Camping & Hiking in Rain

[elbowman]

Hello All,

Well..me and the boys from MS are trying to make a decision about camping this weekend in the Sipsey. Weather looks like it might be a wet weekend with 40% chance of rain Friday & Saturday.

I am the kind of guy that will go out rain or shine. But camping and hiking in the rain does have its drawbacks and can make for a long, wet, cold weekend.

I was wondering what the general feel of the forum is? Do you go rain or shine? Or do you wait for decent weather before heading out?

I would be interested in your opinions.

Thanks. Eric

[Tacky Hiker]

We are going rain or shine. We have planned too long and took off work. If less people go cause of crappy weather, then more of the Sipsey to ourselves. 

[JC785]

We are going rain or shine. We have planned too long and took off work. If less people go cause of crappy weather, then more of the Sipsey to ourselves. 

Were headed out no matter what. What type rain gear do you normally wear or take?

[Lesley]

Rain Pants, rain jacket, a wide brim hat and a pack cover are all things I own. However, I learned quickly that if you get hot it doesn't matter the rain gear you have because it will all come off and go into the pack. You will then hike the rest of the day in the rain and develop a love hate relationship with the clouds. Once camp is made and everyone is cold and wet you will build the biggest fire possible, even though it may or may not still be raining.

[auwesman]

I love hiking when it rains!
Less crowded for 1 and the spatter of rain on my rain fly at night puts me to sleep quick!

I reccommend investing in a water proof bag liner.  I've got one that EVERYTHING can fit into (including my sleeping bag).  You want to be SURE that you can keep your clothes and sleeping bag dry and often I've found a rain cover for my pack doesn't garuntee dry if it REALLY rains.

Also, Gaiters.  I HATE getting wet and mud down my shoes.

Again it all depends if it's going to sprinkle all weekend, or really rain.

[lawnmowwer]

 Scouter, We go in almost any weather. I like starting in the rain. I don,t like packing backup in the rain, but it doesn't stop me.

I recommend you don't plan to exit Sipsey via any creek crossings without a bridge. The creeks and rivers can rise very fast in the area. Causing a long hike to get back to the car.

[JC785]

Thanks for the advice!

[lawnmowwer]

 BTW Thompson creek is awesome just after it has rained. If you are making good time or want a side hike you can go to the tree.

[WolfVanZandt]

I actually like hiking in the rain as long as it isn't freezing cold rain.

A trick about setting up camp in the rain - string up a tarp (or canopy) first, and then set up your tent beneath.

[Joshua Szulecki]

I'm a just AFTER rain hiker. That Eagle Creek Bushwhack last year was perfectly timed. Or at least, that's my excuse for being late.

[Firedog]

Hey guys, you might need to check this out. The water is coming.
http://www.hpc.ncep.noaa.gov/qpf/d13_fill.gif

[WolfVanZandt]

My campout is coming up in three weeks - there's several things I know about that week......

Part of it will be bitterly cold.
Part of it will be warm enough that, if you hike, you will sweat.
There will be at least one horrendous storm during the week.

I've had exactly one such Spring campout since 2000 that did not conform to those specifications.

[AdamSean]

Rain or shine baby!  Its all about adventure, right?  Its not an adventure if you plan everything.  Just be sure you are prepared.