February 3, 2001


What four-person tent do you recommend for Death Valley?

What would you recommend in a four-season (or expedition) tent for at least four people? We need something that stands up to high winds since we go to Death Valley every year to camp.

— Tami Cramer Lakeport, California

For starters, I don't see any reason why you want a four-season or expedition tent. I know it can get cold in the desert —- and such tents have a bit less ventilation so can be a little warmer —- but only during a few months in the winter. Is that when you go? Really, many three-season tents are as sturdy as expedition models—they're just smaller and have more venting.

With that in mind, you might look into a Sierra Designs Mondo 5 CD ($450). It's a five-person tent, which means it would be about right for four sleepers and a little bring-inside gear. Weight is reasonable at about 11 pounds. And it's extremely sturdy. If winds come up, just be sure it's well staked-out—the Mondo 5's 14 guy-out points should allow you to do that pretty well. Another good tent in this category is the Walrus Zia ($349). A little smaller than the CD, but designed for four nonetheless. And it has something the Mondo 5 does not: A big, pole-supported vestibule (the Mondo's is a stake-out vestibule). Weight also is about 10 pounds, and with its six-pole design, ample stake-out points, and turtle-like profile, the Zia should nicely withstand whatever winds hit you.

If you really think an expedition-type tent is the way to go — and who knows, maybe it is —- then take a look at Mountain Hardwear's Trango 4. It's a big, four-person, expedition-ready tent. Of course, it also weighs 12 pounds and costs $650, so that kind of tent comes with a price. But it's more than rugged enough for Death Valley -— or anyplace else, for that matter. And it's a bit easier to seal against wind and cold than the Mondo 5 or Zia, so may work better for you.