Tunnel or Hoop Tents

Sierra Designs Light YearNote the much smaller size and the use of only two poles. This greatly minimizes the weight of the tent, making it a good choice for solo backpackers. Like the semi-geodesic dome, you'll notice that the foot area is smaller to cut down on weight where the room is not needed. This design does require staking, but this doesn't make much difference to me as I always stake my tent anyway. I've Sierra Designs Light Yearexperienced enough wind to know that putting your backpack and other weighty things inside your tent aren't usually going to hold it down. Sierra Designs Clip FlashlightDoing my campground patrols as a Phantom Ranch ranger, I used to watch so many tents bouncing their way down the through the sites. Funny to watch but happy it wasn't mine!

More and more, I'm seeing tents made for the solo hiker. I own the Sierra Designs Light Year and absolutely love it! It weighs a mere 2 pounds and 11 ounces; not too shabby even when compared to a bivy. MSR Zen MicroZoidAnd with a peak height of 38", it allows me to sit up and read inside the tent. Very nice when you are stuck inside due to cold, wet weather and staying warm and dry is your main concern! Over the years, I've become spoiled with Sierra Designs use of white color for the tent walls. This doesn't tend to be something many people think about when making a tent purchase, but having spent hundreds of days for many years in tents, I appreciate having a light-walled tent that doesn't feel so claustrophobic while it efficiently reflects light to read by. Another great feature of the Light Year is that it only requires TWO stakes; three if using the rain fly. About the only way for me to do better is to have someone carry it for me.

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