Alps Mountaineering Helix 2 Person Tent
$249.99
The Alps Mountaineering Helix 2 Person Tent is a freestanding backpacking shelter designed for hunters, campers, and backcountry adventurers who need reliable weather protection and easy setup in the field. Built on a three-pole aluminum frame that requires no stakes to stand, the Helix performs whether you're basecamp hunting, alpine fishing trips, or multi-day treks into remote country. Its streamlined design weighs just over four pounds total, making it practical for hunters covering distance on foot or overlanders who want to travel light without sacrificing durability.
Weather resistance comes from a 20D ripstop nylon fly with a 2000 mm silicone/polyurethane coating that sheds rain and resists UV degradation, paired with factory-sealed seams on both fly and floor. The floor steps up to 3000 mm protection against ground moisture—a real advantage in wet camp situations. Dual doors and a full-coverage fly with multiple guy-out points mean you can pitch tight during storms or leave it vented on clear nights. The vestibule provides genuine gear storage space and an extra weather buffer, while full mesh walls keep condensation down during shoulder seasons.
Setup is straightforward: lightweight aluminum hardware and intuitive pole clips snap over the frame without fiddling. Everything you need ships with the tent—7075 aluminum stakes and guy ropes included. The packed size of 6 inches by 18 inches fits easily into a pack or truck bed, and a matching footprint is available separately if you want added floor protection on sharp terrain.
Key Features
- Freestanding three-pole aluminum frame stands without staking
- Factory-sealed seams on fly and floor for maximum weather protection
- 20D ripstop nylon fly with 2000 mm coating resists UV and rain
- 3000 mm coated floor protects against ground moisture and punctures
- Dual doors and full mesh walls for ventilation and access
- Vestibule for gear storage and weather protection
- Extra guy-out points for stability in wind and storms
- Includes 7075 aluminum stakes and guy ropes
- Quick-snap pole clips for fast assembly
Specifications
| Base Size | 7' × 4'6" |
| Center Height | 41.5" |
| Tent Floor Area | 31.5 sq. ft. |
| Vestibule Area | 16 sq. ft. |
| Vestibule Depth | 27.5" |
| Minimum Weight | 3 lbs. 12 oz. |
| Total Weight (with stakes & guy ropes) | 4 lbs. 2 oz. |
| Packed Size | 6" × 18" |
| Pole Diameter | 8.5 mm |
| Fly Material | 20D 380T nylon ripstop with 2000 mm coating |
| Floor Material | 20D 380T nylon ripstop with 3000 mm coating |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Helix 2 tent need to be staked down to stand?
No. The freestanding three-pole frame is self-supporting and will stand on its own without stakes. However, the tent does include stakes and guy ropes, which are recommended during windy conditions or to secure the fly for optimal weather protection.
What's the vestibule for, and how much gear can it hold?
The vestibule is an uncovered alcove attached to one or both doors that provides protected storage for packs, boots, or other wet gear, plus an extra weather buffer against rain and wind. It covers 16 square feet and sits 27.5 inches deep—enough for a standard backpack or hunting load.
Is the Helix 2 suitable for three-season backpacking and hunting?
Yes. The sealed seams, protective coatings, full fly coverage, and dual vestibules make it effective for spring, summer, and fall camping. The complete fly protects against UV damage and weathering, and the mesh walls ventilate well in warm weather while the full coverage keeps you dry in rain and snow.
What's included with the tent?
The Helix 2 ships with the tent body, three aluminum poles, the full fly, stakes, and guy ropes. A matching footprint is sold separately if desired for additional floor protection on abrasive terrain.
