Appreciation post: Franklin Trail in Vermont changed how I plan trips

Last fall I hiked the Franklin Trail in Vermont for 3 days. I usually pack super light but it got cold fast and I was shivering by night two. Turns out planning around the weather forecast alone isn't enough when you're in a valley with no cell service. Has anyone else dealt with getting caught off guard by temps dropping way faster than expected?

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1 Comment

thomas.piper1mo ago

Oh man, I gotta push back a little here. I've hiked Franklin Trail three times and actually think packing light is the smartest move. If you're shivering by night two that's on you for not checking the elevation forecast, not the weather report. I went up in late October with a 30 degree bag and a thin tarp, slept fine. Valley temps can drop fast but that's basic hiking 101, you gotta layer up and know the microclimates. Forecast is just a starting point, you need to plan for the worst case and strip down if it's warm. Honestly getting caught off guard by a Vermont mountain in fall sounds like skipping the prep work more than bad luck.