Old Hanger from KY / New to the Site

**KYHiker** · 01-19-2015, 23:02

Hello folks, I am here to learn all the new (new to me) technology and ideas you have to offer in the way of off ground sleeping. I started out with a cheap nylon net style hammock in the mid to late 1980s to get off the ground when camping in the Red River Gorge. My friends and I would make multiple annual trips there for 3 season camping/hiking and they thought I was nuts trying to sleep off the ground. I now use a Snugpak jungle hammock without the bug net and either a camo poly tarp or a painted tyvek tarp as cover. I use 2 8 foot by 1 inch tow straps with looped ends and carabiners for support. I am interested in budget homemade underquilts and light weight tarps. I am sure it will take me weeks to wade though all the info in the posts here. I look forward to learning as much as I can! Any others from my part of the country please say hello!

**gmcttr** · 01-19-2015, 23:08

Welcome to HF from indiana.

**grannypat** · 01-20-2015, 15:46

Welcome from SC. New things are being invented or modified everyday, especially by Dutchwaregear.

**Aardvark** · 01-20-2015, 17:53

Welcome to HF from Lexington. Many a low-cost method for insulation and tarps here, need to know if you are going light weight or not so long a hike + car camping.

**rcurry** · 01-20-2015, 21:47

Welcome from a South Central Kentucky hanger/paddler.

**KYHiker** · 01-20-2015, 22:18

I generally do 2-3 day outings away from the car. I prefer lighter weights since a blew a disk in my neck last year. My pack limit is probably around 30-35lbs max gross. I like to enjoy my hikes so miles don't matter to me. Some days 2, some 8, but I do car camp and day hike as well. I like the topography in the eastern part of the state so there is always some elevation to pull.