Exploring the Wonderfuland
Magical World of
Hammock Backpacking
Cary Beuershausen, WFATrail 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?
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
Site Selection
Get Creative!
Get Creative!
Get Creative!
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.
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?
Dude! Where Are My Trees?
Where Do I Learn More?
• http://www.hammockforums.net• http://www.youtube.com
Search for ‘shug hammock’• Read the “The Ultimate Hang”* and visit
http://www.theultimatehang.com• Read “Hammock Camping” by Ed Speer
* All illustrations used by permission of Derek Hansen.
Questions?