Life throws curve balls and for us, it means we can no longer take a whole month off for a trip.
We have two weeks and the JMT is going to be there another year.
But with the two weeks, we are going to start section hiking the Appalachian Trail which is much easier logistically for us.
We go in about a month!!
This weekend, we did a shakedown backpacking trip to Rocky Fork State Park for three days.
Things I learned:
Optimizing Sleep Setup
* Slowly deflate air mattress after you lie on it to get enough of a give so that your hips sink in a bit when sleeping on your side. I’ve struggled with multiple versions of air mattresses until I found this Exped Ultra 5R AND learned about deflating it a bit.
* The pillow is important for optimal spine alignment. I had been using a stuffable pillow to save some weight but this Nemo fillo pillow really hits the spot and doesn’t shift around in the night. It also has the stuff sack built in!
* With the shift from JMT to Georgia section of the AT in July, my REI magma 15 is going to be overkill.
I *think* I’m going to end up with one of the following :
1. my smartwool base layers + the Sea to Summit liner + my travel Rumpl.
2. One of the cheapie amazon.com camping blankets we already have.
I really don’t want to buy any extra gear for summer backpacking at this stage.
I am leaning on 1 because I like the idea of having my thick base layers in case I need to wear long sleeves during the day but it does mean I have 3 separate items instead of the one blanket.
Jury still out on this.
Tent set up and breakdown is all about practice
Michael has always spoilt me by doing the heavy lifting of tent setup and breakdown while I just faff about taking selfies and videos of mushrooms or insects.
My training over the past few months was not limited to my physical conditioning but I also did a lot of practice with tent setup and breakdown.
I do believe I am now accomplished at making the taunt tie downs maximizing air flow and space.
Gear Alert : Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3
We will be carrying this 3 person tent on the AT with us so we have a bit more space since we both have 25 inch width air mattresses.
We also own two Big Agnes Tigerwall UL2s but thinking about the summer in Georgia and the fact we can share the weight means the upgrade in size will be worth the extra trouble.
Fire starting is harder than it looks
A Bic lighter is a must have for a pack.
I tried to start a fire without a lighter and used a ferro rod and after a while, I can confidently say I’m great at aiming and directing the sparks.
I was not prepared with the right kindling.
I will be adding cotton balls or equivalent kindling items to the pack and would love to eventually do it with natural materials I gather.
Camp Shoes are the best
I’ve always taken my Crocs to leave in the car on day hikes so I can get out of the hiking shoes when done.
It’s the same concept for camp Shoes. I just didn’t always remember to pack them but after doing it for 3 days, it is absolutely necessary so my feet get a rest and it’s easy to get in and out of the tent without finding and putting on shoes.
They also make great water shoes. Emma and I spent some time splashing in the freezing creek.
Ready or not…
I feel very ready for the Georgia section of the AT. I have the guidebook and maps and civilization is never more than a few hours away.
All that’s left is the food shopping and fine detail logistics for transportation and a few resupplies and it’s a walk in the park woods.