Clothing for the Aubrac in early to mid-October

[jouffroy47]

I will be taking the Via Podiensis in early to mid-October and am wondering what to expect in terms of climate and what to bring in terms of clothes. I understand that because of the high altitude, the Aubrac and be cold. Also what to expect in terms of terrain so what type of boots to bring. Rain pants? Gaiters? A down vest?

 

[Kitsambler]

The altitude is above 1000m for most of that segment. You will want layers; it can be cold (frost) at night, yet be warm (shorts, depending on personal preference) in some afternoons. Autumn storms are not out of the question; you should anticipate at least two rainy days in your trip (maybe more). I recommend a quick-drying baselayer (merino wool or polyprop long underwear), quick-drying trousers, two long-sleeve shirts, one short-sleeve shirt, a lightweight fleece jumper (not down unless the water-repellent type), lightweight gloves, and a fleece hat. You will want good raingear (possibly rain pants). And since things will be cooler, clothes will not dry so quickly -- I would take extra underwear and socks. Since there will be fewer walkers, some lodgings may not be open, so calling in advance to make arrangements would be useful.

 

[newfydog]

The "Pass of the 13 Winds" is well named. Plan on some cold winds. (edit...that is south of the Aubrac, in the Haute Languedoc, but similar)

 

[jouffroy47]

Thanks so much for the information! I was wondering about sleeping needs--will I need a sleeping bag and will a summerweight 50+ do?

 

[Kitsambler]

The lodgings will have blankets; so you might get along ok with just a silk sleeping bag liner. But this is shoulder season, and there is no guarantee that the heat will be on. So a lightweight down quilt (or a summerweight bag) might be more comfortable.

 

[ranthr]

Rain pants and gaiters yes!
Last spring, end of May , I needed my rainpants to put over my trousers to be warm enough, even if it did not rain.