Boooyah! from the Mitten

[Br0ken4rrow]

What's up everyone?
Long time listener, first time caller out of Midland, Michigan. Not new to hiking, but new to hanging. Taking a 7 day trip on the Sawback trail in Banff here at the end of August, hanging sounded like a good idea. I've always been jealous of my buddy who's been hanging for years. I used the vast wisdom on this site and jumped in. In the past couple weeks I've successfully made a DIY gathered end hammock, bug net, underquilt, overquilt, black cat tarp, bear bag, and stuff sacks for all my new gear. I slept in my backyard all weekend, I think it's nicer than my real bed! I can't express how grateful I am for the wealth of info on this site, it truly is a great community. I'll be posting some photos eventually, and hope to become a contributing member to help pay it forward.

Thanks again,

Jake

[2ply]

Welcome to HF from Georgia. Sounds like you're well on your way to some great nights sleep in the piney woods.

[grannypat]

Welcome from SC. Be sure to post a trip report.

[hanggirl]

Man, when you jump in you jump with both feet, eh? Do you know if the state parks allow hanging in MI? I'm headed that way soon. Welcome and have a great time in Banff.

[IndyFace]

welcome from pittsburgh pa. i'm the same as you. i love backpacking/hiking and camping but i'm about a year old with the hanging aspect. i love it though and i haven't been in a tent since i started hanging.

[Br0ken4rrow]

Yeah, its a gift and a curse. When I get a new idea in my head I go all in haha.

I haven't tried to hang in a state park here in MI yet. I'll be attempting next weekend though, at South Higgins Lake State Park. I haven't seen any rules against it, and as I said earlier, my buddy has been doing it and hasn't had any problems.

[nicholasyax]

Welcome from over in Holland, formerly of Bay City. You're in good company with quite a few members from the mitten state and several group hangs a year (not that I have made it to any yet).

Never had an issue at Michigan state parks, have hung in at least 5. Just use tree straps to keep from damaging trees. There is even a hammocking class at a couple parks taught by some members here.