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Below are books written by some of our Thru-Hikers, Members, and Friends. They are all books we recommend and are well worth reading. To order, simply click on the photo or title.
BOOKS ON THE INTERNATIONAL AND APPALACHIAN TRAIL |
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"Ten Million Steps is a book that will fascinate everyone who ever though about how romantic it would be to walk for 4,400 miles along the east coast of North America. It is a journey of the mind as well as the body. The Nimblewill tells the story of his journey in a way that deftly mixes practical
considerations and philosophical musings." --Dick Anderson, founder of the International Appalachian Trail
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Where Less the Path is Worn is an inspirational, spirit filled account of Nimblewill Nomad's 347-day trek by foot. The first known hike encompassing the entire Appalachian Mountain Range. You'll journey with the Nomad as he meets so many beautiful people, as he touches their hearts and lives, thence
and forevermore to be touched by them in return. You will see and experience first hand the sheer and utter beauty that is ageless and timeless - the Appalachians. |
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A city girl's trek from Maine to the Gaspé. This is the story of Monique Dykstra's journey along the International Appalachian Trail. It begins one vertical mile straight up, at Mount Katahdin in Maine, and takes her through the Maine and New Brunswick, a million steps down the trail to the wild and windy
tip of Cap Gaspé, Québec. |
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Ed Werler and his wife Mary Jane were camping in the north woods of Maine when Ed first saw Mt. Katahdin. The mountain spoke to him, inviting him to begin the life his spirit had longed for, a life lived close to nature. In 1947, Ed quit his job in Connecticut and moved to Maine to start his new job as Warden at the fire tower on Daicey Mountain.
Within a few years Ed was a park ranger at Baxter State Park living at Chimney Pond on his beloved mountain. Ed Werler heard the call of Katahdin and answered it. This is Ed's story. |
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A woman's journey on the Appalachian Trail. Follow the six month adventure of Wooster, Ohio, native Nancy Shepherd as she backpacks more than 2,000 miles from Georgia to Maine. With 40 pounds on her back, the author battles mountains, endures weather, and overcomes obstacles daily on her epic quest for self. |
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Now a hiking legend, Earl Shaffer in 1948 set out to prove the then-little-known Appalachian Trail could be walked in a single continuous journey from Georgia to Maine. This is his own lyrical account of that walk, undertaken also to try to shake off World War II combat, during which he lost his best friend. Illustrated with his photographs during the hike, this book has inspired thousands to attempt
similar "thru-hikes." In 1965, he walked it the other way, and, in 1998 at age 79, he did it again...on a trail far different from the one he basically rediscovered at mid-century. |
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This unique study offers fresh insight into the many reasons people decide to walk the trail's 2,200 miles from Georgia to Maine, as well as lively descriptions of they ways in which they successfully complete it. Larry Luxenberg, himself a thru-hiker, lives in New York. Photographer, Mike Warren, longtime A.T. aficionado also lives in New York. |
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A compilation of stories from thru-hikers, a unique group of people who every year brave a 2,100 mile trail though every type of weather, every type of circumstance. Gathered from trail registers, post cards, and personal interviews, these voices come alive and evoke the true spirit of the Appalachian Trail, from the lows of ten consecutive days of rain and cold, to the highs of beautiful
sunsets and camaraderie. Whether you have only contemplated such a journey or have made one (or something in between), the voices found in A Season on the Appalachian Trail will entrance you with their honesty and presence. |
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Blending sage advice with personal experiences and anecdotes, this unconventional book is an unusually thoughtful account of long-distance trekking on the Appalachian Trail. Mueser draws upon interviews and questionnaire data gathered from over 100 long distance hikers hoofing it through the Appalachian Mountains. |
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More than a quarter century ago Ed Garvey drew public attention to the wonders and precariousness of the Appalachian Trail with his much publicized thru-hike, so memorably documented in his Appalachian Hiker books. Twenty years later, at the age of seventy-five, he once again began the long trek northward, to rediscover a trail that had changed significantly in the intervening years. The
New Appalachian Trail is both the story of his journey and a practical guide to backpacking on the AT. It is also a tribute to the unprecedented cooperative effort of government and volunteers to secure and maintain this extraordinary national treasure. |
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The AT Backpacker is a well-written, no-nonsense guide. The Logues give the low down on hiking with an eye toward the Appalachian Trail. I found everything I needed to know about foods to eat and how to be safe in drinking water. They also go through the dizzying array of gear out there, from tents and backpacks to stoves,
sleeping bags, boots and clothes, all with the AT in mind. There are also chapters on winter backpacking, backpacking with children, and long distance hiking, which expand on the basics. |
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Whether you're just setting out for a day hike or are planning to trek all the way from Maine to Georgia, Backpacker Magazine's Guide to the Appalachian Trail is the definitive guide to the most famous footpath in the nation. Drawing on up-to-the-minute reports from hikers all along the length of the trail, it provides detailed descriptions of what terrain hikers
can expect to find in any given section, along with information on local natural history and nearby towns and landmarks. Chapters on the geology of the trail and the history of its creation complete the picture, ensuring that this book will continue to be a well-worn resource for countless hikers. This updated edition of the best-selling guide to the Appalachian Trail includes maps and mileages provided for every section of the trail along with fascinating information on trail history and geology. |
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This true account of Bill Irwin's nearly impossible journey along the Appalachian Trail is as inspiring as a story can get. Not only is Irwin blind, but his life before this incredible trek was as rocky as the route itself. Accompanied by his seeing-eye dog, Orient, Irwin overcomes his personal obstacles and the ominous trail. This transformed hiker has inspired many. Douglas Rowe's
no-nonsense approach to this reading is just the ticket. His interpretation captures the heart of this "tough guy" and reveals it to the listener. Irwin's transformation from a lonely bitter alcoholic to a man of strength and courage is reflected in Rowe's sincere performance. B.J.P. |
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If you have ever felt the tug of the mountains or had the urge to don a backpack and experience the raw beauty of Nature firsthand, but never seem to find the time or perhaps lack the physical prowess or self-confidence
to answer the call, then this is your chance! Share in their adventure (and mis-adventures) as they "walk on the happy side of misery." Hunker down with them while they endure the savage fury of monster storms & hypothermic delirium. Feel the sweat drip as they fight heat stroke, trudging through hundred degree heat & sucking on pebbles to relieve maddening thirst. Taste the tea-colored water from caterpillar-infested springs; groan as gut chewing hunger nips at the spirit; share their tears when loneliness and pain leave them wallowing in self-pity. |
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This book is a storyteller's journey of the Appalachian Trail (AT). It differs from other AT books as it introduces the concept that the AT is not only a linear park but also a linear storybook. The Story Walker ™, Kathleen Gill, a
professional storyteller and a trained community scholar, learned to read the land which told the stories of the pig iron industry, war, the painful lessons of eminent domain, as well as the stories the birds bring and the flowers tell. She talked with many people who grew up when the AT was being planned and constructed. She talked with those who still live along its corridor. These people became story talkers, some of whose stories are included here. |
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BOOKS OF GENERAL INTEREST |
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Superbly researched and written, this new book by Maine historian John Neff draws together rare sources and takes readers on a journey through the mountain's history, legend, and legacy. The narrative retraces the steps of Native Americans, whose spiritual
approach to the mountain still resonates today; recounts colonials' first glimpses of the dramatic mountain; and accompanies Thoreau as he soaks up the landscape's majesty. Neff's analysis of the region's development through the advent of railroading and logging, sporting, and trail building illustrates the history of its pathways, including the Appalachian Trail. Neff, an authority on Baxter State Park, gives the reader a unique perspective on Baxter's legacy of protection and conservation. He also explores the mountain's more sinister legacy--that of misadventure and tragedy in the wilderness. Neff's compelling narrative bridges the mountain's past and today's continuing opportunities for conservation and recreation in Maine's spectacular North Woods--a story that will fascinate historians, outdoor enthusiasts, and armchair adventurers alike. |
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The rich diversity of Quebec's landscape, seasons, flora and fauna creates endless hiking possibilities. This third edition of Hiking in Quebec lets you discover Quebec's great outdoors. The only hiking guide to cover all the regions of Quebec, and written by a specialist in the field, it has become an indispensable tool for beginners and experienced trekkers alike. This guide
includes descriptions of over 100 hiking trails, classified according to their level of difficulty; practical information to help you prepare your hikes and make the most of each excursion; maps illustrating the various parks and regions, to better plan your outings; indications of the author's favorites, to help you pick the perfect destination. |
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In this expanded and updated 3rd edition of their popular guide, veteran hikers Marianne and H.A. Eiselt take you on the quintessential hiking tour of New Brunswick, along river valleys, through provincial and national parks, around coasts, and up and down the
northernmost climbs of the ancient Appalachian mountain chain. Chock full of great information -- maps, sidebars on flora and fauna, detailed trail descriptions, and evocative photographs -- this essential guide has just become one step better. In the last 20 years, Marianne and H.A. Eiselt have canoed the Everglades and backpacked trails from Eastern Canada to the american Southwest, from the Annapuras to the Himalayas. But every year, they spent lots of time on their favourite trails in New Brunswick. "Anyone planning to explore New Brunswick on foot should save some room in his or her backpack for a copy of this guide." -- Canadian Book Review Annual
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It's hiking with a welcome twist: no tandem driving, no dropping off a car at the end of the trail-and no turning around to hike back the way you came. Jeff Romano hiked more than 450 miles to select the best loop trails in northern New England-from the rolling hills of southern New Hampshire and towering summits of the White Mountains to the large lakes and abundant
wildlife of the Northern Forest and rocky coastline of Maine. Useful features include elevation profiles and charts listing hikes by special interest and best times to go. Information is also included on wildlife, geology, and history. Regions covered include Acadia National Park, Camden Hills, Baxter State Park, the Maine Coast, Moosehead Lake, the Presidential Range, Mount Washington Valley, Franconia Notch, the Lakes Region, and the Monadnock/Sunapee area. JEFF ROMANO has hiked in New England for more than 30 years. A resident of Hallowell, Maine, he works with the Maine Coast Heritage Trust, a land trust that focuses on the conservation of state's unique coastline. |
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The 50 hikes that registered Maine guide Cloe Chunn has chosen for this updated edition of her popular guidebook range in length from 2 hours to 5 days--and lead to waterfalls, remote ponds, lookout towers, swimming holes, and incomparable vistas. Along with hiking directions and map, Chunn also provides information on the
geology, wildlife, and history of each trail--and she emphasizes family hiking. 26 photos. 51 maps.
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About 90 percent of Maine is forested, and even its largest city is only minutes away from undisturbed countryside. From hikes along the beaches of Acadia National Park and historic routes through Belfast or Portland, to difficult and scenic treks up Mount Katahdin or the Precipice, Maine has routes to please hikers of every stripe. Hiking Maine, formerly The Hiker's Guide to Maine, the only guide to the entire
state, covers well-known areas but also introduces hikers to some of the state's best-kept secrets. Hiking Maine, by outdoor writer Tom Seymour, a native of Maine, describes 70 trails that vary in length from an easy one-hour stroll along a quiet nature trail to difficult treks in the backcountry. The book contains accurate, up-to-date trail information, maps, and black-and-white photos that reveal the state's varied landscapes. Sections on hiking with children and barrier-free trails for hikers with special needs are also includes. Whether you plan a backpacking trip of several days in the Bigelow Range or an easy family hike within minutes of downtown Portland, Hiking Maine is an essential source book to the state's parklands and backcountry. |
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The Backpacker's Field Manual has been the bible of the Princeton University Outdoor Action Program for more than a decade, field-tested by one of the most respected outdoor programs in the country. It is the most comprehensive backpacking guide available--broad in scope while still focused on the essential skills and information that backpackers need to travel safely and comfortably in the
wilderness. Backpackers of all levels will find this book indispensable: before you start your trip, for deciding on an itinerary, selecting equipment, and figuring out what food, clothing, and other supplies to pack; once you're out in the wilderness, for choosing a campsite, setting up camp, navigating with map and compass, identifying trees and plants, and preparing meals (recipes included!); if something unexpected happens, for finding a lost person, seeking shelter in a lightning storm, and performing first aid for common injuries.More than 100 line drawings illustrate such useful skills as how to set up a tarp, repair your stove, wrap an injured ankle, predict the weather, and much more. And scattered throughout are Tricks of the Trail, additional tips for successful backcountry hiking. Any traveler knows that space in a backpack is limited, so on your next trip, pack the only guide you'll need--this one. |
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Overall, ... this book is one of the best of its genre ... Highly recommended. The photos in this book are amazing ... this beautiful book will certainly appeal to young and old. A close-up view of these legendary and formidable creatures... exciting stories behind the taking of each of the photos. |
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In For the Beauty of the Earth Urquhart begins with the lives of ancestors-his grandmother, "a patron saint of lost causes" who cherished her signed photo of Robert E. Lee, his Great Aunt Catharine, arrested with Edna St. Vincent Millay while protesting what she considered the judicial murder of Sacco and
Vanzetti, and even back to the great 17th-century translator of Rabelais, Sir Thomas Urquhart, who, it is said, died of laughing. From the hills and fields of England - both olde and New - he takes us to Italy for "birding through the Renaissance," then invites us to the wild landscape of the Camargue in Provence, and the villages of Mali in West Africa. Through the years, birding has provided Urquhart with his opportunities for travel, his practical education and his passionate place in the natural world. Thomas A. Urquhart (pronounced Erkutt) was the executive director of the Maine Audubon Society from 1988 to 2000. Educated at Oxford University, he has worked for conservation organizations for twenty-five years. He lives with his wife and children in Falmouth, Maine. |
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Robert Finch, beloved nature writer and host of an NPR radio series, chronicles the people, geography, and wildlife of this remote and lovely place in "The Iambics of Newfoundland".
Finch spent the greater part of a decade traveling around the island of Newfoundlnad at the edge of North America. He evokes an untrammeled landscape of raw beauty even as he tells a tale of economic hardship, with the local cod fisheries depleted and very little industry to replace it.
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Biologist Stager's collection of essays about plants, animals, insects, and physical phenomena in the forests of the northeastern U.S. and eastern Canada is based on a series of weekly radio programs he has co-hosted since 1990. The region contains a patchwork
of conifer, hardwood, and mixed forests--to say nothing of a large number of people. Following the course of the four seasons, Stager probes the lives of such animals and insects as bees, woodpeckers, snakes, fireflies, beavers, and bears. He discusses plant defenses (tannins, resins, alkaloid poison, etc.) and mosses, lichens, and bogs (a botanical paradise, he calls them). Chapters on conifers, princess pines, the woods in winter, the northern lights, bird feeder biology, snow fleas, and maple sap precede the glossary of scientific names, which includes English names and root words translated into English. Although Stager's abundant research included interviews with experts in various fields, the book is written for the layperson. Anne Lacy's appealing illustrations complement the informative and amusing text.
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ARTICLES OF GENERAL INTEREST |
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