[pct-l] Insulating Layers

[wandering_bob at comcast.net (Bob Bankhead)]

The North Cascades can very wet and windy anytime, especially late season. I've had to camp in the clouds at times there (100% humidity for days) - perfect hypothermia weather. Expect snow anytime.

Go with a synthetic insulating layer. I also trade out my down bag for my synthetic bag when I go up there. A down vest is ok, but not as your only insulating layer. You should have a synthetic layer and a good rain jacket to go over it.

Once you get north of Stehekin, there really are no convenient towns or resorts to duck into and dry things out until you reach Manning Park. Granted, you could bail at Harts Pass and go down to Mazama (small resort/gas/store) or Winthrop (actual town and a far better choice), but it's a long 15 mile hitch down a narrow, rocky road and in late season, only hunters and a few fishermen are apt to be at Harts Pass. That's not a road walk I'd care to make, and I've driven it three times. There's also no public transportation from either town.

Wandering Bob
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Kyle W. Gilpin 
  To: pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net 
  Sent: Thursday, March 30, 2006 9:26 PM
  Subject: [pct-l] Insulating Layers


  Hi,

  What does everyone like for upper body insulation?  What's really
  necessary in the high Sierras and the Northern Cascades?

  Opinions on fleece vs. down vs. thisulate, etc.?

  If it matters, I'll be starting a few weeks after the main crowd--around
  June 1st.  Thanks.

  -Kyle

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