For the first time since 1984, we have a new edition of the classic book that Field & Stream called “the Hiker’s Bible.̶...
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reviews
Aug 02, 2010
Curtis
rated it: 
I think the word that comes to mind on this book is almost like a hikers almanac at least as it relates to gear and preparedness. It's one of those book that you can read off and on espeically if a topic comes to mind because chances are somewhere it will have an anecdote or recommendation for many situations.
It is not simply a guide to equipment but rather also contains many reflections and tales of the books two authors. It's a bit hefty for the ultralight crowd to carry with them perh More...
It is not simply a guide to equipment but rather also contains many reflections and tales of the books two authors. It's a bit hefty for the ultralight crowd to carry with them perh More...
Jun 15, 2011
Nick
rated it: 
"Complete" is the right adjective.
I have to confess that I got this book for Elise as a birthday present and then proceeded to read it myself. (In my defense, it was a side present anyway.) CW has some sections on the philosophy and aesthetics of hiking, but mostly, it is all about gear--what you need for backpacking. I read it in advance of our Nova Scotia trip this summer, though I don't think we'll be doing anything quite serious enough to be called backpacking.
F More...
I have to confess that I got this book for Elise as a birthday present and then proceeded to read it myself. (In my defense, it was a side present anyway.) CW has some sections on the philosophy and aesthetics of hiking, but mostly, it is all about gear--what you need for backpacking. I read it in advance of our Nova Scotia trip this summer, though I don't think we'll be doing anything quite serious enough to be called backpacking.
F More...
Nov 09, 2008
Ken
rated it: 
The only thing keeping me from giving this book 5 stars is that no matter when a book on outdoor gear is written, it's almost immediately out-of-date. Sort of like buying a new computer. As soon as you buy it, it's obsolete.
However, there is a lot of knowledge stuffed into this book's many pages. I've been reading bits off and on for months now, as it's not really a novel or meant to be read cover-to-cover in one sitting. It's a reference, in many respects, but still an enjoyable re More...
However, there is a lot of knowledge stuffed into this book's many pages. I've been reading bits off and on for months now, as it's not really a novel or meant to be read cover-to-cover in one sitting. It's a reference, in many respects, but still an enjoyable re More...
Aug 29, 2010
Gregory
rated it:
The latest edition (and, alas, last edition) came out in 2002. Everything you could ever want to know about hiking and camping in 2002 (each new edition would include info about the latest equipment). As time goes by, most of what is in the book will remain quite useful. I've read all the editions, thanks to my dad in introducing me to Fletcher. Fletcher died in 2007.
Jan 07, 2012
Chad
rated it:
This is an extremely detailed book. Everything that one would need to know is in here and then some. I found that I could not read much of it in one sitting, but had to take small sections and read and digest that before moving on. Very good book!
Sep 09, 2009
Benjamin
rated it:
Good basic overview of hiking gear/etc. (as much as you can keep it current). Laughed at the recommendation for naked hiking. (Um... Probably not around here...)
Oct 27, 2009
Tim
rated it:
Everything you'd need to know about hiking and camping. Entertaining too.
Mar 13, 2009
A.L.
rated it: 
I liked it at first, but got bogged down and reduced my effort to skimming after a while!
Mar 25, 2008
Jason
rated it:
At first glance this appears to be nothing more than a guide to tents, backpacks, boots, and the miscellaneous gear that hikers and backpackers use. On looking more closely, you will find that Fletcher is (was) a gifted writer with a sharp wit and sometimes curious sensibilities. Filled with accounts of his experiences in the outdoors, plus incredibly comprehensive information on gear if you care about that sort of thing.
May 02, 2011
Brandon
rated it:
a bit dated, but otherwise informative with a few interesting stories
Jul 08, 2010
Doris
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This book is HUGE! It is terrific! It is a must for a back-country traveler. But you won't want to haul this around in your pack! I'll read this over and over / referring as I go. This book contains info I've not seen elsewhere. You won't need or agree with everything in here, but some of the info is critical. I recommend this highly.
Mar 30, 2010
Ronen
rated it:
Really gets you into the spirit of backpacking, and contains a lot of well thought out information. Also very humorous. The problem for me was that it does lack bottom lines, and the arrangement of the information is not so intuitive (can be hard to find what you're looking for).
Jul 22, 2010
Roni
rated it:
This book contains rich experience of these two hikers with different perspectives. It is a plus to help you to decide which equipment to buy for hiking trip.
Jul 29, 2007
Heather
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If you have absolutely any questions about any kind of hiking trip, small or grand, Fletcher has clearly experienced all and generously - and with wit - shares all.
Jan 26, 2008
Zack
rated it:
So well written. Yes, I really think this how-to book deserves 5 stars. Very witty- it will inspire the most stubborn urbanite to exploration.
Jan 15, 2010
Candice
rated it:
Everything and anything you need to know about backpacking. Colin Fletcher has written about his long hikes - fascinating.
Jan 17, 2008
Steve
rated it:
Lots of great insider advice from two experienced hikers/backpackers. Thick book, covers a lot of ground.
Jan 15, 2012
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