I did an over-nighter with a newbie at Red River Gorge. We did a short loop from the Gray's Arch parking lot around Rough Trail to Gray's Arch & on to Hanson's Point. Then, back along Pinch em Tight Trail.
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We camped at Hanson's Point, which was a popular spot this weekend. I've wanted to camp at Hanson's Point since I first went out there. I had reservations about picking this as our site with the low temps and wind exposure. It was primed to be a true test of my homemade JCP top quilt!
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We found a decent spot that was over the ridge just a bit, which helped with the wind. We set up camp, got a fire going and started dinner.
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On the menu was homemade beef stroganoff and cookies & creme pudding (I'm loving the freezer bag meals!).
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I really don't prefer dry campsites. My main reason for wanting to camp at Hanson's Point was to catch the sunrise in the morning. The views are sure worth the price though!
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View from the hammock in the morning
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I had hoped to find the Ledford Arches. Unfortunately, I didn't have any luck this trip...I guess I'll have to go back!
We finished our trip with a stop at Miguel's for some pizza!
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My bonehead move for this trip was packing my good camera. I debated packing the weight and risking damage to the camera. But, I was really hoping to get some nice pics. I figured for an overnight trip the weight didn't matter that much and why did I buy the camera if I'm not gonna use it. So, I brought it along. But, did you know that these fancy digital SLR cameras need a memory card...Who knew?!?
My set up this trip was a Warbonnet BB with a Mamajamba tarp. I used an Underground Quilts 20* UQ w/a couple ounces of over stuff and a homemade JCP TQ & a silk liner. The temps got down to 35* with a slight breeze. I slept in Under Armor cold gear, two pair of thinner wool socks, wool T-shirt, dri-fit running shirt, pullover fleece, beanie and shemagh. I stayed warm enough to be comfortable except a couple times when my feet came out of the foot box or when I rolled and exposed my back. Overall, I was pleasantly surprised how well the JCP TQ worked. When I pieced it together I never had any intentions of using in in 30* weather. But, I had to spread my gear around to be able to bring the newcomer.
Hope others were able to get out and enjoy the great weather we had here!
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