Backpacking and Hiking

this is a great starter book if your thinking I what to get into backpacking or hiking then this sould be the first book you get . remindber the guy at the hiking store is there to sell you as much as he can not just what you need this book can help you form spending to much when your just starting out

Hiking helps you escape from a fast-paced, complex, and often stressful world. Some hikers enjoy a slow, relaxed walk, taking in the scenery, while others like to take on nature and push themselves to the limit. However you choose to hike, it should be a safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable experience. ~Karen Berger Karen Berger has enjoyed walking over 17,000 miles through a wide variety of landscapes on six continents. Her outdoor expertise is especially evident in the Eyewitness Companions Backpacking & Hiking guide. The chapters include: Choosing a Destination Clothing and Equipment Organizing a Hike On the Trail Camping Overcoming Challenges First Aid The global hikes featured range from the Pacific Crest Trail from California to Washington to the Inca Trail in The Andes, Peru. Distance, Average Time to Complete, Accessibility and Resources are included along with Karen Berger's observations about the areas to explore. "The trail passes through lowland temperate rainforest and climbs an exposed alpine pass, then descends to sea level." ~ pg. 27 While the beginning of the book explores a more global hiking lifestyle, the rest of the book is still practical for general hiking information that can be used when you are hiking closer to home or on a vacation. There is a wealth of information on surviving temperature changes and layering and fabrics are discussed in detail. The section on footwear will help you select the right socks and shoes for a variety of weather conditions. The "Packing Your Backpack" section shows exactly how to arrange items so you avoid discomfort. What to take with you? There are many chapters on essential equipment. Everything from water bottles to specialist equipment like insulating socks or traction devices for shoes. GPS systems are analyzed and there are a number of checklists to make sure nothing is forgotten, including how much food to take. A variety of foods are discussed and may I say the Clif Bars are a tasty idea. Navigation and map reading is discussed in detail and interesting details like observing plants and the stars to find your way makes the experience even more natural and challenging. Predicting weather is a section that helps you stay safe and additional safety advice (common ailments and medical emergencies) explains when you should turn around and go back due to extreme conditions or how to deal with medical problems. Overall, this is one of the most helpful guides to hiking you may ever find. It is detailed, thoughtful and the pictures are inspirational. ~The Rebecca Review