, and I plan on climbing up casually from the highway via Lily Spring.
SADIE & FROST: I'm debating whether to add Sadie Hawkins and Frost Point to the list of peaks I'll hit. Frankly, I doubt I'll add them unless I'm way ahead of schedule.
STOVE: Sorry, Jim, no stove for me.
PCT vs. BLUE RIDGE RD: I'm still debating the best combination of the PCT and Blue Ridge Road between Inspiration Pt and Wright Mtn. The goal of course is to cut down on miles, but also consider gain and ease of terrain.