The Complete Idiot's Guide to Backpacking and Hiking Paperback – April 6, 2010

Finally, a useful hiking book that doesn't take itself too seriously! This book is easy to read and packed with information so you can keep it as a useful reference (not to mention a good size and weight so you can stick in in your pack).If you are an extreme sports junkie looking to climb K2 this probably isn't the book for you. But if you are anyone else looking for an enjoyable trip to the wilderness I would highly recommend it.I was an experienced hiker in my college days, but have been city bound ever since. Now I have a little boy and want to show him the outdoors. This book is a great refresher for me and easy to read. In fact, chapter 2 gives some great suggestions about the types of hikes and how to go about exploring the outdoors with people of all ages.This guide has lots of good recommendations on how to research hikes, plan an appropriate route, and get the supplies you need. In particular I've found the supply check list and overview of the latest gear helpful, from fitting boots and backpacks to picking the right tent and stove. For trip planning there's a particular focus on making sure you don't get lost which will be reassuring for people new to hiking less well marked trails.Well researched with lots of great references, from hiking maps and planning trips to getting the right gear without busting your budget, this is a great resource for getting into the great outdoors!

This book covers a lot of ground from the basics of hiking on day hikes, to use of navigational equipment; information on gear, living on the trail; and first aid. There is certainly a lot of good information. However, as the book is now 10 years ago it has become a bit dated. For instance the technology for water filtration systems has improved significantly since this book was written.In addition, this book doesnt discuss the use of hiking Apps on cell phones. It's a good book. And worth reading, I just think it would benefit from an update.

Although I'm an experienced hiker, I usually pick up the latest how-to books in hopes of learning something new. Unfortunately, most are horribly out-of-date or seem like they were written by someone who's never actually done any serious backpacking. Thankfully, The Complete Idiot's Guide to Backpacking and Hiking is not one of those books. Simply put, this author knows his stuff and is obviously an experienced backpacker who practices what he preaches.The author packs a lot of relevant info into the book, covering everything from how to pick the right hiking boot to advanced survival skills and the latest gps navigation gadgets. While many books give a cursory look at hiking clothes (usually incorrectly suggesting cotton shirts, jeans, etc), Stevenson delves into the most up-to-date polyester blends and anti-microbial, anti-smell shirts that make for a much more enjoyable experience. This current, detailed treatment is applied to all beginner hiking subjects, in an easy-to-digest, conversational style that is a joy to read.Most hiking how-to books read like research papers, often filled with extremely basic, oversimplified info that, quite frankly, offends the sensibilities of most seasoned hikers. Perhaps the best thing about this book is that it tells you everything you need to know to begin backpacking and hiking, while providing much more in-depth knowledge in each chapter for those that want to take the hobby further. The advice is solid, current, tried and true, which makes it a great book for both new and veteran hikers.

Let me be clear - I do a lot of hiking and backpacking and would be offended if someone on the trail called me an "idiot." But, maybe I'm more of an idiot, er, novice than I thought, but I haven't been able to put down the book, especially as I'm planning for a week in the Sierra Nevada this summer. Just today I consulted it before heading to REI to replace my favorite hiking boots. Thanks to the book, I've downgraded from heavyduty to midweight boots - much more appropriate for what I do. I've also already learned that I've been putting the heavy items in the wrong part of my pack. The book is full of great text and super- useful pictures and diagrams that help you sort though all the terrific information.Don't get me wrong, the book is great for beginners. The bottom line is that it's very, very thorough and very, very well-organized, so people at any skill level can benefit from reading it. I've read some of the competing beginners guides to backpacking and hiking and they're not nearly as concise and seem to focus just on backpacking. This book covers both hiking and backpacking - so it's a real beginner's guide.I just hope that Stevenson soon writes The Complete Idiot's Guide to Getting More Vacation Time. I'd preorder it in a heartbeat.

This book is great especially for a beginner (which is why I bought it). It covers the necessities needed for daytime, overnight or longer hiking trips, what to take along, etiquette on how to behave on the trails and with other hikers and campers you may meet. What kind of snacks and foods to take along, how to check on weather conditions and checking in at the place where you'll be hiking so people know to come hunting for you. Clothing needs, sleeping needs, and everything you need for a safe, fun trip. They offer cautions. Bathroom etiquette while on the trails. A very good guide to help prepare you for what to expect in simple, easy to understand terms. I would recommend this to others. A great guide to being prepared.

Methodically laid out important facts and reminders. Really good reference even for experienced outdoors people.

a really great buy

great book