Tarptent ProTrek

I always find the manufacturers’ setup tutorials to be helpful. You see how the ProTrek can become pretty taut without the panel tieouts. With them properly deployed however the tent becomes even more solid looking.

When there’s no wind. It goes up easily with 4 stakes. I’m trying to incorporate a tarp without compromising the tent. It’s like putting up a sail. Trying to keep it simple, getting ahead of myself and forgetting the layout . I think the lines will help. With half frozen ground, diving stakes is difficult. Otherwise it’s an easy pitch. Square off the back corners when staking, pop up the poles and adjust. I think the lines will help. That’s an easy configuration.. The tents certainly a lot more stable with them and it’s much less dependent on the main 4 stakes. Longer stakes are out of the question. There are no rocks. They all blew away.

that set up video is very informative. what a clever design. looks like a great tent for tight campsites and definitely a big step up from the protrail in terms of breathability/ventability and ease of entry.

Terran, does your experience align with this users? I am interested in the tent but I don’t want a lose pitch when using minimal stakes. https://old.reddit.com/r/Tarptent/comments/1rqf2l8/tarptent_protrek_pitching/

When I set the front pole, the corner fly is closed except for a small opening at the top where I insert the pole. It would be difficult to overstretch it.

If the tent is set square and on fairly level ground, the ridgeline will be fairly taut. I’ve seen suggestions for adding an extra guyline straight off of the ridge, but doing so throws the geometry off. It’s a little springy, however it’s good enough to withstand higher winds as long as you don’t lose a stake. It is a light tent, preferably set up in a protected area. If not, the tieouts should be used. If you want a fast pitch, use 4 stakes. If you want a bomber pitch, use 11 stakes.

Not much of a bathtub. Only a couple inches. They tend to sag a bit, though it may be how I have it setup. It’s adequate for most conditions.

It’s a fast pitch light tent, meant to be used in milder conditions. With a little extra effort, it will comfortably get you through a couple rough nights if needed. Not for everybody, but it hits that sweet spot if that’s what you need.

Thanks, that does help manage my expectations.

On the front pole leaning out when the front lines are adjusted. I’d describe it more as the bottom leaning in. There’s a tab at the bottom on the inner net for inserting the tip of your pole. I use the cup provided so that my handle is down. I use that tab for a shepherds hook to keep the bottom pulled out and my pole straight. There is also a tie there that goes around the pole to help keep the side of the floor up.