[pct-l] Finding and making shade in the desert

[Pietro, Michael M.D.]

I've found that draping Mylar (space blanket) over a tent or tarp will create a very dense, cool shade underneath. If you stand above it you can feel the heat reflecting off.

Mike

Message: 16
Date: Fri, 21 Mar 2014 11:17:09 -0400
From: Chris Martin <hopeforgorilla at gmail.com<mailto:hopeforgorilla at gmail.com>>
Subject: [pct-l] Finding and making shade in the desert
To: pct-l at backcountry.net<mailto:pct-l at backcountry.net>
Message-ID:
                <CAANGkKMPuWKGN+-FYHqmQ0G+FoWTrg+NJYKPKqRgu9+oATx0vQ at mail.gmail.com<mailto:CAANGkKMPuWKGN+-FYHqmQ0G+FoWTrg+NJYKPKqRgu9+oATx0vQ at mail.gmail.com>>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1

I recently found a really effective strategy for avoiding sun-sickness and heat exhaustion while hiking: a very early start (on trail by 5 AM), and a loong siesta in the shade when the sun gets intense. Then, resume walking later in the afternoon and keep going until sunset. You also sweat a lot less by avoiding mid-day exertion, reducing water and electrolyte consumption.

I am guessing I'll have trouble finding shady spots for a siesta on the PCT in SoCal. Is it reasonable to create shade in the desert by pitching a tarp high to maximize airflow? Can anyone report the results of having tried this?

Chris



mailgate.hinet.org made the following annotations
---------------------------------------------------------------------
NOTICE: This email message is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) 
 and may contain confidential and privileged information. Any unauthorized 
 review, use, disclosure or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the 
 intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply email and destroy all 
 copies of the original message.
---------------------------------------------------------------------