Ultimate Camping Thread

How droll!

I’ve winter camped extensively since my youth, but always used tarps/tents. My recent snow cave experience was positive, and kindled a “cave vs tent” cogitation.

Weight:

Tents generally weigh more, my snow shovel/saw - 1.9 lbs; my one man tent - 3.5 lbs

Time:

Tent obviously has the edge, 10-15 minute setup; average 1-1.5 hours digging a snow cave (probably shorter for those actually in shape, or if one finds that perfect downslope situation to facilitate excavation)

Strenuosity:

Tent obviously has the edge.

Experience:

This was the big intangible that really caught my senses. There’s a totally different ambiance between staying in a tent vs a snow cave, especially during inclement weather. You and your tent intimately ride out the storm in a joint adventure; a higher sense of adventure is maintained as one watches and hears every wind-buffeted tent shock and pole strain, and the accumulating snow inexorably pressing in on all sides of the tent walls.

Ensconced in the bowels of a snow cave is much more serene. Snow provides for a sturdy, immovable exterior with excellent thermal and sound insulation; the ability to safely maintain an open flame; and the opportunity to carve out multi-levels and shelves within the cave. Transitioning from a blizzard of 15 Fahrenheit and heavy, blowing snow to a 40+ Fahrenheit, calm, quiet, lit, snow cave just steps away is a surreal experience.
I highly recommend every winter camper try a snow cave at least once.

Happy trails all!

 

I didn't say it was a rational fear. I'm glad I amuse you though. But, if snow really doesn't weigh that much, then fear gone.

 

I need some help with a backpacking trip Mrs. The Yellow Dart and I are taking with Pup Dart up in Banff/Jasper this July. Anyone have any recommendations?

Here's the details:

Must Have:
- 4 days, 3 nights.
- Dog accessible
- Start/End at same trailhead (Loop or Out-and-Back. Loop preferred)
- Scenic views/campsites (I can look at bogs and old-growth forest in the States)

Like To Have:
- No more than 8 miles/11km per day (my knees aren't great and the pup gets sore)
- Campfires (the lady likes her a fire)
- Some seclusion

I've looked at the Skoki Lakes Loop and Egypt Lake to Twin Lakes -- but I'm a little concerned about the mileage. We're not planning on taking the Tacoma for gas reasons, but if anyone knows any good spots that can be driven into (Forest Roads, etc.) then we'd be willing to change plans.

Thanks everyone!

 

I'd do a search on Expedition Portal. Probably better chances of getting intel there.

 

Good call. Thanks!

 

Rae Lakes Loop. It's 38 miles but meets all your requirements except the mileage thing.

 

Wrong country.

 

It is. But it's worth a shot

 

who can cook here ?

 

I make a mean frozen pizza

 

Ramsey would be proud

 

he'd be speechless haha. but really there are a few really good cooking threads on here. smoking, cooking, camping food.

 

If you are still looking for some info for some a backpacking trip I'd suggest you look into Yoho Park, it is located just past Lake Louise. None of the days are terribly long from what I can remember ad you get some amazing views especially if you do the ice line trail as part of your loop. There are several campsites which lets you make the trip longer or shorter depending on what you are wanting.

The biggest issue you are going to encounter this year is being able to book campsites. With this year being our 150th birthday park passes are free, and with that everyone is wanting to take advantage of them. So most campsite that can be pre booked(which is the majority in the parks) have already been so.

FYI Skoki is quite beautiful but the initial slog in is long and not terribly enjoyable

 

I give first consideration to the sleeping bag.
Torch and batteries
Hiking shoes and gloves
Camera
Map, GPS
Baby wipes etc.

 

Also, I once made myself a hammock made from a 4-meter piece of tarpaulin and 2 carbines. I connect the ends of a school knot with a carbine and attach it to a rope. I get such a "pea pod." It's almost impossible to fall out of it, it's very comfortable for the back. Lulls at once or two. I use Tarp https://bestoutdooritems.com/backpacking-tarps/ especially well for camping. The first installation was at night in the forest, with the light of the fire and not known equipment (from the store immediately to the forest). Pleased the simplicity and thoughtfulness of the design allow even one without problems to put in a couple of minutes. Watch a video of which hammock is better to choose, and not expensive, if certainly interesting

 

Ultimate Camping Thread??

 

It’s in there somewhere...

 

under the stars on the Giant Ledge, Catskill Mts.

lingering snow patches and temps in the 20's at night made it feel like a winter campout, but it also meant few people and no bugs.
I also found a quarter on the trail!