Every year, tents get lighter, stronger, and more sustainable. 2023 was no exception. The seven winners of this year鈥檚 exhaustive testing process proved themselves over and over in wind, rain, and even snow.

The Winners at a Glance

Best Space-to-Weight Ratio: NEMO Hornet Osmo 3P

Most Affordable Weather Protection: The North Face Trail Lite 2

Most Comfortable: Sea to Summit Ikos TR2

Most Comfortable Alt-Hammock: Tentsile Ocean UNA 1-Person Hammock Tent

Most Affordable Tarp-Tent: Outdoor Vitals Fortius

Best Beginner Tent: Coleman Peak1 2 Person

Best Mid: Big Agnes Gold Camp UL3

How We Test

Number of Testers: 11

Number of Products Tested: 13

Number of Miles Hiked While Testing: 308

Number of Nights Slept 国产吃瓜黑料: 76.5

Our testing group spanned the country, in wilderness areas from Maine to Hawaii. Testers come from a variety of backgrounds, genders, and professions, from public school teachers to park rangers. Over the course of two months, these testers evaluated the following tents on a multitude of criteria, including livability, ventilation, design, weather protection, setup, and price, among other intangibles. Those that didn鈥檛 stand up to the elements, were uncomfortable to live inside for weeks on end, or simply weren鈥檛 worth the price tag didn鈥檛 make it into our final round of testing.

Meet Our Lead Tester

Will McGough has been writing about the outdoors and testing tents for Backpacker and 国产吃瓜黑料 since 2015. Specs aside, he believes the most important thing about a tent is how it makes you feel鈥攁 good tent should make you feel at home, regardless of climate and conditions.

The Reviews: The Best 3-Season Tents of 2023

Best Space-to-Weight Ratio: NEMO Hornet Osmo 3P ($550)

Weight: 3.3 lbs
Interior Space: 40 square feet
Peak Height: 44 inches
Pros: Space-to-weight ratio; portability
Cons: Pricey

NEMO鈥檚 top-selling tent, the double-walled Hornet, expanded this year to include a three-person version that boasts an elite space-to-weight ratio. It adds more than 12 square feet of interior living space to its two-person layout at a cost of just 13 ounces, earning it the best space-to-weight ratio in test and within its own lightweight tent line. The tent body compresses down to the size of a Nalgene, and with just one hubbed pole, packability is exceptional. At less than three pounds, it鈥檚 light enough to pack for long miles while providing adequate space for three tall backpackers thanks to its 88-inch length. 鈥淢y 6鈥�4鈥� partner could lay down without hitting his head or feet on the ends of the tent,鈥� said tester Chelsea Gardner, a Durango-based Wilderness Medical Instructor. 鈥淚t was the roomiest, most comfortable backpacking tent he鈥檚 experienced.鈥� Two 8.6-square-foot vestibules are decently-sized, although storage space is tight for three people carrying big packs (each vestibule will easily swallow a big pack plus boots and daypacks, though). Even with a trio jammed inside, condensation is well-managed thanks to a three-quarter mesh body and pop-out vents. The two-door tent is made of NEMO鈥檚 100-percent recycled Osmo fabric, a proprietary combination of nylon and polyester that鈥檚 relatively lightweight and strong. 鈥淚t鈥檚 a three-season tent, but it still handled a surprise snowstorm with gusty winds around 25 miles-per-hour,鈥� reported another tester from Mt. Taylor鈥檚 11,400-foot peak in New Mexico. 鈥淚 stayed dry and comfortable inside.鈥�

Bottom Line: The Hornet is one of the lightest semi-freestanding three person tents on the market.

Most Affordable Weather Protection: The North Face Trail Lite 2 ($300)

Weight: 5.1 lbs
Interior Space: 30 square feet
Peak Height: 43 inches
Pros: Excellent weather protection; price
Cons: Weight

Finding a budget tent is easy. Finding a budget tent that can weather shoulder season storms? Not so much. The North Face Trail Lite 2 is the exception thanks to 9.5 millimeter aluminum poles, a 20-denier nylon ripstop fly with a 1,200 millimeter water-repellent coating, and 75-denier polyester floor. That burly bathtub floor adds weight, but allows the tent to withstand abuse on rough terrain and keep dirt and water at bay. 鈥淭his is a three-season tent that I would feel comfortable pushing into the early winter,鈥� said tester Dan Rinard, chief ranger at Baxter State Park in Maine. 鈥淚t would perform fine in a snow event.鈥� (The 20-denier fly, while a strong performer in inclement weather, prevents the Trail Lite 2 from being a true four-season tent.) Still, testers reported the Trail Lite 2 stood firm in sustained winds and deflected gusts up to 45 miles-per-hour, with pre-attached guy lines that make hunkering down a breeze. The lack of a fly vent emphasizes the focus on weather protection, but an all-mesh body allows for adequate ventilation. Overhead and side pockets make it easy to stay organized. Two eight square-foot vestibules sit outside the two oversized doors, big enough for large packs or foul-weather cooking. Inside, the peak height of 43 inches is average for its class, but the interior volume is maximized by the pre-bent poles. 鈥淚 was able to sit up straight in all four corners of the tent without touching the tent body or ceiling,鈥� said Rinard, who is 6 feet tall.

Bottom Line: If your idea of three-season camping includes early spring, late fall, and high altitude, the Trail Lite 2 delivers at a relatively affordable price point.

Most Comfortable: Sea to Summit Ikos TR2 ($429)

Weight: 5.2 lbs
Interior Space: 31 square feet
Peak Height: 41 inches
Pros: Comfort; livability
Cons: Weight

Weighing in at over five pounds, the Sea to Summit Ikos TR2 is one of the heaviest tents in our testing class and walks the line between a backpacking and car camping tent. But our testers found its livability to be among the best for two-person tents that could still be pressed into backcountry use. That鈥檚 thanks to a generous 31 square feet of living space and high-arching cross pole (although peak height is just below average), which allowed testers to change out of sweaty clothes without banging into the ceiling. Four pockets and two overhead storage slings made organization a snap. Vestibules on either side are just shy of nine square feet each, big enough for a pack, boots, and accessories with plenty of space for a clear path out of the tent at night. The pointed ridgepole design is key to its livability, but it also enhances the tent鈥檚 weather protection underneath the PFC-free, DWR-coated 68-denier ripstop polyester fly. It successfully deflected wind and encouraged rain to run off the top of the tent on a stormy trip to Yellowstone National Park. The polyester floor (also 68-denier) stayed bone dry on a rainy weekend atop the Grand Mesa in Colorado, while the bathtub rim kept dust from blowing in during a canyoneering outing in Moab. 鈥淭he vestibule walls come down quite low to the ground, so when we woke up to 4 inches of snow on the ground, the vestibule area was still 90-percent snow-free,鈥� reported a New Mexico-based tester.

Bottom Line: The Sea to Summit Ikos TR2 is a spacious, user-and-eco-friendly backpacking tent if weight isn鈥檛 your foremost concern

Most Comfortable Alt-Hammock: Tentsile听Ocean UNA 1-Person Hammock Tent ($299)

Weight: 5.1 lbs
Pros: Lay-flat sleeping; recycled materials
Cons: Complicated pitch; heavy

Tentsile has made a name for itself with its line of 鈥渢ree tents鈥濃�攅ssentially a deluxe hammock with three straps instead of two, the ability to lie flat, and a single arch pole for structure. But, at 15-20 pounds, these luxe hammock-tent fusions have never been appropriate for backpackers. Enter Tentsile鈥檚 new Ocean UNA, a relatively lightweight, one-person tree tent made entirely from undyed 20-denier polyester sourced from recycled ocean plastic. Weighing five pounds and packing down to the size of a paper towel roll, it鈥檚 still heavier than a backpacking hammock or lightweight tent. But its glut of creature comforts impressed our testers on multi-day mountain adventures, from an easy-to-use, built-in bug net to multiple internal and external storage options. As with all of Tentsile鈥檚 tree tents, its three-anchor suspension system offered a wide range of sleep positions for testers. Under the tall ponderosas of Coconino National Forest in Flagstaff, Arizona, we experienced no tacoing or slumping into the banana shape that often occurs in a simple hammock. 鈥淚t was the 鈥榝lattest鈥� night sleep I鈥檝e ever had in a hammock,鈥� said one Colorado-based tester. (Ding: Taller testers found their feet to be a little cramped). As with all hammock-style tents, it takes time, knowledge of knots, and patience to pitch the Ocean UNA properly. But for hammock-curious campers, or folks who find both traditional tent camping and hammock camping to be uncomfortable, the eco-friendly Ocean UNA is an excellent option for overnights or short trips into the backcountry.

Bottom Line: The Tentsile Ocean UNA is a sustainable 鈥渢ree tent鈥� for finicky sleepers and hammock-curious backpackers on short missions.

Most Affordable Tarp-Tent: Outdoor Vitals Fortius ($340)

Weight: 2.2 lbs
Interior Space: 29 square feet
Peak Height: 46 inches
Pros: Weight; packability
Cons: Requires trekking poles; learning curve for proper pitch

In the category of silicon-nylon tarp-style tents鈥攁 popular choice for budget thru-hikers and ultralighters鈥攖he single-walled Outdoor Vitals Fortius is an excellent, middle-of-the-road newcomer. At just over two pounds, this trekking pole-assisted tent packs down to the size of a loaf of sandwich bread, making it ideal for experienced backpackers who travel long distances and prioritize portability and weight above all else. The two-person shelter is airy thanks to the 10-denier all-mesh tent body, and, once pitched correctly, the 15-denier ripstop nylon fly and bathtub floor do a surprisingly good job of repelling inclement weather. On a very wet trip near Alaska鈥檚 Kachemak Bay, the Fortius kept testers (and their gear) well-sheltered from relentless all-day rain with only minor condensation, while guy lines held down the fort during 15-mile-per-hour gusts. The 29-square-foot floor plan is a bit small on paper, but a best-in-test maximum peak height of 46 inches means space doesn鈥檛 feel cramped overhead. Two large 10.5-square-foot vestibules offer ample room for packs and boots, and two doors provide each camper their own entry and exit鈥攍uxuries for ultralight tarp-tents. And while overall weight and square-footage are just average for the category, the Fortius is more affordable than most. The main downsides to this tarp-tent? To help cut weight, it has no internal pockets, and, like many trekking pole-required tents, it takes experience and patience to master the perfect pitch. That finicky pitch, owing to adjustable trekking pole height and a multitude of extra-long guy-out points, also means the Fortius can easily contort in varying weather conditions and terrain.

Bottom Line: The Outdoor Vitals Fortius is a solid two-person tarp-tent at an excellent price point

Best Beginner Tent: Coleman Peak1 2 Person ($269)

Weight: 6 lbs. 1 oz.
Interior Space: 32 square feet
Peak Height: 42 inches
Pros: Price; fully-featured; livability
Cons: Weight; packability

While Coleman is better known for its propane stoves and car camping palaces, its Peak1 tent proved to be an ideal beginner backpacking shelter thanks to ease of setup, a spacious interior, low price, and well-designed 鈥渕oonroof.鈥� With a heavy, 75-denier polyester (2,000 millimeter waterproof coating) and 8.7-millimeter-thick aluminum poles, the tent hardly budged in the 30 mile-per-hour winds testers experienced at Carlsbad State Beach in California. With 32 square feet of interior space鈥攖he most of any two person tent this year鈥攔iding out the weather was a breeze. 鈥淚t was roomy enough for two squirmy sleepers, jackets, and gear,鈥� reported Emma Veidt, Backpacker鈥檚 assistant editor. 鈥淲e were able to sit up and chat without feeling like we were on top of each other.鈥� But that weather protection comes at the expense of both weight and packability. At more than six pounds, it鈥檚 at the very upper limit for what we鈥檇 still consider to be a 鈥渂ackpacking鈥� tent. And the smallest we could pack it down was to the size of two paper towel rolls, necessitating a two-pack carry. But the Peak1 is feature-rich, with multiple pockets per-person and a triangular 鈥渟tar view window鈥� that鈥檚 easily unzipped from inside the tent (with the added bonus of extra ventilation). While we often find 鈥渟targazing鈥� options gimmicky, we found the Peak1鈥檚 approach to be just right鈥攎uch easier than rolling back the fly from the outside or trying to peep through a distorted plastic window. And at less than $300, it鈥檚 an affordable way for newcomers or weekend-warrior backpackers who don鈥檛 pile up the mileage to score their first shelter.

Bottom Line: The Coleman Peak1 offers a good balance of price point, features, and livability for new backpackers.

Best Mid: Big Agnes Gold Camp UL3 Tarp and Mesh Inner ($470)

Weight: 4.2 lbs
Interior Space: 45 square feet
Peak Height: 80 inches
Pros: Versatility
Cons: Limited vestibule space

It鈥檚 unusual for a veteran tent brand like Big Agnes to branch out into a niche category like pyramid-style tents (mids, for short), but we鈥檙e glad they did. A mid-style tent offers an unrivaled peak height, weather-protection, and space-to-weight ratio that only gets better with additional occupants. The three-person Gold Camp UL3 boasts 45 square feet of floor space and over six-and-a-half-feet of height at its peak鈥攆ar larger and taller than any traditional three-person tent. During a stormy trip to Coconino National Forest in Flagstaff, Arizona, our testers were able to pitch the 20-denier polyester ripstop fly as a camp kitchen during a rainstorm while also lounging in four backpacking chairs. 鈥淏eing able to stand up inside a tent when you鈥檙e six feet tall is a real treat,鈥� said one Colorado-based tester. Come nightfall, they attached the all-mesh tent body and 20-denier polyester ripstop floor (with a 1,500-millimeter waterproof coating) without ever taking down the fly. A few weeks later, while visiting the bone-dry Muley Twist Canyon in Capitol Reef National Park, Utah, another group of testers pitched just the inner mesh body for a bug-free night of stargazing. Its tall stature and non-freestanding design mean the tent body and tarp must be carefully guyed out to stand strong against wind鈥攕omething our testers reported was easier in teams, but doable alone. One downside of many mid-style tents is that they lack a vestibule entirely, but the Gold Camp UL smartly provides a small, 8.5-square-foot space in front of the door, capable of holding three sets of dirty boots. Our testers appreciated the storage option, although most things still had to sleep inside, requiring a quick game of Tetris before bedding down for the night. With a total weight just over four pounds, though, no one argued about who had to carry the tent.

Bottom Line: Big Agnes鈥檚 first real foray into pyramid-style tents offers an excellent space-to-weight ratio with a large floor plan and high ceilings for larger groups

How to Buy a Three-Season Tent

Capacity, size, and vestibules

The first thing to consider when buying a tent is its size. You鈥檒l want to know the number of people it鈥檚 designed to hold, but also look closely at the square-footage to ensure it will work for your specific needs. Check the length of the tent if you are more than 6 feet tall鈥攁 couple inches of head and leg room are critical for a good night鈥檚 sleep, and not all tents are created equal. Pay attention to the amount of vestibule space a tent offers, especially if you plan to backpack in colder, more gear-heavy months.

Weight vs. durability and weatherproofing

While the best tents offer a lightweight balance of livability, weather protection, and durability evenly, those qualities often come at a weight penalty. Consider how far you鈥檒l be hiking and how much weight you can comfortably carry over that distance. Some folks are happy to carry a five-pound tent that has a large floorplan and ample headroom, while others will prefer to minimize weight at the cost of comfort. Once you get a sense of your maximum weight, think about the weatherproofing you鈥檒l need in the environments you plan to visit. Campers in Florida have different needs than campers in Colorado. An all-mesh tent body will improve ventilation in hot climates, but let heat escape in cold climates. If heavy rain or bad weather is the norm for you, invest in heavier-weight, more waterproof tent fabric and thicker, stronger poles. Burlier floor materials also add weight to the tent, but offer more durability on abrasive ground.

Freestanding vs. semi- vs. non freestanding

Another thing to consider is the type of pitch a tent uses. Freestanding tents are supported by a set of structural poles and can be pitched anywhere, without the use of guy lines or added tension. They are the easiest to pitch, but offer minimal customization in foul weather. Semi and non-freestanding tents all use poles of some sort (structural aluminum poles or trekking poles), but need to be staked out using guy lines. This requires more patience and know-how when pitching, however it also allows the tent to be pitched in a variety of ways, making it easier to fit into tight spaces. Non-freestanding and semi-freestanding tents also typically weigh less than freestanding tents because they don鈥檛 come with as many鈥攐r any鈥攑oles.

Finally, a pro tip:

Know the return policies. The only way to truly know a tent is to spend a couple of nights in it. Some stores and brands allow you to return used products without a penalty.

When it’s time to upgrade your gear, don鈥檛 let the old stuff go to waste鈥揹onate it for a good cause and divert it from the landfill. our partner, Gear Fix, will repair and resell your stuff for free! Just box up your retired items, , and send them off. We鈥檒l donate 100 percent of the proceeds to .

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Wilderness in winter can be calm and rejuvenating, but only if you鈥檝e got the proper gear at your disposal. This year, we have an array of new and updated winter shelters hitting the market鈥攅ach catering to a different adventure style鈥攁nd we鈥檝e been hard at work putting them to the test.

How We Test

To sift out the greatest tents, we utilized a network of testers around the country. They live in a variety of places, each offering unique testing grounds鈥攖he dry, rocky canyons of , the damp, dense forests of , and the jagged peaks of , just to name a few.

Our testers come in all shapes, sizes, and abilities, from minimalists to family campers. Having a diverse range of folks checking out tents ensures that we get a diverse range of feedback and opinions. We ask everyone to evaluate things like durability, ventilation, performance, protection, and livability, while always keeping in mind each tent鈥檚 intended use. Through this process, we discover what lives up to the hype (and what doesn鈥檛), and, more importantly, where and how to use a tent so that it lives up to its full potential.

Read: The Best Winter Hiking Boots of 2023

Meet Our Lead Tester

Will McGough

has been writing about the outdoors and testing tents for Backpacker and 国产吃瓜黑料 Magazine since 2015. Specs aside, he believes the most important thing about a tent is how it makes you feel 鈥� a good tent should make you feel at home, regardless of climate and conditions.

Reviews: The Best Winter Tents of 2023

SlingFin HotBox ($650)

Weight: 3 pounds 4 ounces
Capacity: 2-person
叠别蝉迟:听For weather protection

The double-walled HotBox offers best-in-class stability and storm proofing at an incredible weight. Credit for the bad-weather chops goes to the rain gutter, bathtub floor, and snow flaps. Meanwhile, strength comes from an eye-popping 12 guy-out points, two perimeter pull-out points, plus full-length pole sleeves, which we feel is imperative when navigating snow, ice, and winter wind. During a trip to Arizona鈥檚 snow-covered Coconino National Forest, the HotBox stood up to 30 mile-per-hour wind gusts thanks to the 9.3-millimeter aluminum poles and a 20 denier nylon ripstop flysheet and floor. Breathability is also efficient鈥攐ver in the Talkeetnas, our testers experienced condensation-free nights, despite temperatures in the teens. 鈥淚f you want a tent to keep weather out, this is for you,鈥� reported Eli Bernstein, former Backpacker Gear Editor, after enduring freezing, driving rain in southwest Greenland. At just three pounds and four ounces (with DAC twist clips), the HotBox is incredibly light for a winter tent, but that luxury comes at the expense of some creature comforts. The tent鈥檚 26.8 square-foot interior spells just enough room for shoulder-to-shoulder sleeping, and two three-square-foot vestibules (accessible from only from the inside via drawstrings) plus eight small interior pockets offer space to store small items like dry sacks, boots, or loose clothing, but not much else. Testers were split on the vestibule design. Some enjoyed its innovation, since many winter tents have no vestibule at all. Others were disappointed by the vestibules鈥� small size and location on either side of the tent rather than at the entrance. 鈥淚f you put your boots in the vestibule for overnight protection, you then have to bring them into the tent and move them over your sleeping bag to get them out the front door, dripping water and mud on the way,鈥� Bernstein said. And though the pitch is solid, the pole sleeve system uses many plastic clips and carabiners, which are hard to handle when wearing winter gloves. Despite these minor drawbacks, this tent is a perfect ultralight option for the winter backpacker.

Bottom line: This is the ultralight choice for the multi-mile winter adventurer.

Eureka El Capitan, 2 Person ($250)

Weight: 8 lbs. 8 oz
Capacity: 2-person
叠别蝉迟:听Budget buy

This double-walled, two-person Eureka does something not many winter tents do: It offers a generous 35 square feet of interior living space and two 14 square-foot vestibules, all at a very affordable price. 鈥淭he interior is roomy, with more than enough space for two campers and gear without getting cramped,鈥� said Dorn Van Dommelen, an emphatic cartophile, after a trip to Chugach State Park in Alaska. Four interior storage pockets keep small items organized. And while the 43-inch peak height is below average for a tent of this size and weight, it鈥檚 enough to let you sit up while changing clothes. The El Capitan also retains all the bad-weather protection you need in winter, thanks to a 150-denier polyester floor with a 5,000-millimeter waterproof coating, and a body and fly made from 75-denier polyester with a 2000-millimeter coating. These bulky materials did well to keep out freezing rain and withstand winds of 30 miles-per-hour; however, they do make the tent hard to carry鈥攊t鈥檚 heavy and takes up the equivalent of five Nalgenes when packed. Two aluminum poles criss-cross to provide the El Capitan鈥檚 dome-shaped pitch, while four guy out points let you bunker down in windy conditions, or stabilize the pitch on uneven terrain. Ventilation was efficient on cold nights that dipped into the single digits thanks to high-low vents, including large panels on the fly that can be zipped open to improve airflow. Caveat: Plastic fly clips make pitching easy, but don鈥檛 bode well for long-term durability.

Bottom line: Spacious, budget-friendly buy for short-distance, winter weekend getaways

66掳North x HEIMPLANET The Cave XL 4-Season Tent ($1,199)

Weight: 13 lbs. 9 oz.
Capacity: 3-person
叠别蝉迟:听For basecamp

Perhaps the most unique aspect of this tent is the fact that it doesn鈥檛 use poles; instead, it pitches via inflatable, high-pressure Dacron tubes. This doesn鈥檛 save weight or space: the tent weighs 14 pounds, packs down to the size of a deflated queen-size air mattress, and requires a big hand pump, which means it鈥檚 best towed in a sled. But once at camp, the Cave XL is lightning fast to set up. 鈥淚t was about 45 seconds from the time we hooked up the pump until the tent was standing tall,鈥� says Ted Baird, salesman. And our testers were happy not to fiddle with poles when wearing thick gloves. Just like poles, the inflatable tubes criss-cross at the top, to create a strong dome shape that held firm in 20 mile-per-hour wind gusts and did not sag under two inches of fresh snow.

Otherwise, the name says it all: The double-walled Cave XL is built to swallow people and gear, and its unique design and setup help winter campers ride out storms in comfort. The three-person interior provides a generous 58 square feet of living space with a best-in-class peak height of 44 inches. 鈥淭hree of us slept side-by-side and there was plenty of room between our shoulders,鈥� Baird reported from Colorado鈥檚 Grand Mesa. The large living space also allowed us to stash gear inside, which was necessary given the lack of an exterior vestibule.

Five top vents kept fresh air circulating and warded off condensation after a night of near-freezing temperatures. The 70-denier nylon floor (with a 5,000 millimeter waterproof coating) kept the interior bone dry when camping directly on the snow鈥攏o ground sheet required. Organization was easy thanks to twelve pockets, five hanging loops, and a small front door vestibule that could stash wet boots. Bathtub floors and guy line loops are icing on the cake.

The pitch is strong enough to deter winter conditions, but take care when inflating the poles. Be sure the valves are closed tight. One night in Colorado, our testers had the tent slowly deflate and collapse on top of them as a result of a loose valve cap. We recommend bringing a small wrench to help with this in winter conditions, when your fingers may be cold. The high-density polyester air poles are designed to withstand the backcountry, but having patches on hand is imperative to prevent a worse-case scenario.

Bottom line: A basecamp for gear-heavy winter adventures.

More 2023 Gear Guide Reviews

• The Best Winter Packs of 2023
• The Best Snowshoes of 2023
• The Best Puffy Jackets and Midlayers of 2023

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The ($359) is the largest three-person tent in our test, and it鈥檚 full of features that make gear-heavy journeys a breeze. An update for 2022 adds two square feet of interior real estate for a total of 44, and 1.5 square feet of exterior vestibule space for a total of 13(6.5 on each side).

What鈥檚 more: It pushes the envelope on what we鈥檝e come to expect from interior storage and vestibule design. In addition to the traditional exterior vestibules, the double-walled Limelight introduces two unique interior storage cubbies that jut out on each side and serve as internal vestibules. 鈥淚magine you are laying down in the tent and there are two wing-like caverns on either side,鈥� said a tester. 鈥淓ach can fit a small daypack or dry sack and get everything out of the sleeping area, so that you don鈥檛 have any gear between you or at your head, and they are accessible without opening a door or pulling a zipper.鈥�

An interior clothesline, gear loft, and four low pockets ensure that nothing needs to be stashed at your head, feet, or side. Pre-bent poles produce a pitch with near-vertical walls, which, combined with a best-in-class peak height of 45 inches, maximizes interior space and headroom for easy costume changes.

These features make for prime livability, and you can also count on the Limelight in bad weather. Designers upgraded the fly fabric to 50-denier ripstop polyester, which, along with the included groundsheet and bathtub floors, improves its durability and performance. 鈥淲e camped atop rocks and gritty sandstone and saw no concerns with durability,鈥� one tester reported from Moab, Utah. Down in Coconino National Forest near Flagstaff, the tent warded off heavy rains and 25-mile-per-hour wind gusts. 鈥淰ents on the fly and a half-mesh tent body kept the air moving, resulting in no condensation,鈥� a tester said. And setting up the tent is easy thanks to a color-coded system on the poles, fly, and body.

Be warned that though the update shaves 1.6 ounces, the Limelight is still bulky and heavy, coming in just north of six pound . Split the poles and tent body between multiple packs, or let the Limelight become your new favorite car camping tent.

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The Freelite 3 ($480) is not the most livable three-person tent in our testing class, but it might be the best all-around for long backpacks thanks to its lightweight construction, satisfactory storage, and elite ventilation.

Designers shaved off nine ounces in this iteration, meaning the update weighs less than 2.5 pounds鈥� an extraordinary accomplishment considering its 38.5 square feet of floor space will house three people and their gear. 鈥淣obody argued over who had to carry the tent,鈥� one tester said after a multi-day outing in Waimea Canyon, Hawaii. 鈥淚t packs down to slightly larger than a jumbo paper-towel roll.鈥� Inside, sleeping conditions will be shoulder to shoulder, although the space-to-weight ratio is what our testers loved about the Freelite. 鈥淚t鈥檚 not the biggest three-person tent on the market, but few can be carried as far,鈥� another tester said after a ten-mile backpack in the Colorado National Monument.

The update did reduce overall vestibule space slightly; however, its two vestibules still offer 14 total square feet (seven per side), which is adequate for three people plus packs and boots. Mesh pockets are available for small personal items, and a peak height of 43 inches lets you sit up without hitting your head.

The Freelite鈥檚 three-quarter mesh body scored high marks in ventilation, even in humid climates. 鈥淗urricane Ida had just passed through the week before, so there was a surplus of groundwater, and it rained consistently the last night on the trail,鈥� yet another tester reported from Georgia鈥檚 Cohutta Wilderness. 鈥淵et the tent provided a dry refuge from above and below. No rain got in, the tent bottom was bone dry, and there was no condensation buildup despite having to close the fly door.鈥�

Setup is easy with the on- hubbed aluminum pole and included guy-out lines, which held taut in 20-mile-per-hour winds. The tent is semi-freestanding, meaning it will need to be staked out properly to achieve its full pitch (be sure to bring the appropriate stakes for the terrain). The fly is made of 15-denier ripstop nylon, which is effective in its weather proofing but needs careful handling to avoid tearing or puncturing.

The Freelite is one of the most portable three-person tents out there, but it is also a nice upgrade for solo hikers, couples, or pet owners looking for more space, as it is lighter and larger than many two-person tents on the market.

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Kuiu Mountain Star 2P ($479)

Best Protection

We鈥檙e not saying we love camping in the rain, but the Mountain Star makes it a heck of a lot more enjoyable. This double-walled tent is reinforced against wind via two nine-millimeter-thick aluminum poles (you can get carbon for $20 more) that run the length of the tent. Both of them slot through pole sleeves, granting additional stability. The Mountain Star鈥檚 15-denier nylon fly and mesh canopy come pre-attached, offering the possibility of a dry setup. 鈥淚t drizzled during our first night out, and my tent partner and I were happy not to start the trip with a wet tent floor, thanks to the all-in-one pitch,鈥� our gear editor said after a rainy start to the Panama Editors鈥� Choice trip. Bathtub floors ensure the 29.5-square-foot interior stays dry and dust-free, and the two nine-square-foot vestibules keep packs out of the elements. Caveat: though the 38-inch peak height mitigates wind, it鈥檚 noticeably low for its testing class. 3.7 lbs

Marmot Limelight 3 ($359)

Best Features

Social butterflies, rejoice. The largest three-person tent in our test is full of features that make sleeping as a trio a breeze. An update for 2022 adds two unique interior storage cubbies that jut out, winglike, on each side and serve as internal vestibules. 鈥淓ach can fit a small daypack or dry sack and get everything out of the sleeping area,鈥� said one tester. The update to this two-door tent also adds 2.5 square feet of interior space (for 45 square feet total) and 1.6 square feet of vestibule storage space (now 12.9 total). Designers changed the fly fabric to 50-denier ripstop polyester, which, along with the included groundsheet, improves its durability and weather protection. An optional interior clothesline, gear loft, and four low pockets keep the floor clear, while the three-pole setup is color coded and quick. Be warned: although the update shaves off 1.6 ounces, the Limelight is still bulky and heavy. This shelter is best used as a car-camping tent or for short overnights. 7.2 lbs

Kelty Far Out 2P ($200)

Best Value

Turns out not every backcountry palace needs to cost as much as an actual castle. The double-walled Far Out offers a combination of livability, overnight-worthy weight, and performance at a reasonable price. At 5.5 pounds it鈥檚 not ideal for a weeklong trip, but it鈥檚 perfectly good for weekend missions. Tip: save six ounces and leave the included groundsheet at home; the Far Out鈥檚 68-denier floor is plenty durable. This shelter sets up with three sturdy aluminum poles (two longitudinal, one brow) and offers an acceptable 28 square feet of interior space to go with a best-in-class 43-inch peak height, double doors, and a generous 20 square feet of vestibule space. 鈥淭his is a meat-and-potatoes tent,鈥� one tester said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 easy to set up, roomy enough, and should last a long time thanks to the durable materials.鈥� An all-mesh tent body keeps air moving, reducing condensation, and the 68-denier fly rolls back so you can stargaze without completely taking it off. 5.5 lbs

MSR FreeLite 3 ($480)

Best Space-to-Weight Ratio

Want to max out your sleeping space for a trio without overdoing pack weight? Consider the FreeLite 3. Designers shaved nine ounces off the previous version of this double-walled tent, meaning the update weighs less than 2.5 pounds. Despite cutting weight it maintains 38.5 square feet of floor space, enough to fit three campers comfortably. (Note: the two vestibules dropped to 15 total square feet, but that鈥檚 still enough for packs.) Thanks to a packed size no bigger than a paper towel roll, 鈥淣obody argued over who had to carry the tent,鈥� one tester said after a multi-day outing in Waimea Canyon, Hawaii. (Just treat the 15-denier ripstop nylon canopy and fly carefully.) A three-quarter mesh body scored high marks in ventilation: 鈥淓ven during all-night rain, the tent remained airy and there was no condensation buildup despite having to close the fly door,鈥� our tester said. Setup is easy with the one hubbed aluminum alloy pole and included guy-out lines, which held taut in 20-mile-per-hour winds. 2.4 lbs

Klymit Maxfield 1 ($300)

Most Packable

Not a fan of tent sharing? Camping in tight spaces? The brand-new one-person Maxfield weighs just over 2.5 pounds and mimics the footprint of a bivy, with a long, narrow, rectangular floor plan that enabled us to pitch on small outcroppings and in dense brush. Its livability is drastically better than a bivy鈥檚, however, thanks to its 16-square-foot interior, 6.5 square feet of vestibule space, and an elite-for-its-class peak height of 42 inches. The 15-denier nylon ripstop fly kept us dry in overnight rains, and the 15-denier polyester floor held up to rocks and rough terrain. 鈥淭he small-but-clutch vestibule fit all my essential gear,鈥� our tester reported after a two-day trip in the canyons of Colorado National Monument. In a win for minimalism, the Maxfield packs down to the size of two Nalgenes. Caveat: there鈥檚 only one interior pocket鈥攑lus loops for hanging clothes and sundries鈥攁nd sleepers taller than six foot two will find that their feet hit the back wall. 2.6 lbs

NEMO Dagger Osmo 2 ($480)

Most Livable

We鈥檝e praised the Dagger鈥檚 space-to-weight ratio and innovative materials before, and this version continues the trend. This double-walled, two-door shelter weighs just 3.4 pounds, yet boasts 31 square feet of interior space and a best-in-class 22.8 square feet of storage space across two vestibules. 鈥淭he 42-inch peak height allowed us to sit up and dress comfortably,鈥� said a tester after a trip in Archangel Valley, Alaska. Thoughtful features also deliver top-notch livability, including six pockets and a removable waterproof vestibule tub liner that holds small items beneath the fly doors. What鈥檚 more, the Dagger is now made of 100 percent recycled nylon and polyester yarn, with PFC-free waterproofing that kept us dry all night, even in heavy rain (the mesh canopy reduced condensation). Dialing in a taut pitch is easy, thanks to the single, hubbed aluminum pole with short cross-pole, and a snap-in, slip-free corner anchor system. Ding: the pole swayed when pushed around by 30-mph wind gusts. 3.4 lbs

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The double-walled, two-door ($459) makes camping in the rain a heck of a lot more enjoyable. Its 15-denier nylon fly and mesh canopy come pre-attached, so you can do a dry setup, and it鈥檚 held up by two nine-millimeter-thick aluminum poles that run lengthwise across the tent, yielding stability in the wind. 鈥淚t drizzled during our first night out, and my tent partner and I were happy not to start the trip with a wet tent floor, thanks to the all-in-one pitch,鈥� our gear editor said after a rainy start to the Panama Editors鈥� Choice trip.

KUIU鈥檚 background as a hunting equipment manufacturer shines through: this tent is durable enough to handle the mix of weather in fall and spring but portable enough (less than four pounds) to pick up and move each day. 鈥淚t鈥檚 exactly what you want in a backpacking tent,鈥� said one tester after a trip on the Jack鈥檚 River Trail in Georgia. 鈥淚t鈥檚 lightweight enough for multi-day trips, and tough enough for high-alpine and shoulder season weather.鈥� The fly-only mode, which includes pre-attached guy out lines, is useful as a temporary shelter or a camp kitchen during sunny lunch breaks or inclement weather above tree line.

To further please weight-conscious hikers, the Mountain Star comes with a choice of Easton carbon fiber or aluminum poles at no additional charge. The aluminum poles are easier to bend and pitch, but the carbon fiber poles are 2.2 ounces lighter and stand up better to high winds. 鈥淭he ability to customize your poles based on your hometown terrain and preference is a huge selling point, and also a very rare opportunity,鈥� one tester said.

Inside, livability is adequate, albeit cozy. Its 29.5-square-foot interior is average for its class, but the two nine-square-foot vestibules help offset that. 鈥淚 would not say it was roomy for two people, as we were shoulder to shoulder,鈥� said another tester. 鈥淏ut I鈥檓 6鈥�2鈥� and I slept comfortably.鈥� Organization gets a boost from corner pockets and a cord system along the ceiling for hanging items. Meanwhile, bathtub floors ensure the interior is dry and dust-free, and a 15-denier mesh body and two vents on the fly yield exceptional airflow. Though the 38-inch peak height helps mitigate wind, it鈥檚 noticeably low for its testing class.

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This article was first published by .

How We Tested the Tents

Tents are some of backpacking鈥檚 biggest-ticket items, with听. I set out to find what lower-cost but still high-quality options are available on the market. To be considered for review, the tents had to fit two people and cost $300 or less. At this price point, I was able to test offerings from both major and lesser-known tent manufacturers and keep the focus on affordability. As always, our evaluation occurs in the field, not on paper鈥攆rom听听to Colorado to Florida, we judged the tents based on our experiences and how their specs played out in practice. For example, while a tent may have a high peak height on paper, a pitch with narrow sidewalls and little livable space is less than ideal. On the other hand, a tent with a small footprint can feel larger if it has well-designed storage. In all cases of evaluation, we looked for the sweet spot between performance and price point. We do our best to explain our reasoning in the detailed reviews here.听听鈥擶ill McGough, Tents Category Manager听

Lightest: Big Agnes Salt Creek SL2

Overall: 4.8 / 5

Livability:听4.9

The Salt Creek SL2 is the most expensive tent in the test, but it鈥檚 also the lightest. Testers raved about its three doors鈥攖wo on the sides, one on the front. The front door has a sizable听awning that you can pitch using two trekking poles, which our听testers enjoyed on sun-filled days in Utah鈥檚听. The Salt Creek鈥檚 hubbed-pole design creates near-vertical sidewalls and a top-of-class peak height of 44 inches. Its one drawback: a 28-square-foot floor that鈥檚 the smallest of all the tents here. Two occupants on full-size sleeping pads can fit, but it鈥檚 a tight squeeze.

Features:听4.8

Thanks to two large vestibules (10 square feet each) the Salt Creek SL2听doesn鈥檛 lack for storage space, which helps free up room inside. It also has five interior pockets, including a 26-inch by 20-inch shelf halfway up the back wall that can hold items like water bottles, clothes, and other gadgets with limited sagging. 鈥淲ith everything stashed away in the pockets or on the big shelf, my girlfriend and I had no trouble sleeping side by side, and we had plenty of room around our heads and shoulders,鈥� one tester says.

Strength/Durability:听4.8

DAC aluminum poles support a half-mesh, half-20-denier polyester ripstop canopy. The poles, bathtub floor, and tough canopy material gave our testers confidence in the Salt Creek SL2鈥檚 longevity as a whole; however, certain design elements raised concern. 鈥淭he plastic clip-in fly connectors need to be handled carefully so as not to break them way out in the wilderness,鈥� one tester reported after a weekend in Colorado National Monument (none broke during our testing, though). The tent stayed dry during passing showers (thanks to the polyurethane coating on the fly) and handled wind gusts of 20 mph. Ding: The included aluminum stakes are chintzy.

Breathability:听4.5

The Salt Creek SL2 strikes a balance between protection and ventilation with its half-mesh canopy, which puts it in the middle of the pack in terms of听breathability. 鈥淓ven without a breeze,听we only saw minor condensation on the bottom half of the tent,鈥� one tester reported after a few humid听nights in the Florida Everglades.

$300; 3 lbs. 11 oz.

Best Features:听NEMO Aurora 2

Overall: 4.7 / 5

Livability: 4.7

Not only did the 32-square-foot Aurora 2 tie for longest interior (88 inches) and tallest peak height (44 inches) in the test, but its cross-pole pitch ensures there鈥檚 ample headspace throughout: One 6鈥�2鈥� tester was able to sit anywhere in the tent without hitting his head. Its D-shaped doors are above-average size at 52 inches by 28 inches, and they鈥檙e easy to exit and enter thanks to smooth zipper action.

Features: 4.9

The Aurora 2 offers the most interior storage space of any tent in the testing group. There are five interior pockets鈥攖wo on the ceiling for small items like a light, two on each end that can hold a Nalgene, and one triangular mesh net that spans the entire rear width of the tent, 52 inches across. 鈥淭he storage shelf along the back of the tent is gigantic,鈥� our tester says. 鈥淚t鈥檚 like having a dresser drawer in there.鈥� Add in two 9-square-foot vestibules, and you鈥檒l have no trouble finding room to stash your stuff.

Strength/Durability: 4.8

This tent comes in at less than 5 pounds but is armored with 9-inch bathtub floors on all sides that rise to 16 inches at each end鈥攖he highest in the test. Metal eyelets connect the fly to the poles at the corners, which bodes well for the long term, as does pairing its 68-denier, PU-coated polyester floor with the included ground sheet of the same material. The Aurora has one four-section hubbed main pole that鈥檚 reinforced by a small cross pole, which keeps setup easy while still providing a strong pitch. The design withstood 32-mph wind gusts and its 68-denier polyester fly (with a waterproof coating) kept us dry in rain showers on Colorado鈥檚 Grand Mesa.

Breathability: 4.4

The Aurora has a three-quarters mesh design at its head and foot, but its doors are only half mesh. This adds extra protection from strong winds and dust, but it does sacrifice some airflow. 鈥淵ou can peel the fly back at night to see the stars and not worry about wind or dust blowing in the doors,鈥� our tester said after a trip through Colorado鈥檚听. 鈥淏ut we did get condensation some nights along the sides of the tent when the fly was buttoned down.鈥�

$250; 4 lbs. 9 oz.听

Strongest:听ALPS Mountaineering听Helix 2

Overall: 4.6 / 5

Livability:听4.4

With 31.5 square feet of interior space, the Helix 2 is roomier than average for tents in this class, and our testers were able to sleep without rubbing shoulders or brushing up against the tent walls during the night. However, it also has one of the lowest peak heights in the test at 41.5 inches, sacrificing some space for its low weight and best-in-class packability鈥攁bout the size of a two-liter soda bottle.

Features:听4.3

This tent has one pocket at each corner that鈥檚 big enough to hold a water bottle. It鈥檚 a solid start, and not lacking in practicality, but the internal storage did leave our testers unenthusiastic when comparing its features to other tents in this test.

Strength/Durability:听4.8

The Helix 2 is the only tent in the test to use nylon in its canopy and fly. Those in humid climates should consider that nylon absorbs more water than polyester and is more prone to stretching; however, our testers found the fly鈥檚 silicone/PU coating mitigated sagging even in hot,听. The three-pole design is the result of splitting one of the cross poles into two, cutting weight by eliminating the need for an additional pole. Instead of meeting in the middle, the poles angle out above the door (spreading out the ceiling) and slip directly into aluminum eyelets, reinforcing wind and weather protection. 鈥淲e had 30-mph gusts in the Everglades and there was no flapping of the fly,鈥� our tester says. The 20-denier nylon floor with a silicone/PU coating provides strength without adding a lot of weight. Durability in the details looks good as well thanks to metal eyelets and solid aluminum stakes that refused to bend.

Breathability:听4.7

The Helix 2 has 6.5-inch-high bathtub floors, but otherwise, its canopy is completely made of mesh. Two strut vents on the fly kept the air moving during 80掳F days, and condensation was never an issue.

$250; 4 lbs. 2 oz.听

Best Ventilation:听Mountain Hardwear Mineral King 2

Overall: 4.5 / 5

Livability:听4.4

A long center pole laying across two cross poles makes the Mineral King鈥檚 walls vertical and its interior headspace nearly rectangular, complementing its 43-inch peak height. A higher-than-average 33 square feet of floor space and two听vestibules (9 square feet each) provided plenty of space for two 6鈥� tall men to sleep comfortably without touching the walls or each other. 鈥淚 had plenty of wiggle room on either side of my head and feet when I laid down,鈥� one of them says.

Features:听4.5

The Mineral King has five pockets for storage, two of which are big enough to hold large water bottles. Most notably, it sports the largest doors of the test, a best-in-class 64 inches in width by 29 inches in height. If ease of entry and exit is important to you, we tested nothing better than the Mineral King.

Strength/Durability:听4.4

A 68-denier polyester fly, a tent body that includes 68- and 75-denier poly, bathtub floors, and an included ground tarp made our testers feel equally confident camping in rainy south Florida and on rocky ground in southern Utah. The two pre-bent, hubbed DAC aluminum poles pair with a small cross pole to offer a stable pitch. 鈥淲e didn鈥檛 experience any instability, even with gusts of 20 mph,鈥� one tester says. Plastic clip-in fly connectors and hook-stakes that bend easily require you to be cautious at the corners, though.

Breathability:听4.8

The Mineral King has 7-inch-high bathtub听floors but is made of mesh otherwise,听helping it score top-of-class for听ventilation. Two fly vents atop the vestibules kept air moving even when we were hunkered听down on a hot, low-80s听day.

$250; 5 lbs. 13 oz.听

Most Spacious:听Poler 2+ Person Tent

Overall: 4.4 / 5

Livability: 4.9

With two cross poles (most tents have just one) over a center pole, the 2+ Person has the most vertical walls in the test, maximizing the interior space of its broad, 35-square-foot floor plan. Two relatively large doors (26 inches by 54 inches) and huge vestibules (11 square feet each) make this tent a good pick for basecampers,听, or overpackers who need a ton of space.

Features: 4.2

The 2+ Person has one eye-catching feature: two 16-inch-wide plastic porthole windows on the fly that allow you to stargaze without sacrificing weather protection. What seemed gimmicky at first grew on us during a cold, clear night in听听Moab, Utah, as the windows blocked the desert breeze while still allowing us to fall asleep with a view of the stars. However, this tent only has two interior pockets鈥攗nexpectedly low for a shelter this size.

Strength/Durability: 4.3

One eight-point, hubbed aluminum pole supports a large-for-its-class trapezoidal pitch, but its flat top leaves the 2+ Person susceptible to听听heavy rain. 鈥淧assing showers sometimes left small pools of water on the fly,鈥� one tester says. A 75-denier polyester floor showed no sign of wear after several trips on rocky, dry terrain in Colorado鈥檚 Grand Valley and Moab, though the seams located along the floor line鈥攖he 2-Man is the only tent in the test without a bathtub floor鈥攃ould become a weakness over time.

Breathability: 4.2

The majority of the 2+ Person鈥檚 canopy is mesh, but the top of the tent body is covered by polyester. This design helped create a bit of shade during the day, but it also enabled condensation. 鈥淲e had some water drops come from the ceiling,鈥� a tester reported after a 40掳F night in Red Rock State Park,听Arizona.

$250; 6 lbs.听

Best Value:听Kelty Wireless 2

Overall: 4.2 / 5

Livability:听4.4

If you鈥檙e looking for the most affordable tent that can still perform, the Wireless 2 is a steal at $120. Its 29 square feet of floor space is reasonable enough for two people, although it is necessary to take advantage of the tent鈥檚 20 square feet of vestibule space鈥攕econd-most in the test鈥攖o get all your gear out of the way. 鈥淚f you have anything inside, it starts to feel a bit cramped,鈥� one tester says. A 43-inch peak height helps offset claustrophobia.

Features:听4.0

At over 7 pounds and a packed size equivalent to two watermelons, this tent isn鈥檛 ideal for the backcountry (although it could work in a pinch, especially if split between two packs). The Wireless 2 forgoes interior pockets entirely, so you鈥檒l have to settle for hanging your own gear nets from the provided ceiling loops. The price tag is the main feature here, so don鈥檛 expect anything flashy. 鈥淭here are no bells or whistles,鈥� one tester says, 鈥渂ut if you鈥檙e willing to get creative and don鈥檛 mind using the vestibules, the affordability is alluring.鈥�

Strength/Durability:听4.4

One reason this shelter is so heavy is its resilient materials. A 68-denier polyester fly and three thick fiberglass poles provide a rock-solid pitch once you reach your destination, with pole sleeves at each corner (as opposed to grommets) that pull the tent bottom taut and solidify its stance. 鈥淭he Wireless stood tall against 25-mph gusts and its three-quarters fabric canopy provides good insulation,鈥� our tester said after a breezy night on Oahu, Hawaii鈥檚 windward side. Kelty鈥檚 included aluminum stakes scored top marks as they refused to bend, even when hammered into rocks, but be careful with the plastic fly clips.

Breathability:听4.0

A three-quarter fabric, one-quarter mesh tent body offers additional protection from the elements when you鈥檙e not using the fly, preventing dust or sand from blowing inside. It also provides further insulation in cold temperatures. However, this design also lowers the tent鈥檚 breathability, and the Wireless 2 is susceptible to condensation. 鈥淭he side walls were damp when we woke up, even though it didn鈥檛 rain,鈥� our Hawaii tester says.

$120; 7 lbs. 5 oz.听

Scenes from a Mission

It was one of those classic, clear, early spring weekends in听, a time of year when the desert is just perfect鈥攚ildflowers in bloom, blue skies, warm sun. Our hike took us through slot canyons, grassy prairies, and over smooth, exposed slickrock. We climbed atop a canyon wall at sunset, watching the colors of the rock change as the sky darkened and the stars came out. With the sun gone, a sharp chill entered the air. I was sad to miss the stargazing, but with no fires allowed, I felt compelled to retreat to my tent. Upon returning to the Poler 2-man, I was met with a pleasant surprise: I had forgotten about the two portholes on the fly. Protected from the wind and chill, I laid on my back, warm and happy, staring up at the night sky until I fell asleep. 鈥�听Steve Donaldson, tester

The post These 6 Budget Tents Are Low-Cost, Not Low-Performance appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

If taking a crack at the Appalachian or Pacific Crest Trail听has been on your mind of late, you鈥檙e not alone. But听reality check: Most of us are not in a position to hike for five听months straight. So don’t.听There are shorter thru-hikes that can be bagged with significantly less time off work, like the 211-mile听John Muir Trail. It’s听one of our country鈥檚 best bang-for-buck walks and听can be . But it’s not the only one鈥攖here鈥檚 a thru-hike near you that can be completed in 30 days or less.

Long Trail, Vermont

Distance: 272 miles
30-Day Pace: Nine miles a day
Overall Altitude Gain: 听177 feet (lowest) to 4,393 feet (highest)
Best Time: Early to midsummer is your best bet. The lower third overlaps the AT, so you should avoid the end of summer and fall, when the herds of thru-hikers reach Vermont. Some sections of the trail will close during the late-spring mud season.

The 听takes you over Vermont鈥檚 highest peaks in the Green Mountains as it traverses the entire state from the Massachusetts state line to the Canadian border. Hikers will summit more than half听a dozen major peaks, including Killington and Mount Mansfield (4,393 feet), the state鈥檚 highest peak. Be prepared to endure black fly season by bringing along听a mesh bug net for your tent. How iconic is this New England trail? Enough to have a brewery named after it: .

Colorado Trail, Colorado

Distance: 486 miles
30-Day Pace: 16 miles a day
Overall Altitude Gain: 5,500 feet (lowest) to 13,271 feet (highest)
Best Time: Spring through fall

Starting in Denver and ending in Durango, most of the 听is at, above, or very close to the treeline, topping out at 13,271 feet in the San Juan Mountains. The route takes you through six wilderness areas and six national forests, and you can expect plenty of expansive听鈥済o听on听forever鈥� views. You should be geared up for quick and drastic weather changes, mostly in the form of afternoon thunderstorms that roll in consistently during summer. Plan to start early in the day and end early to minimize the chance of getting caught in a storm above treeline.

Superior Hiking Trail, Minnesota

Distance: 296 miles
30-Day Pace: Ten miles a day
Overall Altitude Gain: 602 feet (lowest) to 1,829 feet (highest)
Best Time: Late summer or early fall

Beginning in Duluth and continuing on to the Canadian border, the 听follows the ridgeline of Lake Superior. The trail breaks down into two sections: The first 41 miles wind听north through Duluth and a series of city parks. The remaining 255 miles are through the Lake Superior backcountry and seven state parks. Expect a wide yet classic range of Midwest terrain: rocky bluffs, birch forests, beaver-dammed rivers, and daily doses of the grandest lake Minnesota has to offer. Note that as of a few days ago,听a 1.6-mile stretch of the route on . You鈥檒l have to take a six-mile detour on听the paved Gitchi-Gami State Trail to the Split Rock River.

Oregon Coast Trail, Oregon

Distance: 425 miles
30-Day Pace: 14 miles a day
Overall Altitude Gain: Minimal
Best Time: Spring and fall weather can be hit or miss听in Oregon.听That rain not only makes things uncomfortable听but also ensures that some rivers will flood or become unpassable. Stick to the summer months.

The 听predictably follows entire coastline of Oregon, from the Colombia River in the north down to the California border. Long stretches on the beach are some of the trail鈥檚 best moments, but they鈥檙e nicely rounded out with strips through temperate rainforests and small towns. Camp on the beach one night and in the forest the next, or, if you desire a shower, brush yourself off for a night in one of the seaside villages. Ferries help you cross rivers along the way. If you prefer to stay traditional, the foot trail utilizes roadways to bypass estuaries. Proper wind and rain gear is highly necessary to mitigate the coastal elements.

Sierra High Route, Sierra Nevada

Distance: 195 miles
30-Day Pace: 6.5 miles a day
Overall Altitude Gain: 9,000 feet (lowest) to 11,500 feet (highest)
Best Time: Summer

Running parallel with the popular John Muir Trail, this lesser-known trail (also called the ) sees significantly less traffic and听is more technically challenging听and almost as highly elevated (you won鈥檛 dip below 9,000 feet). Scenic highlights are alpine lakes and basins听surrounded by granite and loose terrain. Although advanced skills are not required, carrying rope and climbing shoes will help you safely conquer the Class听3 rock-face scrambles you鈥檒l occasionally encounter. A topographical map and GPS are highly recommended.

Ouachita National Recreation Trail, Oklahoma and Arkansas

Distance: 223 miles
30-Day Pace: 7.5 miles a day
Overall Altitude Gain: 600 (lowest) to 2,600 (highest)
Best Time: Autumn, spring

The 听goes through the surprisingly scenic Ouachita Mountains, which uniquely run east to west and form the tallest range between the Rockies and Appalachians. Starting from Talimena State Park in Oklahoma and ending at Pinnacle Mountain State Park outside Little Rock, 192 miles of the trail travel听through the oak-clad Ouachita National Forest. The tightly听wooded area is punctuated with听rambling streams, vistas, and wide valleys. Be sure to read up on the many side trails that take you to lesser-visited secrets, like hot springs and scenic overlooks. The best way to break up the monotony that might come with a lack of elevation swing is to go when fall foliage is peaking.

Finger Lakes Trail, Upstate New York

Distance: 557 miles
30-Day Pace: 18.5 miles a day
Overall Altitude Gain: 430 (lowest) to 3,660 (highest)
Best Time: Late summer/early fall

The 听runs from Allegany State Park, on the border of Pennsylvania and New York, to the听east into the Catskills Forest Preserve. The most scenic part of the trail takes you along the south end of the Finger Lakes, including Seneca and Cayuga Lakes. Be sure to take an extra day to explore the gorges of Watkins Glen. We recommend starting in the late summer and finishing in the Catskills as the leaves change in early October.

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If you鈥檙e thinking about tackling the Appalachian or Pacific Crest Trails this year, you might want to revise your plans. The听, which monitors the AT, is expecting record numbers of thru-hikers this year, thanks to the popularity of movies featuring thru-hikes, like Wild听and the upcoming film adaptation of Bill Bryson鈥檚 popular 1998 book,听, about two middle-age men hiking the AT.听The Pacific Crest Trail Association already noted a dramatic between 2013 and 2014.

To combat overcrowding, the Appalachian Trail Conservancy has asked hikers to begin their treks between April 15 and the first week of May, rather than the usual March and early April. It鈥檚 also asking that hikers voluntarily register, begin midweek, and consider to ease the . So ask yourself, do you really want to conga-line your way up either of these trails? Doubtful. And you don鈥檛 have to: Check out these other bucket list鈥搘orthy thru-hikes, most with a fraction of the traffic of the AT and PCT.

Great Eastern Trail

Distance: 1,600 miles
Best time to start: Early spring from the south
Estimated completion time:听Four to six months

The remains one of the country鈥檚 best-kept secrets. Starting in Flag Mountain, Alabama, and ending in the Finger Lakes of New York, the GET runs parallel to the AT from Tennessee to northern Pennsylvania and intersects with it at one point in West Virginia. With similar terrain at a lower elevation and a lot fewer people, the GET offers the remote experience that made the AT famous in the first place. It鈥檚 also brand new鈥攖he trail鈥檚 first end-to-end thru-hikers completed the journey in 2013.

North Country Trail

Distance: 4,600 miles
Best time to start: Early spring from the east
Estimated completion time:听Eight to 10 months

The stretches from New York to North Dakota, passing through seven states and 10 national forests along the way. It鈥檚 more than double the length of the AT and takes trekkers through a northern region much less visited by the masses. The NCT is known for its diverse landscape, which includes the Adirondack Mountains in New York; the Northwoods forests of Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Michigan; the shores of the Great Lakes; and the prairies of North Dakota. Plan to finish your hike in the fall, when the northern states flaunt their bright foliage.

American Discovery Trail

Distance: 6,800 miles
Best time to start: Given the long nature of this trek, you will inevitably encounter winter. Starting in California in the early spring ensures crossing the western mountains in the warmer months but may leave you underwhelmed afterward as far as scenery goes. Many head out in early spring from Delaware and wait out bad winter weather.
Estimated completion time: 18 to 24 months

The granddaddy of all thru-treks, the runs from Delaware to California, linking the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans and passing through 15 states. The trail has some quirky perks, such as following greenways to pass through major cities like Washington, DC, Cincinnati, Denver, and San Francisco. While the scenery can be very good through California, Utah, Colorado, and the 14 national parks it traverses, walking through rural Middle America鈥擪entucky, Indiana, Missouri, Nebraska, and Kansas鈥攃an feel mundane as the miles pile up. The true draw of its completion comes from the novel notion of having crossed the entire country by foot.

Continental Divide Trail

Distance: 3,100 miles
Best time to start: Early spring from the south
Estimated completion time: Six to eight months

Running from the southern border of the United States to the border of Canada inside Glacier National Park, the follows the Continental Divide through New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. Established in 1978, it is the highest and most difficult of America鈥檚 National Scenic Trails and one of the three trails hikers tackle to complete the country鈥檚 鈥淭riple Crown鈥� (the PCT and AT are the other two). It鈥檚 also the one with the least wear and tear. The latest stats show that while thousands of people attempt the AT each year, only take a crack at the CDT from end to end. One of the most spectacular parts of the trail is the Weminuche Wilderness in Colorado, which winds above treeline and through high, glacial valleys, but be prepared for potential icy conditions. Brush up on your history to fully appreciate traversing the Lewis and Clark Pass in Montana.

Desert Trail

Distance: 2,200 miles
Best time to start: Late winter/early spring
Estimated completion time:听Six months

The听听snakes from the Mexican border in California though Nevada, Oregon, Idaho, and Montana to the Canadian border in Washington鈥攂ut only 300 of the 2,220 miles of have been mapped out (the portions through Nevada and Oregon). Still, intrepid trekkers can tackle the uncharted segments using unofficial maps and other hikers鈥櫶�. If you can handle the lack of concrete directions, you will be rewarded with some of the country鈥檚 most unique scenery. The walk features some intimidating yet pristine high-desert terrain, including sections through the Mojave Desert, Death Valley, and Black Rock Desert.

Honorable Mention: Ice Age Trail

The 听shows off Wisconsin鈥檚 glacial roots, following the moraine line of the last ice age for 1,200 miles across the state. It鈥檚 still a work in progress, with only 50 percent complete, but the Ice Age is a worthy option for section hikers looking for something different this summer.

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What makes winter such a great time to hike? For one, mosquitoes and other bugs are nowhere to be found. The crowds are nonexistent. Cooler temperatures make Southern hikes a lot more pleasant. And few places are as magically still as a forest covered in snow.

That said, the days are shorter, so you have to be extra motivated in the morning to get on the trail, and it can get pretty damn cold. But as long as you鈥檙e properly geared up鈥�layered correctly, have your hands and head covered, and own footwear that鈥檒l keep your feet warm and dry as you climb over ice and kick through snow鈥攁 little winter hiking can pay off big. Especially if you log any of these hikes, which seem tailor-made for winter.

Arizona: Sedona, Bear Mountain Trail

Distance: 5 miles round-trip
Recommended Gear: None

Sedona鈥檚 blistering summer temperatures and springtime crowds make winter one of the best times to hike the area鈥檚 trails. Considered one of Arizona鈥檚 hardest short hikes, the climbs 1,800 feet in 2.5 miles and ends with a view of Mount Humphrey, Arizona鈥檚 highest point, 30 miles north in Flagstaff.

Washington: Olympic National Forest, Mount Ellinor Trail

Distance: 6.2 miles round-trip
Recommended Gear: Crampons

The isn鈥檛 a walk in the park鈥攊t gains 3,300 feet in three miles. But its relatively low top elevation of 5,900 feet keeps the turbulent weather at bay, offering a reward worth basking in for winter trekkers. Enjoy views of Lake Cushman as you climb and 360-degree views from the summit.

Texas: Big Bend National Park, South Rim Loop

Distance: 11.6-mile loop
Recommended Gear: None

Big Bend serves as an exception to the otherwise flat Texas terrain, and no trail shows it off better than the . Explore the wooded bowls of Boot Canyon, summit the 7,832-foot Emory Peak, and enjoy vistas of Chihuahuan Desert, which straddles the U.S.-Mexico border. This hike is most comfortable in the mild, dry winter months when threats of thunderstorms and excessive heat are removed from the equation.

Florida: Big Cypress National Preserve, Florida National Scenic Trail

Distance: 1,300 miles
Recommended Gear: Water听shoes

This sectional thru-hike begins in the Everglades at Big Cypress National Preserve and north to Gulf Islands National Seashore. Since Florida鈥檚 swampy side likes to show off in summer, tackle sections during the winter months, when the mosquitoes are more forgiving and the humidity is lower.

Utah: Bryce Canyon, Fairyland Loop

Distance: 8.6 miles round-trip
Recommended Gear: Crampons or snowshoes

Below the rim of Bryce Canyon sit , and those iconic hoodoos are made all the more magical by a fresh coat of snow that contrasts the red, orange, and purple colors of the rock. Prepare to drop, and then gain, nearly 1,000 feet in elevation as you pass through gardens of spires and sculptures.

Montana: Glacier National Park, Red Eagle Lake Trail

Distance: 8 miles round-trip
Recommended Gear: Cross-country skis

This is more exciting when covered on skis. Start at Saint Mary Campground and follow the Eagle and Elk Loops before shooting off toward Red Eagle Lake. Breeze past the elongated Saint Mary Lake through forests of aspens and conifers. Have lunch on the scenic bluff overlooking Red Eagle Creek.

Washington: Mount Rainier National Park, Mazama Ridge

Distance: 6 miles round-trip
Recommended Gear: Snowshoes

is gorgeous any time of year, but the freedom it offers snowshoers to wander in a winter wonderland is second to none. Gaining only 900 feet in three miles, the trail follows rolling subalpine meadows that allow you to blaze your own way through deep snow. The views of Mount Rainier and the Tatoosh Range as you climb the ridge are some of the best the park has to offer. Don鈥檛 miss the chance to play among the tall wind drifts.

Alaska: Kenai Fjords National Park, Harding Icefield Trail

Distance: 8.2 miles round-trip
Recommended Gear: Snowshoes or crampons, trekking poles

The big payoff comes at the end of a bruising four-mile ascent that gains nearly 1,000 feet of elevation each mile: the . This is the largest field of ice solely contained within the United States, stretching on for 700 square miles in Alaska鈥檚 . Although the climb is more comfortable in the summer, winter is when the area鈥檚 large black bear population hibernates. Catch views of Exit Glacier on your way up as you pass through cottonwood forests, and prepare to be transported back to the Ice Age when you hit the summit.

Colorado: Rocky Mountain National Park, Odessa Lake

Distance: 8.9 miles round-trip
Recommended Gear: Snowshoes or cross-country skis, trekking poles

Rocky Mountain National Park averages more than 500,000 visitors a month during summer, but that number drops to just 50,000 to 70,000 in winter months, making it feel more like a personal escape than a tourist destination. Climb through snow-covered aspens to the high-alpine , catching views of Longs Peak, Grace Falls, and Glacier Gorge along the way. From the Bear Lake parking lot, follow the Flattop Mountain Trail to the Fern-Odessa Lake Trail.

Maine: Acadia National Park, Gorham Mountain Trail

Distance: 4-mile loop
Recommended Gear: Snowshoes or cross-country skis

From 1913 to 1940, John D. Rockefeller built nearly 50 miles of carriage roads in Acadia National Park. Today, they鈥檙e open only to nonmotorized use during the snowy winter months, when snowshoers and cross-country skiers take over. The is short and sweet, but it gets the nod here for the novelty of mixing ocean views and sea air with your snowshoes. To extend the hike, plan a side jaunt down to Sands Beach to collect shells.

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