The planet is described as having a frostbitten surface, indicating that Holdfast is likely a frozen world. The refuge on Holdfast is described as being a limestone cave with a broken Stargate and lit by weak bioluminescence bulbs. The caves were cut with laser drills and is warm and humid underground despite the surface of the planet being frostbitten. The caves contain hydroponics, machine shops and training rooms amongst other things needed for survival and have people from the Tau'ri, the Free Jaffa, the Pangarans and Langarans amongst others. (SG1: "Relativity")