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Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 14
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Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 14
My last trip in Feb. I went ultralight as far as shelter goes. Had a warm bag and a bivy sack. Spent 16hrs in bivy sack in lee of boulder as winds ripped the MR clean. Spent night waking up breathless and panicked, ripping open sack, sticking head and arms outside to relieve claustrophobia and then rapidly diving back in as exposed flesh became numb in 9 degree F temps with 40-50 mh winds.

Needless to say,I don't wish to repeat so I'm finally going to breakdown and buy a tent. Any suggestions on something lightweight for 1-2 people? Keep in mind I really only get to hike in fall, winter and early spring... I have no experience with tents but I'd really like something that can stand up to the cold and winds I've experienced last two times hiking in Sierra mtns..

Joined: Mar 2003
Posts: 10
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Joined: Mar 2003
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I own a Walrus Windshear XV which weighs 6/9 for a four season double wll tent, it's out of production but the Marmot Up-High looks just the same for $299.

Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 32
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Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 32
avessey, been there done that, it was those powder sluff avalanches that bothered me. The problem is that there is no tent that will withstand the weather, that is reasonable to carry. Carrying an extra six to nine pounds in order to comfortably sit out a blizzard, or high winds is just not an answer (plus the flapping in high winds won't let you sleep). Of course, I am talking about a solo trip. Three pounds each for two people may be reasonable for extra comfort.

I rather suggest picking a time with better weather. Then a bivy bag is quite adequate. Though the weather forcasters are quite often inaccurate, as I have found out on two occasions.

It's sort of a crap shoot, will I be lucky, or will I be looking for my stove (keep it close) in three feet of new powder tomorrow when the storm clears. And keep those boots in your sleeping bag so they don't freeze, but of course you knew that.

You obviously came out alright and kept your head together enough to survive. Plus you were prepared enough. I think a bivy sack is the right plan for a light weight solo ascent. A tent is just too much weight IMHO.

Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 14
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Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 14
Well, I stayed warm enough but I would've liked to have slept more. Maybe it wouldn't have happened anyway... Knew to keep boots in sleeping bag but alas, did not. Foolishly thought keeping them close in bivy sack would be sufficient. They completely froze. My toes got so bruised from wearing them back down (didn't have much choice) that one of them is still black and blue under the nail more than a month later. Unfortunately the time when I can head up is rarely of my choosing - depends on when I'm in the area for other reasons. Thus I end up in CA a lot in the winter...

I've been looking at the Kelty Ledge tent. 4 season, 4lbs, 15oz and at REI outlet for $289 right now... Anybody have comments on this tent.


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White Mountain/
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Elev 12,410’

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Hunter Mountain
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Elev. -193’

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