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Posted by Fred on January 14, 2008 at 10:51:05 am EST
In reply to Castle Crag SP 01/2008 posted by Mr Haze on January 12, 2008 at 9:13:53 pm EST

Nice trip report! Your lessons learned section will doubtless be of value to other inexperienced folks looking to head out into the winter!

I think some of your vestibule observations can be attributed to a) you were on snow b) it was above freezing - so the weight of the packs on the snow melted it - soaking your stuff. A plastic sheet under your gear would have kept it dry.

Your decision to head out of the woods was wise indeed - had you stayed out the ill prepared member of your party may well have gotten in trouble - which really would have added stress to your situation. Most people are stubborn and will try to "tough it out" - sometimes with tragic or at least darned uncomfortable consequences.

As for the tent - you'll read (fairly often) of high altitude mountaineers packing 3+ people into a 2 person tent - typically at "high" camps - in this instance comfort really isn't an issue - you're just trying to shelter yourself and others from the wind and cold - it's more survival than anything else - so you're willing to play sardine for a night or two - but for backpacking - especially when the weather is going to be wet and cold - I'd stick with a larger tent for three people.

Your report, by the way, wasn't to long - you covered your points well, gave background information and included a good lessons learned section - kudos for doing a good job!

So - when are you headed out into the snow again?

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