closest i've ever hiked to desert conditions was also philmont in '84. in the smokies, it's so dang humid in the summer. i carry the gatorade packets to mix in with water also like someone mentioned. i am a huge sweat hog. i carry a 3 liter camelbak and a water bottle to mix gatorade in. i know it's not the same as out west but the humidity can dehydrate you quickly also.
