Summer Bag or Not

[Duramax22]

Going on a hike in the smokies mid july. Going to be above 5500 the whole trip and sleeping at 6000 and 6543. Should i buy a summer bag or use my 15 degree bag?

[10-K]

I would plan on taking a 50* bag. From the park website:

Summer
June through August: Summer in the Smokies means heat, haze, and humidity. Afternoon showers and thunderstorms are common. Temperatures increase through the period with July and August afternoon highs in the 90s in the lower elevations. Evening lows are usually comfortable with readings in the 60s and 70s. In the higher elevations, the weather is much more pleasant. On Mount Le Conte (6,593' elevation), no temperature above 80 degrees has ever been recorded.

[MuddyWaters]

the issue with summer temps is that its hot when the sun goes down, and doesnt really cool off often till just before dawn.

Even with a 30F bag, if temp is above 65, i cannot get inside without sweating even with it unzipped. Pretty much takes temps down near 60 to do so unzipped. Usually end up unzipping it as a quilt, and just covering my tummy with a corner , pulling more over me as the night cools down. If temp drops enough I may finally be able to get in.

I dont think you will be able to stand a 15F bag . A 45-50 bag would be better.

[Don H]

If you going to buy a new summer bag get one with a full length zipper.
I like the Mont Bell ULSS #5 which is a 40 degree bag (EN Comfort Rating 48*). Weight 1 lb. 2 oz.

[Andrewsobo]

I'm hoping my 20 degree quilt won't be too much in august.