Trekking poles for porch mode?

[jennalyn216]

I've read about people using trekking poles to raise up one end of their tarp for "porch mode". I've never used trekking poles before, but thought I might give them a try if I could also use them to rig up my tarp system. However, when I went to Bass Pro Shop the other day to look at some poles, they didn't seem to extend enough to get the side of the tarp above sight lines. So, how do people do that? Hang the hammock and tarp lower? Get a specific type of poles that extend longer than most? What do people recommend? Not looking to spend a fortune, but I'm open to ideas that really work well. Thanks!

[2ply]

With the pole fully extended you have almost 4' so you're limited to that. When laying in the hammock it seems to work out fine. You could always use a taller stick or tie off to a limb or tree for additional height.

[Wilson]

Hammock Setup 026.jpgI occasionally use 1/2" cpvc piping slipped over my trekking poles to gain more height. It's just high enough so I don't need to duck.

[Tehghost132]

If you only want them for porch mode, no need to actually buy hiking poles. Just walk out in the woods a bit and find some branches or sticks that are the length you want. Stick em in the ground, wrap a loop around it with your tie out, and stake it down to the ground!

[breyman]

If you only want them for porch mode, no need to actually buy hiking poles. Just walk out in the woods a bit and find some branches or sticks that are the length you want. Stick em in the ground, wrap a loop around it with your tie out, and stake it down to the ground!

+1. If solely for porch mode, go this route. If, however, you want the greatest trekking aid to man, get the hiking poles .

Kidding - but trekking poles are worth a real consideration when hiking distances/elevation and/or backpacking. There's been more than one occasion where the stabilization provided by my set of trekking poles saved me from a fairly serious injury.

[mountain_man_mike]

Having the poles back a distance from the corners of the tarp allows a higher top line for the porch. I have guy lines that are at least 12' so I go back about 6-8' from the tarp, wrap around the handle of the pole, then a steep angle down to a stake or rock. I seldom carry stakes and use sticks as stakes or tie to a nub from a tree or bush if not, then I use a rock.