Exploring the Wonderful and Magical World of Hammock Backpacking Cary Beuershausen, WFA Trail Coordinator North Florida Trailblazers

Why Leave the Ground? Often more comfortable than tents. Considerably more flexible than tents. LNT-friendly: – No soil compression – No clearing of vegetation – Things are left the way you found them

Why Leave the Ground? Typically easier to setup and cleaner to take down. Perfect for uneven and rough terrain. Highly customizable to suit your needs.

Why Leave the Ground?

Problems Leaving the Ground Not really geared towards multiple users. Can require more of a learning curve. More susceptible to cold weather if you’re not prepared.

Why Stay on the Ground?

Camping above tree line or in the desert. Tents may be warmer without additional precautions. Desire a fully enclosed shelter.

Problems With Staying on the Ground Not really LNT-friendly. Can be dirty to pack away. Typically bulkier than hammock. Need to find the “perfect” site to avoid rocks and sticks damaging tent floor, water runoff, etc. Can be hot and muggy.

Inside the Backpacking Hammock Typically made from light or ultralight nylon. May be single or double layer. May have permanent, removable, or no bug netting. Typically have storage areas or loops. May have a structural or non- structural ridgeline.

Site Selection Pick trees 12-15’ apart that are 6-8” in diameter minimum. Don’t pick the tallest trees. Try to pick a location that will naturally protect you from wind/rain. Optional – Pick site based on view – Pick site based on stealth

Site Selection Look up for widowmakers. Test your trees before you hang from them!

Site Selection

Get Creative!

Suspension Methods Notes About Using Rope/Line – Can cut into tree if attached directly. – Knots degrade rope strength (up to 50%) and can be difficult to untie.

Suspension Methods Webbing straps – Safer for the tree by distributing load. – Eliminate/reduce the need for knots. Strap Options – ENO Slap/Atlas Straps – Python straps – DIY (polypro, seatbelts, tie-downs)

Suspension Attachment Methods Carabiners Descender rings Tri-glides Dutch clips Whoopies

It’s OK to Sag Hang the suspension to create about a 30° angle. Too little sag will create too tight of a hammock. Too much sag will turn your hammock into a banana. Neither will be comfortable.

It’s OK to Sag A structural ridgeline will set the sag so it’s repeatable every time. An adjustable ridgeline can help while you’re in the learning phase or provide the ability to change the sag down the road.

Tweaking The Setup Use tie-outs to provide a roomier feel. Use ridgeline for clothing, lighting, etc. Try positioning head/feet slightly higher if you struggle getting level. Adjust height above ground based on personal comfort.

Keepin’ It Toasty Convection loss is your biggest enemy. Keeping the wind off your back will eliminate CBS and make your time much more enjoyable.

Combating Cold Butt Syndrome Hot Weather The clothes you’re wearing Warm Weather WeatherShield Cold Weather SuperShelter Underquilt

Take It From the Top Sleeping bag Lightweight blankets Top quilt

Alternative Insulation Options Foam pads Emergency blankets Natural materials – Leaves – Pine straw – Other vegetation or even clothing

Don’t Blame it on the Rain A quality tarp can greatly increase your comfort level. Choose a tarp that provides flexibility beyond simply covering the hammock. Multiple tarps allow optimal choice based on needs/conditions.

Assymetric Tarp

Hex Tarp

Rectangle Tarp

Winter Tarp

Coverage Disparity

Don’t Blame it on the Rain Tarp FlyzDutch Hook

Setup Overview

Dude! Where Are My Trees? If you find yourself above tree line, in the desert, or w/o suitable trees you can still use your hammock. Hiking poles and other objects can support ends like a tree. Being prepared with a pad can make the journey back to ground more palatable.

Dude! Where Are My Trees?

Hammock Setups

Where Do I Learn More? Search for ‘shug hammock’ Read the “The Ultimate Hang” * and visit Read “Hammock Camping” by Ed Speer * All illustrations used by permission of Derek Hansen.

Questions?