another one from Pittsburgh, PA checking in...

**cbm9000** · 07-22-2020, 04:44

Hi there, useful people of this forum!

I finally decided to make an account here, though I've been aware of this forum for nearly a year as it came up a lot as I researched the purchase of my first proper hammock (a Blackbird XLC).

Thank you all for the great advice that you leave here for others to discover!

I decided to get into backpacking at the beginning of this year and my first trip was a wet one that had temps hovering around freezing in Allegheny National Forest (Rimrock Trail Loop). It was harsh, but a great time that showed me I could make hammocking a year-round shelter system! At only around 9 miles it was my longest hike ever, and while I'm sure that's a laugh to people that do backpacking, it was kinda nuts to me because of the conditions - I'd only ever been camping in the summer before, and it was always way more camping than hiking.

I learned a lot then and I've learned a great deal more recently here in researching lighter hammock-related gear.

Many of you have clearly been contributing to this forum for many years and it has created an immense library of hanging wisdom. Know that you've helped many people that may never get to properly thank you, but also know that they are greatful nonetheless.