I'm preparing for a (solo if I can't find anyone to go with me) hike on the Long Trail in Vermont. I thru hiked the Appalachian Trail (AT) starting in February, but Georgia is very warm compared to Vermont. The average temperature high in January is below 0F for much of the state. I'm hoping to hear from someone who has experience doing extended hiking and camping in temperatures that don't get above 0F and dip as low as -40F for weeks on end. I want to know how to be sure I can stay warm without taking way too much stuff, and some guidance on issues to watch out for. Here's my basic setup:
Staying Warm
- 0F Feathered Friends bag
- A merino blend sleeping bag liner
- A merino wool base layer
- Several synthetic base layers
- Primaloft light jacket
- Couple layers of gloves
- Heavy wool pants
- -40F Sorrel boots
- Heavy wool socks
- Aether shell
- Silk scarf
- Balaklava
- Vaseline or fat to insulate any exposed skin
- Wool cap
- Fire paste
- Vaseline soaked cotton balls
- Multiple lighters and matches
Dealing with the snow and ice
- 22" Snow shoes with teeth for climbing
- Crampons for boots
- Ski goggles
- Ski poles
Communication
- Lightweight dumb phone with long lasting battery and extra battery pack
- Garmin etrek-20 GPS
- PLB
- Recco fitted gear
Food
- Lots of fatty meats and cheeses
- Carbs
- Sugars
Do you think I am reasonably well prepared? What can I do to lessen my chances of dying?