Trail shelter conundrum

[Kevin Schneringer]

On an upcoming trip I will have the option of possibly using Trail shelters.
I have never used trail shelters on any previous trips since they weren't available.

I am thinking of using my BPWD Lair and Borah Bivy. Which is a nice setup.

Question is do I need to use the Bivy in the shelters? If so why?
If not should I just leave the Bivy behind and use my Lair and then the shelters when able?

I usually use the Bivy in cooler temps. But don't mind leaving it at home if possible.

[Ken Thompson]

Mice in shelters.

[Daryl and Daryl]

+1 on mice

I sleep as far away from them as I can.

[M B]

depends on the shelters.

Heavily used ones will be infested with with mice
They are dirty, have mouse droppings (and dried urine as the little buggers are incontinent), and are best avoided IMO.

When sleeping in one, you want a groundsheet or tyvek or polycro under you to keep your stuff clean and disease-free.

Even tenting close to AT shelters in the spring you will be attacked by mice looking for a free meal. They have been conditioned by the others that came before you.

Dont know about the ones on the OT if thats where your headed, it sees a lot less use.

[Anonymous]

AT shelters are filthy. I try to avoid them when I can, but if I have to stay in a shelter I'd try to have a bivy with me. It's no fun having mice crawl over your sleeping bag & on your face.

[Kevin Schneringer]

Well I had heard the mice thing but wasn't sure how accurate the info was.
I am going on the OT and several shelters are less hrs a year old.

I'll just carry the extra 6 oz

[Author]

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