National Geographic Guide to America's Outdoors: Far West

by Geoffrey O'Gara

From the celebrated national parks to the lesser-known state parks, national wildlife refuges, conservation areas, and wild and scenic rivers, this landmark series encourages readers to experience a region firsthand. It describes--and guides them to--the best sites, offering detailed information about the birds, wildlife, topography, trees, and wildflowers that readers are likely to encounter in each one. Acclaimed nature writers with extensive knowledge of each region enrich the guidebooks with enticing narratives and rich insights into the areas' landscapes and natural histories. Each book includes: Author-guided hikes leading readers along favorite trails, pointing out and explaining natural highlights along the way More than twenty high-quality maps and 150 stunning, full-color photographs Detailed site descriptions plus opportunities for camping, cycling, fishing, and much more Fascinating vignettes on geology, plants, and animals Extensive resource listings

Packed with in-depth information, these invaluable guides help readers take full advantage of all the beauty and variety of the great American outdoors.

288 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 2001

Reviews

[Kristin · Rating 5 out of 5]

In my continuing effort to hijack Goodreads to share reviews of media other than books ;), this is not a review of the National Geographic guide but rather a review of the TV show America Outdoors with Baratunde Thurston on PBS.

Unlike traditional nature documentaries, America Outdoors with Baratunde Thurston focuses on lesser known natural areas and the stories of people who live there. We learn about ultramarathoners in Death Valley, a group organizing outdoor adventures for teen refugees in Idaho, a paraplegic river raft guide, kayakers traveling down a Los Angeles river, and many other fascinating narratives. Baratunde Thurston is an engaging storyteller who is able to connect with people he just met and get folks to open up to him, asking interesting questions about Americans' relationships with the great outdoors. This show challenges the common narrative about who participates in outdoor activities and who belongs and shows ways to build community in nature. I admire Thurston's courage in flying a replica of the Wright brothers' plane, swimming in a freezing ocean in Maine, and other activities that would push anyone out of their comfort zone. I also appreciate his vulnerability, as he shares personal details about himself and his reactions to different experiences. I love this show and encourage everyone interested in outdoor adventures and captivating stories to check it out.