5 Best Backpacking Tents for the Appalachian Trail

Best Overall:
The tent is ideal for the Appalachian trail due to its ultra-lightweight feature.

It is easy to carry and less likely to make you feel sore after a few hours of walking. However, although this tent is extremely lightweight, it is still durable. Its bomber materials can withstand almost any type of terrain and weather condition.

Moreover, this tent is very easy to set up, you’ll be done in no time, which is exactly what you want after a long day’s hiking.

Aside from that, its unique pole angles noticeable provides 25% more space for your shoulder and head. This is great if you don’t like being in tight spaces.

• 1 lb and 11oz in weight
• 4×19 inches when packed
• 38 inches head clearance
• Vertical door construction
• 3 pieces of interior mesh pockets
• 11 superlight aluminum J stakes
• Manufacturer’s warranty

The best thing about this tent is its weight. It is easy to carry around without any difficulty. I also like the fact that although this is a one-person tent, it does not feel cramped and tight inside. The extra space provided by its NFL pole system is awe-inspiring.

The mid-range price for this tent is justifiable for the benefits that it provides. I totally recommend you getting this if you are in the search for a lightweight tent to bring with you on your trip to the Appalachian Trail. However, if you intend to use this during April, you might reconsider as this cannot withstand the weight of snowfall.

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Best lightweight:
The Six Moon Designs Lunar Solo tent is ultra-lightweight and perfect for hiking the Appalachian Trail. Compared to the one mentioned earlier, this one is more affordable, which is why it is ideal for those who are budget conscious.

It has a floating canopy design that can be adjusted to your desired height. This provides ventilation and plenty of space inside for one person and hiking gears.

Constructed from 100% silicone and coated polyester material makes this tent compact. It also features a canopy made from 20D material and the floor takes advantage of a more durable 40D weave, minimizing the risk of rips and punctures.

Aside from that, it also has a tensioning adjustment feature that you will find convenient when setting up. You can keep your tent as taut as possible to make it more sturdy.

• Weight: 1.7 pounds
• 48 inches headspace
• Tensioning Adjustment
• Re-tension Strap
• Floating canopy
• Screen Door
• Mesh Cargo Pocket

What I love about this one is it is relatively affordable, given that it is incredibly lightweight as well. Its design is also conscious of providing the user with space and comfort at night, which is essential after a long day of exhausting hiking.

If you are looking for an affordable tent, then this one should be one of your considerations. It is lightweight, and the construction is reliable. However, you do need to spend more on buying the stakes and poles and waterproofing it. But, it is still much more affordable than the one mentioned above.

Aside from that, take note that this tent is not ideal for high altitude terrain. Although it will do well for a single trip to the Appalachian trail, you will find it more suitable to use at the Resurrection Pass Trail, which is less windy during summertime.

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Best durability:
Here’s another excellent choice from Big Agnes. Introducing the Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL (Amazon) tent, which is perfect for two people. It uses a high volume poles, which provides extended headspace making the interior much bigger and spacious. Its arch design also allows snow and rain to simply slide off and not damage the structure of the tent.

Fear no storm with this super-sturdy and durable tent, it will withstand high winds and heavy rain with no problems. This tent is made to last and is a great choice for the Appalachian Trail. If you’re thinking of bringing your dog then the floors also durable enough for their paws too.

Furthermore, this tent has a big dual zipper door. This provides privacy and security. It also makes it easier for you to get in and out of the tent. The seams are waterproof, too, so you do not have to worry about moisture while resting.

• Capacity: 2 people
• 5 inches in dimension when packed
• Weighs 3 lbs and 1 oz
• 40 inches high when assembled
• 29 sq ft floor area

What I love about this tent is that it can confidently accommodate two people inside with enough space to store your valuables and gears securely. It has a high headspace, which gives the illusion that the interior is more significant than it is. Furthermore, it’s excellent for three types of seasons so you can bring it with you almost any time of the year.

In terms of material, construction, and design, this tent gets a 10/10 except for the winter season. However, there are two drawbacks to this tent. One is that it is quite heavy, but then again, it is good for two-person. The second issue is the price, but I can say that with the features and benefits that you would get from it, it is relatively reasonable.

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Easy setup:
The Nemo Hornet (Amazon) has a cleverly designed fly bar, which has volume to the interior and allows the fabric to be placed without needing plenty of support. Due to this design, lesser poles are needed to set it up hence making it even easier to bring with you on a hike to the Appalachian Trail.

I also love that this tent has a moon roof which allows you to stargaze at night in the complete comfort and security of your tent. I love looking at the stars, and this would be a factor I’d have on my checklist.

Aside from that, this tent is weathertight. This means that it can withstand different weather conditions such as strong wind and snow without any problem.

Furthermore, it is waterproof, so the user is safe and dry inside the tent. It also has an easy to set up canopy made out of durable nylon material, which allows you to chill outside by the fire and still have some shade protection.

• Weight: 2.6 pounds
• Made out of 10D nylon material
• With an exterior canopy
• 5 x 5.5″ in dimensions when packed
• Flybar pole
• Quality Ripstop material

So far, this one is the lightest two-person tent on the list, and that is a reason why I like it. I also like that it does not require plenty of poles when assembly because having lesser parts to put together means it can be done faster. Furthermore, the mesh layer makes it breathable, so that is a great bonus feature for a tent that is already very well designed.

Overall, if you are taking this with you on a trip to the Appalachian trail, I can say that it can serve you well. It has a two-layer wall with mesh and nylon so it can definitely withstand the test of wind and weather. It is also lightweight, so it will not give you fatigue after long hours of walking.

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Best weatherproof:
Unlike the other tent mentioned above, the MSR Hubba Hubba (Amazon) definitely has the most unique and practical tent structure there is. It has a lightweight freestanding design. The floor is made out of 30D ripstop nylon that can protect you from the elements of the ground.

This tent also features Xtreme Shield waterproof coating which lasts up to three times longer than the standard waterproofing on other tents ensuring you’re kept nice and dry.

Setup is an absolute breeze with the Hubba Hubba tent thanks to the unified hub-and-pole system and its color-coded clips.

It can provide you comfortable living conditions for three seasons, which is why it is excellent for the Appalachian Trail. It has a generous 39-inch headspace, which is reasonably spacious and a total of 29 sq ft area giving you enough room to live and sleep comfortably.

• Weight: 3 pounds
• Head hight: 36 inches
• 18×6 inches in dimension when packed
• Hub and poly system
• Waterproof coating
• With ceiling pocket

I like that this tent has a unique yet practical design. Its pole structure is what gives it durability, and it is constructed with reliable waterproof materials. Although it’s not as lightweight as the other tents, its durability and high-quality materials that will withstand harsh weather conditions more than makes up for it.

If you want to invest in a tent that can truly conquer any type of weather condition and provide you with optimum comfort, then you should consider this one. Its design is well thought out, and the material used is proven to withstand harsh weather conditions without any signs of wear and tear.