Do most people bring tents on the JMT or just tarps? I figured the main thing I can do to make my pack lighter would be to either get a lighter tent or use something other than a tent for shelter. (I have a Mountain Hardwear Thru Hiker, by the way.) I like my tent I have and I don’t mind its extra weight (approx. 5lbs), but all the ultralight talk makes me think I should try to be as light as possible. 
I’d appreciate any opinions or advice.
naturegirl
IMO, it depends on the month you’ll be hiking. Early season I’d carry a tent for protection against mosquitoes. September, into October, a tarp is all you really need.
Also, it’s probably time to get a lighter tent. Check Tarp Tent, Six Moon Designs, Gossamer, you’ll save atleast 3 lbs or more than the weight of a bear canister.
Sly
I think you shoud get a tarp, 10 by 10 is a good size you could also get away with an 8 by 10, but I like my tarp big. Dont get to small a tarp because then you have to worry about your feet getting wet. I would also get a Bug Bivy by outdoor research. This was the best shelter I have ever use and it is all I really use any more. It is about 2 lbs I think. if I really wanted a tent I would get a tarp tent.
youngndum
Just be aware the weather changes very quickly. We got hit with a storm and heavy rain and then it changed to pea size hail! I am glad we had a tarp and our tents.
Another JMT hiker I think her name was Mary Lou anyways she was above the treeline and heading in when the storm hit…so when I met her at Devil’s Postpile, everything was soaked clear through!!! She was trying to dry out her tent as well as her clothes.
Got with what you feel comfortable with, but there are lots of lighter tents out there as mentioned above.
I agree the bigger the tarp the better, (of course again depending on the weight) it was nice to have three of us hang out under it while it rained, not having to be huddled up in our tents.
AlohaTink
Drop the tent and shelter/tarp and just take a lightweight rain suit. That’s what I use and i’m fine. I like to keep my pack super light.
snail