Winter AT Hiking Gear?

imported
#1

Some friends proposed a January trip to Mt Rogers along the AT. This seemed like a great idea until I realized how cold it’s probably going to be. :slight_smile: I’ve done summer backpacking and winter car-camping, but I’m not sure I have the gear for winter backpacking. Just looking for advice on what else I should get.

I already have two fleece jackets, fleece pants, discount store long underwear, lightweight rain jacket/pants, and a 30 degree Kelty bag that’s actually comfortable in the 30s. This gear keeps me comfortable in the upper 20s, but I’m assuming I need to be prepared for single digit temperatures.

What else should I get? I have military nylon poncho liners. Will a couple of these keep me warm enough in the bag, or do I need to bite the bullet and get a warmer bag? As far as outer wear, would it make sense to go for more fleece, a heavier outer jacket, or maybe a 2d set of long underwear?

I was also thinking about a fleece neck gaiter, as well as gaiters for my boots in case of snow.

Thanks for any ideas. I spent enough time in the Marine Corps that I love being in the cold, know how to be cold, and hate to be cold. :slight_smile:

Bob

Bob

#2

I’d recommend (pretty strongly) a 0-degree bag. If you can’t afford that - at least get a silk bag liner to add approx 5 degrees of warmth.

Layer your clothes. Make sure you have and wear a outer wind blocking layer - your rain gear may be okay for that.

When hiking you will generate a surprising amount of body heat. Don’t get overheated - take the time to stop and adjust/remove/add clothing layers as needed.

When stopping for more than a few minutes, add some clothing to retain your body warmth.

When arriving in camp, take off your base layer and replace with dry clothes. Sometimes you cannot even tell if your base layer has gotten damp - change anyway.

If you have a down bag - protect your bag! Keep it dry. Your insate perspiration at night can wet your bag just as outside moisture can. Don’t breathe into your bag - keep your face at the bag opening.

When you first get into camp - lay out your bag and allow it to start regaining it’s loft.

A thick, down jacket is great for sitting in camp but not so great for hiking - you will overheat in it if you exert much energy. Better to layer your garments by wearing several, thinner items. That allows you to adjust as needed.

Carry the 2nd set of polypro underwear. If for no other reason so you have a dry pair to change into.

While hiking you may generate too much heat to wear a neck covering. In camp/on a break might consider carrying something.

Yes on the gaiters - get the ones that will come up above your calf towards knee. It also helps to keep on your wind pants with the gaiters to keep out the snow. In the past I haven’t overheated wearing the wind pants while hiking - just keep track as you go.

From one Marine to another - Semper Fi!

Mark “JAWS” Ogle
Sgt, 0341
74-78

JAWS

#3

I have been up there as late as the end of November. The thing I had the most problem with was the wind. I used a 25 degree bag with a fleece liner and was relatively comfortable.

The two things I would recommend the most:
-a good shell / windbreaker
-a pair of fleece socks to change into when you make camp (these things are worth their weight in gold)

Lastly, be careful to insulate your water bottles well. I had water freeze inside the tent last time I was there.

Ambler

#4

How about some Military surplus stuff??? I know that the Extreme Cold weather stuff (sleeping bags) is heavy but is it better than commercial items? How about the Gortex ECWS jackets/pants? Poly pro? ECT???

maxluke

#5

I spent the past two winters flying jets against Canadian F/A-18’s out of Cold Lake, Alberta. I was fortunate enough to go through a modified (beer was a major component of their training agenda) cold weather survival course.

Most critical - Don’t neglect your feet. We used either insulated flight boots (regular flight boots had a steel plate that was totaly unacceptable) or Mucklucks.

Layering was essential. It was amazing how much you could sweat in 20 below temps.

Finally, in situations where -40 C was common, fire was the highest priority item on your checklist - especially if any symptoms of hypothermia appeared.

booger