GG Mariposa/Gorilla owner’s

The Mariposa has a lot of room and probably will be a bit much for short trips or base weights less than 15 lbs. I basically fill the volume with my quilt. I normally have 20 lbs and take short trips. 1-4 nights. I do love the pack though.

http://www.jolly-green-giant.blogspot.com/2012/08/review-2012-gossamer-gear-mariposa.html

I have the older Gorilla, and I really like it. I can use it with all support and pocket options at around 27 oz, or stripped down to 15 oz (including removing the hip belt) for extremely low base weight trips. The only time I don't use it is winter when nighttime lows hit around 20F and I need to carry a larger sleeping bag. Although, I might be able to use it bringing a tarp instead of the double wall tent in such conditions.

Are you using the Deuter 55 on the list in your profile? If that'll work for trips where you need a larger pack, get the Gorilla for shorter or warmer weather trips.

Thanks for the input guys,

@Andy, actually I'm using a smaller Deuter 45 now…just updated my gear list :)

I have considered going with the Gorilla for that very reason, especially since I'm not sure the Mariposa used for larger volume trips would be comfortable for me.

Hi, I purchased the GG Mariposa plus this spring and have had the chance to use it on a handful of overnight trips so far. Everything is holding up well. The design is simple yet practical. The only issue I have had is it is almost to big for an overnight trip. I think the Gorilla would be much better if you didnt plan on going for more then a night or two.

Thanks Logan,
I agree and have decided to go with the Gorilla. I read Philip Werner's and Brian Green's reviews of the 2012 Gorilla and think it will be the best choice. I'm hoping it makes a great weekend pack, and will help me to further lighten my load:) I'm really looking forward to trying it out, but will have to await the "award ceremony" in 8 weeks to get it…it will be at least another month before it cools off enough to hike here anyway.
Thanks everyone for your input!

Just wanted to say you made the right call to go with the Gorilla IMHO. I've used it for a number of overnights, and will be taking it on a 10 day 173 mile northern section of the Vermont Long Trail. I've had it packed up with 24 lbs for 5 days food plus 2 liters water and an 8.5 lb base weight for 30* evenings. It's a bomber pack and works as well as a day pack as it does for a multiday. Hope it works out for you !

Its a hard choice because the MP is only 2 oz. heavier than the Gor. That said, I bought the MP to replace a GRamte Gear Vapor Trail as part of a recent load lightening effort. It's a sweet and comfy pack and my Montbell down hugged bag keeps it carrying well even with a 7.5 lb. base weight and overnight trip food supplies. BUT as I await the arrival of my sub 16 oz. Enlightened Equipment quilt, I am thinking bar about grabbing a Gorilla while the early 2012 models are still on sale. I wish I had gone that route to begin with. If you want one do-it-all pack for all seasons, the Mariposa is perfect. But if you are thinking of something smaller for three season only use, go with the gorilla.