HIKING

Fletcher, Colin. The Complete Walker IV. Knopf, New York, Knopf, 2002. 845 pp., illustrated.
Arguably the single best book on hiking and backpacking. Co-authored by C. L. Rawlins, this edition is in the form of a dialogue between the venerable Fletcher (now in his 80s) and his co-author, who has a similar level of experience. Excellent advice on gear and every aspect of walking and backpacking, well-seasoned with wit and insight. Reading this book is rather like listening in on the conversation of two masters of their craft. This is available in both hard and soft-cover. Currently look here for the listing at Amazon.com. I recommend all of Fletcher's books.

Harvey, Mark &c. The National Outdoor Leadership School's Wilderness Guide: The Classic Handbook. Fireside, June 1999. 256 pp., illustrated.
Neither as extensive nor as current as Fletcher, this book is still, in my estimation, one of the better sources of hiking advice. The recipe section is more ambitious than most of us attempt but useful reading for those undertaking long and arduous trips with groups. Currently look here for the listing at Amazon.com.

Auerbach, Paul S. (M.D.). Medicine for the Outdoors. The Essential Guide to Emergency Medical Procedures and First Aid. The Lyons Press, 1999 (New edition due April 2003). 498 pp., illustrated
This is generally and rightly considered the work on emergency backcountry medicine intended for hikers and others. It is extraordinarily comprehensive, the only work more extensive being Wilderness Medicine, a tome of nearly 2000 pages edited by Auerbach that is geared more to professionals in the medical field. Currently look here for the listing at Amazon.com.

Waterman, Laura & Guy. Backwoods Ethics. Environmental Issues for Hikers and Campers. The Countryman Press, Woodstock VT. 1993. Second edition. xvii, 280 pp.
The Waterman's ethic emphasises stewardship and the thoughtful use of backcountry resources. Stated in this fashion, the book sounds dry, but it is, in fact, extraordinarily entertaining, rich in accounts of extraordinary hiking personalities (not least among these are Guy and Laura themselves). There are many other books on the subject (Hampton & Cole's book under the NOLS aegis, "Soft Paths", comes to mind), but this is the work most likely to enlighten.