I am going to Philmont Scout Ranch in the Rocky Mountains in New Mexico, USA, this August. I am planning on using the Eureka Timberline 4 tent, which weighs about 8 pounds. I am doing a 7 day trek and would like to know if this would make sense.
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If you know people who used to do treks, you might be able to find a light weight tent that you can borrow or buy for a sweet small price. If you know people who do treks they might be able to help you find a cheap (second hand) tent or you might be able to borrow an older one. (Do not expect to borrow their good one but it does happen.)– Willeke ♦Jun 28, 2018 at 18:20
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Do yourself a favor and read through some of the posts at backpackinglight.com/forums/forum/scouting/philmont– topshotJun 28, 2018 at 19:02
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1Go for it. It will build character. Get a couple people to share.– paparazzoJun 28, 2018 at 20:39
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Are you strong?– gerritJun 28, 2018 at 23:49
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Sounds like great exercise.– QuditJun 29, 2018 at 1:37
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2 Answers
Whether an 8 lb tent makes sense depends on a couple of things,
- If you are the only one using it then no, if you can split the weight between 4 people probably yes.
- Whether for your budget you can get a lighter tent, the lighter you go the more expensive it will be, at some point it won't be worth it on your budget.
Looking at that tent I would suggest getting something lighter for backpacking with.
answered Jun 28, 2018 at 18:12
No, that is way too heavy (and large for 2 Scouts). You would be better off just using what Philmont offers, which are about 6 pounds the last I knew. Call and verify availability.
You would be even better getting a lighter one if you can afford it, but they get more expensive the lighter you go. I like the Six Moon Designs Lunar Duo for backpacking, but it's $325. Their outfitter version is an extra pound but cost about half that (I have 2 of those for Scouts to use). However, they are currently out of stock. Those also require the use of trekking poles (i.e., not freestanding).
