Distinctly Montana Magazine

Distinctly Montana Summer 2018

Distinctly Montana Magazine

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W W W. D I S T I N C T LY M O N TA NA . C O M 33 to look for the smoothest, most level piece of ground to sleep on as there are ultralight hammocks where you could camp suspended above boulders if you like. Like any sport, much of this stuff isn't cheap. Sleeping bags with 900-fill down can cost at least twice that of the 650-fill bags—but they are also 2 lbs lighter, and stuff down much smaller. Tarps/single wall tents of usable size can easily be in the $300 - $600 range. e axiom is: "the lighter it is, the more it will cost." I looked for compromise—silnylon, not cuben for a shelter, coupled with a reasonable backpack. I did splurge for the 900-fill sleeping bag, as much for size and weight. ese light- weight packs are smaller than what I am used to, and I can quickly run out of space before I hit my maximum weight. Maybe when I am in my 70s I'll have to go to the cuben fiber for everything, but for now, the material is out of my price range. Now, you may be asking—"apart from cash, what else am I giving up?" Good question—yes, I definitely had to give up some luxuries, especially in the food department. Freeze-dried food is not my favorite, but I am willing to put up with it for a few days if it gets me out into my favorite backcountry areas. I do bring some luxury items like real coffee. Traveling with my dog adds additional options as she can carry 15 lbs, too. But, I'm afraid you cannot get away from the mantra: "every ounce counts." You have to be judicious in your choices, and figure out what works for you. By the way, I did keep my old external frame packs. I will occasionally channel my inner dinosaur and take them out for the fun of it. On one trip to Glacier last year, I heard one passerby remark: "nice retro pack! It's such a classic!" So, if you gave up on backpacking years ago because of the weight or because age was getting the better of you and you didn't think you could do it again, take a look at the "light side." Many of these ultralight "cottage industry" manufacturers can eas- ily be found on the web. ey have been started by hiking enthusiasts and made in this country. ey are often innovative and of very high quality, so you would be support- ing home-grown small businesses. More information on ultralight resources can be found on my blog site: graytrekker.blogspot.com. Don't be afraid to experiment; eBay is your friend for those items that didn't work out as planned. And finally, to coin REI's slogan somewhat, "Get back out there!" Doug with helper, Mysti

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