The Alpine Meadows is a bit of a hybrid design. The basic tent is an A-Frame Timberline, but the added center hoop makes it more like a tunnel tent. However, unlike a tunnel tent the Alpine Meadows is self supporting as with a dome tent. If weight is not an over-riding consideration (such as a canoe trip) the Alpine Meadows is a great design.

The ongoing popularity of the Timberline with scout troops is also economic. Timberlines are cheap, easy to set up and durable.