I know most of the discussion has centered on hammocks in the Smokies, but I have hiked the northern half (NJ north), but I found my hammock to be the best thing since sliced bread. As someone else mentioned the ability to "stealth camp" cannot be underestimated. Sometimes the AT is too social, too loud, and too crowded. Being able to leave that behind can make all the difference.
the problem is it is illegal to stealth camp in the Smokies.
"Tenting is equivalent to a bum crawling into a cardboard box, hammocking is an art" KK
I do find it odd that they are so picky about folks camping outside the shelters. Have they seen photos of what those mountains looked like back when they were owned by logging companies? Many of the mountains didn't have a tree on them. And the mountains fully recovered - yet my hammock strap on a tree or a tent on the ground is just going to destroy the whole environment. Give me a break.
This is, of course, at the core of why we hammock.Originally Posted by revsbentley
It's a whole other experience to hang. The comfort, the difference in warmth (if set up right), but not only that - I feel much more freedom too. Having a hammock makes me feel like I can go anywhere and not worry. And being more out in the open make me feel more a part of my surroundings. I didn't have the same sense with a tent. I'm sure people who tarp it feel these things too, though. Plus, unlike you, my hammock and tarp saved me about 3lbs.
Congrats on your purchases!
Drier, more comfortable, fewer critters in bugging through the night and a fast set-up/ take down
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