If life does not get in the way, I'll be starting a section hike next Friday from Standing Bear hostel area north into Hot Springs. I've never ventured across this part of the trail. I've checked past posts about this area and understand that this section of the trail seems to have a high frequency of bear encounters. Just wondering if anybody has been through this section recently and can provide information on trail conditions, bear activity, how water is flowing, etc. Also, any stretches of trail where it's sometimes hard to find water? Maybe I'll see some Whiteblazers out hiking? Thanks in advance for any information.