That last sentence has always been my hangup in using trekking poles. Carbon fiber poles for the tent wouldn't break one's back I don't think.I believe someone makes a connector that allows you to use 2 trekking poles as a center pole for a tipi. However, if I'm on a trip that requires a tipi, I think I would have the tent set up longer than overnight, and therefore would want to use the trekking poles during the day.