Land Above the Trees: A Guide to American Alpine Tundra

This books rocks. It is one of the few books we actually carry in our backpacks on month-long NOLS (National Outdoor Leadership School) expeditions in the Rockies. We generally appreciate anything Zwinger does, but this book stands by itself as both a classic in nature writing and a definitive nature reference for wilderness travellers in the alpine tundra.

If you have any interest in alpine tundra this is a must read book! If you have even a general interest in natural science and ecology this book is a classic. I was amazed at how the authors were able to integrate a crisp scientific exposition with an almost poetic writing style that left me with such vivid mental images. Even if you are not going to visit the tundra, this book is an experience. If you are hiking these areas it will expand the experience. Read this book!!!