Wildcat Hollow / Double Rainbow initial impressions
I'm not sure if it was the mud , downed trees , or me getting old , but I was sore after 16 miles averaging a 2.9 mph pace. I've hiked this trail enough times, I don't need to review it.
I did pick up a new tent that I've wanted forever. Henry Shires Tarpent Double Rainbow. Aside from seem sealing, this is it's first trip. I've owned the Squall 2 for a few years and the Double Rainbow fills some gaps in features missing from the Squall.
1. Freestanding. Although I haven't tested this capability yet, it's possible using trekking poles. This comes in handy in the sand ,snow, or tent platforms.
2. Possible 4 season use. The double rainbow isn't advertised to handle snow loads , but checking out the design , it should handle moderate amounts. It also has peak vents in case the bottom venting gets clogged.
3. Double vestibules , side entrance. With this feature theirs plenty of room for gear storage and kitchen space. This also makes it an easier to use 2 person tent. These awnings can be pitched multiple ways. I had it set up with double awnings and it has unbelievable ventilation.
I'll be using this tent exclusivity for a few years and have no doubt it'll meet my expectations given my use of the Squall 2. One small quibble could be the slightly higher weight than the Squall. It also may require extra line. Total weight , including extra line , stakes, a breathable liner, and seam sealing ends up being 3lbs 1 oz.
Here's a view with one side rolled up. Gossamer Gear Marisopa plus pack in front.
This shows the porch/awning setup with tie-downs to trees.I originally had the other side set up the same way with hiking poles. This thing looked like a spaceship with both awnings out.
Random hill shot.
Sunday Creek about 1/2 mile from main trail head. This is were camp was set. It's kinda soggy.
Cold Weather Gear
Being in the deep freeze of winter only leaves me one choice. More gear. I've been hoping to increase the temperature rating of my Montbell UL Super Stretch # 3 30 Degree bag by utilizing down clothing. I'll use clothing I'd probably need in winter camp anyway. I'm really trying to keep myself from buying a 0 degree bag that will cost $500.
Feathered friends down booties were a bit of a splurge. I have found walking around in the snow with outer covers comfortable enough. The covers slip off before getting into the tent. These will be nice to put on after a long day of hiking.
Montebell UL jacket and pants are about the lightest pieces of down gear you can buy. Weighing 7.7 ozs for the pants and 6.5 for the top. These are no frill garments , with no pockets, minimal elastic, and no felt lining. They keep me warm standing around in 10 degrees with a warm merino wool baselayer and lightweight nylon shells over them.
Big Agnes Copper Spur UL1 doesn't seem like winter gear, but it's replacing a lightweight, non freestanding , single wall , Tarptent Squall 2. It's only rated for three season use but I don't expect I'll have much of a snow load to test it's limits. Weighing in at a relatively light 3 Lbs 5.5 ozs with stakes, stuff sacks and ground cloth. I set this up in my snowy dark backyard without too much trouble for the first time. It has less room than my tarptent but I managed to get all my gear in and used my backpack as a pillow. I've got enough room to sit up in without hitting my head. A 37 inch peak height was enough for my 5 foot 10 height , taller people my have to hunch over a bit. Lengthwise I had plenty of room to spare and suspect it'll fit at least a 6'2" hiker. This will be my new winter and kayaking tent.
I got a chance to test this gear on a clear cold 0 degree night. I had my backpack set up with full gear and my new tent. I set up in the backyard and lasted about an hour. I wasn't shivering cold , but my feet were a little nippy. I don't think I'd of slept comfortably , and would've woken up shivering. It did get down to -5 degree Fahrenheit that night. With some handwarmers in my sleeping bag , I may have slept without too much trouble.
Some gear I need for comfortable winter sleeping:
A down inflatable pad to replace my Thermarest Neo-Air. I have ordered the Exped 7 down sleep pad and expect that will increase my warmth retention with twice the R-value of the Neo Air. I also have a Mont Bell UL Thermal sheet on the way, that may be used to supplement my 30 Degree bag.
Next on my list is a down beanie from BlackRock Gear.
Who's ready for winter hiking? Me.