Tarp - Appalachian Trail

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#1

I now that most poeple are using tarps theses day but what kind, how big and who makes them.
thanks again

There, any spelling errors now.

luke kaim

#2

Sorry about the earlier post. I got caught up in the wiseguy syndrome after working all night with a bunch of wiseguys.
For a tarp I use the top of an old, brown, nylon, three-man tent purchased 25 years ago at Zayres (it IS old). The bottom of the tent had been torn and abused by years of usage but the actual roof was in good shape so I cut it off. It measures approximately 7’ x 9’ and has guy lines at each corner and the middle of each side. There are probably lighter (like sil nylon) and more fashionable alternatives but I’ve found that this old standby works well for me - and the price was right.

Dave B.

#3

I started using a tarp a couple of years ago. I chose the Go-lite Cave. Also bought the nest (mosquito protection) that can be pitched under the Cave. I have found lighter weight mosquito protection, so don’t carry the nest. The Cave isn’t the lightest option, but it is lighter than the tent I was carrying.

http://www.golite.com/products/NS_proddetail.asp?number=SH6000

There are plenty of other options out there as well, but I have had this both on the AT (during the PA floods this past summer) and above treeline in the High Sierra. No complaints or problems - worked well, as expected.

Lyle

#4

I have an Equinox job I got at Dick’s before the sold out and renamed. 8x10’ size. As most its just a tie out one. I do prefer the bigger is better for more choices of set up and coverage. I got it because it was like half price at the time.

You can make your own which is fun but I find sewing sil nylon to be like sewing fish together. That stuff is slickery.

BW

#5

I did the AT ('04) and the PCT ('05) with an 8X10 sil-nylon tarp from Campmor. The GoLite Nest hangs under it, if needed. I used the Nest for a short while on the AT because of the mosquitos, but didn’t use it on the PCT because of the extra weight.

I hiked with a couple on the PCT who had made the Ray Jardine/GoLite Cave for themselves. If you like to sew, check out the RayJardine.com website for more info.

You might also consider the Shire’s TarpTent or a Six Moon Designs single-wall tent. They’re like a tarp with bug screen and a floor. Many thru-hikers are using them.

WILDCAT

#6

how come hiking druk gets more post then this one does? Come on give me some more feedback.

luke kaim

#7

I use a Granite Gear White Lightning, 1lb 3oz and 8x10. 8x10 is very spacious. It is a good size for someone learning about tarp camping (it’s easier to stay dry then a smaller tarp), and if you are stuck zeroing due to weather the extra size is nice to play under. Also is plenty of room to share with another person. However smaller would work fine for a solo hiker who has some experience in dealing with tarps in bad weather.

My tarp is on the heavier side, but I got it on sale and it is really well made. It was a good learning tarp for me. I will most likely replace it with a lighter and maybe smaller tarp. Gossamer Gear makes some nice size tarps that are very light. Their Solo size tarp is still size nicely.

Miner

#8

sooooo easy to make one! (directions in “beyond backpacking” by ray jardine)…oh how we love our tarp!

maw-ee