Hello from Denver

[OutandBack]

Hi all. I'm new to the concept of hanging and considering a switch from tents. I'm planning a journey across Colorado on the Colorado Trail, much of which is above tree line. I'm seeking to understand I'd there are hammocks which can also be occasionally used as a ground shelter if there are no trees that night.

-Harry

Hi Harry welcome. The fast track for learning about hammock hanging is to come to one of our local hangs. We just finished up a winter hang this past weekend. Link here;

http://www.hammockforums.net/forum/s...ad.php?t=67549

We try to have 4 group hangs to celebrate the four seasons also many of us do simple overnighters close by a time or two a month.
Come join us sometime tents are welcome if you don't have your hammock kit assembled yet.

[IAmH]

Sure, most of the technical hammocks (I define by having an integrated bugnet) can be setup in bivy mode...if you want.

True, much of the CT is above treeline. However, it isn't difficult to plan your days so that you're back below treeline at the end of the day. Few of the above treeline sections last more than a few miles. You'll want to be below treeline anyway, given the thunderstorms that roll through the mountains daily in the summer. I try to time those sections for early mornings.

Thank you for the info. I agree on the tree line planning. I'm very cautious of the lightening. I just want to have the option if I'm in a pinch and need to gets some rest in a treeless area. -Harry

[ringtail-THFKAfood]

Most of the ColloradoTrail is hammock friendly. The exception is between Big Buck Creek (Segment 22) and Elk Creek (Segment 24). I only stay above timberline when the weather is good. I use a NeoAir pad (8.7 oz.) when I WANT to sleep above timberline.

With a hammock you solve problems with your feet. You must find trees and a sheltered spot in bad weather.

Tents solve problems with gear. I have a 2.5 pound, 1.5 person, 4 season tent. It is fun to weather a big storm above timberline.

You need to take the gear the gives you the experience that you desire. I would not crawl around on the ground for a month and a half for the two or three nights that you need a shelter to stay above timberline.

YMMV

[crackrbilly]

welcome from east tenn.