(Clockwise) Starting photos from PCT, CDT and AT (2012).
Some four and a half years after finishing the 12 Long Walks – of which the Calendar Triple Crown constituted the last three hikes – the PCT, CDT, and AT continue to be the trails I am asked about the most. And many of those questions are gear-related.
That being the case, I thought I’d put together comprehensive lists of what I’d take if I was to thru-hike those three trails again in 2017. Most of the items are similar to what I carried in 2012, with just a few tweaks (rather than seismic shifts) here and there.
First up is what I’d pack for a regular-season hike of the Pacific Crest and Continental Divide Trails. Following that is a list of what I’d carry on an autumn southbound hike of the Appalachian Trail.
PCT & CDT Gear List (2017)
| ITEM | WT. (OZ) | SUB (oz) | SUB (kg) | COMMENTS |
| BACKPACK | ||||
| MLD Burn | 13 | Frameless, simple design, slim profile | Coin flip between this or the Gossamer Gear Kumo (older, lighter version). | ||
| Pack Liner (Trash Compactor Bag) | 2 | Cheap & effective | ||
| 15 | 0.43 | |||
| SHELTER | ||||
| MLD Cuben Fiber Poncho (includes guylines – change out for Kelty Triptease) | 8 | Shelter, Rain Gear, Pack Cover / 9′ x 5.2′ (front) x 4.6′ (rear) / Good UL option for not-so-wet PCT & CDT. | ||
| Mini biners | 0.8 | Expedites Poncho/Shelter transition in rainy weather. | ||
| Stakes – Mix of sizes & styles (8) | 2.4 | |||
| 11.2 | 0.32 | |||
| SLEEPING SYSTEM | ||||
| Pad – Thermarest NeoAir XLite (Sm) | 8 | Very comfy / Doubles as makeshift framesheet for pack / Put feet on backpack when sleeping. | ||
| Quilt – Katabatic Palisade 30 | 18.4 | Conservatively rated 30°F / Best quilts/bags I have used. | ||
| Bivy – Katabatic Bristlecone Bivy | 7 | Adds 5 – 8° warmth / Like a wind shirt for quilt / On PCT & CDT I cowboy camp 90-95% of the time – good for keeping bugs off, quilt clean and negates the need for groundsheet. | ||
| 33.4 | 0.95 | |||
| KITCHEN | ||||
| LokSak 20×12 (Food Bag) | 1.2 | Holds up to 6 days food / Seal usually start to go after about 6 weeks of regular use. | ||
| Gatorade Powder Container | 1.8 | Rehydrating vessel of choice for last decade when going stoveless. | ||
| Titanium Spork | 0.3 | Top end wrapped in orange tape so I won’t lose it. | ||
| Bic Lighter | 0.2 | |||
| SmartWater Bottles (2) | 2.6 | |||
| Platypus Hydration Bladder (2 LT) | 1.2 | Extra H20 capacity for long, dry stretches. | ||
| 7.3 | 0.21 | |||
| FIRST AID / HYGIENE | ||||
| Sunscreen (repackaged in tiny btle.) | ||||
| Hand Sanitizer (repackaged in dropper btle.) | I haven’t had a case of the backcountry trots since 1999. I think a big reason is diligent use of hand sanitizer. | |||
| Aquamira (repackaged in dropper btles.) | Purification method of choice for past decade. | |||
| Mini Toothbrush | ||||
| Toothpaste (mini tube) | ||||
| Dental Floss | Doubles as sewing thread | |||
| Antiseptic Wipes (2) | Clean cuts / wounds | |||
| Gauze | ||||
| Triple Antibiotic Cream (tiny tube) | ||||
| 3M Micropore Medical Tape | Breathable, paper tape / Adheres well. | |||
| Ibuprofen (6) | ||||
| Sewing Needle | One-armed blind people can sew better than I can. | |||
| Duct Tape, Mini Tube Super Glue (repairs) | To compensate for lack of sewing skills. | |||
| 5 | 0.14 | |||
| CLOTHES | ||||
| Wind Pants – Montbell Tachyon Anorak | 1.9 | |||
| Wind Shirt – Montbell Tachyon Anorak | 1.9 | This is my third model / Each has lasted around 8 to 10,000 miles. | ||
| Insulation – Montbell Superior Down Jacket | 7.3 | Very warm for the weight / Prefer down to synthetic insulation for PCT & CDT. | ||
| Extra Socks – Smartwool or REI merino wool liners | 1.6 | |||
| Bandana | 0.5 | Towel, neck/face protection, condensation wipe, convenience store holdups. | ||
| Liner gloves | 1 | Use extra socks as mittens when temps dictate. | ||
| Warm Hat – Montbell Chameece Beanie | 1 | Great beanie / Stretchy, not too thick. | ||
| 15.2 | 0.43 | |||
| MISCELLANEOUS | ||||
| Phone – Samsung Galaxy S7 | 5.3 | Photos, videos, journaling, backup light. | ||
| Wall Charger (single port) / USB cord | 1.2 | |||
| Stuff sacks – HMG Cuben Fiber (2) | 2.4 | |||
| Montbell Power Head Lamp | 2 | Four settings, pretty good battery life | 160 Lumens max. | ||
| Wallet/Credit Cards/Drivers License | 0.7 | Used thin plastic card holder as wallet | ||
| Swiss Army Classic | 0.9 | All you need for backpacking purposes. | ||
| Compass – Suunto M-2 | 1.2 | Adjustable Declination | Compass of choice for many years (no longer made – will pick up a Suunto M-3 Global next). | ||
| Small pen | 0.3 | |||
| Small LokSaks (2) | 1 | Protection for phone, charger, passport, credit cards. | ||
| Map Bag – Quart Size Ziploc | 0.2 | Keeps maps clean, dry & organized. | ||
| 15.2 | 0.43 | |||
| BASE WEIGHT | TOTAL | 6.44 lb | 2.92 kg | |
| ITEMS WORN | ||||
| Shorts – Patagonia Baggies | 6.8 | Thumbs up / Replaced long-time favourites, Macpac Cross Terrains, in 2016. | ||
| Base layer – REI Sahara Shirt | 7.8 | Dries quick, pockets, protection for neck and arms. | ||
| Hat – Adapt-a-cap | 3.0 | |||
| Shoes – Brooks Cascadia 11 | 23.6 | |||
| Socks – REI Merino Wool liners | 1.6 | |||
| Dirty Girl Gaiters | 1.3 | Handy for keeping out trail dirt during desert sections. | ||
| Timex Ironman Watch | 1.3 | Cheap, durable, light, multiple alarms | ||
| Sunglasses | 1.2 | Polarized lenses, 100% UV protection, wrap-around. | ||
| 46.5 | 1.32 | |||
| TOTAL WEIGHT | 9.46 lb | 4.29 kg | ||
| EXTRA GEAR FOR SNOW | ||||
| Ice Axe – CAMP Corsa 50 | 7.2 | |||
| Traction – Kathoola Microspikes | 13.1 | |||
| Socks – Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew | 2.6 | Warmer pair for cool June temps in the Sierra. |
(L to R) Mouse, Swami and the legendary, “Insane” Duane – Canadian border / Finish of the PCT, July, 2012.
Appalachian Trail Gear List (2017)
As mentioned in the introduction, the gear list below is for an autumn southbound hike. If I was to do the Appalachian Trail again, it would be at this time of year. There are two principal reasons behind this line of thinking: 1. Fall colors, and; 2. I’m not a fan of crowds. Estimated start date would be the final days of September.
| ITEM | WT. (OZ) | SUB (oz) | SUB (kg) | COMMENTS |
| BACKPACK | ||||
| MLD Burn | 13 | Frameless, simple design, slim profile | Coin flip between this or the Gossamer Gear Kumo (older, lighter version). | ||
| Pack Liner (Trash Compactor Bag) | 2 | Cheap & effective | ||
| 15 | 0.43 | |||
| SHELTER | ||||
| HMG 6×8 Flat Tarp (includes guylines – change out for Kelty Triptease) | 7.4 | Simple and light. As the trail will be mostly empty come late October, I would do a combo of lean-tos and tarp. The former are a godsend when big storms come rumbling through. | ||
| Stakes – Mix of sizes & styles (8) | 2.4 | |||
| 9.8 | 0.28 | |||
| SLEEPING SYSTEM | ||||
| Pad – Thermarest NeoAir XLite (Sm) | 8 | Very comfy / Doubles as makeshift framesheet for pack / Put feet on backpack when sleeping. | ||
| Pad – Gossamer Gear 1/8 Thinlite | 2.4 | |||
| Quilt – Katabatic Sawatch 15 | 24 | Conservatively rated 15°F. | ||
| Bivy – Katabatic Bristlecone Bivy | 7 | Adds 5 – 8° warmth / I’ve found that the combo of the Sawatch quilt, bivy and clothing keeps me comfy down to 0°F. | ||
| 41.4 | 1.18 | |||
| KITCHEN | ||||
| LokSak 20×12 (Food Bag) | 1.2 | Holds up to 6 days food / Seal usually start to go after about 6 weeks of regular use. | ||
| Gatorade Powder Container | 1.8 | Rehydrating vessel of choice when going stoveless. | ||
| Titanium Spork | 0.3 | Top end wrapped in orange tape so I won’t lose it. | ||
| Bic Lighter | 0.2 | |||
| SmartWater Bottles (2) | 2.6 | |||
| 6.1 | 0.17 | |||
| FIRST AID / HYGIENE | ||||
| Sunscreen (repackaged in tiny btle.) | ||||
| Hand Sanitizer (repackaged in dropper btle.) | I haven’t had a case of the backcountry trots since 1999. I think a big reason is diligent use of hand sanitizer. | |||
| Aquamira (repackaged in dropper btles.) | Purification method of choice for past decade. | |||
| Mini Toothbrush | ||||
| Toothpaste (mini tube) | ||||
| Dental Floss | Doubles as sewing thread | |||
| Antiseptic Wipes (2) | Clean cuts / wounds | |||
| Gauze | ||||
| Triple Antibiotic Cream (tiny tube) | ||||
| 3M Micropore Medical Tape | Breathable, paper tape / Adheres well. | |||
| Ibuprofun (6) | ||||
| Sewing Needle | One armed blind people can sew better than I can. | |||
| Duct Tape, Mini Tube Super Glue (repairs) | To compensate for lack of sewing skills. | |||
| 5 | 0.14 | |||
| CLOTHES | ||||
| Rain Pants – Montbell Versalite Pants | 3.6 | Light, quick drying, reasonably water-resistant and offer a little more warmth than the Tachyon Anoraks. | ||
| Insulation – Montbell Superior Down Jacket | 7.3 | For October/November weather on the AT, I like the combo of down & fleece (see below) for its versatility over a wide range of conditions. | ||
| Insulation – Patagonia R1 Hoody | 10.9 | Long time favourite / Key item on trips like this when freezing rain and temps in the mid 30’s F are common. | ||
| Base Layer – Montbell Merino Wool L.W. Tights | 4.8 | Thumbs up / Replaced old Patagonia Capilene 2’s. | ||
| Extra Socks – Smartwool or REI merino wool liners | 1.6 | |||
| Extra Socks – Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew | 2.6 | Warmer pair for colder night time temps. | ||
| Bandana | 0.5 | |||
| Mittens – Outdoor Research PL Sensor 400 Mittens | 2.9 | 300-weight fleece & 100-weight fleece liner. Coupled with liner gloves, keeps hands comfortable down to low single digits (F). | ||
| MLD eVent Rain Mittens | 1.4 | Outer layer for hands / Combine with liners gloves in freezing rain. | ||
| Warm Hat – Montbell Chameece Beanie | 1 | Favourite beanie / Not too thick / Combined with R1 hood at nights to keep noggin warm. | ||
| 36.6 | 1.04 | |||
| MISCELLANEOUS | ||||
| Phone – Samsung Galaxy S7 | 5.3 | Photos, videos, journalling, backup light. | ||
| Wall Charger (single port) / USB cord | 1.2 | |||
| Umbrella – Montbell Trekking Umbrella | 5.3 | With its forested corridor (i.e. natural wind break) and often rainy weather, it has long struck me that the AT is the ideal long distance trail for umbrellas. Worth the extra 5.3 oz to keep core warm during extended periods of freezing rain. | ||
| Stuff sacks – HMG Cuben Fiber (2) | 2.4 | |||
| Montbell Power Head Lamp | 2 | Four settings, pretty good battery life | 160 Lumens max. | ||
| Wallet/Credit Cards/Drivers License | 0.7 | Used thin plastic card holder as Wallet | ||
| Swiss Army Classic | 1.3 | All you need for backpacking purposes. | ||
| Compass – Suunto M-2 | 1.2 | Adjustable Declination | Compass of choice for many years (no longer made – will pick up a Suunto M-3 Global next). | ||
| Small pen | 0.3 | |||
| Small LokSaks (2) | 1 | Protection for phone, charger, passport, credit cards. | ||
| 20.7 | 0.59 | |||
| BASE WEIGHT | TOTAL | 8.4 lb | 3.8 kg | |
| ITEMS WORN | ||||
| Shorts – Patagonia Baggies | 6.8 | Thumbs up / Replaced long-time favourites, Macpac Cross Terrains, in 2016. | ||
| Base layer – Montbell Merino Long Sleeve Zip Neck | 5.9 | Great baselayer / Not too thin, not too thick / Spot on for shoulder season conditions. | ||
| Rain Jacket – Montbell Peak Shell | 9.1 | Nice balance of weight, durability, and breathability. Good DWR. Favourite rain jacket for the past few years. | ||
| Liner Gloves | 1 | |||
| Hat – Baseball cap | 2.0 | |||
| Shoes – Brooks Cascadia 11 | 23.6 | |||
| Socks – REI Merino Wool liners | 1.6 | |||
| Timex Ironman Watch | 1.3 | Cheap, durable, light, multiple alarms | ||
| Sunglasses | 1.2 | Polarized lenses / 100% UV Protection / Wrap around | ||
| 52.5 | 1.49 | |||
| TOTAL WEIGHT | 11.2 lb | 5.1 kg |
Springer Mountain – Finish of the AT, December, 2012.
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Thank you!
Thanks for linking everything. I assume the quilt lives permanently inside the bivy sack?
No, I always pack them separately.
Does your sleep system ever include netting for insect protection?
On some hikes it does. On these three trails I prefer the tarp / bivy (which has a sizeable bug net window) setup.
Thanks, this is a great list. I’m curious about the Patagonia Baggies – do you go with the 5″ or 7″ inseam?
The 5″ inseam.
Hi. Just wondering why you like the Baggies? They seem kind of heavy(7.1oz) compared with some other brands of running shorts. Do you cut out the liner? Thanks
Hey Luke,
I actually just recently cut out the liner. Not sure how much they weigh now.
I like the comfort (waistband and soft material), length, deep pockets (for map and compass), durability and fit (baggy, but not too much) of the Baggies for hiking. They remind me of my long-time favourite shorts, the Macpac Cross Terrain, which are no longer made.
Cheers,
Cam
Thanks for the reply!
Hi Cam, why don’t you use sandals for exemple Teva Terra ones, as you are becoming a fairly true minimalist. And then what about dryducks instead of the good montbell stuff ?
I periodically use sports sandals on day hikes, but never on longer trips, due to some foot issues I’ve had over the years.
As for the DriDucks jackets, I have worn them occasionally. And, yes, they are definitely a solid option for trails like the AT, PCT and CDT where bushwhacking isn’t a concern. That said, I prefer the Montbell Peak shell for its fit, durability, pit zips and I’ve found that it’s a little more waterproof than the DriDucks.
1000 Thks. Your lists and experience are always a source of ideas.
Cam, you do not use any sleeping clothes. How do you protect your quilt from body oils? Marijan
No specific sleep clothes for three season conditions, though I do usually carry long underwear during extended hikes in cold conditions. I normally wash and dry my quilts once or twice a year.
No bug dope? What about ticks? Diarrhea meds just in case? I definitely have to pack some of my anxieties!
If I’m hiking at a time and place where the bugs are ferocious, I’ll normally carry some insect repellant and a head net. For ticks, I always have the tweezers in my Swiss Army Classic. No diarrhea meds; after spending much of my adult life living, working, travelling and hiking in developing countries, my stomach is generally pretty strong.
Cheers,
Cam
Hi cam! Great post thanks so much! I’m wondering what you use as a pillow substitute while your out on the trail. I’ve used my pack at times and the old down jacket stuff sack at others, neither to much effect.
I know Justin Lichter has written about using the lok Sak with the food in it but that has also stuck me as a little to unnerving to try. What’s your move!?
Hi Erick,
I normally just stuff the clothes I’m not wearing into a jacket or stuff sack. Occasionally I’ve also used an inflated Platypus bladder. As for my food, I always place that in a loksak in my pack, which goes under my feet.
Cheers,
Cam
Cam, I’d like to know more about your use of the Katabatic bivy and condensation. To me a bivy makes a lot of sense but myTi-goat bivy more often than not left me with a damp quilt. I’ve experienced fairly heavy condensation even in when windy and under trees. What has been your experience with the Katabatic?
Hey Jason,
I’ve regularly used two bivvies while tarping over the past eight years – the Katabatic model and the MLD Superlight. Pretty much the same bivy, with just a couple of differences (i.e. the former has a larger bug net window, while the latter has an eVent foot box). I haven’t had too many condensation issues with either one.
Not having used the Ti-goat bivy, it’s hard for me to personally comment as to how it compares. However, given your description of the conditions in which you have taken it, I can only think that the material it uses is a little less breathable than the other bivvies I mention.
Cheers,
Cam
Re Hi Cam,
Sometime we can see you on pictures with a kind of “hijab” around your face 😉 What is it exactly? and its use against warm, cold wind ?..
I’m thinking you are probably referring to the Adapt-a-cap (http://sunprotection.com.au/product/adapt-a-cap-ultimate/), which is a hat made in Australia that offers great sun and wind protection.
Cheers,
Cam
That’s it. Thks
Hey Cam!
Thanks for the post! Great information here. Do you know of any poncho/tarp options that would suit someone 6′ 2”+? I’ve heard most of them are pretty tight and was wondering what your experience has been.
Also, why choose the REI Sahara shirt instead of a lighter weight button up such as the Columbia Titanium Featherweight button up?
I appreciate your time!
Michael
Thanks for the kind words. I’m 6’1″ and have personally found the MLD Pro Poncho to be big enough when hiking trails such as the PCT and CDT. I wouldn’t necessarily use it in areas known for very inclement conditions.
As for the Sahara shirt, I like it’s combination of functionality and durability. I’ve had the same one now for the past six years. Once my current model wears out, I may look at a lighter model.
Hi, I really like the idea of using a poncho for a PCT attempt to get both raingear and shelter out of one item, but looking at the Halfway PCT hiker surveys etc. it looks like 2P tents such as Zpacks Duplex are where the herd mentality lies for roominess. So as I’ve tried to compare the two ponchos that look like the best alternate option (SMD Gatewood Cape and MLD ProPoncho) I’m having a hard time getting any separation. Seems like the Gatewood Cape gives better side protection as a poncho and the the Billy Goat likes it (maybe for the bug innernet?) Anyways, having used the MLD Poncho any idea as to why it might be preferential to the Cape, since you seem quite sold on it?
Also, I’ve heard some comments about problems with ponchos in the wind, such as on the peaks. You haven’t experienced this problem?
Ponchos aren’t ideal in high winds/driving rain/exposed conditions. They can be flappy, even when you are using a bungee cord waist belt. The questions are “how often are you likely to experience these conditions on your chosen hike” and “is the weight saving of a poncho worth the potential discomfort, if you encounter the combination of elements mentioned above”? The answers will vary from hiker to hiker.
You are right about the Gatewood cape offering better all-around protection, but the difference is negligible when the ProPoncho is pitched low and in A-Frame, with the back end staked directly to the ground. Personally I like tarps for their versatility, superior ventilation, and the “openness” factor – on all three counts, the MLD model is superior to the Gatewood Cape.
Hi Cam, again about the poncho. Personnally I myoged my tent adapting the design of a wellknown model, using not the lightest cuben fiber liners. After about 60 nights and several hikes, I find the cuben fiber loosing its waterproofness, espacially under heavy storm rains. Don’t you think silnylon is more resistant, even the lightest ones ?
That’s a tough one. I’ve owned and used two cuben shelters – the MLD Solomid and the HMG 8.5 Square Flat Tarp. I have to say that even after quite a bit of usage in rough conditions, both models have maintained their waterproofness.
Hi Cam-
Thanks so much for all of this great info! I’m wondering what you do for pitching your tarps? I don’t see poles on these lists? I’m new to the idea of taping but love the idea of them with a bivy. I went with the palisade 30 btw. Thanks for the advice.
All the best,
Adam
Hi Adam,
Congrats on the Palisade! As for tarps on the triple crown hikes, if you are going poleless it is just a question of planning ahead and using sticks/trees/branches. Also, for the PCT and CDT I probably cowboy camped 80% of the time.
Cheers,
Cam
I was also wondering if you could comment on what size stuff sacks you find most helpful?Thanks a lot!
I normally use 10/15 liter models.
Just curious why you choose the poncho tarp? A MLD grace tarp + their less fancy cuben poncho only weighs ~15g more and (in my opinion) offers a fairly significant improvement.
Hey Crash,
A 0.75 Cuben Grace tarp weighs 7 oz (I wouldn’t go with the thinner 0.5 model) and the poncho you mention weighs 5 oz. The Pro poncho I allude to in the gear list weighs 8 oz (0.75 cuben). That’s a difference of 4 oz (113 grams), plus it’s less volume in my pack, plus it’s an overall saving of $140.
From an experience perspective, I have been using small tarps in a bunch of different environments since my teenage years (I’m now 48), so I had no qualms about my ability to make a 9×5.2 tarp work on the PCT/CDT/AT in 2012, nor would I again in the future. In short, while there are many environments in which I would not take a poncho tarp, I think for certain folks (not everyone) they represent a very good lightweight option for the Triple Crown trails.
Cheers,
Cam
Hi Cam – Thank you for this post! Was wondering if you would recommend the Montbell Peak Shell jacket? Didn’t it perform well in heavy rains? I’m considering it for my JMT hike over the Versalite because I’ve read the Versalite doesn’t do that well over extended periods of time, and I’d rather stay totally dry and warm than carry a couple oz less.
Thanks!
Lauren
Yes, I would recommend the Peak Shell. Here’s a review I wrote on it back in late 2015: https://www.thehikinglife.com/2015/12/review-montbell-peak-shell-rain-jacket/
I own the Versalite as well, which is good, but if I had to choose just one, I’d take the small weight penalty and go with the Peak Shell.
Best of luck on the JMT!
Hi Cam
Great info as always!
I’m interested in the way you’re using the Tachyon Wind Pants. I’ve had the clothing for my upper half dialled in for some time now, but never really figured out the best bad weather setup for my legs.
In general I prefer to walk in trousers, so I need to protect them down to the ankle. As I Scot I’m open to a rain kilt, but don’t see how it would work with trousers…
But I strongly dislike conventional rain-pants – I feel constricted and sweaty. And on the PCT/CDT they would likely be spending most of the time in my pack, so they’d mostly be dead weight.
I fancy trying chaps, but can’t find a good ultra-light hard-shell jacket that would extend far enough down the thigh to protect them.
So I was thinking of trying the Tachyon or Dynamo wind pants, and would welcome your advice. Clearly, they’d be significantly lighter and more multi-use than conventional rain pants. But in cold, driving rain, do they keep you dry and warm enough to stay safe once they’ve wetted out? I don’t mind getting damp, but I don’t want to get soaked and become an exposure statistic. Also, would you consider using this setup in Scottish/Scandi/Tasmanian type weather, or would that be a step too far?
You’ve experienced a wider range of conditions than most, so your insights would be much appreciated.
Hi Geoff,
Thanks for the message. I’d love to be able to tell you there’s a holy grail of rain pants out there that are uber-light, breathable, semi-durable and won’t wet out. But to the best of my knowledge, such a thing doesn’t exist (as I suspect you already know). Which is a roundabout way of saying that everything is a compromise.
Personally speaking, these past couple of years I’ve used the Montbell Versalite (https://goo.gl/je7gbD) on many of my trips, and have found them to be a solid all-around option. They are a little heavier than the Dynamo model (3.2 oz Vs 2.6 oz), but they are more waterproof and breathable. That said, they will wet out given extended exposure and they aren’t as durable as the more heavy duty rain pants. I’ve used them on my last two trips to Tassie, and I think they are a good option for cold/wet conditions as long as you keep moving and there isn’t bushwhacking involved. Like yourself, I have always felt clammy in traditional rain pants.
I should also note that when it’s pissing down and just above freezing, most of the time I’ll be walking in shorts. I find I’ll often use wind or rain pants first thing in the morning or if I’m hiking late into the evening. For something that weighs around 2 to 3.5 oz, it never ceases to amaze me how much warmth they provide (same holds true for wind shirts).
Cheers,
Cam
Very useful advice!
The weight of the Versalite is pretty amazing given the features.
If you found that they worked for you in Tassie I guess that they would be more than enough for the Triple Crown trails.
Do they breath well enough to be used for bug protection with shorts when it’s warm and not raining? And do the feel OK against the skin? For the western Triple Crown trails, I’m thinking that perhaps it would be best to carry something like the Versalite for the elbow seasons and the Dynamo for the summer. Or is the Versalite versatile enough for the whole trail?
It’s a bit of a coin flip, but personally I’d probably take the Dynamos, rather than the Versalites on a regular season hike of the CDT or PCT. I’d go with the Versalites for colder/wetter environments. Dynamos have a slight edge in regards to warm and buggy conditions. I think they both feel ok against the skin, but that will vary according to the individual.
I should note that Montbell have been updating their wet weather gear range in recent months, and I haven’t tried the latest models of either the Dynamo or Versalite. The above opinions are based on my experiences with previous models.
Hi Cam,
Why the 2 sleeping pads for the AT?
As I mention in the article, the AT list is specifically for a southbound hike starting in late September and finishing in December. The GG Thinlite provides a little extra insulation for when the temps drop down below 20F. Also some additional insurance against the NeoAir popping.
Great – thanks Cam
This has been a really useful article for my AT gear planning. I think I am going to have a bit more stuff than you but not too much.
I had a question about the PCT list. You are using the MLD Burn pack, which I also really like although I think I may err on the side of caution and get its bigger brother, the Prophet.
The Burn is rated at up to 25lbs, but for the first part of the PCT I could imagine you would go well above that due mainly to having to carry lots of water in the desert. With a ~9.5 lb base weight, say 9 lbs of food and other consumables, and 6L of water you will be at almost 32lbs. Even with 4L of water you would be at over 27lbs.
Or do you find that because you are drinking the water constantly you hardly ever have to carry the full amount and so can base your pack rating on say half the full amount you expect to carry?
In the case of my use of the Burn on the PCT/CDT, my base weight would be around 6.5 lb + consumables 9 / 10 lb for a 5 day carry + 3 or 4 liters of water (i.e. 6 to 8 lbs). That adds up to closer to 24 or 25 lbs. (Note: Experience has taught me I tend to need less water than most other hikers. Additionally, because I tend to cover a few more miles than most folks, it doesn’t take me as long to get from one water/resupply source to the next).
Load ratings are only a guideline. There have been short periods of time when I’ve carried up to 30 lb in the Burn and it’s been fine.
Swami – you have dirty girls listed as both carried and worn for PCT/CDT. Love your work thanks for the lists!
Thanks for the heads-up and kind words. Duly amended. Cheers.