[pct-l] Failed Bag/Tent Combination

[kentr-lists at sbcglobal.net (Kent Ryhorchuk)]

I have had similar experiences camping in the winter in northern
California. On calm nights the cold, moist air seems to flow downhill
and collect in valleys and depressions.

Depending on the depth of the cold air layer, you may be able to avoid
it by camping on a ridgetop or other high area. One time I was camped in
a situation similar to yours and found that if I just walked a few
meters uphill the air was significantly warmer and drier. I don't think
a tent would help - if you manage to seal the cold air out you will also
seal moisture from your body in.

Also, sleeping bag covering can make a big difference. I carry a WM
Ultralight and my wife has a Feathered Friends bag made with Event (like
dryloft). When it gets frosty, the cover of my bag gets saturated; her's
just gets some ice crystals formed on it. I am looking into getting
something similar for myself this year.

Kent.

-----Original Message-----
From: pct-l-bounces@mailman.backcountry.net
[mailto:pct-l-bounces@mailman.backcountry.net] On Behalf Of Jim Keener
Sent: Monday, January 05, 2004 9:15 AM
To: Pacific Crest Trail
Subject: [pct-l] Failed Bag/Tent Combination

Greetings:

I camped at Point Reyes National Seashore in Marin County, California
this
weekend at a place called Glen Camp. Don't know the temperature, but
there
was frost on the ground and my Tarptent, and puddles had frozen over.
There
was fog in the air and the ground was super-saturated due to recent
deluges
in the area.

I was very cold when I got in the bag (Marmot Helium - rated to 15F) and
never did warm up well. Lots of condensation - on the tent and the bag.
The
bag got wet from the condensation. By 4 a.m., I was shivering. Got up,
ate
and hiked.

This was okay for one night. But I'm concerned about Washington. The
idea of
putting that bag away wet and getting back into it without its being
dried
has me very concerned. I'm looking for ideas.

I still like the Tarptent a lot and plan to carry the Helium on the JMT
part
of the trail, but as I wrote, I am concerned about Washington.

Peace,
Jim

http://pct04.com


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