View Full Version : What temp. bag for a Virginia section hike?
jbsbestfan
09-12-2011, 09:56
I am going to hike the AT between Damascus and Grayson Highlands in 2 weeks and wondered if anyone knew what temperature bag I should take? I have a 45 and a 20.
FlyPaper
09-12-2011, 10:08
The average overnight low for Damascus, Virginia on September 30th is 44 degrees. You should have the benefit of the 10 day forecast, which is a better predictor.
Also, on average you should subtract 3 degrees for each 1000' of elevation gain. Thomas Knob is the 3rd highest shelter on the AT at about 5400' above sea level. I think Damascus is closer to 2000' above sea level, so you might want to subtract about 10 degrees off a Damascus forecast for altitude adjustment.
Unless your very warm natured, you'll probably be glad to have the 20 degree bag, but the 10 day forecast will tell you more.
Kerosene
09-12-2011, 11:58
I'd go with the 20, but I'd probably bring my 35-degree bag if I was going, augmented by camp clothes as needed.
Definitely go with the 20. I've tried to take a bag rated boderline before and definitely regretted it.
Serial 07
09-13-2011, 00:41
20......................
infinitejest
09-13-2011, 13:10
20 degree for sure. As a VA native and having hiked that portion it does get a little nippy. Also, check out www.noaa.org (http://www.noaa.org) for long/lat projections for temp/windspeed/etc.
jbsbestfan
09-13-2011, 14:03
20 it is! Thanks all
Not much love out there so far for the 45-degree bag. I agree concur ; take the 20.
Highstepper
09-13-2011, 19:30
For current conditions in Grayson Highlands check this out....http://weather.graysonfriends.org/
Note that the conditions are measured at 4000'